European Buddha

2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the EBU! In this concluding episode of the year, we reunite with Stefano Bettera to reflect on the past year and look ahead to future gatherings. Together, we aim to discuss and imagine what Buddhism could evolve into by 2075. We explore the challenges of modernity and society, and the role Buddhism could play in shaping a brighter future for tomorrow. Be part! Make a Donation and support us!

In this episode of the European Buddha Podcast, we sit down with Ioana Spataru from Vienna. Ioana shares her journey of growing up in a Christian Orthodox environment and how she eventually discovered Buddhism. We delve into what draws young people to Buddhism today and explore the vital role of community as a „third place“ in fostering connection How can we build strong and sustainable connections among Buddhist Youth in Europe? Well, connection starts with communication. Communication about what we are all up to, and from that getting invested in projects together. For information and contacts: Roxy Pang and Ioanna Spataru

EBU Podcast Summer Series Join us and be part of our Summer Series. In this segment, we delve into five frequently asked questions about Buddhism, featuring here a conversation with Tsunma Jinpa - nun in the Drikung Kagyu Tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. The 5 FAQ about Buddhism: Why meditate? What did the Buddha realize? What happens after we die? What is one of the best teachings you have received? How can Buddhist teachings support individuals in facing the challenges of modern life? Please consider making a donation to support the DBU’s mission. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a difference. Together, we can help preserve and grow the Buddhist tradition in Germany. Donate here

Summer Series Join us in our latest episode of the Special Summer Series. In this segment, we delve into a simple but deep question. Why meditate? Zarko Andricevic gives us an answer. 5 FAQ about Buddhism Why meditate? What did the Buddha realize? What happens after we die? What is one of the best teachings you have received? How can Buddhist teachings support individuals in facing the challenges of modern life?

In this episode of the European Buddha Podcast, we chat with Lama Rinczen, a former monk and Dharma teacher in the Karma Kagyu tradition. Lama Rinczen shares his experiences from traveling across the East and West, highlighting cultural differences and the challenges they pose in teaching the Dharma. We also discuss the profound purpose of a three-year retreat and its transformative impact. Join us in this insightful conversation!

In this episode, we are honored to be joined by Carlo Luyckx, Vice President of The European Buddhist Union (EBU) and President of the Belgium Buddhist Union. Carlo offers us a glimpse into the intricate tapestry of European Buddhism, where diversity thrives within the backdrop of the European Union's cultural mosaic. With his role as the EBU Liaison Officer to the European Union, Carlo serves as a vital bridge between the Buddhist community and the corridors of power in Brussels. We delve into Carlo Luyckx's encounters with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, including a special moment when Carlo received a statue from him. As we conclude our conversation, we remember the importance of civic engagement in shaping our collective future. With the upcoming elections for the new European Parliament in June, each vote becomes a vital instrument in safeguarding democracy, particularly in these challenging times. Vote for Unity, Vote for Change: Your Voice, Our Future! L'intégrité en politique: une utopie ? (French Edition) - 2022

From a Buddhist perspective, we understand that nurturing the heart is essential, and schools play a vital role in shaping values, whether consciously or unconsciously. Through self-reflection and fostering healthy relationships, we lay the groundwork for a more harmonious society. The EBU initiative „Teach Peace,“ emphasizes that educators are central to this process, embodying principles of social connection and compassion that students can absorb. We’re joined by David Rycroft, director of Teach Peace and Mind With Heart, an international charity dedicated to training teachers and students in sustainable wellbeing, emotional health, and social connection. With over 20 years of experience in training mindfulness instructors and school teachers, David brings a wealth of knowledge in tools for emotional health, particularly in working with teenagers. David introduced us to a simple yet effective practice called BBB (Body, Breath, Being), designed to cultivate peace even in challenging environments like schools with restless teenagers. Join us and let’s work together towards building a more peaceful world, one step at a time. Visit: https://www.teach-peace.org/

Join us as we reflect on the past year, exploring moments of gratitude that shaped our journey. Embracing the spirit of fearlessness, we delve into the highlights and lessons learned. As we celebrate the power of gratitude, we extend an invitation to our listeners to support the European Buddhist Union. Your donations contribute to fostering unity, understanding, and the dissemination of Buddhist values across Europe. Visit us here to make a difference! A big thank you to all of you!

