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Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.

About OPEN EU

ABOUT THE OPEN EU PROJECT

Why OPEN EU is needed

Across Europe, conversations about migration, identity and belonging are often shaped by misunderstanding, fear and one-sided narratives. These discussions can create distance between people, reinforce stereotypes and make it harder for communities to live and work together with trust and respect.

Many people have limited opportunities to hear directly from others with different experiences. Stories about migrants and displaced persons are often told without their voices, which can lead to simplified or negative views. At the same time, local communities may feel unheard or uncertain about change. This lack of shared understanding can increase division and make open, respectful dialogue more difficult.

In everyday life, these challenges affect how people interact in communities, workplaces, education and public spaces. Without safe spaces for conversation and reflection, it can be difficult to question assumptions or explore different perspectives in a constructive way.

OPEN EU responds to this need by creating opportunities for people to come together through storytelling, shared learning and dialogue. The project focuses on real experiences from local people, migrants and displaced persons, helping to bring different perspectives into the same space. By listening to each other’s stories, participants can better understand the realities behind complex issues and build more balanced and inclusive ways of thinking.

The aim is to support stronger connections between people and encourage communities where dialogue replaces division. OPEN EU shows that understanding often begins with listening, and that small, shared experiences can lead to meaningful change.

More about OPEN EU

OPEN EU uses storytelling, conversation and shared learning to explore how people experience identity, belonging and community in different ways.

Partners from across Europe work together with educators, community organisations and local groups to create practical activities and resources. These include storytelling workshops, podcasts, community events and digital learning materials that are easy to access and use.

This website brings these elements together in one place. Here, you can explore real stories, access learning resources and find tools that support open dialogue and reflection. The materials are designed to be flexible and practical, so they can be used in different settings such as community groups, training sessions or informal learning spaces.

OPEN EU encourages people to take part, share experiences and learn from others. It supports both those who are new to these topics and those who already have experience working in inclusion, education or community development.

Who can benefit from this project?

OPEN EU supports people and organisations who want to better understand different perspectives and contribute to more open and inclusive communities.
Local people, migrants and displaced persons are at the centre of the project. They are invited to share their experiences, take part in discussions and learn from others. This helps build confidence, encourage dialogue and create a stronger sense of belonging.
Those working in education and training can use OPEN EU resources to support learning through storytelling and discussion. The materials help introduce complex topics in a clear and engaging way, encouraging reflection and critical thinking.
Organisations working with diverse groups can use the project’s tools and approaches to support dialogue, inclusion and community engagement. The resources provide practical ways to bring people together and explore shared experiences.
People who lead workshops, discussions or community activities benefit from structured methods and materials that support inclusive conversations. These tools help create safe and respectful spaces for participation.
Communities benefit when people have more opportunities to understand each other and work together. By encouraging dialogue and shared learning, OPEN EU supports stronger relationships and more inclusive environments.
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