Programme 2026 Global Forum

Join us for an optional pre-tour to learn more about the democratic and political history of Botswana. Registration for the pre-tour is mandatory – all relevant information can be found here

Visit Ploiești
Tuesday, 14.05.2024
09:30 -16:00, Meeting point: The North Trainstation in Bucharest (Piața Gării de Nord 1)

Together, we will join the Ploiești youth team for a city adventure! Visiting the unique Clock Museum, a one-of-a-kind European gem and see innovation in action at the youth center crafted by and for the young community.
Together, we will have a break during lunch, where everyone is free to join and grab a bite to eat.

Please bring 20 Euros or US Dollars with you. We will take care to buy the train tickets, as well as the museum entrance fee.

The EFdeN project: Come and discover the solar houses made by young students!
Wednesday. 15.05.2024
10:15 - 12:30, Meeting point: Boulevard Pache Protopopescu no. 66

You will have the opportunity to visit a local student project in Bucharest. The EFdeN project, a pioneering organisation committed to sustainability, for an enlightening En-ROADS Climate Workshop. Founded by ambitious students from Bucharest's top universities, EFdeN has dedicated over 350,000 hours to sustainable development, including constructing energy-efficient homes and a sustainable city prototype.

Official Global Forum Opening (Invitation only)

Location: Palace of Parliament - Room Hortensia Papadat Bengescu

13:15-14:00: Registration
 

14:00-15:00: Welcoming remarks

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 will hear the reasons why Bucharest will be the hub of Democracy for 3 days and impressions from the previous cities that hosted the Forum.

Moderator: Bruno Kaufmann & Joe Mathews, Co-founders Global Forum on Modern Direct Democracy

• Tana Foarfa & Caroline Vernaillen, Global Forum Co-chairs
• Nicușor Dan, Mayor of Bucharest
• Marian Preda, Rector of the University of Bucharest

A word from previous Global Forum cities

• Roberto Heycher Cardiel Soto, Mexico City
• Adrian Schmid, Swiss Democracy Foundation, Former President of the Parliament of the City of
  Lucerne, Switzerland
• Da-Chi Liao, Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, Taiwan
• Riccardo Fraccaro, Former Minister for Direct Democracy, Rome, Italy

Keynote: War in Europe Again: Democracy and Security in an Age of Upheaval

Russia’s full-scale invasion of a sovereign European country, Ukraine, uprooted every European security arrangement since the Helsinki Accords of 1975. Russian imperial ambitions are back in the Black Sea / Danube region.  Democracy came with the enlargement of the EU and NATO exactly 20 years ago. Can democracy be the guarantor of security and what future awaits us in this age in where uncertainly and multiple crisis confront states and societies.

• Ivan Vejvoda, Permanent Fellow and Head of Europe’s Futures Program at the Institute for Human Sciences (IWM) in Vienna, Member of the Advisory Board of the Erste Foundation, Member of the Serbian PEN Club.

15:00-16:30: Opening discussion - Democracy around the world

We will have the opportunity to listen to high-level ambassadors who will share their thoughts on the level of democracy across the world and we will invite them to share their lessons and ideas about the state of democracy, the dangers and the challenges of this massive electoral year.

Moderator: Tana Foarfă, Executive Director, Europuls, Romania

• H.E. Diana Reaich, Ambassador to Bulgaria, Luxembourg, Moldova and Romania, and Deputy Head of Mission to the European Union
• H.E. Ihor Prokopchuk, Ambassador of Ukraine to Romania
• H.E. Massimo Baggi, Ambassador of Switzerland in Romania
• H.E. Amparo Erendira Anguiano Rodriguez, Ambassador of Mexico in Romania (TBC)
• Luminița Odobescu, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Romania (TBC)

Keynotes:

• Victoria Stoiciu, State Counsellor on Civil Society, Cabinet of Prime Minister, Government of Romania
• Mădălina Mihalache, Head of the European Parliament Liaison Office in Romania
• Mara Roman, Interim Head of the Representation of the European Commission in Romania
• Tetiana Drakokhrust, Doctor of the Science of Law, Associate Professor, Professor at the Theory of Law and Constitutionalism department West Ukrainian National University (Ukraine)
• Olexiy Haran, National University of Kiev, Ukraine
• Angela Grămadă, President, ESGA
• Direct democracy as a tool against democratic backsliding - Bruno Kaufmann, Swiss Democracy Foundation
• Luciana Alexandra Ghica, University of Bucharest, Romania

Q&A session and Conclusions

16.30 -17.30: Networking

18:00-21:00 Global Forum Opening Evening - Networking session

Location: Maison des Crêpes, Strada Mihai Eminescu 38, București 030167

To open the Global Forum on Modern Direct Democracy we welcome participants for a networking cocktail at Maison des Crepes Romana.

