The Eastern European Network for Citizenship Education (EENCE) has entered a new chapter in its development. During the General Assembly held on 11–12 November 2025 in Berlin, members of the Network gathered both in person and online to make decisive changes that will shape EENCE’s future governance, structure, and leadership.

This milestone was made possible through the active participation, commitment, and trust of EENCE members across the region.

A New Governance Model for EENCE

One of the most notable outcomes of the Assembly was the collective decision to transition EENCE to a renewed and more sustainable governance model. Members voted to end the Network’s previous association structure and approved the creation of an independent legal entity for EENCE. This change lays the groundwork for a clearer structure, more robust accountability mechanisms, and more efficient management of the Network’s expanding activities.

The Assembly also chose a preferred direction for defining the legal form and jurisdiction of the future structure. Members supported empowering the Coordination Council, in consultation with Network members, to propose the most appropriate legal solution without requiring an additional formal vote. This enables a quicker and more flexible transition.

Updated Organisational Structure

Members approved a new organisational structure based on the special “Strategy Task Force” proposal. This model aims for streamlined coordination, clearer roles, and functional bodies that can respond efficiently to the needs of EENCE and its members.

Although several structural proposals were submitted, the working group model received the strongest support, signalling the start of a renewed internal architecture for the Network.

Strengthened Ethical Standards

EENCE members reaffirmed their commitment to transparency and ethical decision-making. The Assembly approved key rules to ensure that:

         •       Members of the Revision Commission must abstain from reviewing any issue in which they have a conflict of interest.

         •       Members of the Coordination Council must not participate in decisions where a conflict of interest exists.

These decisions emphasise EENCE’s dedication to fairness, trust, and responsible governance.

Election of New Leadership Bodies

Members elected their new leadership teams, marking a fresh phase of democratic governance.

Coordination Council:

Seven Council members were elected:

• Nazarii Boiarskyi

• Natalia Harutyunyan

• Azar Ramazanov

• Salome Iobadze

• Elmurad Mamedov

• Siarhei Salei

• Oksana Alistratova

They will guide the transition to the new governance model and oversee the next stages of Network development.

Executive Bureau:

Five members were elected to form the new Executive Bureau:

Nato (Natalie) Gamtsemlidze

Anna Zakaryan

Natalia Skorik

(Some names are kept from the public due to a security concern)

Revision Commission:

The Assembly elected three members to strengthen oversight and accountability within the Network:

• Andrii Krivonos

• Xalide Musaeva

(Some names are kept from the public due to a security concern)

Key Regulations and Participation Principles Approved

To ensure clarity and consistency in its work, the Assembly approved several sections of the updated EENCE Regulations. Members confirmed:

• The General Assembly is the Network’s highest decision-making body

• Annual gatherings (online, in-person, or hybrid)

• Clear rules for quorum, voting, and communication.

These steps reaffirm EENCE’s commitment to participatory, member-driven governance.

Looking Ahead

The 2025 General Assembly was a pivotal event in EENCE’s history. By adopting a new governance model, electing dedicated candidates, and strengthening its ethical and organisational foundations, the Network is better positioned to continue promoting citizenship education across the Eastern Partnership region and beyond.

The transformation ahead is ambitious, but with an engaged community and the strong mandate expressed at the Assembly, EENCE is ready to move forward with confidence and unity.

The future of EENCE is being built together, and this year’s decisions reflect the collective strength, wisdom, and commitment of its members.