Some Facts about Europaklubben (The Association for Europe in Västerås)
The Association for Europe in Västerås (Europaklubben) is a nonpartisan club open to anyone interested in the culture and history of Europe. The group organizes lectures and other informational events related to European economics, history, culture, and current events for club members and the general public.
How it started
Preceding a 1994 referendum in Sweden on EU membership, the Association for Europe was established in Stockholm, with satellite groups in other parts of the country including the city of Västerås, to provide impartial information about the EU and how EU membership would affect Sweden as a nation.
After the referendum, which favored EU membership, the Association for Europe and its satellite groups disbanded. In 1995, the Västerås group reorganized as an independent organization under the name The Association for Europe in Västerås.
What we do
Twice a year, the club’s governing board creates a program for spring or autumn activities focused on a specific country or region based on suggestions from the club membership. At the conclusion of the lecture series, the club usually organizes a trip to public and cultural institutions and businesses in that geographic area.
Most recently, the club has visited Belgium (Brussels and EU organizations), Germany (Kassel, a Västerås sister city), and Finland (Österbotten) Trip reports can be found under “Resor” on the club website.
More generally, the club also invites writers, journalists and experts to speak about contemporary issues and events in Europe as a whole. All lectures, usually held at the Västerås public library, are open to the public. Information about recent programs and lectures can be found under “Tidigare program” and “Reportage” on the group’s website.
The theme for 2026 was Modern Europe, focused on France. The club visited Toulouse, France in September 2026. The theme for 2027 is Italy – a Large Country within EU – with Focus on Bologna.