Location: Revista Theatre (Teatrul de Revista) - Calea Victoriei 33, București 010061

9:30-13:00 Plenary Sessions

9:30-9:45: Welcoming remarks

• Tana Foarfa & Caroline Vernaillen, Global Forum Co-chairs
• Anca Păduraru, Political Rapporteur, Interim Head of the Political Department, Representation of the European Commission in Romania

09:45-09:55: Keynote: Dragoș Anastasiu, President, Rethink Romania

09:55-10:05: Keynote: “Citizen assemblies: how their work fosters active citizenship and social cohesion”

• Marjan Ehsassi, Berggruen Institute, Execuitve Director, FIDE - North America, Future of Democracy Fellow, Berggruen Institute and Senior Innovations Fellow, IDEA United States

10:05-10:15: Keynote: Lucian Mîndruț, Journalist

10:15-10:50: Plenary: 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?

Moderator: Francesca Cristea, Head of Policy & Programs, Europuls

• Corina Crețu, Former European Commissioner for Cohesion and Reforms, Romania
• Ovidiu Cîmpean, Secretary of State, Ministry of European Investments and Projects, Romania

10:50-11:15 Coffee Break
 

11:15-11:30 Keynote “Trust and participation – lessons from the business world”

• Marius Stefan, Autonom, Romania

11:30-11:40 Keynote “The path towards Democracy: Unveiling the wounds of Communism”

• Adelina-Liana Țînțariu, former coordinator of the Memorial of the former communist penitentiary from Râmnicu Sărat, Romania

11:40-13:00 Panel: “Democracy as a mission, technology as a means - contemporary  journalism around the world”

Does free press as the fourth estate have a duty to promote democracy itself? Does this clash with the requirement to be objective? How can journalists advocate for democracy?

Moderator: Raimar Wagner,  Friedrich Naumann Foundation, Romania

Panelists:

• Joe Mathews, Berggruen Institute, USA
• Vitalie Cojocari,  Euronews Romania
• Cristina Lupu, Centrul pentru Jurnalism Independent
• Petru Macovei de la Asociatia Presei Independente, Republic of Moldova
• Teodor Tiță, Gen-știri, Romania

LOCATION CHANGE

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work (Facultatea de Sociologie și Asistență Socială) - Șoseaua Panduri nr. 90-92, București

13:00-14:30 Lunch Break

14:30-19:15 Parallel Sessions

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work

14:30-16:00 Parallel Sessions I

14:30-16:00: Fireside chat: Future of Energy
Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work  - Room 102

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.

Moderator: Corneliu Cotet, Europuls, Romania

• Silvia Vlăscean, Director executiv, HENRO, Romania

14:30-16:00: Academic spotlight: “Constitution and direct democracy: the role of popular participation in constitution-writing”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 207

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.

Moderator: Marco Podetta, University of Brescia, Italy

Speakers:

• Lorenzo Spadacini, University of Brescia, Italy
• Riccardo Fraccaro, Former Minister for Direct Democracy, Italy
• Daniele Casanova, University of Brescia, Italy
• Ivan Sergio Kucharsky Villarreal, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Bolivia

14:30-16:00: Academic spotlight: “Understanding trust and democracy through comparative historical analysis"

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 203

This panel will discuss the relation between trust and democracy through a comparative historical analysis, from Ancient Greece to nowadays European Union, with a glance at the specific instances of Romania, Mexico and Austria. This session aims at understanding democratic characteristics that make direct democracies functional and legitimate, whilst making citizens willing and excited to trust institutions and participate in democratic means.

