FAQs-

The Danube Civil Society Forum

What is the Danube Civil Society Forum (DCSF)?
The Danube Civil Society Forum (DCSF) is a key platform for civil society dialogue and networking in the Danube Region. Operating under the EU Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR), it serves as an interface for structured consultations between civil society organisations and public or private institutions at regional, national, and EU levels. It also engages with international and intergovernmental bodies active in the region.

The DCSF’s mission is to support, connect, and amplify civil society actors across the Danube basin. Its goal is to strengthen participation, cooperation, and visibility of civil initiatives within the EUSDR framework.

What are the main objectives of the Danube Civil Society Forum (DCSF)?
The DCSF aims to support civil society engagement in regional policies, foster networking and partnership among organizations, and advocate for social, environmental, and economic sustainability in the Danube area.

Who can participate in the Danube Civil Society Forum (DCSF)?
Participation is open to NGOs, community groups, academic institutions, and other stakeholders committed to the Danube region's sustainable development and cross-border cooperation.

How can organizations join the Danube Civil Society Forum?
Interested organizations can apply by submitting an expression of interest through the DCSF’s contact channels. Membership criteria and application details are provided on the website.

Does the Danube Civil Society Forum (DCSF) organize events or workshops?
Yes, the DCSF regularly organizes conferences, workshops, webinars, and networking events lie the National and Danube Participation Days aimed at capacity building and policy dialogue.

How does the Danube Civil Society Forum (DCSF) contribute to policy-making?
The DCSF facilitates dialogue between civil society and policymakers, provides policy recommendations, and advocates for inclusive governance within the Danube region.

Where can I find resources and publications from the Danube Civil Society Forum (DCSF)?
All reports, position papers, and other publications are available in the Papers section of the website for download.

Who do I contact for more information?
For inquiries, please reach out via the listed email addresses under the Contact section.

Danube Participation Day

What is Danube Participation Day (DPD)?
Danube Participation Day is an annual event aimed at promoting citizen involvement, dialogue, and collaboration across the Danube region. It serves as a platform for stakeholders from civil society, government, and other sectors to engage on regional development topics.

Who can participate in Danube Participation Day?
Participation is open to civil society organizations, public authorities, private stakeholders, youth groups, and citizens interested in regional cooperation and community development.

What is the EU Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR)?

The EUSDR is one of four EU macro‑regional strategies, aiming to strengthen economic, social, and territorial cohesion across the Danube basin. Its governance is built around 12 Priority Areas ranging from environment to institutional capacity, coordinated via multi‐level governance mechanisms

Which countries are involved in the EU Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR)?
The strategy includes 14 countries located along the Danube River: Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Moldova, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Romania, and Ukraine.

What are the main goals of the EU Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR)?
Its primary goals are to improve connectivity and mobility; support environmental protection and sustainable water management; promote economic development and social inclusion; and encourage cooperation and good governance within the region.

How is the EU Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR) implemented?
Implementation is coordinated through Priority Areas, each focusing on specific thematic objectives. These Priority Areas are managed by coordinators from participating countries, involving stakeholders from governments, civil society, and the private sector.

What role does the European Union play in the Danube strategy?
The EU provides political support, policy coordination, and funding opportunities to facilitate cooperation and joint projects but does not directly implement projects.

Is the EU Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR) legally binding for participating countries?
No, the strategy is a political framework that encourages cooperation; participation and actions are voluntary and based on mutual agreement.

How can civil society participate in the EU Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR)?
Through involvement in local and regional projects, participation in Priority Area working groups, submitting proposals for funding, and attending stakeholder forums and events like the Danube Participation Days.

What funding sources support EU Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR) projects?
Projects can be funded through various EU financial instruments, including the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), Cohesion Fund, Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA), and other national and international funding programs.

Where can I find more information or get involved?
Information can be obtained through national coordinators, Priority Area websites, and events organized by the Danube Strategy Point and partner organizations. Civil society organizations are encouraged to engage directly with national and regional EUSDR networks.

National Participation Days

What are National Participation Days?
National Participation Days are country-specific events aligned with Danube Participation Day, designed to foster civic engagement and dialogue within each nation involved in the Danube region.

How do National Participation Days differ from Danube Participation Day?
While Danube Participation Day is a regional initiative, National Participation Days focus on local and national issues, enabling tailored discussions and activities relevant to each country.

Who organizes National Participation Days?
They are typically organized by civil society organisations, governmental bodies, or local communities with support from the Danube Civil Society Forum and Foster Europe Foundation for strong European Regions.

What is the purpose of National Participation Days?
The aim is to strengthen democratic participation, enhance cooperation among stakeholders, and address country-specific challenges through inclusive dialogue. The NPD thematically includes the EUSDR annual fora and the Danube Participation Day as well.

Can individuals attend National Participation Day events?
Yes, individuals interested in civic participation and community development are encouraged to attend. Events are usually open to the public.

How can I find out about National Participation Day events in my country?
Information is provided by national civil society networks, official websites of local organizers, and through the Danube Civil Society Forum communications.

For further details or to get involved, please contact the Danube Civil Society Forum directly.

If your question is not listed here, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us directly.