Optional Pre-Tour
Global Forum 2024
EUROPULS - Centre of European Expertise
EUROPULS - Centre of European Expertise is a non-governmental organization founded in 2010 by Romanian professionals in EU affairs with the objective to promote the European integration process in Romania. EUROPULS aims to encourage public debates on European issues and raise awareness about European values and policies through articles and studies, as well as through the organization of public debates, workshops and conferences.
This year marks the 12th edition of the Global Forum on Modern Direct Democracy, and it promises to be an insightful and impactful event where we focus on the crucial theme of trust – in institutions, media, decision-makers and among citizens. The 12th edition of EUROSFAT - the EU track of the Global Forum - aims to provide the framework to assess Romania as a hub for discussion at the global level and more importantly for the future of the European Union, Romania's development as an active actor in the EU, both internally, as well as across the borders. We want to double our efforts in tackling euroscepticism by bringing together speakers, academics, decision-makers at the EU level from different countries in order to exchange views, and initiatives in order to be able to promote the EU values.
Every year, starting from 2013, Eurosfat marks that pivotal moment when Europe, in all its forms, becomes the most important topic on Romania's agenda. We intend to continue our mission of bringing the European Union closer to Romanian citizens, especially in these challenging times.
Co-Hosts
Permanent Partner
Partners
Patronage
The forum represents, year after year, a model of success in connecting the citizens of Romania with the European agenda, being a forum for debates between decision-makers at the European, national and local level, civil society, journalists, the business environment and the academic environment.
EUROSFAT 2024
- Global Forum on Direct Democracy: This year marks the 12th edition of the Global Forum on Modern Direct Democracy, focusing on the theme of trust in institutions, media, and among citizens. The event promises insightful discussions and impactful solutions.
- EUROSFAT - EU Track: EUROSFAT's 12th edition assesses Romania's role in the EU and as a global discussion hub. It aims to combat euroscepticism by bringing together EU-level speakers, academics, and decision-makers to promote EU values and initiatives effectively.
Optional Pre-Tour
May 13 - 15
Please select the day
MONDAY 13th May 2024
Afternoon
15:00
15:00 - 18:00
History tour
Tour route:
1. Revolution Square
- Kretulescu Church - as a symbol of the Phanariot period, one of the oldest buildings in
Bucharest;
- The National Museum of Romanian Art, the site of the former Palace of Al. I. Cuza and Carol
I, Royal Palace in the Kingdom Period;
- Romanian Athenaeum - symbol of Western influences in architecture;
- MAI Palace - as the former Central Committee of the Romanian Communist Party, together
with Revolution Square, the place where the 1989 Revolution broke out;
2. Calea Victoriei
- Grand Hotel Continental
- Hotel Novotel - former National Theatre
- Palace of Telephones
- Flag Square: Military Circle, Casa Capșa Hotel, Grand Hotel du Boulevard
- Grand Hotel Continental
- Hotel Novotel - former National Theatre
- Palace of Telephones
- Flag Square: Military Circle, Casa Capșa Hotel, Grand Hotel du Boulevard
3. University Square
- About the 1989 Revolution: Baricada, Studențiada and Mineriada
- University of Bucharest
- Statues at the University
- About the 1989 Revolution: Baricada, Studențiada and Mineriada
- University of Bucharest
- Statues at the University
Meeting point:
Kretulescu Church (Calea Victoriei 45)
Contact Person:
Francesca at +40 763 888 815
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TUESDAY 14th May 2024
Morning
10:00
10:00 - 16:00
History tour
Where is Ploiesti?
Ploiești is a city and county seat in Prahova County, Romania. Part of the historical region of
Muntenia, it is located 56 km north of Bucharest.
In the mid-19th century the region of Ploiești became one of the world's leading oil-extraction
and -refinery sites.
The Mehedințeanu brothers opened the world's first large refinery in Ploiești in 1856–1857.
History also remembers the city as the site of the self-styled Republic of Ploiești, a short-lived
1870 revolt against the Romanian monarchy.
During World War I, Ploiești's oil production made it a target when the Central Powers invaded
Romania in 1916, a British Army operation commanded by Colonel John Griffiths destroyed
production and sabotaged much of the infrastructure of the industry.
Ploiești is a city and county seat in Prahova County, Romania. Part of the historical region of
Muntenia, it is located 56 km north of Bucharest.
In the mid-19th century the region of Ploiești became one of the world's leading oil-extraction
and -refinery sites.
The Mehedințeanu brothers opened the world's first large refinery in Ploiești in 1856–1857.
History also remembers the city as the site of the self-styled Republic of Ploiești, a short-lived
1870 revolt against the Romanian monarchy.
During World War I, Ploiești's oil production made it a target when the Central Powers invaded
Romania in 1916, a British Army operation commanded by Colonel John Griffiths destroyed
production and sabotaged much of the infrastructure of the industry.
How do we get there?
By train! The ride takes about 40 min-1 hour. The tickets can be bought digitally from this
website. One ride is 24 RON so the road from Bucharest to Ploiesti and from Ploiesti to
Bucharest is 48 RON (equivalent to 10 EUR).