Moderators: 

• Viorella Manolache, The Institute of Political Sciences and International Relations „Ion I.C. Brătianu", Romania

Speakers:

• Henrieta Serban, Institute of Political Sciences and International Relations, Ion I.C. Brătianu Romanian Academy, Romania,
• Carlos Chavez Becker, UNAM, Mexico
• Erwin Mayer, Mehr Demokratie, Austria
• Francesco Cattaneo, Switzerland

14:30-16:00: Bootcamp: “Digital innovation: how can it serve democracy campaigns?”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 208

Electoral periods are becoming more conducive to polarization, exacerbated by the use of new technologies (AI, algorithms, etc.) by malicious actors. However, technological innovations can also provide solutions and revitalize democracy, making it more resilient and fostering positive dialogues among citizens. In this bootcamp, we will explore two examples of innovative digital campaigns recently conducted in Europe and engage with participants on the possibility of using them in the future.

Moderator: Alexis Prokopiev, Association Civic Tech Europe, Make.org, France

Speakers:

• Simon Strohmenger, Mehr Demokratie, Consul, Germany
• Julia Thomaschki, Mehr Demokratie, Consul, Germany
• Madalin Blidaru, JEF Romania, Romania
• Saha Balaganesh, Democratic Society

14:30-16:00: Roundtable: “Storytelling: Democracy activism in non-democratic contexts”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 103

This workshop delves into the strategies and challenges of democracy activism within non-democratic environments. Participants will explore tactics for advocating democratic principles while navigating restrictive political landscapes. Through discussions and case studies, attendees will gain insights into effective methods for promoting democratic ideals and fostering civic engagement in challenging contexts.

Moderator: Caroline Vernaillen, Democracy International, Belgium

• Andrei Lutenco, Center for Policies and Reforms, Moldova
• Vanessa Borrego, ArchipielagoMCR, Spain
• Sam Serey, Khmer National Government in exile, Denmark
• Ileana Marin, Democracy around the Globe, Charles F. Kettering Foundation, U.S.A

14:30-16:00: Roundtable: “Youth in the EU”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 205

This roundtable aims to explore how the European Union can better engage young people in the decision making processes on the topics that affect the future generations directly, such as the sustainable development policies of the Union and the environmental issues, but also focusing on how this engagement can sustain and support projects and actions in rural areas in Europe.

Moderator: Davide Emanuele Iannace, Sapienza, University of Rome / CNR - IRCrES; Give Back Giovani Aree Interne, Italy

Speakers:

• Gabriel Brezoiu, Head of Sustainability at GEYC, Romania
• Marc Paul, Cluj Youth Federation, Romania

14:30-16:00: Workshop: “Commonalities and differences in democratic evolution in Central and Eastern Europe”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 105

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. The aim of this panel 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.

Moderator: Balazs Trencsenyi, Head Democracy Center, Hungary

Speakers:

• Marton Gerö, Centre for Social Science Research, Hungary
• Silvia Marton, University of Bucharest, Romania
• Andrzej Jackiewicz, University of Bialystok, Poland

14:30-16:00: Workshop: “Direct Democracy 101: learning from scratch”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 006

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.

• Anna Proskurina, Democracy International e.V, Germany
• Kim Graves,Catholic University of Lille, France

16:00-16:15 Break

16:15-17:15 Parallel Sessions II

16:15-17:15: Panel: “Media Business models in times of social media”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 205

In this session, 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.

Moderator: Antonio Momoc, PhD., Dean of Faculty of Journalism and Communication Sciences 2020-2024, University of Bucharest, Romania

Keynote: Dragos Stanca,The Ethical Media Alliance, Romania

Speakers:

• Arina Ureche, BRAT, Romania
• Cristi Pantazi, G4Media, Romania

16:15-17:15: Roundtable: “Between invisibility and participation: the role of women for peace”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 103

Moderator: Francelia Carolina Ruiz Lopez, Nosotras por Todas, Venezuela

Speakers:

• Nataliya Melnyk, Bendukidze Free Market Center, Ukraine
• Itzel Riba, Citizen Participation expert, Mexico
• Ioana Abăseacă, ”Women in Politics” Initiative, Romania
• Jung-Ok Lee, former Minister for Gender Equality and Family, Korea
•  Liliana Palihovici, Institutum Virtutes Civilis, Moldova

16:15-17:15: Panel: “From Spectators to Architects? Successes and challenges of Participatory Budgeting in Romanian cities”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 105

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.

Moderators:

• Simon Strohmenger, Consul Democracy Foundation, Germany
• Jens Kimmel, Consul Democracy Foundation, Netherlands

Speakers:

• Dan Cosmin, City of Dumbravita, Romania
• N.N., City of Brasov, Romania
• Marian Panait, City of Sinaia, Romania
• Despina Ungureana, Community Relations City of Timisoara, Romania
• Marius Stan, Code4Romania, Romania

16:15-17:15: Workshop: “Decision-making at the European Union level”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 207

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.

