The ceremonial opening of the EMYA2025 Conference took place on 22 May 2025 at the Podlasie Opera and Philharmonic in Białystok. The event began with welcoming remarks from the organisers and hosts, including representatives of the European Museum Forum, the Sybir Memorial Museum, local and regional authorities, as well as the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage.

Hans Looijen, Acting Chair of the European Museum Forum, opened the conference with a speech highlighting the vital role of museums in a rapidly changing world. He emphasised their function as guardians of democratic values and wished all participants fruitful discussions.

Professor Wojciech Śleszyński, Director of the Sybir Memorial Museum, expressed his delight at Białystok and the museum having the honour of hosting such a significant event:

“It is a great honour not only for us at the Sybir Memorial Museum but also for the entire city. I warmly welcome you all, especially the representatives of Europe’s finest museums. You are a great family that speaks not only of the past but also of the present and the future. You bear the responsibility of educating and passing on knowledge to future generations,” he said.

Deputy Minister of Culture and National Heritage, Marta Cienkowska, drew attention to the symbolism of the location in the context of today’s challenges:

“I would like to welcome you all here in Białystok. There could hardly be a more symbolic venue for this conference, particularly at a time when Europe and the world are witnessing Russia’s aggression against democratic Ukraine. Here, where history speaks with a human voice, we feel even more strongly the importance of defending our European community,” she emphasised.

Tadeusz Truskolaski, Mayor of Białystok, proudly declared that the city had become the capital of European museology and that the Sybir Memorial Museum represents not only Białystok and the region, but Poland and Europe as a whole.

“I am convinced that the European Museum Forum’s decision to hold the conference in Białystok is no coincidence. It underlines the importance of our institution within the museum sector. As the Mayor of Białystok, I am proud of our museum and consider the decision to build it one of the best we’ve ever made,” he noted.

Wiesława Burnos, Deputy Marshal of the Podlaskie Voivodeship, referenced the conference’s theme, underscoring the mission of museums in preserving cultural heritage:

“It is a great honour to welcome so many distinguished guests to the capital of our beautiful region. This year’s theme, ‘Remembrance and Solidarity for Collective Action’, perfectly encapsulates the essence of museology. Museums are the guardians of historical memory. Thanks to your work, your dedication and passion, the past of our nations – their creativity and history – will not be forgotten,” she said.

Following the official opening, the day continued with a series of inspiring presentations and four panel discussions featuring representatives of esteemed European museums from Denmark, Portugal, Ukraine, Turkey, Sweden, Norway, the United Kingdom, and many others, including winners of prestigious awards such as EMYA.

The first day of EMYA2025 focused on the role of museums in nurturing cultural identity and collective memory. Panel discussions explored inclusive museum practices, overcoming social barriers, and integrating science and technology into historical narratives. Participants also examined the significance of museums in fostering urban democracy and civic engagement.

Integral to the conference were the breaks between sessions, which offered valuable opportunities for networking, exchanging experiences, and engaging in lively conversations sparked by the presentations. These informal moments fostered connections that may well lead to future collaborations. The day concluded with a dinner, providing a relaxed and intimate setting for continued dialogue.