By train! The ride takes about 40 min-1 hour. The tickets can be bought digitally from this
website. One ride is 24 RON so the road from Bucharest to Ploiesti and from Ploiesti to
Bucharest is 48 RON (equivalent to 10 EUR).
Where do we meet?
The North Trainstation in Bucharest (Piața Gării de Nord 1).
What will you do?
- Together with the young team of Ploiesti you will visit the city.
- You will visit the Clock Museum which is unique in Europe. The entrance ticket is 12
- You will visit the youth centre made by young people for young people
- Lunch location TBA
-
TUESDAY 14th May 2024
Morning
10:00
10:00 - 13:15
Study visit to EFdeN! - Come and discover the solar houses made by young students
En-ROADS is a global climate simulator that allows users to explore the impact that dozens
of policies—such as electrifying transport, pricing carbon, and improving agricultural
practices—have on hundreds of factors like energy prices, temperature, air quality, and sea
level rise.
En-ROADS helps people make connections between things they care about and the
possibilities available to help ensure a resilient future. Users can quickly see the long-term
effects of the global climate policies and actions they imagine. The goal? To break through
the noise and equip elected officials, business leaders, and others with the knowledge they
need to implement equitable and high-leverage climate solutions.
of policies—such as electrifying transport, pricing carbon, and improving agricultural
practices—have on hundreds of factors like energy prices, temperature, air quality, and sea
level rise.
En-ROADS helps people make connections between things they care about and the
possibilities available to help ensure a resilient future. Users can quickly see the long-term
effects of the global climate policies and actions they imagine. The goal? To break through
the noise and equip elected officials, business leaders, and others with the knowledge they
need to implement equitable and high-leverage climate solutions.
Where and When do we meet?
Bucharest, Boulevard Pache Protopopescu no. 66. Activities will take place on May 15
between 11:00 - 13:15. We’d request to meet up before, at 10:45.
Bucharest, Boulevard Pache Protopopescu no. 66. Activities will take place on May 15
between 11:00 - 13:15. We’d request to meet up before, at 10:45.
Google Maps Link
Study visit coordinators - get in touch with us if needed:
Mihai Theodor Eugeniu: +40732373796
Marin Elena Miruna: +40763631267
Study visit coordinators - get in touch with us if needed:
Mihai Theodor Eugeniu: +40732373796
Marin Elena Miruna: +40763631267
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Global Forum On Modern Direct Democracy
EUROSFAT - GLOBAL EDITION
May 15 - 18
Please select the day
WEDNESDAY 15th May 2024
Afternoon
17:00
17:00 - 18:00
Registration
18:00
18:00 - 21:00
Opening evening
Faculty of Sociology of the University of Bucharest
Lead Programme (contacting, confirming, etc): Francesca
Lead Programme (contacting, confirming, etc): Francesca
Speakers
Francesca Cristea
Head of Policy and Programs
Europuls
18:00 - 18:30
Welcoming remarks
A short introduction into the Global Forum, EUROSFAT and the Romanian context. Trust is the main theme of the Global Forum.
Speakers
Tana Foarfa
Executive director,
EUROPULS
Caroline Vernaillen
Global Manager for PR and Community Building, Democracy International e.V.
18:30
18:30 - 18:45
Musical intermezzo - Sorin Zlat Jazz combo
19:15
19:15 - 20:15
Panel - The future of democracy in the Black Sea Region - Can democracy deliver security?
Speakers
TBC
20:15
20:15 - 21:30
Reception with musical intermezzo - Sorin Zlat Jazz combo
-
THURSDAY 16th May 2024
Morning
09:30
09:30 - 09:45
Welcoming remarks
Description
09:45
09:45 - 09:55
Keynote - Trust: who, when, why?
Description
09:55
09:55 - 10:05
Keynote “Citizen assemblies: how their work fosters active citizenship and social cohesion”
Description
Speakers
Marjan Ehsassi
Executive Director, FIDE - North America; Berggruen Fellow
10:15
10:15 - 10:45
Plenary 1: Fireside chat: Cohesion and Regional Development
Cohesion policy helps regions meet their objectives. It complements the cosystem on fields such as: education, employment, energy, environment, the single market, research and innovation.
Throughout the projects financed by the Cohesion Policy financed in the regions and cities, we can mention: “A European Green Deal”, “A Europe fit for the digital age”, “An economy that works for the people”.
How can we more effectively develop regions?
How did we evolve?
Where will we be standing?
Speakers
Corina Crețu
Former European Commissioner for Cohesion and Reforms
Ovidiu Cîmpean
Secretary of State, Ministry of European Investments and Projects
Moderator
Francesca Cristea
Head of Policy & Programs, Europuls
11:25 - 11:40 - Break
11:40
11:40 - 13:00
Plenary Session 3: “Democracy as a mission, technology as a means - contemporary journalism around the world”
The plenary session aims to gather representatives of civil society and journalists in order to build upon defending democracy through quality journalism.
