There is not one single idea or vision of Europe – let alone of a United Europe as such. In many regards, Europe can only be understood in its plural form, an inchoate and constantly changing entity that may look very different depending on the standpoint and perspective of the observer. In her lecture, Professor Heike Wieters will begin by examining European myths and historiographical traditions – highlighting the varying visions and narratives about Europe and its ‘other’ since the 18th century. Looking at cultural, intellectual, economic, social and political conceptions of a ‘United Europe,’ the talk will explore how the many European pasts and futures were – and still are – created. Professor Wieters  will then unpack the idea of a ‘Social Europe’  by discussing the realities of welfare, living conditions, economic trends, and transnational social movements. She will also discuss the many pasts and futures of the idea of a ‘Social Europe’ in a globalising world.

Prof. Heike Wieters holds a PhD in History and has been Junior Professor for Historical European Studies at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin since 2019. Her research interests include the internationalisation of institutions, concepts and practices of welfare and humanitarian aid, the history of European integration in a global context, and the history of non-state organisations and business enterprises during the 19th and 20th century.

Moderated by George Stylianou, former journalist and currently the House of European History’s PR, Outreach and Institutional Officer.

Introduction by Dr. Constanze Itzel, Museum Director of the House of European History.

In the light of the Conference on the Future of Europe, the House of European History is organising an online lecture series entitled ‘Envisioning ; From 22 June 2021 to 19 July 2022, the House of European History shares its floor with 12 prominent historians to exchange insights into the past and present Europe. Voices outside Europe also contribute to contextualising this dialogue with external perspectives. Each lecture includes a moderated Q&A session.