What kind of history does Europe need?
Europe has entered a new era that in many ways echoes the nation-building processes of the 19th century. This time, however, the driving force comes from Eurosceptic actors challenging those who advocate for deeper European integration.
September 11, 2026 -
Georges Mink
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History and MemoryIssue 5 2026Magazine
Information board showing historic maps of Warsaw on a snowy street at dusk
Photo: AxOst/Shutterstock
What kind of history does Europe need? Or more importantly, what kind of collective memory can sustain the Europe we want to build? Before addressing these questions, let me point to the principles that determine the European Union’s approach to historical memory, reaffirmed in the 2024 European Parliament’s resolution on European historical consciousness. At its core lies the conviction that Europe’s past should be approached critically. Dark chapters should not be treated as immutable national myths but lessons for the future. The resolution also calls for broadening European memory beyond institutionally driven narratives and towards a more participatory culture of remembrance shaped by citizens.
It stresses the need for reforming history education by placing greater emphasis on European and world history, fostering critical thinking, and equipping teachers with transnational perspectives. At the same time, it highlights the importance of programmes such as Erasmus+ and “Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values” in promoting exchanges and remembrance initiatives across borders. Finally, it states history must be protected from political manipulation. Denialism and the instrumentalization of the past are rejected.
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Eastern European history, European history, history, memory
