ABOUT DOUZELAGE
Uniting Communities Across Europe, One Town at a Time
Douzelage is a unique European town-twinning association that brings together 28 towns, each from a different European country, with one shared goal: fostering connections, understanding, and collaboration across borders. Our network creates opportunities for cultural exchanges, joint projects, and friendships that transcend national boundaries.
At its core, Douzelage is about more than just diplomacy. It’s about people—working together to make Europe a more connected, inclusive, and vibrant place. We believe that real connections start at the local level, and with our towns leading the way, we’re building a future that celebrates unity in diversity.
A Dynamic and Diverse Network
What makes Douzelage special is the variety of towns involved. From small coastal villages to historic inland cities, each town brings its own unique culture, heritage, and perspective. This diversity is our strength, allowing us to organize meaningful exchanges and projects that touch on everything from education to environmental sustainability.
And this network isn’t just for officials or politicians—it’s for everyone. We actively encourage citizens, schools, and organizations to get involved in our programs, making Douzelage an inclusive platform where ideas flow freely, and friendships are formed.
Our Vision for the Future
As Europe evolves, so do we. Our young, dynamic board is always looking for new ways to engage with citizens across Europe. We believe in fostering new partnerships, exploring innovative solutions to shared challenges, and making Douzelage a relevant and responsive network for today’s Europe.
Our Approach: Fun, Professional, and Collaborative
While we’re committed to serious European cooperation, we also know that the best results come when people enjoy what they’re doing. That’s why our approach is both professional and fun—we know how to get things done, but we’re not afraid to think creatively or embrace the lighter side of collaboration. This mindset allows us to create a vibrant, friendly, and productive atmosphere within our network.
Our Structure
Douzelage is run by an Executive Board, led by elected representatives from our member towns. We also have several working groups dedicated to specific themes like sustainability, youth engagement, and digital innovation. Our organizational chart shows the many ways our members contribute to the success of Douzelage, ensuring every voice is heard.
If you want to know more about our structure or explore how you can get involved, check out our [Organizational Chart] and discover the people and teams making a difference.
GET TO KNOW US
OUR TWO PILLARS
YOUTH
OUR YOUNGSTERS
EDUCATION
OUR TEACHERS
We are always building!
Some words from the Douzelage sitting President
From day one of Douzelage back in May of 1991 to today, the goal of the organisation remains the same – to bring together the citizens of this great union in fostering the spirit of Europe – togetherness and collaboration and to be united in diversity. I’m pleased to say that 33 years later those goals remain at the heart of what we do in Douzelage as we invite the citizens of our partner towns to meet, collaborate and experience one another’s cultures.
From European projects to national celebrations to personal visits to our General Meetings, the friendships that have been forged through Douzelage are long lasting. As we lead the organisation into the next number of years we continue to hold togetherness and friendship at the heart of what we do. Thank you for checking out our website and please get in touch if you would like to know more information.
Shane Smyth
PRESIDENT