Speakers
Joe Mathews
Renovating Democracy Fellow, Berggruen Foundation, USA
Vitalie Cojocari
Journalist, Euronews Romania
Petru Macovei
Executive Director, Association of Independent Press Republic of Moldova
Moderator
Raimar Wagner
Project Coordinator, Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom, Romania
THURSDAY 16th May 2024
Afternoon
14:30
14:30 - 16:00
Session 26 “Future of energy in the Black Sea Region”
The plenary session aims to be a constructive dialogue between the representatives of the Government of Romania and of the Republic of Moldova in order to shape the best suitable strategy to ensure clean energy in the Black Sea Region and to strengthen security and partnerships between stakeholders.
Speakers
Carolina Novac
Secretary of State, Ministry of Energy in the Republic of Moldova
Dan Dragoș Drăgan
Secretary of State, Ministry of Energy in Romania
Moderator
Corneliu Cotet
Affiliated expert, Europuls
14:30 - 16:00
Session 2: Academic spotlight: “Constitution and direct democracy: the role of popular participation in constitution-writing”
The panel centres on popular participation in constitutional transformations, with a specific focus on the referendum, exploring its role as a tool for expressing popular sovereignty and its dual nature as both a means of popular engagement and a potential plebiscite. The panel, delving into specific cases, will examine if and how the referendum process reflects popular will and can impact constitutional changes, exploring also the dynamics characterizing this interaction. The discussion will provide insights into the complexities of the relationship between civic participation and the shaping of new constitutional frameworks
Keywords content: See Marco’s original proposal. How can the people participate in shaping the constitutions, different models and examples from around the world.
Panel organiser
Marco Podetta
Researcher, University of Brescia, Italy
Lorenzo Spadacini
(Associate Professor - University of Brescia: "Referendums in Political Decision-Making Process: Populism vs. Democracy")
Riccardo Fraccaro
(Former Italian Minister for Direct Democracy: "The Function of Referendums in Shaping Constitutional Changes: Lessons Learned and Future Perspectives")
Daniele Casanova
(Tenured Assistant Professor - University of Brescia: "Constitutional Amendments and Constitutional Transformations: Role and Limits of Popular Referendums")
Other panelists
Ivan Sergio Kucharsky Villarreal
Independent international electoral expert, Bolivia
14:30 - 16:00
Session 3: Academic spotlight: “Understanding trust and democracy through comparative historical analysis”
Trust is the actual measure of "normalcy" in a functional and legitimate liberal democracy. Trust in human rights, in the rule of law, and in a reasonable participative, tolerant, inclusive, civic attitude is compulsory in a democracy. Trust in the role of press and social networks as well as in citizens for fulfilling the role of safeguards for democracy is paramount, too. But here comes also the role of distrust: first, perfect trust is unrealistic and, second, civic action is based on a healthy distrust of the government and public authorities, which becomes evident through civic initiatives that play a positive critical role. Trust and distrust are important referential points on the political democratic continuum in democratic societies. Trust is either gradually gained with persistence and democratic consistency, during a lengthy process, or lost, spectacularly, quite quickly, on the occasion of catastrophic failures in managing some situations, or in failing to make the necessary decisions at the right time. The democratic relationship that the citizen has with the authorities, institutions and the others (for a functional "we, the people") is based on trust, closely related not only to the efficiency and functionality of the relationship (to the authorities, institutions and the others), but also to the positive feeling of a well-placed investment (here, of trust), if things unfold, in a reasonable, efficient and predictable manner, according to the rules, and in the interest of the citizen.
Keywords content: See original proposal Lut Lams. What is the role trust plays in democracy? How has it evolved over time and how does it differ across borders?
Case studies from Taiwan, China, Nepal, Romania and Belgium
Panel organisers
Henrieta Serban
Researche, Institute of Political Sciences and International Relations, Ion I.C. Brătianu Romanian Academy, Romania)
Other panelist
Narayan Aryal
Tilottama Municipality, Nepal
14:30 - 16:00
Session 4 “Digital innovation: how can it serve democracy campaigns?”
Keywords content: Bootcamp - we want people to leave with a specific skill, this session should be aimed at teaching the participants something concrete. In this case how can we use specific digital instruments to run democracy campaigns. Ideally an intro followed by work in working groups: Hendrik: AI, Mohamed: social media, Simon: Consul. Look at original proposals.
