Twinning town actions for enhancing European identity

ongoing

The IDENTWINNING project, ‘Twinning Town Actions for Enhancing European Identity’ is a collaborative initiative between the towns of Hódmezővásárhely (Hungary), Kelme (Lithuania), and Sokobanja (Serbia). The project aims to deepen relationships between these towns while preserving cultural heritage and promoting European values such as diversity, gender equality, intercultural dialogue, and non-discrimination. In response to the CERV-2024-CITIZENS-TOWN-TT call, IDENTWINNING addresses the need for strengthened European identity by fostering cross-border dialogue and cooperation. Through a series of three main events—a Folk Dance and Gastronomy Festival, an International Youth Workshop on civic participation, and a Traditional Folk Arts and Crafts Workshop—the project provides a platform for cultural exchange, enabling the towns to celebrate and share their traditions while engaging in broader European discourses. Each activity is designed to be inclusive, ensuring the equal participation of men and women, as well as marginalized groups, in all activities. The project specifically targets youth, local cultural practitioners, and artists, recognizing their importance in sustaining local heritage and shaping the future of Europe. Through workshops and festivals, youth will have opportunities to engage in democratic life, while local artists will benefit from exposure to new audiences and creative exchanges. IDENTWINNING contributes to the overarching goals of the CERV program by enhancing mutual understanding, fostering a sense of belonging to the European Union, and promoting intercultural respect. The project will not only strengthen the cultural and social ties between the partner towns but also lay the groundwork for future collaborations. By addressing issues such as gender equality and cultural preservation, it seeks to create lasting positive change within the participating communities, ensuring that the proTwinning town actions for enhancing European identity