Who we are
The European Buddhist Union (EBU) is an association of national Buddhist unions and Buddhist organisations of many traditions within Europe. Founded in Paris in 1975, the EBU now has its legal seat in Brussels, enabling a close engagement with European political institutions, in addition to our work with other faiths.
Read about our work.
Read our mission statement.
See a list of EBU member organisations including national Buddhist unions.
The Buddhist flag
The influence of Buddhist and European cultures upon each other dates back many centuries and today the number of Buddhists in Europe is estimated at over 2.5 million (around 0.3% of the population of Europe), having grown by 26% between 2010 and 2020. This includes those of traditional Asian Buddhist heritage and white Europeans and people of colour who have adopted a Buddhist way of life, inspired by the Buddha’s message: a path of training leading to the perfection of wisdom and compassion.
A history of Buddhism in Europe: an ancient religion with European roots