Bootcamp organiser
Alexis Prokopiev
Director of Governance & Democratic Innovation, Make.org, Belgium
Speakers
Simon Strohmenger
Director Consul Democracy Foundation, Mehr Demokratie
Julia Thomaschki
Consul Comunity Coordinator, Mehr Demokratie
Madalin Blidaru
President of JEF Romania and member of JEF Europe’s Federal Committee
14:30 - 16:00
Session 5 Roundtable “Storytelling: Democracy activism in non-democratic contexts”
Speakers
Vanessa Borrego
ArchipielagoMCR, Spain
Sam Serey
Denmark, President for Cambodia in exile, Khmer National Government, Denmark
14:30 - 16:00
Session 6 Workshop “Volunteering in the EU”
Workshop organiser
Benjamin Sybille
Founder and General Director, Collectif pour un Service Civique Européen, France
14:30 - 16:00
Session 7 Roundtable “Youth in the EU”
Speakers
Mădălina Mihalache
Head of Unit, European Parliament Liaison Office in Romania
Dana Patricia Novacescu
Youth Representative for the European Sustainable Development Network - Youth Network, Romania
14:30 - 16:00
Session 8 Workshop “Commonalities and differences in democratic evolution in Central and Eastern Europe”
The comparative panel will focus on the question whether it is still possible to talk about East central Europe as a meaningful unit of analysis when discussing the developments of democratization and de-democratization more than three decades after the fall of the Iron Curtain. It is clear that these countries took very different political directions, ranging from adopting neoliberal models in the Baltic, to an alternation of (neo)liberal and populist contenders (e.g., in Slovakia, Romania and Poland), to a rather successful (Hungary and Serbia) and unsuccessful (Bulgaria, Poland, Slovenia) establishment of autocratic regimes. This also undermined the usual internal divisions characterizing the 1990s, when the relatively successful adaptation of the Visegrad countries was usually contrasted to those hopelessly "left behind" in the Balkans. At the same time, beyond these obvious divergences, there are still quite many structural and ideological similarities that lie deeper than the oscillation of governments, which might explain the sudden shifts from underdog to the paragon of pro-Europeanism, like in the case of the recent Polish elections. Along these lines, our aim is to think through a number of key questions (civil society mobilization, liberal and anti-liberal economic models and policies, the interplay of political and economic elites, nationalist and populist ideological mobilization) across the region, taking into account the specificities of national contexts but also aiming to create a more synthetic transnational image of the complex dynamics of the last three decades.
Organisers
Balazs Trencsenyi
Democracy in History Work Group in DI. Elected member of Academia Europaea
Silvia Marton
Associate professor, Faculty of Political Sciences, University of Bucharest
16:00 - 16:15 Break
16:15
16:15 - 17:15
Session 9 “Media Business models in times of social media”
The speakers will explore key media business models: subscription-based, advertising-driven, and hybrid approaches. Additionally, the panelists will discuss with Antonio Momoc (FJSC) about the civic efforts to finance independent journalism amidst the rise of digital platforms, emphasizing sustainability and integrity in media.
Speech / Moderator
Antonio Momoc
Dean, Faculty of Journalism and Communication Science, University of Bucharest
Arina Ureche
General Director, BRAT
Other panelists
Dragos Stanca
Founder, The Ethical Media Alliance
Cristi Pantazzi
Editor-in-chief, G4 Media
16:15 - 17:15
Session 10 Roundtable “Between invisibility and participation: the role of women for peace”
The plenary session aims to emphasize the role of women in maintaining peace and security in the region and to show the concrete examples within the international community.
Speakers
Nataliya Melnyk
Executive Director Bendukidze Free Market Center, Ukraine
Alina Gîrbea
Co-founder, ”Women in Politics” Initiative
16:15 - 17:15
Session 11: Cities. Youth. Future. The Romanian Youth Capital model.
Andras Farkas
Strategic Director, PONT Group
16:15 - 17:15
Session 12 “Participation at the local level in Romania”
Explore the transformative effect of participatory budgeting in four Romanian municipalities in a dynamic panel discussing digital civic engagement and its potential to reshape democracy. During the one-hour session, panelists from Brasov, Sinaia, Dumbravita, and Timisoara will share insights on using technology (Consul Democracy / Decidim) to enhance democratic processes.
Panel organisers
Simon Strohmenger
Director Consul Democracy Foundation, Mehr Demokratie
Julia Thomaschki
Consul Comunity Coordinator, Mehr Demokratie
Despina Ungureanu
Head of Participatory Governance and Neighbourhood Management for the Municipality of Timişoara, Romania
16:15 - 17:15
Session 13 Workshop “Decision-making at the European Union level”
This workshop by Europuls on European institutions and negotiations answers all the questions and curiosities the youth might come across in their efforts to try to understand the European Union’s policy-making process. Starting off with a session on learning how each EU institution works, the workshop will then continue with a simulation of negotiation rounds, between institutions, on a given legislative bill. The participants will negotiate in teams, thus showcasing and improving their team working, oratorical and persuasion skills. By doing so, they will also learn interactively and through a hands-on experience just how exactly the EU creates policy.
Oana Ene
Project Assistant, Europuls
Ruxandra Botas
Project Assistant, Europuls
16:15 - 17:15
Session 14 YEUF Workshop - Closed session
The YEUF project unites young changemakers from across Europe with the goal of promoting the European Elections 2024. At their upcoming international meeting in Bucharest, this private session will be dedicated to reflecting on their journey, sharing feedback, and discussing the learning experiences garnered throughout the project.
Roseline Saindou
Service Civique Europeen
16:15 - 17:15
Session 15 Workshop “Local direct democracy in Germany”
This workshop describes the direct democracy at the local and the subnational (states, „Länder“) level in Germany. We find (binding) direct democracy procedures in all 16 states – in the workshop, we describe and compare the procedures. Then, we describe and analyse briefly the use of direct democracy. At the end of 2022, we counted approx. 400 initiatives at the subnational level and approx. 9.000 procedures at the local level in all 16 states. Finally, we highlight the main lessons learned.