Moderators:

• Oana Ene, Project Assistant, Europuls
• Ruxandra Botas, Project Assistant, Europuls

16:15-17:15: YEUF Workshop (closed session)

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 102

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, France

16:15-17:15: Workshop: “Local direct democracy in Germany”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 203

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.

Moderators:

• Frank Rehmet, Mehr Demokratie e. V., Germany
• Achim Wölfel, Mehr Demokratie e.V., Germany

16:15-17:15: Workshop: “Reshaping Romania: Unraveling Communist wounds in 2024”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 006

This workshop explores the enduring impact of Romania's communist past, revealing the complexities of its transition to democracy. Through an examination of political and social spheres, participants will delve into the lingering distrust and challenges facing contemporary Romanian society. From its journey towards European integration to the nuances of everyday life, we'll uncover how Romania navigates the legacies of its history.

Facilitator: Daniela Popescu, University lecturer, Cultural Association "History within our Homes, Romania

16:15-17:15: Workshop: “How civil society organizations respond to de-democratization and how successful they are in stopping it?”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 208

Today, civil society organizations face critical challenges amid global democratic backsliding, notably in EU member states like Hungary and Poland. In these environments, they encounter hostility, funding shortages, and state co-option attempts, threatening their autonomy and effectiveness. As autocratizing leaders aim to weaken opposition, civil society's role in fostering democratic resilience becomes increasingly vital, prompting scrutiny of its responses and structural influences in countering de-democratization.

Moderator: Marton Gerö, Centre for Social Science Research, Hungary

Speakers:

• Joanna Podgórska-Rykała, KEN University of Cracow, Poland
• Stefan Cibian, Făgăraș Research Institute, Romania
• Henry Rammelt, SNSPA Bucharest, Romania

17:15-17:45: Coffee break

17:15-17:45: Yoga at the Forum
Location: Garden

At this year’s Global Forum Elisabeth Kaufmann will offer two yoga breaks of 30 minutes length, to help you wind down and connect to your body and mind, so that you’re well prepared to the main themes of the 2024 Forum, peace and trust in democracy! Get ready to relaxing yoga exercises standing and sitting on a chair. You don’t need any special clothing. Just come as you are! Elisabeth is a global Yoga Alliance certified yoga teacher and teacher trainer. She runs her own yoga studio in Arboga, the birth place of democracy in Sweden, and has written a book about yin yoga (in Swedish: Lilla Positionsboken). Read more about Elisabeth here. Elisabeth is also active as elected member of the Election Commission of Arboga and chairs the local Green Party.

17:45-19:15 Parallel Sessions III

17:45-19:15: Panel: “Rebuilding democracy after war - Lasting peace through participation”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 102

Moderator: Ion Manole, Promo-LEX, Moldova

• Angela Gramada, Expert for Security and Global Affairs Association, Romania
• Mihai Lupu, Solidarity Platform, Romania
• Dane Waters, Initiative and Referendum Institute, Humanity for Freedom Foundation, USA
• Mihail Sirkeli, Piligrim-Demo, Moldova

17:45-19:15: Workshop: “Participatory Democracy: existing practices in comparison”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 103

People Powered members 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.

Moderator: Greta Ríos, People Powered, Mexico

Speakers:

• Katy Rubin, Legislative Theater practitioner, UK
• Andrés Falck, Coglobal, Spain
• Carolin Hagelskamp, Berlin School of Economics and Law, Germany
• Eva Mackevica, Fundacja Pole Dialogu, Poland
• Andras Farkas, PB City Network

17:45-19:15: Panel: “The situation of independent media in the region”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 105

The session will focus on the situation of independent media in the region. What is the status of Romanian and Moldavia media in the 2024 "super-electoral" year? What are the opportunities and challenges of investigative journalism?

Moderator: Romina Surugiu, Faculty of Journalism and Communication Studies, University of Bucharest, Romania

Speakers:

• Cristina Lupu, Executive Director at Center for Independent Journalism, Bucharest, Romania
• Biro Attila, Journalist and cofounder of context.ro - independent media start-up
• Marian Chiriac, Country Director, Balkan Investigative Reporting Network, Romania

17:45-19:15: Workshop: “How to Make Young Voices Matter"

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 006

“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.

