United Citizens of Europe Podcast

United Citizens of Europe
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United Citizens of Europe brings people together and inspires generations of Europeans. We want to listen to stories of Europeans and expats living in Europe, celebrate their successes, and learn from their mistakes. We talk to European NGOs that work to improve Europe and bordering countries. We strive for an inclusive Europe, and we will do it one podcast episode at a time.

  1. DEC 20

    Surviving the EU Bubble with Kasia Kowalewska | United Citizens of Europe

    In this inspiring episode of the United Citizens of Europe podcast, host Luca De Cristofaro sits down with Kasia Kowalewska to unpack the realities of life and work inside the so-called EU bubble. With nearly a decade of experience across EU institutions, Kasia brings a refreshingly honest perspective on what it really means to build a career in Brussels. Kasia’s journey is anything but linear. From growing up in Pomerania, Poland, to discovering a passion for the EU as her country prepared for accession, she followed opportunities that often appeared by chance — a path many newcomers to Brussels will find familiar. Her early traineeship at the European Parliament in Warsaw set her on an unexpected trajectory into the heart of the EU institutions. Throughout the conversation, Kasia paints Brussels as a vibrant ecosystem full of opportunities, diversity, and creative energy. From NGOs and think tanks to institutions and advocacy groups, the city thrives on its unique mix of people and ideas. But Kasia also acknowledges the challenges: fast-paced work, frequent burnout, and the pressure to constantly be visible. Her advice? Stay authentic. Set your own goals. Build genuine connections instead of transactional ones. Kasia also breaks down the myth of the EU bubble as a single, homogeneous space. In reality, it’s made up of countless micro-bubbles: communities, networks, and sectors that often never interact. For newcomers, exploring these different circles can open the door to unexpected opportunities — and a better understanding of what Brussels has to offer. Whether you’re dreaming of a career in the EU, recently arrived in Brussels, or simply curious about how Europe’s political capital works from the inside, this episode offers valuable lessons on ambition, curiosity, and resilience. Host of the episode: ⁠Luca P. De Cristofaro Guest: Katarzyna Kowalewska, Unbubble Follow United Citizens of Europe: IG: ⁠@⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠unitedcitizensofeurope⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠United Citizens of Europe⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.unitedcitizensofeurope.com⁠⁠

    33 min

  2. DEC 13

    Youth, Democracy, and the Future of the European Union with Lukas Sieper | United Citizens of Europe

    In this episode of United Citizens of Europe, host Luca De Cristofaro speaks with MEP Lukas Sieper, one of the youngest Members of the European Parliament, about what it truly means to navigate European politics at just 28 years old. Lukas Sieper recounts the emotional rollercoaster of his election night, when uncertainty gave way to unexpected victory, revealing the unpredictability and intensity of political life. The conversation dives into the complexities of building genuine relationships in an environment where everyone arrives with ambitions and expectations. MEP Sieper reflects on how hard it can be to form real friendships in the Parliament and shares how this shapes the daily experience of young politicians eager to find their place. The discussion also explores why so many young Europeans feel disconnected from political institutions and how a generation that increasingly identifies as European is reshaping the meaning of political engagement. Mr Sieper offers a candid look behind the scenes of parliamentary work, describing chaotic agendas and inefficient processes that young MEPs must learn to navigate quickly. Throughout the episode, MEP Sieper’s passion for human rights comes through clearly. With a background in international law and a role in the Committee on International Trade and the LGBTQIA+ Intergroup, he explains how his academic path informs his political work and why human rights remain the unifying thread across all his efforts. This conversation highlights the hopes, challenges, and determination of a new generation stepping into European politics. MEP Sieper’s story is a reminder of why young voices matter — and how they are already shaping the Europe of tomorrow. Host of the episode: ⁠Luca P. De Cristofaro Guest: MEP Lukas Sieper Follow United Citizens of Europe: IG: ⁠@⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠unitedcitizensofeurope⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠United Citizens of Europe⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.unitedcitizensofeurope.com⁠

