Citizenship and Democracy in Central and Eastern Europe

Citizenship has profound implications for the dynamics of in-groups and outgroups within a community, especially as far as minorities and vulnerable groups are concerned. In the Central and Eastern European (CEE) region, the issue of center versus periphery is highly relevant. Power concentration in the center often neglects the needs of the periphery, making citizenship essential in addressing disparities and ensuring equitable participation. In addition, understanding the shared values and identity of a region is also critical for the prevailing success of European integration. While the Member States have their unique identities, a sense of community and trust among them is necessary to facilitate cooperation and orientation towards common goals, particularly during times of crisis. Active civic engagement and dialogue empower citizens to counter contemporary challenges and provide constructive feedback to shape inclusive policies for a resilient future.

This year’s summer school offers a unique opportunity for young researchers to engage with important topics related to citizenship and values in the Central and Eastern European (CEE) region, to share knowledge, to engage in critical discussions, and to develop new ideas for promoting citizenship and the values of liberal democracy, gender equality and social and climate justice in the CEE region.