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.

Сообщение Eastern European Network for Citizenship Education Adopts New Governance Model появились сначала на Eastern European Network for Citizenship Education.

This traditional General Assembly, held every two years in accordance with the Association’s Statute, is a key event for our entire Network. This year’s meeting holds special significance as we will also mark the 10-year anniversary of the EENCE Network. We warmly invite you to join us in Berlin to celebrate this meaningful milestone together.

As part of the meeting, we will hold elections for a new EEACE Board – the administrative body of the EENCE Network. These elections will take place in a hybrid format to ensure broad and inclusive participation. The engagement of all members in this process is vital as we collectively shape the future of citizenship education in the EU Eastern Partnership.

Please note: Only members of the Association may vote in the elections. If you have not submitted your membership application yet, please do so by November 1, 2025 via this link: https://eence.eu/about-us/eeace-2/

The meeting will also feature the discussion and adoption of key documents that will shape the development of the Network and Association in the coming years, including:

• Strategic Directions for the EENCE Network
• Decision-Making Policy
• Conflict Resolution Policy
• Membership Termination Procedure
• Fundraising Procedure
• Data Protection and Safety Procedure
  …and more.

Participation & Reimbursement Conditions

Participation in the network meeting is free of charge. The Federal Agency for Civic Education (bpb) will:

• assist with visa support,
• provide accommodation in a single room for the duration of the event (from 10.11 to 13.11),
• and reimburse travel costs upon presentation of original tickets and copies.

Reimbursement applies for economy class / 2nd class or similar, as outlined in the bpb’s General Terms and Conditions. The total trip duration must not exceed the event duration plus five (5) working days.

We welcome the possibility of reimbursing travel expenses from other sources (i.e. employer).

Please note:

• Applications for participation must be submitted by 3rd of August, 2025 via the following link
• Please do not book any tickets until your participation is confirmed by the organisers because the number of in-person places is limited.
• Reimbursement is only possible after receiving a binding confirmation of participation from the organisers and after having taken part in the meeting
• We are unable to book tickets on your behalf.

Your registration is binding. If, after receiving confirmation from the organisers, you are no longer able to attend, a doctor’s certificate will be required. Otherwise, you may be held liable for cancellation costs of approximately €180–200 for accommodation (see also the bpb’s General Terms and Conditions). Cancellations before 30th of August are free of charge.

Travel & Accommodation for EENCE In-Person Participants

Participants attending in person through the EENCE Network will be provided:

• Accommodation 
• Three meals per day
  This will be organized in accordance with sustainable event practices.

A one-time travel reimbursement will be provided based on the actual expenditure within the provided limits. The maximum limit is calculated according to the participant’s place of residence or, in justified cases, their actual location at the time of travel. Reimbursable amounts are as follows:

In case of countries which are not listed above reimbursed sums will be discussed individually upon participants’ request.

 Who Can Participate?

All members of the EEACE Association and EENCE Network are welcome to attend. We will try to have equal country representation where possible. Due to limited in-person capacity, the event will be held in a hybrid format, allowing everyone to join online if they cannot attend in person.

Those wishing to join us in Berlin must complete the registration form by August 03,, 2025. Selection results will be communicated by August 10, 2025.

Selection criteria for in-person participation:

• Motivation to contribute to the future of EENCE/EEACE
• Active engagement in Network activities

If you have any questions or need further information, please contact us at eenceboard@gmail.com .

We look forward to seeing you in Berlin to celebrate our collective achievements, shape the next chapter of the EENCE Network, and mark its first milestone anniversary.

Сообщение We invite you to attend the General Meeting of the Eastern European Association for Citizenship Education (EEACE) появились сначала на Eastern European Network for Citizenship Education.

The leadership of the Eastern European Network for Citizenship Education will hold a working meeting on 5-6 April to plan the activities and organisational development of EENCE.

Recently, the situation with civic education in the region has deteriorated significantly.