    35 min

  3. DEC 6

    The Art of Staying Energized in a Demanding World with Joseph Redsure | United Citizens of Europe

    In a world where activism, volunteering, and creative work often come with emotional and physical exhaustion, how do we stay energized without burning out? In this episode, Luca sits down with Joseph Redsure — singer-songwriter, activist, and lifelong community-builder — to explore what it truly takes to maintain energy, passion, and purpose in challenging times. Joseph shares powerful tips that have shaped his approach to wellbeing and resilience. Whether you’re an activist, volunteer, creative, or someone trying to stay afloat in a demanding world, this episode offers a reminder:Your energy matters: protect it, nurture it, and surround it with the right people. 🎙️ Listen now and rediscover the art of staying energized Host of the episode: ⁠Luca P. De Cristofaro Guest: Joseph Redsure Follow United Citizens of Europe: IG: ⁠@⁠⁠⁠⁠unitedcitizensofeurope⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠United Citizens of Europe⁠⁠ ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.unitedcitizensofeurope.com⁠

    37 min

  4. NOV 29

    After COP30: Breakthroughs, setbacks, and the road ahead with Angelos Pastras | United Citizens of Europe

    In this episode, we speak with Angelos Pastras, civil and environmental engineer and a veteran COP participant, who joins us to unpack the key outcomes of COP30 in Belém, Brazil. From the Amazon’s unprecedented role as host to the creation of the Tropical Forest Forever Facility and the agreement on the Global Goal on Adaptation indicators, Angelos explains why this year’s conference felt more urgent than ever. We discuss the role of the EU’s leadership in climate negotiations, the commitment to triple adaptation financing, and the persistent challenges around fossil fuel phase-out, where strong language once again failed to land despite global pressure. Angelos also reflects on Europe’s evolving role in climate diplomacy and why “shared but differentiated responsibilities” must guide global action moving forward. If you want a clear, accessible breakdown of what truly happened at COP30, this conversation is for you. Host of the episode: ⁠Luca P. De Cristofaro Guest: Angelos Pastras, Youth Climate Diplomacy Forum for Southeast Europe Follow United Citizens of Europe: IG: ⁠@⁠⁠⁠unitedcitizensofeurope⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠United Citizens of Europe⁠⁠ ⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.unitedcitizensofeurope.com⁠   #ClimateAction #COP30 #TropicalForests #Sustainability #EnvironmentalAwareness #ProtectourPlanet #ClimateCrisis #GreenFuture #EcoFriendly #Belem #ClimatePolicy #ClimateExpert #UnitedCitizensofEurope #AmazonRainforest #ClimateNegotiations #ClimateCrisis #EuropeanCitizens

    33 min

  5. NOV 22

    What is going on at COP30 with Paolo Destilo | United Citizens of Europe

    In this COP30 special, Luca speaks with Paolo Destilo, climate activist representing United for Climate Justice and Debt for Climate in Belém, Brazil. Paolo shares how his journey - from Dutch-Italian student to frontline climate organizer - led him to COP30.From the sudden pavilion fire that forced thousands to evacuate, to the political tensions around the Belem Declaration on phasing out fossil fuels, Paolo gives a rare insider perspective on what’s really happening at COP30. We dive into Brazil’s complex role as host, the struggle of Indigenous communities who had to storm the venue to demand access, and the powerful People’s March that united over 35,000 people calling for climate justice and debt cancellation for the Global South. Host of the episode: ⁠Luca P. De Cristofaro Guest: Paolo Destilo, United for Climate Justice & Debt for Climate Follow United Citizens of Europe: IG: ⁠@⁠⁠unitedcitizensofeurope⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠United Citizens of Europe⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.unitedcitizensofeurope.com⁠

