The third event of the EU-funded project "30 Years of Maastricht: Reflections on the Past, Present, and Future of Europe" was hosted in Mezdra and Sofia, Bulgaria, from September 12 to 15, 2024, under the CERV Programme’s Network of Towns initiative. It brought together 64 participants, including 18 international delegates from eight European countries—Lithuania, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Malta, Bulgaria, Italy, and France. This gathering offered a significant platform to reflect on the Maastricht Treaty’s 30-year legacy, particularly its impact on EU citizenship, economic stability, and political cooperation. The event successfully blended formal discussions, cultural activities, and interactive workshops to foster civic engagement, intercultural understanding, and collaboration among European cities.

The event objectives were clear and multifaceted: to explore the Treaty’s historical and modern significance, strengthen ties between partner towns, promote active civic participation, and share knowledge and best practices. Activities were carefully designed to facilitate youth engagement, emphasize the importance of voting in European elections, and inspire collective action toward shared
European goals. Discussions addressed challenges to voter participation, the role of democratic institutions, and the transformative potential of EU-funded projects in local communities.

Highlights of the event included expert lectures by prominent speakers such as Bulgarian Parliament Deputy Krasen Krastev, who emphasized Bulgaria’s economic and institutional progress within the EU, and Mezdra’s Mayor Ivan Asparuhov, who showcased the tangible benefits of EU-funded initiatives in regional development. Workshops provided participants with an opportunity to discuss barriers to civic engagement and co-develop strategies to enhance voter turnout and democratic participation.
Participants praised the interactive nature of these sessions, which facilitated open dialogue and idea sharing.

Cultural visits to the Bulgarian Parliament and historic landmarks deepened participants’ understanding of Bulgaria’s heritage and its integration into the European framework. Networking opportunities throughout the event allowed delegates to forge connections, exchange experiences, and lay the foundation for future collaborations. Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with high ratings for organization, logistics, and content. Suggestions for improvement included incorporating more free time for personal exploration and diversifying informal activities.