The European Fund for the Balkans (EFB) and the Institute for Democratic Engagement Southeast Europe (IDESE) are announcing the third edition of the Engaged Democracy Convention, which will be held May 21-23, 2025, in Skopje, North Macedonia at Laboratorium.
Building on the success of previous EDI gatherings in Belgrade (2021) and Prishtina (2023), this year’s convention will continue to strengthen the EDI regional network while addressing key challenges and opportunities in today’s complex political and geopolitical landscape.
"Engage, Inspire, Empower!" is once again the overarching theme of this year's convention, which aims to bring together engaged citizens, activists, journalists and representatives of civil society organizations from all across the Western Balkans to jointly foster and envision ideas for cooperation, innovation, and action. The convention will be an opportunity to reconnect with the existing EDI partners and network members, but also introduce new people, local initiatives and organisations.
Through a series of interactive workshops, discussions, and networking formats, the participants will have the chance to exchange ideas, share best practices, and collaborate on initiatives that tackle pressing societal issues across the Balkans.
The 2025 convention will expand its focus to not only address core EDI thematic areas such as the environment, public space, media, decent work, and civic rights, but also to discuss critical emerging topics such as mental health, digital security, and the rise of anti-gender movements.
The common goal of the agenda is to bridge the local needs with regional action, with an emphasis on practical, impactful solutions for democratic engagement and social transformation of our societies. Its aim is for the participants to leave feeling empowered, inspired, and ready to take collaborative action in their countries and respective local communities.
Check the agenda and follow us on social media for more updates on the convention.