In Belarus, civil society is almost completely ‘cleansed’ and it is impossible to openly promote civic education. In Azerbaijan these opportunities are also severely limited. In Georgia, after the adoption of the law on foreign agents, local NGOs were also hit hard. The pro-Russian opposition in Moldova is trying to pass the same law through parliament. In Ukraine, civil society activists have to continue to operate in the face of Russian aggression. Civil society in all countries has already been seriously affected by the liquidation by the new American administration of USAID, which had traditionally supported pro-democracy NGOs and independent media.

What should be the Network’s priorities as the space for democracy shrinks and funding opportunities diminish? How to respond to challenges in individual countries and in the region as a whole? How to build its information policy? All these questions will be in the centre of attention of the members of the EENCE Steering Committee and Audit Committee.

Special attention will also be paid to preparations for the Network’s Annual General Meeting to be held in autumn 2025.

Сообщение EENCE: planning activities in response to new challenges появились сначала на Eastern European Network for Citizenship Education.

The past year has been very challenging for civil society in the Eastern Partnership.

Ukraine courageously fought Russian aggression. The Lukashenko regime continued its brutal repression of civil society activists inside and outside the country. The Georgian authorities passed a series of repressive laws restricting the activities of NGOs and also reversed the course towards European integration. Moldova withstood horrendous pressure and an attempt to overthrow the democratic government. Civil society organisations in Azerbaijan and Armenia continued their work under difficult conditions.

Despite this, EENCE continued to be a platform that brings together citizenship education providers, helps them share experiences and strengthen each other by implementing joint projects.

In 2024, we organised Citizenship Education Eduthons in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Moldova, Ukraine and Poland.

Some 160 participants in these events, with the help of EENCE experts, were able to refine their project ideas aimed at promoting citizenship education and democratic values.

Eduthon winners organised about 130 events in their countries aimed at developing local communities, increasing media literacy, addressing issues of importance to society, involving people in the life of society, etc. More than 6,000 people – teachers, students, expatriates, community activists, schoolchildren, elderly people, war veterans, etc. – participated in these events.

More than 200 people participated in another new project of the Network – EENCE:Dialogue.

Within its framework, experts from the Eastern Partnership countries, as well as Germany, Austria, Greece, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Poland and a number of other countries discussed how to promote citizenship education in the context of war and political crises, propaganda and attempts to restore authoritarianism, how to ensure inclusiveness and protection of human rights in such difficult conditions.

In 2024, the Network’s working groups actively worked on issues of youth involvement in civic activism, psychological support for adducators, countering hate speech and other topics relevant to the region.

The Network experts updated the profiles of the state of citizenship education in the Eastern Partnership countries.

In 2024, more than 30 new organisations and adducators will become EENCE members. Thank you for your trust!

We are grateful to all members and partners of the Network for being with us this year, supporting us, working together with us!

We wish everyone good health, strength and energy in the New Year! May the New Year be the Year of Peace and the triumph of justice and democracy!

Сообщение Thank you for being with us! A peaceful 2025! появились сначала на Eastern European Network for Citizenship Education.

We are inspired by the unwavering determination of Georgian citizens who are uniting to uphold democratic principles and reaffirm their commitment to Georgia’s European future. Their courage and resilience in the face of political repression and the curtailing of fundamental freedoms are a testament to the spirit of a nation striving for progress and alignment with democratic ideals.

At EENCE, we believe education, active citizenship, and collective effort are the cornerstones of democratic governance and sustainable development. We remain committed to supporting Georgian educators, civil society actors, and local communities as they navigate these challenges and work tirelessly to preserve and advance their democratic achievements.

We urge the Georgian authorities to prioritise the people’s will, safeguard the rights to free expression and peaceful assembly, and restore meaningful cooperation with the European Union. Georgia’s future is European, and any deviation from this path undermines the nation’s sovereignty and disregards its people’s hopes and ambitions.

