The IV event of the project "30 Years of Maastricht: Reflections on the Past, Present, and Future of Europe" was held in Sliema, Malta, from December 15 to 18, 2024.
This significant event brought together 15 delegates representing eight diverse European countries—Lithuania, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Malta, Bulgaria, Italy, and France. Additionally, it actively engaged more than 55 local participants, who included a dynamic range of stakeholders such as representatives from youth bands, vocational educational institutions, youth leaders, politicians, and members of various civic organizations. The extensive participation underscored the event’s objective to foster broad and meaningful community engagement around the central theme: "How Can We Promote Citizen Participation?"
The event commenced with an impactful opening ceremony that set an inspiring tone for the days ahead. Among the key speakers were the Mayor of Sliema, John Pillow, Mayor Saulius Jauneika from Moletai, and Anthony Chircop, President of the Eastern Region of Malta. Their opening addresses not only welcomed international and local participants warmly but also emphasized the importance of ongoing European collaboration. This session was strategically held at the Band Club of Sliema, a culturally significant venue, drawing substantial attention from local media and representatives from civil society, thereby significantly amplifying the event’s visibility and public engagement from the outset.
A cornerstone of the event was an engaging and thought-provoking debate featuring prominent European politicians and experts on the subject of citizen participation. Gabriella Attardi Previ, a distinguished National Deputy of the Maltese Parliament, offered compelling insights into Malta's progressive approaches, notably its pioneering decision to lower the voting age to sixteen. Her detailed discussion highlighted effective local strategies to foster active citizenship among young people and outlined Malta’s successful practices in civic engagement, providing valuable lessons for other European communities. This debate facilitated a robust exchange of ideas and best practices, prompting participants from various countries to consider adaptable models suitable for their own local contexts.
Complementing these discussions, the event included highly interactive workshops designed to encourage practical and collaborative exchanges among participants. These workshops examined diverse strategies to enhance voter turnout, increase citizen access to information, and empower communities through participatory approaches.
The cultural and educational dimension of the event was equally significant, offering participants unique opportunities to experience Malta’s rich heritage and vibrant educational landscape. Delegates visited prominent vocational schools, engaging directly with students and educators to gain insights into Malta's educational approaches and its alignment with the objectives of active citizenship and vocational empowerment. These interactions provided valuable perspectives on how educational institutions can be pivotal in nurturing informed, skilled, and active citizens who contribute meaningfully to democratic processes and societal development.
An essential component of the cultural experience was the visit to the Maltese Parliament, an activity that underscored Malta’s legislative processes and democratic governance practices. Participants had the privilege of touring parliamentary facilities, engaging in dialogues about the workings of Malta’s political system, and gaining a deeper understanding of the legislative processes that underpin active citizenship and democratic accountability. Such experiences were particularly impactful for participants from countries with different governance structures, providing them comparative insights into varied democratic practices across Europe.
Another memorable highlight was the guided tour through Valletta’s UNESCO World Heritage-designated old town. Participants explored key historical landmarks, such as the majestic Co-cathedral, experiencing firsthand Malta’s historical depth and its integral role within the broader European narrative. This cultural immersion enriched their understanding of Maltese history and fostered greater appreciation for European diversity and common heritage.
Throughout the event, networking opportunities were strategically integrated into the agenda, allowing participants from various professional and cultural backgrounds to connect meaningfully. Structured networking sessions provided dedicated spaces and time for participants to discuss collaborative projects, share experiences, and build sustainable partnerships. These exchanges not only enhanced professional relationships but also strengthened personal ties among European citizens, reinforcing the event’s core aim of fostering European unity and cooperation.
Dissemination activities played a critical role in amplifying the event’s impact beyond the immediate participants. Effective strategies were employed to ensure extensive media coverage and public awareness. Press releases were disseminated widely across local and international channels, while participants actively participated in radio interviews that reached diverse audiences. The event also leveraged social media platforms to share live updates, photos, and key highlights, ensuring ongoing engagement and visibility among younger audiences in particular. These dissemination efforts significantly enhanced the event’s visibility, reaching thousands of European citizens and fostering broader dialogue on citizen participation and European integration.
Evaluations conducted anonymously among participants revealed overwhelmingly positive feedback, reflecting high levels of satisfaction with various aspects of the event. Attendees commended the meticulous planning and smooth logistics, noting particular appreciation for the comfortable accommodation, quality of cultural experiences, and the engaging format of workshops and discussions.
Recommendations included suggestions for increased flexibility in schedules, allowing for additional informal interactions and more exploration time, thus acknowledging the importance of balancing structured activities with opportunities for personal discovery.
Key outcomes from the event included numerous actionable ideas focused on fostering greater youth engagement, adopting participatory budgeting at local levels, establishing inclusive platforms for community dialogue, and implementing robust civic education campaigns. Participants also underscored the importance of continuous engagement and collaboration, proposing follow-up activities to maintain the momentum generated by the event.
The Maltese event successfully underscored the enduring impact and relevance of the Maastricht Treaty, particularly in promoting active citizen participation and European cooperation. The thoughtfully designed and effectively executed event not only celebrated significant historical achievements but also outlined clear and practical strategies for addressing contemporary and future challenges related to European integration. By fostering a collaborative, participatory, and culturally immersive experience, the event reaffirmed the value of unity, active citizenship, and shared responsibility in shaping Europe’s collective future.
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