Key words: Democracy, participation, active citizenship, democratic deficit, inclusion, participatory procedures, minorities, representation, political education, democratic values, institutions, rule of law, democratic society
The public debate will be a two-day event that will include an intensive program of official discussions, workshops, training, study visits, project proposals, and the development of content for an independent European Report on the situation with refugees, migrants, and minorities in different social life sectors.
Besides, the core of the discussion is dedicated to debate the future of Europe and inclusion of vulnerable groups into civil society, facilitation of the intercultural dialogue, and finally elaboration of the content of the European report “Towards Inclusive and Sustainable Europe” (an integral part of each meeting).
Date and place: 21st – 24th October 2021 in Rhodes, Greece
Participants: up to 31 participants (up to 16 from Greece and up to 15 international participants on-site or online) from international organizations representatives, experts, guests, students/youth, interested organizations/institutions and NGOs leaders, networks, and individuals representing vulnerable groups.
Participating countries: Estonia, Finland, Germany, Belgium, Netherlands and Greece
Components of the public debate
– Key note speeches by international experts in the field of political education, democracy, participation policies in EU, civil society, support of vulnerable groups, countering lack of social capital and combatting the stigmatisation of migrants and minority groups – The aim is to introduce the themes to all participants (as the event is open to all) and further elaborate on the continued relevance of these themes.
– Panel discussion sessions, these panel discussions include representatives of many different backgrounds who will highlight the usefulness of creating a comparative perspective, being open to ideas from other countries (regions), and finding common goals, solutions and policy approaches.
– Practical working groups/workshops for participants to introduce them to new skills and knowledge with final cooperation results. (Workshop agenda for organizations/individuals related with strengthening cohesion and enforcing an intercultural dialogue for more inclusive Europe)
Official languages: English
Venue: Best Western Plaza Hotel (Rhodes, Greece)
A hybrid meeting format Zoom link will be provided only to officially registered participants. An online participation will start on 22nd October 2021 at 10:00 am (CET).