    40 min

  6. JUN 21

    Uncensored Queer Inclusion with Murat Cinar | United Citizens of Europe

    Uncensored Queer Inclusion Behind the Divine Queer Film Festival In this episode of the United Citizens of Europe podcast, host Luca De Cristofaro interviews Murat Cinar, co-founder of the Divine Queer Film Festival. This isn't just any film festival; it's a vibrant platform dedicated to promoting an anti-racist vision hand-in-hand with crucial LGBTQI issues. Murat shares how the festival's unique film selection is deeply rooted in personal experiences and powerful intersectional themes, aiming to educate and inspire audiences through diverse cinematic voices.  As Murat emphasizes, the festival's remarkable success and growing attendance each year are testaments to the strength of community and collaboration. He highlights the vital role of international films in fostering understanding and celebrates the expansion of queer cinema's reach. Looking ahead, Murat discusses ambitious future plans to broaden the festival's impact, embodying their core philosophy: "Our vision is based on trying to not let anyone out." Discover how the Divine Queer Film Festival is breaking down barriers, both physical and mental, with the belief that "We are against borders." Host of the episode: ⁠Luca P. De Cristofaro Guest: Murat Cinar, Divine Queer Film Festival Follow United Citizens of Europe: IG: ⁠@⁠unitedcitizensofeurope⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠United Citizens of Europe⁠⁠ ⁠⁠www.unitedcitizensofeurope.com⁠

    31 min

  7. JUN 14

    The forgotten Union of Equality with Rémy Bonny | United Citizens of Europe

    Join us on our new United Citizens of Europe podcast episode as we sit down with Rémy Bonny, executive director of Forbidden Colours, for a crucial conversation on the state of LGBTQI rights across Europe. The discussion doesn't shy away from the hard truths, as Rémy critically examines the European Commission's perceived inaction and the European Parliament's limited legislative power when it comes to LGBTQI equality. He powerfully emphasizes the vital need for unity within the LGBTQI community to counter growing external threats, particularly from anti-gender movements strategically aiming to consolidate power. What happened to the "Union of Equality" strategy? From the concerning situation in Hungary—a stark reminder of the dangers of complacency—to a compelling call for accountability from the European Commission, this episode underscores the urgency of defending democratic values and the rights of marginalized communities. Rémy's insights reveal that the future of the European Union itself hangs in the balance if these fundamental principles are not upheld. Tune in for a vital discussion that will inform, challenge, and inspire action for a more inclusive Europe. Host of the episode: ⁠Luca P. De Cristofaro Guest: Rémy Bonny, Forbidden Colours Follow United Citizens of Europe: IG: ⁠@⁠⁠unitedcitizensofeurope⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠United Citizens of Europe⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠www.unitedcitizensofeurope.com⁠⁠

    36 min

  8. FEB 15

    Can young people save Europe? with MEP Benedetta Scuderi | United Citizens of Europe

    In this episode, we sat down with MEP Benedetta Scuderi,  a dynamic young Member of the European Parliament, to discuss the critical role of youth in shaping the future of Europe. We asked about MEP Scuderi's personal journey, exploring the experiences and influences that shaped her political views and inspired their career in public service.We explore the key priorities for the new European Parliament and Commission, focusing on how these institutions can better engage young people in the democratic process. We discuss the challenges facing young Europeans today, including issues like climate change, social justice, and economic inequality, and explore how the EU can address these concerns effectively.We want to thank MEP Benedetta Scuderi for her precious time.Host of the episode: ⁠Luca P. De Cristofaro Guest: MEP Benedetta Scuderi Follow United Citizens of Europe: IG: ⁠@⁠unitedcitizensofeurope⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠United Citizens of Europe ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠www.unitedcitizensofeurope.com⁠

    33 min
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United Citizens of Europe brings people together and inspires generations of Europeans. We want to listen to stories of Europeans and expats living in Europe, celebrate their successes, and learn from their mistakes. We talk to European NGOs that work to improve Europe and bordering countries. We strive for an inclusive Europe, and we will do it one podcast episode at a time.

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