The project commemorates notable women who advanced European integration, democracy, and EU values. By sharing their stories, it promotes a more inclusive, relatable understanding of European history and its key moments.
European integration is often told through the achievements of prominent leaders, yet many remarkable women played a vital role in shaping its course. Mothers of Europe highlights eighteen inspiring women who advanced democracy, unity, and EU values. By sharing their stories, this project offers a more inclusive perspective on European history, making it more relatable and accessible. These women were not only witnesses to history but active creators of it—visionaries whose legacies continue to shape Europe today.
The way we tell history reveals power relations. Collective memory and (ex)inclusion of women in history-telling has a direct impact on the roles of women in today’s societies. Therefore, the general objective of the project is to commemorate and raise awareness about notable women, who advanced European integration, brought democratic transition, and shaped EU values. Moreover, the project will provide stories of notable women involved in key historical moments. By doing so the history of European integration and democratic transition will be seen as more relatable and inclusive.
A discussion with journalist and writer Lída Rakušanová and Anna Freimanová, a long-time collaborator of Václav Havel.
The Mothers of Europe exhibition presents the stories of eighteen women from the Czech Republic, Hungary, Germany, Poland, Greece and Spain who have managed to significantly co-shape the contemporary (European) world with their attitudes, courage and civic bravery.
The event introduced the Mothers of Europe project, redefining the role of women as creators and protectors of European values. The nominees of the project was presented. Experts from various fields debated equality in a diverse society, the influence of democracy on women’s rights, and the Czech Republic’s role within the EU.
Key discussion points: What has democracy brought in terms of women’s rights? How do we stand in comparison with other post-communist countries? What impact has the Czech Republic's entry into the EU had on gender equality? Which aspects of women's history are overlooked or neglected in our historical narratives?
