People, ideas, spaces - 50 years shaping Europe

Join us 7-9 May 2026 in celebrating the EUI’s journey and shaping the next chapter together.

A brief history of the EUI

The European University Institute (EUI) welcomed its first 70 researchers in 1976. Over the past five decades, it has grown into a thriving community shaping Europe’s future through bold research, interdisciplinary teaching, and public engagement.

Looking back and forward

This anniversary is a chance to celebrate the people, ideas and spaces that have made the EUI a pillar of European scholarship and dialogue. Looking back at our history and achievements, we will also look ahead, to continue creating public value and inspiring research and education, laying new foundations for the future of the social sciences and humanities, and our society. In the process, we will present the EUI’s new vision and strategy.

Save the date 7-9 May 2026

7 May: 50th anniversary celebrations in the presence of the local, national and international authorities
7 May: Ministerial Summit on the future of higher education, with ministers of the 24 EUI Member States
8 May: EUIdeas, research and engagement event
9 May: Open day at the Historical Archives of the European Union