Living Memories to Tell Europe’s Story: First Reflections on European Integration
As part of the EUxFUTURE project, an enriching interview with Robert M., a 79-year-old resident of Résidence Notre-Dame in Marseille, France, is shedding light on how European integration has shaped personal lives. This heartwarming conversation, the first in a series of intergenerational exchanges, highlights the importance of preserving the memories of those who lived through Europe’s transformation.
The EUxFUTURE project aims to capture the lived experiences of older citizens and their memories of European integration. As part of Work Package 1, which focuses on gathering personal testimonies, the project in France embarked on its first interview with Robert M., a longtime resident of a retirement home in Marseille. The interview was conducted by two undergraduate social work students, who played an essential role in collecting Robert’s reflections on Europe’s development.
Robert, originally from Marseille, opened about his life and the changes he had seen within his local community throughout the decades, offering valuable insights into the political, social, and economic changes that accompanied European integration. Through his words, Robert paints a vivid picture of the post-war European landscape.
The project’s goal is to preserve these types of stories and make them accessible to younger generations. By focusing on personal testimonies, EUxFUTURE connects past experiences with present-day discussions on Europe’s future, making the history of European integration more tangible and meaningful.
The first interview was not just an academic exercise; it was an emotional encounter. Robert’s openness and warmth made it a rich learning experience for the students, who were able to engage in meaningful intergenerational dialogue. For the students, it was a rare opportunity to learn firsthand from someone who had lived through pivotal moments in European history.
The interview had a lasting impact on both the participants and the wider community. For the students, it was an invaluable opportunity to connect with an older generation and gain deeper insights into the human stories behind historical events. Robert’s testimony will not only contribute to the EUxFUTURE project but also serve as a reminder of the personal narratives that shape collective European identity.
The activity also reinforced the importance of intergenerational dialogue. It highlighted how such exchanges can bridge generational gaps and foster mutual understanding, ensuring that European history remains relevant to younger generations.
This interview is just the beginning. More personal testimonies will soon be collected across partner countries. These stories will be compiled into short videos, which will be shared on social media. Additionally, a traveling photo exhibition and intergenerational roundtables are being organized in each partner country to further explore the shared history of European integration.
As the EUxFUTURE project continues, more opportunities for public involvement and reflection on the meaning of Europe today will follow. Stay tuned for upcoming events and videos that will bring these personal stories to a wider audience.
Disclaimer: 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 granting authority. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.