In solidarity, EENCE calls on the international community to strengthen its support for Georgian civil society and to amplify the voices of those advocating for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. Together, we must ensure that the current setbacks do not define Georgia’s future but instead galvanise efforts to achieve its rightful place within the European family.

EENCE remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering Georgian communities and fostering inclusive dialogue. We stand with the people of Georgia in their fight for democracy, justice, and a brighter future.

Сообщение EENCE: we stand in solidarity with the people of Georgia появились сначала на Eastern European Network for Citizenship Education.

During the meeting the results of the Network’s Working Groups will be presented, as well as the results of the Eduthons that took place in August and September in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Moldova, Poland and Ukraine.

The results of the Eduthons and their impact on the development of civil society in their countries will be presented by national coordinators, experts and active participants of the project.

An important part of the meeting will be the planning of the Network’s work for 2025. The participants will discuss priorities for the work, as well as ideas for key activities that could form the basis for future work.

Next year will be an anniversary year for EENCE. The Network will celebrate its 10th anniversary and is already planning a number of large-scale events to mark the occasion.

The meeting in Moldova is organised by the East European Association for Civic Education with the support of the Federal Agency for Civic Education (bpb) with funding from the German Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The local organiser of the meeting is the National Association of Young Historians.

Сообщение Summarising the year and planning for the future: EENCE activist meeting to be held in Chişinău появились сначала на Eastern European Network for Citizenship Education.

Date: November, 6 (15:00-18:00 CET).

Program:

1. Introduction (15 minutes)
2. Keynote Speech (30 minutes): Nazarii Boiarskyi
3. Panel Discussion (45 minutes: Ivan Duminica, Galyna Petrenko, Victor Guzun 
4. Q&A Session (30 minutes): Interactive session with attendees.
5. Evaluation and Follow-up (15 minutes)

Working languages: English and Russian (simultaneous translation).

Moderator: Sergiu Musteata

ZOOM Registration:

https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUpdu-upz4iG92AS8ec4WzJwTDI40sGjzLZ

Once registered, you will receive a confirmation email with conference login information.

Information about speakers:

Nazarii Boiarskyi

Human rights expert and educator with extensive experience in civic education, human rights advocacy, and project management. He holds a Master’s degree in International and European Union Law from Vilnius University (Lithuania) and a second Master’s in Psychological Rehabilitation in Emergency Situations from Donetsk National University named after Vasyl Stus (Ukraine). Nazarii has worked with numerous NGOs across Europe, focusing on protecting vulnerable groups, promoting democracy, and fostering inclusion. Currently, he leads programs at the Ukrainian NGO ‘Democratic Initiatives Incubator’, which focuses on Ukraine, the Baltic States, and the Eastern Partnership countries. Nazarii is also a recognised trainer and speaker having facilitated many international human rights education events. His work continues to shape inclusive policies, develop the application of trauma-informed approaches, and engage young people in civic activism across Europe.

Ivan Duminica

Historian and scientific researcher from the Republic of Moldova. He studied at the Faculty of History and Philosophy of the State University of Moldova (2007-2010) and obtained his PhD in history at the “St. Cyril and Methodius” University in Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria (2010-2014). Between 2013 and 2023, he was a scientific researcher in the “Ethnology of Bulgarians” group at the Cultural Heritage Institute of the Academy of Sciences of Moldova. In February 2021, he was awarded the title of Doctor Habilitat in historical sciences. He is the president of the Scientific Society of Bulgarian Studies in the Republic of Moldova. In November 2023, he was appointed head of the “Policies in the Field of Interethnic Relations” Service at the Ministry of Education and Research of the Republic of Moldova. As head of this service, he coordinates and implements policies related to the integration of national minorities into the education system. He works on promoting inclusive education for Roma, Ukrainians, and other ethnic communities, as well as facilitating access to education for refugees from Ukraine. Duminica closely collaborates with international organizations such as UNICEF and UNHCR, developing programs and initiatives aimed at supporting the integration of children and young people from ethnic minority groups. Additionally, he monitors the implementation of international human rights treaties and coordinates activities related to combating racism, anti-Semitism, and other forms of intolerance.

