With just one month remaining until the annual event, preparations continues for the fourth edition of the EU Citizens' Gathering, taking place in Manchester on 11 July 2025. For the first time, this flagship celebration will venture beyond London, highlighting the significant role of Greater Manchester and the North of England in fostering EU-UK relations.

The University of Manchester's Samuel Alexander Building will host this unique gathering, bringing together EU citizens living in the UK with prominent EU and UK politicians and policymakers. The event represents a powerful opportunity for the approximately 6 million EU citizens and their family members who call the UK home to share experiences, connect with their communities, and engage directly with decision-makers.

High-Level Political Participation

The gathering has secured participation from two of the EU's most senior political figures. Michael McGrath, EU Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection, and Katarina Barley, Vice-President of the European Parliament, who leads relations with European civil society organisations and deputises for the Parliament President on UK issues and the EU-UK Parliamentary Partnership Assembly. The Gathering is also very happy to welcome the Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham who will address the plenary session. 

Their presence underscores the continued importance of people-to-people connections between the EU and the UK, despite the changed political landscape following Brexit.

Strengthening Regional Partnerships

The choice of Manchester as this year's host city reflects the EU's commitment to recognising the vital partnerships that exist across all regions of the UK. The gathering will be preceded by a special visit from EU ambassadors on 10 July, designed to strengthen the already robust cooperation between the EU, the UK, and Greater Manchester in key areas including economic development, innovation, and cultural exchange.

This regional focus celebrates the diverse contributions that EU citizens make to communities throughout the UK, extending far beyond the capital to encompass the rich tapestry of European life across British cities, towns, and rural areas.

Celebrating European Contributions

The EU Citizens' Gathering serves to recognise and celebrate the invaluable contributions that EU citizens make to the social, economic, and cultural fabric of British society. From healthcare workers and teachers to entrepreneurs and artists, EU citizens continue to play essential roles in communities across the country.

The Manchester gathering will provide a platform for these stories to be heard, experiences to be shared, and networks to be built that can support and empower EU citizens living in the UK.

Registration and Participation

EU citizens living in the UK who wish to participate in this historic gathering are encouraged to register for the event. This represents a unique opportunity to engage directly with senior EU officials, connect with fellow EU citizens, and contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the future of EU-UK relations at the grassroots level.

As the countdown to 11 July continues, the EU Citizens' Gathering Manchester promises to be a milestone event that celebrates both the enduring connections between the EU and the UK and the vital role that individual citizens play in maintaining these important relationships.

For a taster of last year’s gathering please take a look at last year’s highlights via video, the news story or even listen to the podcast all dedicated to the Citizens' Gathering 2024!