Europe Next Door — dialogue in Rotterdam

Europe Next Door brings the debate on Ukraine’s European future to Ukrainian House Rotterdam. Organised by Stichting Brand New Ukraine with local partners, the series invites people who do not usually attend policy meetings to explore what EU enlargement could mean for their communities, livelihoods and security. The Rotterdam conversation takes place in English.

The wider programme connects Ukrainian and Dutch perspectives on trade and investment, workers’ opportunities and migration, agriculture and sustainability, European defence, and the rule of law. Rather than presenting a fixed conclusion, the organisers welcome support, doubts and respectful criticism. Visitors can contribute questions and personal experiences, including anonymous questions on cards.

Michal Onderco, Professor of International Relations at Erasmus University Rotterdam, is listed for the Rotterdam panel. His research focuses on international security and nuclear politics. The series combines discussion with an exhibition about the path to EU membership and a Ukrainian cultural moment; additional panellists may be announced.

The meeting is on Wednesday 25 November 2026, 19:30–21:00, at Ukrainian House, Pleinweg 196A, 3083 EV Rotterdam. Admission is free. Register with the organiser and select Rotterdam in the form.

Europe Next Door is an official satellite event of the EU Enlargement Forum 2026, supported by the European Commission. See the original programme and Ukrainian House calendar.

Image: EU Enlargement Forum 2026 campaign artwork supplied on the Europe Next Door website; this is campaign imagery, not a photograph of the Rotterdam meeting.