EU on Wheels
The EU on Wheels project was an initiative that successfully fostered engagement between local communities and the European Union. Held on 15th March, the event took place aboard a vintage Maltese bus, making stops in Siġġiewi, St Julian’s, and Birgu. Through interactive discussions and activities, participants explored key topics such as EU democracy, tourism, cultural heritage, and EU funding.
The event began in Siġġiewi at the Siġġiewi Day Centre, where discussions focused on EU democracy. In collaboration with the Children’s Council, child-friendly activities helped participants understand democratic principles and EU funding allocation. This was followed by a debate between children, where they reseached on different EU countries and practiced how democracy takes place in the European Parliament.
The next stop in St Julian’s took place at the St Julian’s Band Club, where the conversation centered on the impact of EU policies on tourism. The mayor and five local councillors contributed their insights on tourism’s role in shaping the locality’s development. This round-table discussion enabled the fostering of ideas on how to align tourism with the environment and cultural heritage, as well as exploring the impact on the touristic scene since Malta joined the EU 21 years ago.
The final stop in Birgu highlighted cultural heritage preservation, showcasing EU contributions to local historical sites and fostering discussions on the importance of heritage in a European context. Thanks to the panel of experts, this event brought forward the impact the EU had on restoration of Malta’s, and specifically, Birgu’s natural and built cultural heritage.
The project was a massive success, with over 30 youth attending and volunteering throughout the event. It strengthened the connection between local communities and the EU, promoted civic engagement, and encouraged intergenerational dialogue on key EU-related issues.
Co-organised by the European Parliament Liaison Office in Malta, in collaboration with the local councils of Siġġiewi, St Julian’s, and Birgu, the EU on Wheels project created a platform for meaningful discussions, reinforcing the EU’s presence in local communities and its contributions to their development.
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