Galyna Petrenko

Director at NGO Detector Media. A journalist and media expert with 20 years of experience.

A co-author of multiple researches on countering disinformation.

Ms. Petrenko also serves as a Member of the Public Council at the Committee of the Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian parliament) on Freedom of Speech and the Independent Media Council.

Victor Guzun

Expert in digitization policies at the Institute for European Policies and Reforms in Moldova and runs an international consulting company in Estonia. He is passionate on digital transformation and participates as an expert in several specialized projects aimed at the governments of various countries, the business sector, and communities. Victor was a university professor and lecturer, civil servant in the field of international relations and Ambassador of the Republic of Moldova in Estonia.

Abstracts

Nazarii Boiarskyi, Civic education as a key factor in protecting human rights 

The presentation will focus on the importance of inclusion in civic education as a key factor in protecting human rights and creating equal opportunities. The speaker will talk about the importance of adapting educational programs to the needs of different participants.

Listeners will learn about real approaches and strategies that help create an inclusive learning environment in which everyone feels valued and supported. Special attention will be paid to successful examples from Nazaria’s experience, demonstrating how the integration of inclusive principles contributes to the creation of a more cohesive and just society.

Ivan Duminica, Involvement of ethnic minorities in various public processes in the Republic of Moldova

The Republic of Moldova is a multi-ethnic country with diverse communities, including Roma, Gagauz, Ukrainians, Russians, and Bulgarians. Their participation in public life indicates their integration into the social, economic, and political structures.

The Moldovan state has developed policies and mechanisms to support the active participation of national minorities in various fields such as education, public administration, and political life. In this regard, special inclusive education programs have been implemented, providing access to education in their mother tongue and promoting respect for the cultural identity of minorities.

Additionally, some mechanisms enable minority representatives to participate in decision-making processes at both local and national levels. Besides political and administrative participation, minorities in the Republic of Moldova are also involved in social and cultural projects aimed at integrating into society and combating discrimination. Collaboration with international organisations such as UNHCR and UNICEF facilitates access to resources and support for vulnerable communities, including Roma and refugees. 

Galyna Petrenko, Building Societal Resilience 

Kremlin efforts to manipulate and interfere with information are an ongoing challenge in the countries of the Lublin Triangle, or L3, a regional alliance composed of Lithuania, Ukraine, and Poland that was established in July 2020 to facilitate coordination between the three states.

Upon its foundation, a key priority for the L3 was developing mutually beneficial and strategically effective countermeasures to the common security challenges faced by all three states, such as foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI) operations and other non-kinetic threats posed by the Kremlin and its allies, such as cyber-attacks, malign political influence, and economic corruption.

In 2023, this initiative extended outside the L3 to cover Moldova – which faces many of the same challenges (and many of the same FIMI operations) as the L3 countries. During the webinar, mapping and analysis of the narratives used in these influence operations will be presented, as well as mechanisms for building societal resilience to them, and several key recommendations for the governments.

Victor Guzun, Human rights and the inclusion of citizens in decision-making processes from a digital perspective

The expert will address current issues for European societies such as the digital transformation for every citizen, participation and digital citizenship, alternative ways of expressing the vote and ensuring access to electoral processes, including the use of digital tools.

EENCE Dialogue is organised by the Eastern European Association for Citizenship Education with the support of the Federal Agency for Civic Education (bpb) with funds from the German Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Сообщение Inclusivity and Human Rights появились сначала на Eastern European Network for Citizenship Education.

Date: October, 30 (15:00-18:00 CET).

