Almost 36,000 youths prepare to explore Europe with free travel passes
The Commission announced that 35,762 young people aged 18 will receive travel passes to explore the continents diversity, discover cultural heritage and history, and meet peers across Europe. This initiative is part of DiscoverEU, launched in 2018, allowing young travelers to explore Europe solo or in groups of up to five, mainly by train. Participants in this edition will travel between March 2025 and May 2026.
Glenn Micallef, Commissioner for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture, and Sport, said: « DiscoverEU is a transformative experience. Each station, café, and new friend enriches your story. Youre not just seeing Europe; youre living it. To all young explorers with travel passes: go out and make the most of this enriching opportunity! »
This DiscoverEU application round, under the Erasmus+ program, was open to those who turned 18 in 2024 from EU member states, and associated Erasmus+ countries. It received over 135,000 applications. DiscoverEU also includes a learning dimension, with pre-departure training and meet-ups across Europe. Participants can join the DiscoverEU Facebook group for connection. More details, including a country fact sheet, are available on the European Youth Portal.
(For more information: Eva Hrncirova – Tel.: +32 2 298 84 33; Anna Gray – Tel.: +32 2 298 08 73)
Chemnitz and Nova Gorica as 2025 European Capitals of Culture
In 2025, Chemnitz (Germany) and Nova Gorica (Slovenia) will serve as European Capitals of Culture (ECOC), hosting events that celebrate European cultural richness. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the ECOC initiative.
Chemnitzs ECOC inauguration will be on January 18, under the theme “See the Unseen,” focusing on community-driven cultural projects. Nova Gorica begins on February 8, aiming to grow together with the Italian city of Gorizia, exploring the concept of borders through cultural means.
Commissioner Glenn Micallef stated: “Congratulations to Chemnitz and Nova Gorica as 2025 European Capitals of Culture. This year showcases European cultural diversity and unity and reflects on the initiatives impact over 40 years.”
The title boosts local cultural and economic development, awarding both cities the €1.5 million Melina Mercouri Prize for their preparations. More information is available online.
(For more information: Eva Hrncirova – Tel.: +32 2 298 84 33; Anna Gray – Tel.: +32 2 298 08 73)
Commission approves STRABAG and Becker joint venture
The European Commission has approved the creation of a joint venture by STRABAG AG and Becker Umweltdienste GmbH in Germany for waste disposal.
The Commission found no competition concerns, noting the joint venture’s minimal activities in the EEA and limited combined market presence. The transaction underwent a simplified review.
Details available on the competition website in the public case register.
(For more information: Lea Zuber – Tel.: +32 2 295 62 98; Sara Simonini - Tel.: +32 2 298 33 67)