Local Voices, European Future - The Crucial Role of Communities in Shaping EU Policy and Driving Enlargement
12th Danube Participation Day
On 4 November 2025, Sarajevo became a meeting point for European civil society, policymakers, and local communities. The capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina hosted the 12th Danube Participation Day, an event that brought together representatives from governments, civil society organisations, EU institutions, and other stakeholders from across the Danube region. This year’s theme, “Local voices, European future – The key role of communities in EU policy-making and the enlargement process,” framed a full day of exchange, learning, and dialogue.
The 12th Danube Participation Day was organised by Priority Area 10 of the EU Strategy for the Danube Region, Foster Europe Foundation and the Danube Civil Society Forum, in cooperation with the Local Democracy Agency Mostar and with the support and coordination of the EUSDR Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Directorate for European Integration.
Conference Highlights
The conference offered a rich and diverse programme, including high-level panel discussions with experts and politicians addressing key challenges and opportunities for the region. Participants also engaged in three World Café sessions, which provided space for in-depth dialogue, peer learning, and exchange of good practices among civil society organisations, municipalities, and youth representatives.
World Café Sessions
1. Civil Society – “Capacity to Connect: Strengthening Civil Society for Policy Translation and Transformation”
This session explored what capacities and resources civil society organisations (CSOs) need to effectively contribute to EU-related policy reforms and regional development. Discussions highlighted the importance of stable funding structures, long-term collaboration frameworks, improved policy literacy, and stronger cross-border networks that can amplify local voices at European level.
2. Municipalities – “From Local Action to European Impact: Strengthening Municipal Capacity for Enlargement”
This World Café focused on the essential role of municipalities as local implementers of European policies and values. Participants discussed how local governments can create spaces for community engagement and encourage participatory practices. The dialogue underscored the need for more accessible funding schemes, technical assistance, and structured cooperation channels between municipalities and national institutions.
3. Youth – “Generation Participation: Youth in Action for a Stronger Europe”
The youth session gathered young participants and youth organisations to discuss how to foster a culture of participation and strengthen the role of young people in shaping local and regional policies. Participants stressed the importance of youth-led initiatives, cross-cultural experiences, accessible participation formats, and sustained investment in youth structures.
An Engaged and Vibrant Setting
Throughout the day, the Danube Day Agora provided space for presenting ongoing projects and initiatives, showcasing innovative approaches from across the region. Networking played a central role, opening opportunities for new partnerships and enhanced cooperation among local and international actors.
The event demonstrated clearly that European integration begins at the local level—through trust-building, shared ideas, community-led initiatives, and collaboration among stakeholders.
The 12th Danube Participation Day created an active, vibrant, and creative environment highlighting the significance of civil society engagement and strong local communities for the future of Europe.