Program:

1. Introduction (15 minutes): Overview of Combating Populism and Propaganda in Eastern Europe.
2. Keynote Speech (30 minutes): Petra Guasti, Faculty of Social Sciences, Charles University in Prague
3. Panel Discussion (45 minutes: Anton Shekhovtsov, Central European University (Austria); Anatoliy Kruglashov, Research Institute of European Integration and Regional Studies, Chernivtsi Jury Fedkovych National University, Ukraine; Sebastian Schäffer, Institute for the Danube Region and Central Europe (IDM).
4. Q&A Session (30 minutes): Interactive session with attendees.
5. Evaluation and Follow-up (15 minutes)

Working languages: English and Russian (simultaneous translation).

ZOOM Registration:

https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMof-GvrzIjH9JymBPrbwPW6sBqeD4EfD_r#/registration

Once registered, you will receive a confirmation email with conference login information.

Information about speakers:

Petra Guasti

Associate professor of democratic theory at the Faculty of Social Sciences, Charles University in Prague, and a senior research fellow at the Institute of Sociology, Czech Academy of Sciences. Her research focuses on reconfiguring the political landscape and revolves around representation, democratisation, and populism. Between 2022 and 2025, Petra is a co-PI of SYRI (National Institute for Research on the Socio-Economic Impact of Diseases and Systemic Risks), leading a 22-member team focusing on polarization and populism. She also leads the Czech teams in Horizon projects Neo-Authoritarianism in Europe and the Liberal Democratic Response (AUTHLIB) and Intersectional Spaces of Participation: Inclusive, Resilient, Embedded (INSPIRE). In AUTHLIB Petra leads a work package on mini-publics in INSPIRE she leads a work package on the Co-production of learning and action with public officials and citizens.

Dr Anton Shekhovtsov

A Visiting Professor/Senior Fellow at the Department of International Relations of the Central European University (Austria) and Director of the Centre for Democratic Integrity (Austria). He holds a PhD from University College London (UK). He is the author of the books New Radical Right-Wing Parties in European Democracies (2011), Russia and the Western Far Right: Tango Noir (2017), and Russian Political Warfare (2023). Shekhovtsov also published numerous op-eds in international media, and several academic articles in the Journal of Democracy, Russian Politics and Law, Europe-Asia Studies, Nationalities Papers, Patterns of Prejudice, and Osteuropa, among others.

Prof. Dr. Habil. Anatoliy Kruglashov

a political scientist, and historian who works as Head, of the Department of Political Science and Public Administration, and Director of the Research Institute of European Integration and Regional Studies, Chernivtsi Jury Fedkovych National University, Ukraine. He has also been a Professor at the Department of International Relations and Political Science, University of Lodz, Poland since November 2022. He is a Member of the Group of Independent Experts on the European Chapter of Self-Government, Congress of Local and Regional Authorities, and Council of Europe since 2014. Also, he is a Member of the OCEAN Advisory Board, Council of Europe. Research interests mainly cover but are not limited to European integration with special attention on the EU policy towards Ukraine and EaP countries, Security studies, CEE and post-soviet space political processes, Political regionalism and ethnopolitics, History of Political Ideas and Political Science, Public Administration and Self-government. Prof. Kruglashov has been Invited as a Scholar and Professor at the University of Alberta (Edmonton, Canada), a Visiting Fellow of Harvard Ukrainian Institute, Harvard University, and a Professor of Jagiellonian University (Krakow, Poland), European Humanities University (Belarus and Lithuania). He has been invited to lecture in Canada, Germany, Slovakia, Poland, Russia, Romania, and the USA.

Sebastian Schäffer

Director of the Institute for the Danube Region and Central Europe (IDM), a regional think tank based in Vienna. In this capacity, he also serves as Secretary General of the Danube Rectors’ Conference (DRC), a network of more than 60 universities in the wider Danube Region. In 2011, the Munich-born political scientist founded SSC Europe, a competence network for Seminars, Simulations, and Consulting. Schäffer has held several positions as a lecturer and research fellow at universities and institutions in Germany, where he also gained two Master’s degrees. His areas of expertise include European Integration, EU enlargement and future scenarios. He is the author of more than 100 articles and papers, and has written as well as edited several books, among them “Ukraine in Central and Eastern Europe”.