• Rafael Bologa, Youth Romanian Council

17:45-19:15: Panel: The future of democracy - ethical AI and robotics

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 205

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.

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work

Moderator: Corneliu Coteț, Europuls, Romania

Speaker:

• Mihai Matei, Industry association IT industries, Geeks for democracy, Romania
• Robert Kristof, Polytechnic University of Timișoara, Romania
• Irina Buzu, AI councillor of the Vice-President of the Republic of Moldova

17:45-19:15:  Bootcamp: “How to organise a European Citizens’ Initiative”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 207

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!

• Daniela Vancic, Democracy International, Germany

17:45-19:15 Spotlight Youth: A sustainable future

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 208

Roundtable discussion on the use of democratic methods such as citizens' assemblies in tackling climate change. Focus on the participation of young people in democratic innovations. Perspectives from Romania, Mexico and Finland, and a video presentation from Ukraine. The session concludes with another topic concerning youth, with Kim Minseong discussing the pros and cons of abolishing Korea's student human rights ordinance.

Moderator: Veli-Valtteri Lehtonen, Student Network on the Future of Democracy, Finland

Speakers:

• Elena Miron, ESDN Youth Network,
• Jesus Roberto Hernández Juárez, Youth Building The Future Global Mexico
• Yaroslav Morozov, Board Member in 'Young European Ambassadors' initiative, Ukraine (remote)

17:45-19:15 Clientelism in politics

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 005

The workshop will explore the means through which political parties abuse state resources to obtain political and electoral advantages. These include national programs for local development, arbitrary allocations to media or abusive use of public funds through fixed procurement. The panel will highlight EFOR's work of more than 13 years to disclose these means and to increase governmental responsibility, as well as case studies covered by the media. The workshop is hosted by Septimius Pârvu - electoral program coordinator at Expert Forum and Cristian Pantazi - editor in chief, G4Media.ro.

Moderators: Septimius Pârvu, Expert Forum, Romania and Cristian Pantazi - editor in chief, G4Media.ro, Romania

17:45-19:15 Workshop: “Legislative Theatre: Creatively Redesigning Democratic Spaces - A simulation”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Professor's Room

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.

• Katy Rubin, Legislative Theatre (independent practitioner), United Kingdom
• Bartłomiej Bodziński-Guzik, Jagiellonian University, Poland

18:30-19:30 „Stories in Little Paris”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Floor -1

This session represents a unique journey into the traditional universe of quality wines and cheeses. We invite you to participate in our tasting session in Little Paris.

Location: Revista Theatre (Teatrul de Revista) - Calea Victoriei 33, București 010061

9:30-13:00 Plenary Sessions

9:30-09:40: Welcoming remarks

9:50-10:00: Keynote: Ionuț Adrian Foltea, Times New Roman

10:00-10:10: Keynote: “EU Enlargement: A story about togetherness”

• H.E. Victor Chirilă, Ambassador of the Republic of Moldova in Romania

10:10-11:10: Panel “Future of Europe”

11:30-11:40: Keynote: “Priorities at the EU level”

• H.E. John Cornet-D'Elzius. Ambassador of the Kingfom of Belgium to Romania

11:40-13:00 Dialogue on Shaping the 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.

LOCATION CHANGE

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work (Facultatea de Sociologie și Asistență Socială) - Șoseaua Panduri nr. 90-92, București

13:00-14:30 Lunch Break

14:30-19:00 Parallel Sessions

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work

14:30-16:00 Parallel Sessions I

14:30-16:00: Panel: “Strong institutions: Advancing and Assisting Direct Democracy from electoral bodies’ Perspectives”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 205

This session will provide a comprehensive exploration of critical case studies involving referendums, voting on socially contested issues, and the recall of elected officials. The discussion will center on the pivotal role of Election Management Bodies (EMBs) in navigating legal frameworks, offering process support, and conducting voter education initiatives. Country case studies will offer valuable insights into past experiences, challenges, budgetary considerations, and strategic planning related to referendums. This session promises to offer essential perspectives for promoting citizen participation and ensuring the integrity of electoral processes.