Workshop organiser
Frank Rehmet
Researcher, Mehr Demokratie e. V., Germany
16:15 - 17:15
Session 16 Reshaping Romania: Unraveling Communist wounds in 2024
Popular jokes during communist Romania:
"-What's the difference between the wind and the Securitate? -The Securitate beats harder."
"What's colder than the cold water? - The hot water."
Popular sayings during the past 35 years:
"Please speak more slowly, who knows who might hear us!"
"We vote the same guys as 30 years ago because the known evil is better than the unknown one."
In December 1989, after more than four decades during an oppressive communist regime, Romanians were finally free and hoping to enjoy all the traits of a healthy democracy. Yet, the transition years proved to be confusing, both politically and socially. Although major steps were taken towards democracy and international democratic values and organizations such as joining the European Union, NATO and other organizations and treaties, however, the distrust in the Romanian political scene and social distrust have perpetuated.
In December 1989, after more than four decades during an oppressive communist regime, Romanians were finally free and hoping to enjoy all the traits of a healthy democracy. Yet, the transition years proved to be confusing, both politically and socially. Although major steps were taken towards democracy and international democratic values and organizations such as joining the European Union, NATO and other organizations and treaties, however, the distrust in the Romanian political scene and social distrust have perpetuated.
This workshop delves deep into the lingering consequences and enduring traces left behind by decades of communist rule. From the corridors of power to the bustling streets, we will explore how Romania grapples with the legacy of its communist era, examining the intricate web of socio-political dynamics that continue to project shadows upon its present reality.
Workshop supported by KAS Romania
KAS Romania
Facilitator
Ph.D. Daniela Popescu
University lecturer, Cultural Association "History within our Homes, NGO
17:15 - 17:45 Break
17:45
17:45 - 19:15
Session 17 “Rebuilding democracy after war - Lasting peace through participation”
Speakers
Denis Bikesha
University of Rwanda, School of Law, Rwanda
Moderator
Ion Manole
Executive Director, Promo-LEX Association, Moldova
17:45 - 19:15
Session 18 Workshop “Deliberative Democracy: existing practices in comparison”
This workshop will present some good practices of Participatory Democracy around the world and how they are using them to include the voices of those most vulnerable in decision making: children and people experiencing homelessness. Join this interactive session to learn first hand about how these processes are implemented and what are their challenges and opportunities for the future of democracy.
Workshop organiser
Greta Rios
Co-Executive Director, People Powered, Mexico
Workshop speakers
Katy Rubin
Independent Civic Change Practitioner, Legislative Theatre, UK
Andres Falck
Consultant in Political Participation, People Powerd
Mateusz Wojcieszak
Director, The Field of Dialogue Foundation, Poland
Carolin Hagelskamp
Professor, Berlin School of Economics and Lay, Associate at People Powerd
Andras Farkas
Strategic Director, PONT Group
17:45 - 19:15
Session 20 Workshop “How to Make Young Voices Matter"
“How to Make Young Voices Matter" is an inclusive workshop tailored to both young individuals and decision makers, fostering dialogue and collaboration to amplify the voices of the youth in decision-making processes. Participants will explore methods for cultivating a culture of listening, understanding, and valuing diverse perspectives, ultimately fostering more inclusive and impactful decision-making environments.
Facilitator
Rafael Bologa
Romanian Youth Council (CTR)
17:45 - 19:15
Session 21 Bootcamp “How to organise a European Citizens’ Initiative”
Discover the power of the European Citizens' Initiative – your gateway to setting the agenda of the EU. By the end of this interactive and immersive Bootcamp, you'll be equipped to launch your very own ECI. With insights from Daniela Vancic of Democracy International, let's activate your ECI journey!
Bootcamp organiser
Daniela Vancic
European Program Manager at Democracy International
17:45 - 19:15
Session 22 "The future of democracy - ethical AI and robotics"
In an era where technology increasingly intersects with all facets of life, the "The Future of Democracy - Ethical AI and Robotics" session emerges as a foundational platform for dialogue. Through exploring the impact of these technologies on information integrity, citizen engagement, and the protection of democratic institutions, we aim to chart a path towards leveraging AI and robotics to reinforce transparency, fairness, and inclusivity in democratic societies around the globe.
Speakers
Mihai Matei
Co-founder for Geeks for democracy
Robert Kristof
Assistant Professor, Polytechnic University of Timișoara
Irina BUZU
Member of the AI Expert Group, Council of Europe, Advisor to the Deputy Prime-minister of Moldova
Moderator
Corneliu Coteț
Affiliated expert, Europuls
17:45 - 19:15
Session 23 “Legislative Theatre: Creatively Redesigning Democratic Spaces - A simulation”
The workshop will provide an in-depth and hands-on introduction to Legislative Theatre, a participatory democracy methodology that's joyful, creative and inclusive. Participants will create their own mock LT process, learn about recent initiatives and policy impacts around the globe, and discuss how these tools might intersect with other direct and participatory democracy practices.
Led by LT practitioners Katy and Bartek, who are working across Europe and internationally with communities, local councils and governments to co-create policy on a wide range of social issues.