Abstracts

Petra Guasti, Polarization and Democracy in Central Europe

This presentation focuses on the comparative analysis of polarization in Central Europe, particularly examining the Visegrad Four countries—Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia. It aims to trace the degree and evolution of various forms of polarization—ideological, affective, intransigent, and partisan sorting—across these nations over time. Using comparative data from the V-Dem Institute, this analysis highlights regional trends and differences in how these forms of polarization have developed and manifested.

By contrasting the experiences of each country, we can better understand the impact of polarization on societal mobilization and its implications for democratic resilience or decay in the region. Through this examination, the presentation will illuminate the complexities of polarization in Central Europe and contribute to the broader discourse on the challenges facing democracy in this context.

Anton Shekhovtsov, Europe’s Interregnum and Right-Wing Populism

Europe is currently facing several major crises underpinned by economic stresses, migration pressure, climate change, and geopolitical tensions resulting from the Russian aggression against Ukraine. If Europe recovers from this multiplicity of crises, it will unlikely re-emerge in the familiar political and socio-cultural form, which imbues the current situation with the characteristics of an interregnum – a transitional period between the old and new orders.

European liberal democracies try to navigate the interregnum by mitigating the challenges of both the interregnum and the perceived new order. While the liberal-democratic consensus still holds in Europe, it is being defied by right-wing populist governments and political parties that imagine a return of Europe to the old order.

Anatoliy Kruglashov, Populism, pandemic but must be curable 

Populism is not a novelty in the realm of policy and politics. Some traits of them might be easily detected since ancient times. However, last decades we have witnessed a true revival of populism. Both as the type of political culture and behaviour and as the set of tools to get wider political support. It is hardly possible to portray populism as a consolidated movement or a clearly defined phenomenon. It has distinct colours and tunes, ramifications, and specificities all over the globe.

It affects the most stable democratic countries, like the USA or Great Britain. It makes more threatened and fragile countries with weaker democratic traditions and regimes, like some of the post-soviet countries. That is why the phenomenon worth to be deeply analyzed and considered. In my presentation, I will evaluate the most common traits of the populist’s societal and psychological foundations, special attention is to be paid to the situation in Ukraine and Moldova. I am going to deliberate on the connotation of advancing populists’ assaults and Russia’s backed political parties and forces in Europe too. Some proposals to hasten populism expansion will be made at the end of the presentation.

EENCE Dialogue is organised by the Eastern European Association for Citizenship Education with the support of the Federal Agency for Civic Education (bpb) with funds from the German Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Сообщение Combating Populism and Propaganda in Eastern Europe появились сначала на Eastern European Network for Citizenship Education.

Date: October, 23 (15:00-18:00 CET).

Program:

1. Introduction (15 minutes): Overview of Cultural Diversity.
2. Keynote Speech (30 minutes): Michał Nowosielski, WSB Merito University in Gdańsk, Centre of Migration Research at the University of Warsaw
3. Panel Discussion (45 minutes: Adrian Corpadean, Faculty of European Studies at Babeș-Bolyai University in Cluj-Napoca, Romania; Andrei Chistol, State Secretary at the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Moldova
4. Q&A Session (30 minutes): Interactive session with attendees.
5. Evaluation and Follow-up (15 minutes)

Working languages: English and Russian (simultaneous translation).

ZOOM Registration: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0qduqhqzItHdO6o2WlHjwiQS981QdLOQlw

Once registered, you will receive a confirmation email with conference login information.

Moderator: Sergiu Musteata (Moldova).

