Description:

In an era marked by unprecedented challenges—including the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, escalating climate change, rising living costs, and widening income disparities—societies worldwide are experiencing increasing polarisation. These overlapping crises have led to social instability, economic downturns, and widespread discontent, particularly among those who feel unheard and left behind. To address these pressing issues, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) is organizing the second edition of Civil Society Week, scheduled from March 17 to 20, 2025, in Brussels, Belgium. This four-day event aims to foster greater cohesion and participation in our increasingly divided societies.

The central theme of Civil Society Week 2025 is “Strengthening Cohesion and Participation in Polarised Societies.” The event will serve as a platform for civil society stakeholders from across Europe and beyond to engage in critical debates, share best practices, and collaborate on developing solutions that foster social cohesion and strengthen democratic engagement. The week-long program will feature a series of panels, workshops, and interactive sessions designed to address the multifaceted challenges facing civil society today.

Key Components of the Event:

EESC Liaison Group Panels:

The EESC Liaison Group, comprising representatives from various European civil society networks, will lead several panel discussions focusing on the role of civil society in promoting social cohesion. Topics will include strategies for countering polarisation, enhancing participatory democracy, and building resilient communities. These panels aim to provide actionable insights and foster dialogue among participants.

European Citizens’ Initiative Day:

A dedicated session will explore the European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) as a tool for fostering greater citizen participation in EU policymaking. Discussions will cover the effectiveness of the ECI in addressing polarisation and strategies to strengthen support for such initiatives at various levels within Member States.

Civil Society Prize Award Ceremony:

The EESC will host the Civil Society Prize award ceremony to recognize and celebrate innovative projects and initiatives that have significantly contributed to social cohesion and democratic participation. This ceremony will highlight best practices and inspire others to undertake similar initiatives.

Workshops and Collaborative Sessions:

Throughout the week, various workshops and collaborative sessions will address specific challenges and opportunities within civil society. For example, a workshop on “Democratic and Sustainable Housing” will bring together experts, policymakers, and civil society organizations to explore advocacy strategies for fairer and more sustainable housing policies. This session will feature discussions on key housing challenges, innovative solutions, and institutional responses.

Eligibility:

Civil Society Week 2025 is open to a broad spectrum of participants, including:

• Representatives from civil society organizations and NGOs
• Foundations and philanthropic organizations
• National Economic and Social Councils
• Youth representatives
• Journalists
• Experts and academics
• EU policymakers
• Interested citizens

The event encourages participation from individuals and organizations committed to fostering social cohesion, enhancing democratic participation, and addressing the challenges posed by polarisation in society.

Why Attend Civil Society Week 2025?

• Engage in Meaningful Dialogue:

Participate in discussions with experts, policymakers, and fellow civil society members to explore solutions to the pressing challenges of polarisation and social fragmentation.

• Expand Your Network:

Connect with a diverse group of stakeholders, including NGOs, foundations, youth representatives, and academics, to build partnerships and collaborations that can amplify your organization’s impact.

• Gain Insights and Best Practices:

Learn from successful initiatives and case studies presented during the event, providing practical knowledge that can be applied to your work in promoting social cohesion and democratic participation.

• Influence Policy and Decision-Making:

Engage directly with EU policymakers and contribute to shaping policies that affect civil society and citizen participation across Europe.

• Celebrate Achievements:

Join the Civil Society Prize award ceremony to recognize and draw inspiration from outstanding contributions to social cohesion and democracy.

Event Highlights:

• Opening Plenary:

The event will commence with an opening plenary session featuring keynote speeches from prominent figures in the European civil society landscape. This session will set the tone for the week, highlighting the importance of addressing polarisation and fostering cohesion.

• Thematic Panels:

Several thematic panels will delve into specific aspects of polarisation and cohesion, such as the impact of digitalization, the role of education, and the importance of inclusive policymaking. These panels aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the issues at hand.

• Interactive Workshops:

Workshops will offer participants hands-on experience in developing strategies and tools to combat polarisation. Topics may include community engagement techniques, advocacy skills, and methods for promoting inclusive dialogue.

• Networking Sessions:

Designated networking sessions will allow attendees to connect informally, share experiences, and explore potential collaborations.

• Closing Ceremony:

The week will conclude with a closing ceremony summarizing the key takeaways and outlining future steps to continue the momentum generated during the event.

Registration:

To participate in Civil Society Week 2025, interested individuals and organizations must register through the official EESC event page. The registration process involves completing an online form, providing relevant details about your organization or personal background, and selecting the sessions you wish to attend. Early registration is recommended due to limited seating capacity and to facilitate better planning of the event.

More information is available at the official website HERE

Registration Link: Civil Society Week 2025 Registration is HERE