Led by LT practitioners Katy and Bartek, who are working across Europe and internationally with communities, local councils and governments to co-create policy on a wide range of social issues.
17:45 - 19:15
Session 24 Spotlight Youth: A sustainable future
Keywords content: Democracy in times of climate change and environmental decline - how can innovative formats help the climate agenda: citizens’ assemblies, local citizens’ initiatives. How can especially young people, whose future depends on it participate in these mechanisms, how can they call for them, organise them?
Roundtable moderator/speaker
Veli-Valtteri Lehtonen
Student Network on the Future of Democracy, Finland
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FRIDAY 17th May 2024
Morning
09:30
09:30 - 09:40
Welcoming remarks
Description
10:00
10:00 - 11:30
Panel “Future of Europe”
We believe that the EU finds itself at a crossroads, being surrounded by political extremism and Euroscepticism, with a war at its borders, trying to find a stable path after recovering from the economic and social consequences of the pandemic. For 90 minutes, we will discuss how we can respond to the needs of the EU citizens, the manner in which we can increase election turnout, how we can involve young people in the process of decision-making at the European level, more opportunities for the development of local communities, etc.
11:30
11:30 - 13:00
Panel "Dialogue on Shaping EU"
In recent years, the tide of misinformation and Euroscepticism has risen, leading to alarming levels of political extremism across Europe. We want to create the right framework for a debate with citizens, a dialogue in which we can talk about the priorities of the future elected in the European Parliament, but also to discuss active citizenship and citizens' participation in the decision-making process.
FRIDAY 17th May 2024
Afternoon
14:30
14:30 - 16:00
Session 25 “Strong institutions: Advancing and Assisting Direct Democracy from electoral bodies’ Perspectives”
Panel organiser
Max Ahn
The Association of World Election Bodies (A-WEB)
Other panel speakers
Miriam Barahona
Judge, Tribunal de Justicia Electoral, Honduras
Olalekan Adisa
Senior Lecturer, York St John University, UK
14:30 - 16:00
Session 1 “Sustainable future(s)”
Speakers
Corina Murafa
Member, European Economic and Social Committee
Moderator
Dalia Stoian
EFdeN
14:30 - 16:00
Session 27 Workshop “Lecture and discussion: History and relevance of direct and participative democracy in Central and Eastern Europe”
This workshop analyzes recent findings on the impact of direct and participative democracy across the region. It spans different historical eras, revealing how these democratic mechanisms have shaped the political landscape of Central and Eastern European societies. Additionally, it discusses potential interventions and policies aimed at enhancing participatory practices.
Workshop organiser
Gabriel Badescu
Professor, Babeș-Bolyai University
Other speakers
Joanna Podgórska-Rykała
Researcher, KEN University of Cracow, Poland
14:30 - 16:00
Session 28 Workshop "Digital Democracy: Building Trust and Empowering Local Communities Globally"
This workshop will explore the transformative role of technology in strengthening democracy, fostering trust, and empowering local communities worldwide. Panelists will share insights, case studies, and practical strategies aimed at building bridges across continents for local empowerment through digital innovation.
Speakers
Charlie Martial Ngounou
Member of Digital Participation Committee, People Powered
Tamara Tachynska
Chief Marketing Officer for Qela App, Ukraine
Colleen Hardwick
Founder and Managing Director, PlaceSpeak Inc, Canada
Guillaume Saunier
Practitioner in local hybrid democracy initiatives
14:30 - 16:00
Session 29 Academic Spotlight: Civic Education
The level of democracy globally has been declining steadily for about a decade, reaching, according to a commonly used indicator, V-Dem, the level of 1986. At the same time, survey data measuring pro-democracy orientations show more pronounced negative changes among young people. In this context, this panel aims to discuss civic education's role in creating opportunities for democratic renewal based on several recent studies, including ICCS2023 and Educiv2024.
Gabriel Badescu
Professor, Babeș-Bolyai University
Călin Rus
Director of the Intercultural Institute of Timisoara & Expert at Council of Europe
Catalina Hygum
Professor, UniBuc
14:30 - 16:00
Session 30 Bootcamp “Campaigning for democracy: How to enshrine direct democracy in the constitution?”
Bootcamp organisers
Raul Magni Berton
Professor, Catholic Unversity of Lille
14:30 - 16:00
Session 31 - Workshop “Legislative Theatre: Creatively Redesigning Democratic Spaces - A simulation”
The workshop will provide an in-depth and hands-on introduction to Legislative Theatre, a participatory democracy methodology that's joyful, creative and inclusive. Participants will create their own mock LT process, learn about recent initiatives and policy impacts around the globe, and discuss how these tools might intersect with other direct and participatory democracy practices.
Led by LT practitioners Katy and Bartek, who are working across Europe and internationally with communities, local councils and governments to co-create policy on a wide range of social issues.
Led by LT practitioners Katy and Bartek, who are working across Europe and internationally with communities, local councils and governments to co-create policy on a wide range of social issues.
