Faces from five European countries and they all have one thing in common: they’re smiling. And it is exactly this that was one of the goals of the project with the wonderful name “HAPPY EU”, which was initiated by the Maison de l’Europe in Paris together with four other partners.

The project’s theme: presenting citizens who are committed to Europe and its values in various ways. The cities of Ulm in Germany, Paris and Vincennes in France, Bacau in Romania, Cuba in Portugal and Cácares in Spain had a hard time deciding, as the selection was limited to five people each. However, the people presented here also stand as a symbol for many other citizens out there, who are following the same path towards a common future and continuing to expand it with their commitment.

With danube connects, Ulm is also a partner of this EU project. After the opening took place in Vincennes near Paris and then continued its journey in Romania, danube connects was recently present at the vernissages in the Portuguese Cuba and Spanish Cáceres. A get-together of all initiators of the participating European countries in inspiring places full of European history and surprises. The smiles on the photographs spread to the guests and strengthened the European spirit, which is colorful and diverse. The vernissages and the characters they presented show: Europe does not know borders, but dismantles them! Everyone who contributes to a healthy, peaceful and strong society is welcome.

The opening of the exhibition in the Portuguese town of Cuba was very touching and could not describe the spirit of Europe in a better way. Olga Surivka is a native of Ukraine. Since 2001 she has been living in Portugal, where she earns a living for herself and her two children as a housekeeper. The citizens of Cuba know her as a kind person who is always ready to help. Now, because of the situation in her native Ukraine, she also receives support from her fellow citizens. She cries at her presentation, but still has not lost her grateful smile on her face. That’s exactly it: Europe should be the place where all people feel safe, secure and above all wanted, in any situation. In other words: “HAPPY EU”.

Mirella Sidro, Sarajevo