Information about speakers:

Michał NOWOSIELSKI

Professor at the WSB Merito University in Gdańsk, an affiliate in the Centre of Migration Research at the University of Warsaw, and a member of the IMISCOE Standing Committee DIVCULT. Principal investigator in numerous research projects, like: ‘Foreigners – Varsovians. Diagnosis and recommendations for integration activities’, or ‘Polish immigrant organizations in Europe’. His academic interests concentrate on migration issues, particularly immigrant organizations, culture & and migration, diaspora policies, and migrants’ inclusion.

Andrei CHISTOL

Is the State Secretary at the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Moldova. With a fervent dedication to promoting cultural heritage, arts, and creativity, Andrei has been instrumental in shaping policies and initiatives that enhance Moldova’s cultural landscape. Andrei Chistol is actively involved in the advancement of tourism and creative industries in Moldova. He works tirelessly to promote the country’s rich cultural heritage as a cornerstone of its tourism appeal. Throughout his career, Andrei has been a staunch advocate for cultural preservation, innovation, and inclusivity. He has spearheaded numerous projects aimed at revitalizing traditional arts, fostering cultural exchanges, and nurturing emerging talents within Moldova and beyond.

Adrian-Gabriel CORPĂDEAN

A habilitated associate professor and dean of the Faculty of European Studies at Babeș-Bolyai University in Cluj-Napoca, Romania (since 2020). A graduate in international relations and European studies, he holds a master’s degree in European affairs and project management at the Faculty of European Studies. He holds a doctorate in history from UBB and Université de Cergy-Pontoise and completed his postdoctoral studies at the Romanian Academy. He specializes in EU institutional reform, the history of European integration and EU enlargement policy, which have been the subject of over 70 publications, 40 conferences and 10 international projects implemented by Dr Corpădean. He frequently collaborates with DG Communication of the European Commission and the Representation of the European Commission in Romania. He is an editor of the international journals Synergies Roumanie, Modelling the New Europe and Studia Europaea. He speaks fluent English, French and Italian.

Abstracts

Michał NOWOSIELSKI, ‘Towards Migrant Civil Society?“

This lecture explores the social activity of migrants through the lens of social capital and civil society. It focuses on two types of social capital: bonding, which strengthens ties within ethnic groups, and bridging, which connects migrants to the broader society. While bonding capital offers essential support, it can sometimes hinder integration, whereas bridging capital promotes relationships beyond ethnic communities, aiding integration.

The lecture also introduces the concept of “migrant civil society” and its influence on public discourse and integration efforts. Furthermore, it discusses migrant engagement within both their ethnic groups and the wider host community, with a special emphasis on migrant organizations. These organizations play a crucial role, not only in fostering migrant civil society but also in supporting migrant integration.

Adrian CORPADEAN, “Rediscovering the potential for cooperation with Ukraine from the perspective of Babeș-Bolyai University”

Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine has triggered a genuine rediscovery of the need for better dialogue between Romania and Ukraine, with far-reaching consequences germane to synergies in international bodies, political dialogue and closeness amid EU integration.

This has largely been echoed by positive developments at the level of civil society, whose mobilisation has been quite exemplary concerning the management of the refugee crisis triggered by the war. One more notable achievement pertains to the potential for academic and scientific collaboration seen through the lens of Romanian and Ukrainian universities, with Babeș-Bolyai, as the oldest and largest university in Romania, implementing creative measures in this regard, in keeping with its multicultural breadth.

Some of the projects engendered as such may serve as best practice examples for further enhancing bilateral ties between the aforementioned neighbouring countries, tapping into the potential of border communities, mobility arrangements, research on topics of mutual interest etc.

EENCE Dialogue is organised by the Eastern European Association for Citizenship Education with the support of the Federal Agency for Civic Education (bpb) with funds from the German Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Сообщение Cultural Diversity of Europe – unity in diversity появились сначала на Eastern European Network for Citizenship Education.

