June 3–5, 2025
French Institute in Romania, Rezidența9, Londohome, Cinema Elvire Popesco
️ Free entry
Over the course of three days, the French Institute in Romania, in collaboration with major European and local institutions, will host “Face à la Guerre – European Dialogues”, a large-scale public event in Bucharest focused on understanding the security, social, and geopolitical challenges currently facing Europe.
An International Platform for Dialogue
The program includes nearly 20 events:
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Roundtables, debates, interactive workshops
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Film screenings and a concert
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Participation from over 30 international specialists – researchers, experts, and journalists from France, Ukraine, Moldova, Poland, Armenia, Georgia, Côte d’Ivoire, and Romania
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Involvement of 26 students from 7 French and Romanian universities and high schools
These activities will take place at the French Institute in Romania, Rezidența9, and Londohome, while film screenings will be held at Cinema Elvire Popesco. Student workshops will be hosted at the French Institute’s Media Library in Bucharest.
Purpose and Vision
“In a time of geopolitical tension and profound social change, this event aims to bring together experts, thought leaders, and civil society representatives to reflect on fundamental themes related to security and society.
We want not only to examine the impact of war on European societies, but also to encourage dialogue and mutual understanding.
The European spirit—built on solidarity, cooperation, and mutual respect—must be protected and strengthened.”
— Julien Chiappone-Lucchesi, Director General of the French Institute in Romania
Student Engagement & Youth Leadership
Students from institutions such as the University of Bucharest, Babeș-Bolyai University, Sciences Po Rennes, University of Paris 8, and Reims University will not only participate but also co-organize, moderate, and lead workshops—ranging from press freedom to podcast production. They will also host a dialogue with Anne Muxel, a renowned French sociologist specialized in biographical memory.
This involvement equips students with international collaboration skills, strengthens Franco-Romanian ties, and nurtures the next generation of European dialogue ambassadors.
A European-Wide Project
“Face à la Guerre – Dialogues européens” is part of a broader initiative launched by the French Institute in late 2023, with editions previously held in Prague, Vilnius, Warsaw, Amsterdam, Sofia, Plovdiv, Helsinki, and Rennes. In 2025, it has already reached Leipzig and Brussels, with Sarajevo set to host the final edition this autumn.
The project aims to connect expert voices, encourage interdisciplinary exchange, and engage the wider public, linking global European challenges with local societal contexts.
The Bucharest Focus
This year’s Bucharest edition will emphasize:
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Military and geopolitical shifts in Europe
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Their impact on emotional health and public perception
It also forms part of the wider Centennial celebration of the French Institute in Romania, running since 2024.
The full program will soon be available on the French Institute’s website and social media channels, as well as those of its partners.