Moderator: Seung Ryeol Kim, A-WEB, Korea

Speakers:

• Toni GREBLĂ, President, Permanent Electoral Authority, Romania
• Vanja Bjelica-Prutina, Central Election Commission, Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Giorgi Kalandarishvili, Central Election Commission, Georgia
• Dana Munteanu, Central Electoral Commission, Moldova
• Reyes Rodriguez Mondragon, Electoral Tribunal, Mexico (per video)

14:30-16:00: Workshop: Cities. Youth. Future. The Romanian Youth Capital model

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 103

14:30-16:00: Panel:  “Sustainable Future(s)”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 102

Moderator: Dalia Stoian, EFdeN, Romania

Speakers:

• Corina Murafa, member, European Economic and Social Committee
• Roxana Mînzatu, Secretary of State, Coordinator of the Department for Integrated Evaluation and Monitoring of Programs Financed from Public and European Funds, Chancellery of the Prime-Minister
• Roxana Chirițoiu, Project Manager, CLimate Change Summit
• Ana Maria Icătoiu, Vice-President, OFA-UGIR

14:30-16:00: Workshop: “Lecture and discussion: History and relevance of direct and participative democracy in Central and Eastern Europe”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 105

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.

Moderator: Gabriel Badescu, Babeş-Bolyai University, Romania

Speakers:

• Marko Krtolica, Iustinianus Primus University Skopje, North Macedonia
• Andrzej Jackiewicz, University of Bialystok, Poland
• Nikolay Bliznakov, Regional union of NGOs and Association NEOCHRON, Bulgaria

14:30-16:00: Bootcamp: “How can direct democracy be implemented in national constitutions?”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 207

In many countries, direct democracy is considered as one of the possible solutions to improve our democratic systems. While these debates are often theoretical, some concrete proposals that implement direct democracy are useful to offer concrete options and more precise debates on how direct democracy could change the balance of powers in each country. Four constitutions will be discussed: the Belgian, the Chilean, the French and the Romanian. Clara Egger will present the proposal for a revision of the Belgian constitution, defended by Meer Democratie. David Altman analyzes the failure of the Constituent Assembly in Chile and develops how direct democracy could be implemented in the actual constitution. Raul Magni-Berton presents the impact of the Yellow Vests on the debates on direct democracy in France and discusses the proposal for constitutional reform currently being presented to parliament. Finally, Sergiu Miscoiu will present the main issue of direct democracy in Romania and the way it could be conceived.

Moderators: Raul Magni Berton, European School of Political and Social Sciences, France and Clara Egger, Erasmus University Rotterdam, the Netherlands

Speakers:

• David Altman, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Chile
• Sergiu Miscoiu, Babeș-Bolyai University, Romania

14:30-16:00: Repeat - Workshop: “Legislative Theatre: Creatively Redesigning Democratic Spaces - A simulation”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Professor's Room

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.

• Katy Rubin, Legislative Theatre (independent practitioner), United Kingdom
• Bartłomiej Bodziński-Guzik, Jagiellonian University, Poland

14:30-16:00: YEUF: Dialogue with a decision-maker

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 208

The session aims to gather young people from Romania, Bulgaria and France in a dialogue with a decision-maker about increasing youth participation in society.

• Rareș Achiriloaie, National Authority for the Protection of Children's Rights and Adoption, Romania
• Theodora Cristofan, Europuls, Romania

16:00-16:15: Coffee Break

16:15-17:15 Parallel Sessions II

16:15-17:15: EUROSFAT Panel:  “Regional Cooperation”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 103

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, Europuls - Center of European Expertise, Romania

Speakers:

• H.E. ​José Antonio Hernández Pérez-Solórzano, Ambassador, Kingdom of Spain, Romania
• Diana Gheorghe, General Directorate for European Territorial Cooperation, Ministry of Development, Public Works and Administration, Romania
• Alexandru Gozun, PwC, Moldova
• Tudor Ogner, Romanian Youth Capital Programme, Romania
• Andreea Apostul, Cluj Youth Federation, Roman

16:15-17:15: Panel: “Access to information: regulations and practices”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 102

The session will discuss examples of successful (or not so successful) implementation of the access to information legislation in various countries. The focus will be on experiences of grassroots groups and citizens, particularly from rural and remote areas, and how they can use FOIA to advance democracy in their communities.

Moderator: Ovidiu Voicu, Center Public Inovation, Romania

Speakers:

• Marie Jünemann, Mehr Demokratie, Germany
• Michael Gyekye, Ghana
• Murat Özçelebi, STGM, Turkey
• Luca Ciubotaru, Civic Radauti Association, Romania

16:15-17:15: Workshop: “The current state of participation and direct democracy in the EU”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 105

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.

