Florence is “home” to Europe. “In Florence, we breathe the European culture and wisdom, thanks to the presence of the European University Institute (EUI)”, the newly elected EUI secretary general, Ambassador Vincenzo Schioppa Narrante, told SIR, presenting the sixth edition of the conference “The State of the Union” (followed on social media at #SOU2016). From 5 to 7 May, representatives from the European institutions, prime ministers, national MPs, MEPs, international journalists and academics will meet in Florence to discuss the topic of women in EU policies and global issues. “We will discuss priorities – the ambassador explained – such as sustainable development, conflict resolution, social cohesion, the quality of democracy, and participation in politics”. “Now more than ever – the ambassador stressed –, we need common actions”. “Without Europe, none of the 28 Member States can be self-sufficient or promote peace and the wellbeing of its people, nor can it counter social exclusion and discrimination, or facilitate technological and scientific progress”. For the programme and more information, please visit https://stateoftheunion.eui.eu/.