MEETING VIII - PILEA HORTIATIS (GREECE) - 10/13 SEPTEMBER 2024

The eighth event of the project “30 Years of Maastricht: Reflections on the Past, Present, and Future of Europe” took place in Pilea-Hortiatis, Thessaloniki (Greece), from September 10 to 13, 2025.

The meeting gathered over 67 participants, including delegates from Lithuania, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Malta, Bulgaria, Italy, and France, alongside numerous local citizens and youth representatives from Thessaloniki. The central theme of this meeting was “The Relationship of Technology and European Citizenship”, emphasizing the challenges and opportunities that digital transformation brings to democratic participation and civic engagement.

The event’s objectives were to explore how technology influences modern citizenship, promote digital democracy and responsible online behavior, and encourage critical reflection on the impact of social media on public opinion. Specific goals included strengthening cooperation among European and local participants, engaging youth in democratic dialogue, and deepening understanding of the Maastricht Treaty’s enduring role in shaping European identity.

Participating delegations included the Municipality of Moletai (Lithuania), Asociación Tiraboleiros (Spain), União das Freguesias de Foz do Sousa e Covelo (Portugal), Dimos Pileas-Hortiatis (Greece), Local Council Tas-Sliema (Malta), Obstina Mezdra (Bulgaria), Tumbarinos di Gavoi and Comune di Gallodoro (Italy), and Association La Didine (France). The group comprised mayors, municipal representatives, teachers, youth workers, students, and civic leaders, reflecting a diverse and inclusive exchange of perspectives.