Workshop organisers
Katy Rubin
Independent Civic Change Practitioner, Legislative Theatre, UK
Bartłomiej Bodziński-Guzik
Principal Investigator at NSC, Jagiellonian University, Poland
16:00-16:15 Coffee Break
16:15
16:15 - 17:15
Session 33 “Regional Cooperation”
We plan to bring together experts, decision-makers at national and European level, together with business representatives to discuss the future of cross-border partnerships and investments in cities and regions from Central and Eastern Europe. Why? We believe that initiatives that help communities develop by spotlighting citizens are the stories meant to be told.
Moderator
Francesca Cristea
Head of Policy & Programs, Europuls - Center of European Expertise
Other panelists
H.E. Hernandez Perez-Solorzano Jose Antonio
Ambassador, Kingdom of Spain
Diana Gheorghe
General Directorate for European Territorial Cooperation, Ministry of Development, Public Works and Administration
Alexandru Gozun
Head of PwC Moldova Office
Tudor Ogner
Executive Director, Romanian Youth Capital Programme
Andreea Apostol
Secretary General, Cluj Youth Federation
16:15 - 17:15
Session 34 “Access to information: regulations and practices”
Keywords content: Transparency regulations in a comparative context: How do citizens get access to information on public processes? Are governments required to publish information? What are the processes in place? What are best practices?
Moderator
Ovidio Voicu
Leader, Center Public Inovation
Other speakers
Marie Jünemann
Member of the Federal Executive Board, Mehr Demokratie, Germany
16:15 - 17:15
Session 35 Workshop “The current state of participation and direct democracy in the EU”
Explore how to design, launch, and improve inclusive democratic innovation programs by engaging marginalized communities in participatory and deliberative processes. Learn about practical tools to enhance citizen engagement and participation through an interactive session that blends peer-to-peer support with expert knowledge on addressing real-world challenges within a current democratic framework.
Workshop organisers
Luiza Jardim
Program Associate, People Powered
Alisa Aliti Vlasic
Project Manager, Coglobal, Spain
16:15 - 17:15
Session 36 Bootcamp “Teaching how to use democracy instruments: hands-on training with experts from around the world”
Keywords content: Bootcamp - we want people to leave with a specific skill, this session should be aimed at teaching the participants something concrete. In this case what are best practices to teach citizens how to use democracy instruments. Ideally good intro followed by work in working groups. Idris: community organisers, Anda: check with her I think participatory budgeting, Achim: citizens’ initiatives.
Achim Wölfel
Managing Director, Mehr Demokratie, Germany
16:15 - 17:15
Session 37 Workshop “The mechanism of a participation network: from establishment to management”
Keywords content: Local participation in democratic processes, challenges and solutions for citizen participation in local communities.
Luca Ciubotaru
Advisor, Department of Constitutional and Legislative Affairs, Presidential Administration of Romania
Stefan Cibian
Researcher, Făgăraș Research Institute, Romania
Moderator
Georgy Petrov
Citizens Participation Forum, Bulgaria
16:15 - 17:15
Session 43 Workshop “Direct Democracy 101: learning from scratch”
In Direct Democracy 101 workshop we will start with introducing direct democracy tools, their classification and the factors that influence the use of the tools. We will talk about what is direct democracy and what isn't, and exchange the direct democracy experiences in different places of the world. We will also be discussing the possible roles that direct democracy can play in a peacebuilding process.
Workshop organiser
Anna Proskurina
Academic Project and Communication Officer, Democracy International
Kim Graves
PhD, Catholic University Lille, Germany
16:15 - 17:15
Session 39 Bootcamp “Fundraising Hands-on”
In this workshop we will take a look at tips and tricks for writing project proposals to be submitted with EU calls and foundations. The aim is to scout out writing techniques, common mistakes and general recommendations. In the second part, Fundraising Hands-on is an open invitation to join and share your writing experiences and techniques so we can all fund our projects even more successfully in the future!
Bootcamp organiser
Anne Hardt
Fundraising and Campaigning Manager, Democracy International, Germany
16:15 - 17:15
Session 40 Workshop “Co-designing transnational participation”
Workshop organiser
Jose Sebastian Calderón Pedraza
Research and Development Manager, Innovation for Policy Foundation (i4Policy), Colombia
Speaker
Caroline Vernaillen
Global Manager for PR and Community Building, Democracy International e.V.
17:15-17:45 Break
17:45
17:45 - 19:15
Session 44 Workshop “Picking the right tool for the job: how to design participation at the local level”
Keywords content: Strong intro on democracy instruments on the local level followed by work in working groups: how do we go about choosing the right democracy instrument in a specific context, which process fits which situations? With speakers from different regions.
Workshop organiser
Christian König
Germany
Other speakers
Raban Fuhrmann
Director, Academy for a Learning Democracy, Germany
Stephen Erickson
Citizens Rising and Cities Rising, NGO, US
Salome Svanidze
Head of the Civic Integration Programme, Civic IDEA, Georgia
Luca Ciubotaru
Advisor, Department of Constitutional and Legislative Affairs, Presidential Administration of Romania
17:45 - 19:15
Session 45 Workshop “European Democracy - #UseYourVote”
Democracy brings peace, freedom and a good quality of life to European citizens. Building democracy is an ongoing project and we should not forget that democracy is made by individuals. It can start wherever you are, whenever you decide to change something you care about, whether it is small or big, like signing a petition, joining an event or casting your vote. On 9 June 2024, European citizens will elect their representatives to the European Parliament for the next 5 years. It is important that as many citizens as possible, especially young people, exercise this right to vote as voting is a key tool to become active citizens, committed to democracy and engaged for Europe’s present and future.