Join us for an ECO-Dharma Episode as we delve into the pressing issue of sustainability in our modern world. In the serene surroundings of the Maison Notre Dame Du Chant D’Oiseau, a historic monastery nestled in the heart of Brussels, we sat down during the AGM breaks to explore the theme of sustainability. Our guest for this conversation is Gunaketu, an ordained member into the Triratna Buddhist Order and a speaker at the Eco-Dharma Workshops. Gunaketu generously shared his insights on what it means to lead a sustainable life, shedding light on the role Buddhists can play in this endeavor and his personal journey towards maintaining a positive outlook. Throughout our discussion, Gunaketu underscores that sustainability and justice have emerged as pivotal movements in recent decades. These movements serve as guiding beacons, offering a glimpse of what a new, sustainable society might resemble. In his capacity as a passionate advocate for sustainability among Buddhists in Norway, Gunaketu is also a member of the Eco-Dharma Network, an initiative led by the EBU. Tune in and be with us as we talk about how to cultivate a more sustainable and harmonious world, one mindful step at a time. Check out the EBU Eco-Dharma Network & our Shownotes! Recommended reading & references https://www.positive.news Ecodharma: Buddhist Teachings for the Ecological Crisis by David Loy, 2019. Active Hope: How to Face the Mess We’re in with Unexpected Resilience and Creative Power by Joanna Macy and Chris Johnstone Article by Kritee (Dharma name Kanko): Movement builders! Deal with trauma to be found here

Join us in this enlightening episode of the "European Buddha Podcast" as we welcome our special guest, Dario Girolami, to discuss the emerging field of Buddhist Chaplaincy in the West. We explore how the roots of Buddhist chaplaincy trace back to Buddha himself, and how it serves to address various forms of suffering. During our conversation, we delved into the profound impact of Dharma-based companioned service, extending compassion to both Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike in places of suffering such as hospitals, prisons, and hospices. We discovered intriguing similarities between the environment of a prison cell and the contemplative life of monasticism! Dario also shed light on the importance of acknowledging compassion fatigue while recognizing the rewarding aspects of engaging in Buddhist chaplaincy. Towards the end of the episode, we took an outlook on the evolving training in Buddhist Chaplaincy promoted by the EBU. Get informed: https://europeanbuddhistunion.org/chaplaincy-network

In this episode, we are honored to have Deny Rinpoche join us. He is a regular speaker of the EBU Contemplative Science Network. We shed light on the importance of precise language usage, particularly when exploring concepts such as mindfulness and awareness, which can vary in interpretation across different languages. Our discussion delves into the challenges of translating experiential knowledge into words and the significance of establishing a meaningful connection between language and personal experience. In the spirit of experiential learning, we engage in a practice exercise guided by Deny Rinpoche. This allows us to personally connect with the teachings and reflect on their relevance in our lives. We also delve into the transformative power of the Dharma, exploring how its infusion into society can bring about profound changes. Tune in to this enlightening episode as we delve into the realms of contemplative science and the transformative potential of the Dharma in society. Recommended reading: Openness, Clarity, Sensitivity - Rigdzin Shikpo Last meeting of the Contemplative Science Network on Youtube

Welcome to the latest episode of our podcast, where we are honored to have Martin Schaurhofer, Secretary of the Austrian Buddhist Union, as our guest. We discussed the 40th anniversary of the Austrian Buddhist Union's recognition as a religion by the state of Austria. Mr. Schaurhofer shares with us the history of the organization, its challenges, and its achievements in the past four decades. He emphasizes the importance of being innovative and creative to adapt to the changing world and meet the needs of our time. He says, "We need innovative and crazy ideas for the future!" He also highlights the significance of humor and love in the practice of Buddhism. Humor is a great way to connect with people and to lighten up the atmosphere. He states, "Humour and love are so important!" Join us in this enlightening conversation with Martin Schaurhofer, and discover how the Austrian Buddhist Union is making a positive impact on individuals and communities. https://www.buddhismus-austria.at/home-en-us/

In this episode, we take a dive into the Italian Buddhist Union with Stefano Bettera. Founded in 1985, the Italian Buddhist Union is a federation of Buddhist groups and centers in Italy, representing a wide range of different traditions and lineages. As an activity based organization the UBI (unionebuddhistaitaliana)  promotes the integration of Buddhism into Italian society through programs and initiatives aimed at education, social action, interfaith dialogue and more. In this episode we  explored the Italian Buddhist Union and its mission. One of Stefanos key statements were: "Just do it!" Well, so let´s just do it and join us as we learn more about the diversity and richness of Buddhism in Europe! And yes - have a look on the new logo of the UBI:  https://unionebuddhistaitaliana.it/en/