Program:

1. Introduction (15 minutes): Overview of Migration and Refugees in today’s Europe.
2. Keynote Speech (30 minutes):
3. Panel Discussion (45 minutes:
4. Q&A Session (30 minutes): Interactive session with attendees.
5. Workshop (30 minutes): Integrating migrants and refugees.
6. Evaluation and Follow-up (15 minutes)

Moderator: Natalie Gamtsemlidze, Vice-chairperson of the Eastern European Network for Citizenship Education & EDI specialist.

Date: October, 11 (15:00-18:00 CET).

Working languages: English and Russian (simultaneous translation).

Registration:

https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwkcequrjIvEtTK0E5SGo6ZZHPHCSK100Jt

Information about speakers:

Malwina TALIK

Malwina is a Research Associate at the Institute for the Danube Region and Central Europe (Vienna), where she focuses on current politics in Central Europe, migration, democratic resilience
and gender equality. She holds a joint degree in Global Studies and History from the University of Vienna and the University of Leipzig. She has further expanded her expertise through summer
programs in Peace Research and Democratic Resilience at the University of Oslo.

Marcus HOW

Head of Research and Analysis of the VE Insight, a political risk advisory based in
Vienna and specialized in CEE. He is responsible for political risk analysis (PRA). He writes many insights news and periodically publishes articles to market our regional expertise in Europe, especially Central and Eastern Europe. He has also undertaken projects in the Middle East and Africa.
Marcus has a BA in Philosophy and an MA in Political Economy and says his studies set the foundations for his analytical skills.

Nazarii BOIARSKYI

Nazarii is a seasoned human rights expert and educator with extensive experience in
civic education, human rights advocacy, and project management. He holds a Master’s degree in International and European Union Law from Vilnius University (Lithuania) and a second Master’s in Psychological Rehabilitation in Emergency Situations from Donetsk National University named after Vasyl Stus (Ukraine). Nazarii has worked with numerous NGOs across Europe, focusing on protecting vulnerable groups, promoting democracy, and fostering inclusion. Currently, he leads programs at
the Ukrainian NGO ‘Democratic Initiatives Incubator’, which focuses on Ukraine, the Baltic States, and the Eastern Partnership countries. Nazarii is also a recognised trainer and speaker having facilitated many international human rights education events. His work continues to shape inclusive policies, develop the application of trauma-informed approaches, and engage young people in civic activism across Europe.

Abstracts

Malwina Talik, War(s), refugees, migration – new challenges for Europe?

The Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine represents a turning point in Europe’s post-war history. Not only has it brought interstate conflict to the EU’s doorstep and challenged its longstanding policies toward Russia, but it has also triggered the largest refugee movement in Europe since World War II. Yet, it is not the only conflict unfolding near the EU’s borders.

This lecture will examine how Europe has responded to the challenges caused by the war, with a particular focus on the reception of refugees from Ukraine, situating this response within the broader post-2015 migration discourse.
It will also explore how Russian and Belarusian authorities are instrumentalizing migration on the EU’s eastern frontiers.

Marcus How, The politics of the war in Ukraine in CEE

Different governments in CEE have responded to the war in Ukraine, and the refugee flows it has generated, in different ways.

Responses to the relevant policy areas have not always been consistent. Internal consensus also does not necessarily exist, with the policy direction changing with the election cycle.

This presentation will focus on case studies from Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, Bulgaria and Serbia to illustrate the challenges.

Nazarii Boiarskyi, The work with forced migrants and the civic education programs

The speaker will share his experience working with forced migrants, paying special attention to the implementation of civic education programs.

As part of the presentation, practical recommendations will be given on the organization and implementation of educational events for forced migrants. The main challenges faced by civic education providers and non-governmental
organizations working with migrants and for their support will also be considered.

EENCE Dialogue is organised by the Eastern European Association for Citizenship Education with the support of the Federal Agency for Civic Education (bpb) with funds from the German Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Сообщение War, Migrants, and Refugees – New Challenges for Europe появились сначала на Eastern European Network for Citizenship Education.