Moderators: Luiza Jardim, People Powered, Brazil and Alisa Aliti Vlasic, Coglobal, Spain

16:15-17:15: Bootcamp: “Teaching how to use democracy instruments: hands-on training with experts from around the world”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 207

Democratic participation opportunities vary greatly in different countries, cities and regions. However, there are a few simple basic rules that apply everywhere and can be followed to launch a successful initiative. The boot camp will focus on such tips and tricks using the examples of direct democracy in Germany and Romania.

• Alina Kasprovski, Bucharest Community Foundation, Romania
• Achim Wölfel, Mehr Demokratie, Germany
• Ileana Marin, Democracy around the Globe, Charles F. Kettering Foundation, U.S.A.

16:15-17:15: Workshop: “The mechanism of a participation network: from establishment to management”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 203

Moderators: George Petrov, Citizens Participation Forum, Bulgaria and Anda Serban, CeRe, Romania

16:15-17:15: Bootcamp: “Fundraising Hands-on”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Professor's Room

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!

• Anne Hardt, Democracy International, Germany

16:15-17:15: “The myth of Princess Europe”

 Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 004

The myth of Princess Europe, dating back 2,800 years, provides an astonishing key to the current task and idea of Europe. It conceals the conditions for a successful democracy as well as the necessities for the creation of art. They promote a healthy self-confidence, as well as trust in every human being and their peace-building potential for the future. I would like to describe this in my contribution and discuss it with the participants.

• Micheal von der Lohe, OMNIBUS FÜR DIREKTE DEMOKRATIE, Germany

16:15-17:15: Academic Spotlight: "Civic Education"

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 205

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.

Moderator: Gabriel Badescu, National survey on civic education, Romania

Speakers:

• Calin Rus, Intercultural Institute, Romania
• Catalina Hygum, University of Bucharest, Romania
• Victoria Bogdanova, Center for the Study of Democracy, Bulgaria
• Cezare Grama, Expert Forum, Romania

16:15-17:15: Road to 2100

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 005

In light of the rapidly changing times, exemplified by advancements in technology, we, as sustainability ambassadors, are committed to ensuring the accurate and timely dissemination of information to the public in the twenty-first century. To this end, we are organizing a workshop centered around the En-ROADS platform, developed by MIT.

The central question guiding our workshop is: "What actions can we take to sustain ourselves?" Recognizing the challenges of altering our perspective on the planet until 2100, we acknowledge the urgency of addressing global warming. Failure to act now could result in a 3.3-degree Celsius temperature rise by the year 2100, potentially leading to adverse consequences such as submergence of areas like Dubai or Venice.

17:45-19:15: Workshop: “Volunteering in the EU”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 208

• Benjamin Sybille, Collectif pour un Service Civique Européen, France

17:15-17:45: Break

17:15-17:45: Yoga at the Forum
Location: Garden

At this year’s Global Forum Elisabeth Kaufmann will offer two yoga breaks of 30 minutes length, to help you wind down and connect to your body and mind, so that you’re well prepared to the main themes of the 2024 Forum, peace and trust in democracy! Get ready to relaxing yoga exercises standing and sitting on a chair. You don’t need any special clothing. Just come as you are! Elisabeth is a global Yoga Alliance certified yoga teacher and teacher trainer. She runs her own yoga studio in Arboga, the birth place of democracy in Sweden, and has written a book about yin yoga (in Swedish: Lilla Positionsboken). Read more about Elisabeth here. Elisabeth is also active as elected member of the Election Commission of Arboga and chairs the local Green Party.

17:45-19:15 Parallel Sessions III

17:45-19:15: Workshop: “Picking the right tool for the job: how to design participation at the local level”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 207

Designing participation requires picking the right democracy instrument for each specific context. This workshop will introduce several democracy tools that can be applied at the local level whilst also delving into more specific practices and their application. Speakers from different regions will be leading working groups discussing both top-down and bottom-up participatory tools commonly used at the local level, and how to choose which process fits what situation. Join the session for a global perspective on local democracy tools!