Do you have an actionable idea that you’d like to discuss? Do you feel like acting, but you don’t know where to start? Join the Democracy Promoters workshop and let yourself inspired!
Our special guests are three very young together.eu volunteers who will tell their success stories as active citizens and Promoters for European Democracy, why you should join the together.eu community, how you can participate in the #UseYourVote communication campaign of the European Parliament, and how you can convince other young people to give democracy a real meaning as the next European elections approach.
Do you have an actionable idea that you’d like to discuss? Do you feel like acting, but you don’t know where to start? Join the Democracy Promoters workshop and let yourself inspired!
Our special guests are three very young together.eu volunteers who will tell their success stories as active citizens and Promoters for European Democracy, why you should join the together.eu community, how you can participate in the #UseYourVote communication campaign of the European Parliament, and how you can convince other young people to give democracy a real meaning as the next European elections approach.
Workshop organiser
Liaison Office
EP Romania
Facilitator
Liliana Comanescu
17:45 - 19:15
Session 46 Roundtable “Culturally inclusive approaches of democracy: What traditions can teach us”
Keywords content: Which democracy innovations can we learn from age-old deliberative and democratic practices around the world?
Moderator
Jose Sebastian Calderón Pedraza
Research and Development Manager, Innovation for Policy Foundation (i4Policy), Colombia
Other speakers
Geoffrey Nwaka
Professor, ABIA State University
Moufida Guirmani Oueslati
Program Officer, Le Partenaire Consulting, Tunisia
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SATURDAY 18th May 2024
Morning
09:30
09:30 - 09:40
Welcoming remarks
10:10
10:10 - 11:40
Fireside chat: Plenary session 7 “Mayors for democracy” (90 min fireside)
The first lesson of democracy starts at home and home can be translated into the cities - the place where we understand how society works and how citizens can make a difference in their community. Throughout this panel, we intend to connect mayors, regions and projects in an open dialogue between decision-makers and the public.
Speakers
Radu Mihaiu
Mayor, District 2 - Bucharest
Adria Duarte
Coordinator, International Observatory on Participatory Democracy (IOPD) and United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG), Spain
Corina Ene
Mayor, Căbești
11:50
11:50 - 12:50
Panel “Trust in Democracies – The Truedem research project and its preliminary lessons for action”
Moderator
Luciana Ghica
Professor, University of Bucharest
Other panelists
Claudiu Tufis
Professor, University of Bucharest
12:50
12:50 - 14:00
Global Report on Direct Democracy Launch
Speakers
Clara Egger
Raul Magni Berton
Professor, Catholic Unversity of Lille
Bruno Kaufmann
Chairman of the Democracy Council and Election Commission
David Altman
SATURDAY 18th May 2024
Afternoon
14:00
14:00 - 14:10
Reporting back from different tracks - Declaration vote
Speakers
Caroline Vernaillen
Global Manager for PR and Community Building, Democracy International e.V.
14:30
14:30 - 15:00
Announcements and closing
Late afternoon-evening: Cultural programme
-
Registration for Eurosfat 2024 sessions
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You have the right to request information about your personal data or to request their modification or deletion. For this, you have the obligation to send your request to us, to the e-mail address [email protected].
The conditions presented on this page are supplemented by those in the Privacy Policy.
Data collected and purpose of processing
By completing the registration form for the EUROSFAT event 2024 edition and submitting, of your own free will, your personal data (name, surname, email address and telephone number), you implicitly express your consent for your data to be processed by Europuls - the Center of European Expertise in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
The data you provide us will be used by EUROPULS only for the following purposes:
– to keep you informed by e-mail and/or telephone about the logistical and organizational details of the Eurosfat 2024 event;
– to send you other information related to your registration and/or participation in the Eurosfat 2024 event;
– to publish, in the form of a testimonial, if applicable, your opinions about participation in the Eurosfat 2024 event;
– to be able to contact you through the newsletter, so that we can inform you about other events or studies that we publish.
Data storage and data transfer
Personal data are kept for the period necessary to fulfill the purposes for which they are collected and processed. If we determine that we have a legitimate interest or legal obligation to continue processing, we will inform you accordingly. We generally store personal data in locations in Romania. In certain situations, it is possible to transfer data to countries in the European Economic Area - EEA (European Union, Switzerland, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway), as well as outside it (if the servers on which we store the data or our partners provide these services outside EEA).
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– the right to access your data, to rectify or delete them;
– the right to request the restriction of the processing and the right to withdraw your consent regarding the processing;
- the right to object to data processing.
Modification or deletion of data
You have the right to request information about your personal data or to request their modification or deletion. For this, you have the obligation to send your request to us, to the e-mail address [email protected].
The conditions presented on this page are supplemented by those in the Privacy Policy.
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