Moderator: Christian König, Mehr Demokratie, Germany

Speakers:

• Raban Fuhrmann, Academy for a Learning Democracy, Germany
• Stephen Erickson, Citizens Rising and Cities Rising, United States
• Salome Svanidze, Civic IDEA, Georgia
• Luca Ciubotaru, Civic Radauti Association, Romania

17:45-19:15: Workshop: “European Democracy - #UseYourVote”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 105

Join the "Democracy Promoters" workshop organized by the European Parliament Liaison Office with together.eu volunteers, focusing on empowering European citizens in democratic engagement. As European elections approach on June 9, 2024, the workshop emphasizes the importance of voting as a fundamental tool for active citizenship and commitment to democracy. Learn from young together.eu volunteers about their success stories, participation in the #UseYourVote campaign, and how to inspire others to engage meaningfully in democracy.

Moderator: Liliana Comănescu, European Parliament Liaison Office, Romania

17:45-19:15: Roundtable: “Culturally inclusive approaches of democracy: What traditions and local context can teach us”

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 103

Moderator: Caroline Vernaillen, Democracy International, Belgium

• Tatiana Forero Torres, Fundaciòn Corona, Colombia
• Moufida Guirmani ep Oueslati, Le Partenaire Consulting, Tunisia
• Maureen Mason, Canada
• Maria Luiza Freire, Ciudadania Intelligente, Brazil

17:45-19:15: Panel: "Digital Democracy: Building Trust and Empowering Local Communities Globally"

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 205

This panel/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.

Moderator: George A. Polisner, Founder of Civic Works, United States

Speakers:

• Colleen Hardwick, Founder & CEO of PlaceSpeak, Canada
• Tamara Tachynska, CEO of Qela App, Ukraine
• Guillaume Saunier, Partnerships and Fundraising at Octree, Switzerland
• Charlie Martial Ngounou, President of AfroLeadership, Yaounde, Cameroon

17:45 - 20:00: Networking: "Connect & Share"

Explore the "Connect & Share" networking room, where innovative projects come to life. Engage directly with project initiators to learn about their work, projects and initiatives. Whether you're looking for new ideas, partnerships, or just want to chat, this session is the perfect chance to connect with creative minds and exchange knowledge.

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 102

• Project exhibition and networking  

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 205

09:30-14:30 Plenary Sessions

09:30-9:40: Welcome
Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work - Room 205

09:55-10:10: Keynote: After the end of history: the EU Eastern enlargement revisited            

Add description: Author of the 2007 paper 'EU Accession Is No End of History', where she warned of a democratic deficit in Central Europe forecasting backsliding, Alina Mungiu-Pippidi returns fifteen years later with a sober discussion of European enlargement. Has the 'gravity model', which drove democratization of Eastern Europe in early years exhausted itself? And is enlargement, this tool of European foreign policy sufficient to deal with the geopolitical challenges of EU's Eastern border?

• Alina Mungiu-Pippidi

10:10-11:40: Fireside chat panel: “Mayors for democracy”
Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work

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.

• Adria Duarte, International Observatory on Participatory Democracy (IOPD) and United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG), Spain
• Radu Mihaiu, Mayor, District 2 - Bucharest, Romania
• Corina Ene, Mayor, Căbești, Romania
• Ion Dogalniuc, Mayor of Colibași, Cahul, Republic of Moldova
• Vladislav Cociu, Mayor of Ștefan Vodă, Republic of Moldova
• Adrian Schmid, President of the Swiss Democracy Foundation is the former Vice-President of the Swiss Green Party and was a member of the Lucerne city parliament for almost two decades, which he presided over in 1999.

11:40-13:00: Launch of the Yearly Global Report on Direct Democracy
Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work

Moderator: Bruno Kaufmann, Swiss Democracy Foundation, Sweden

Speakers:

• Raul Magni Berton, European School of Political and Social Sciences, France
• Clara Egger, Erasmus University Rotterdam, the Netherlands
• David Altman, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Chile
• Luciana Alexandra Ghica, University of Bucharest, Romania

13:00-14:00 Panel: How to create trust for the right reasons during elections and for democracy

Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work

Moderator: Dragoș Lucian Ivan, Faculty of Law - The Academy of Economic Studies, Romania

Speakers:

• Oswaldo Lima Jr., University of the State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
• Edna Raquel Hogemann, Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
• Marieta Safta, Titu Maiorescu University of Bucharest - The Court of International Commercial Arbitration, Romania
• Ovidiu Ioan Dumitru, Faculty of Law - The Academy of Economic Studies, Romania
• Olga Cortac, Director of the Administrative Service, legal Resources Centre from Moldova

14:00-14:30 Closing Remarks & Declaration
Location: Faculty of Sociology and Social Work

• Announcements and closing