The sixth event of the project “30 Years of Maastricht: Reflections on the Past, Present, and Future of Europe” was held in Gavoi, Sardinia (Italy), from March 12 to 15, 2025. This gathering brought together delegates from eight European countries, with the participation of more than 70 people, including both European and local attendees. The main objective was to foster discussions on the theme “Connected Citizens, Active Citizens,” focusing on the use of digital tools to enhance European rights and civic engagement. Specific goals included promoting digital literacy, facilitating the exchange of experiences related to European programs, and documenting participants’ impressions for the project’s e-book.
Representatives from eight European countries—Lithuania, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Malta, Bulgaria, Italy, and France—participated, including local politicians, students, educators, youth leaders, members of rural associations, and civic organizations. Some of the participating delegations were the Municipality of Moletai (Lithuania), Asociación Tiraboleiros (Spain), União das Freguesias de Foz do Sousa e Covelo (Portugal), Dimos Pileias Hortiatis (Greece), Local Council Tas Sliema (Malta), Obstina Mezdra (Bulgaria), Tumbarinos di Gavoi (Italy), Comune di Gallodoro (Italy), and Association La Didine (France).
The event was designed to be highly participatory, combining workshops, round tables, and conferences, as outlined in the official program of activities:
Wednesday 12 March:
- Arrival of the delegations at Cagliari Airport and transfer to Gavoi
- Check-in at the hotel
- Welcome dinner and presentation of participants
Thursday 13 March:
- Official reception at the Town Hall of Gavoi by Mayor Prof. Salvatore Lai and Vice Mayor of Moletai, Vaida Saugüniene
- Coffee talk: “Exploring Digital Tools to Better Understand European Rights and Duties” – Presentations by the delegations
- Visit to Orgosolo and the Museum of Masks
Friday 14 March:
- Workshop at Istituto Carmelo Floris: “How Digital Tools Can Improve Your Participation in EU Initiatives” – led by young participants
- Visit to Fiore Sardo Museum and the Ethnographic Museum of Sardinian Culture
- Evaluation of the program and dinner
Saturday 15 March:
- Breakfast and check-out
- Departure of delegations from Cagliari Airport
Key Results and Evaluation:
The event effectively combined educational, civic, and cultural activities to explore how digital tools can foster European citizenship and civic participation. Participants engaged in dynamic workshops and seminars focused on digital literacy and European rights, including practical sessions on the use of digital tools for civic engagement and interactive discussions with local politicians, students, and civic leaders. Site visits, including those to cultural institutions like the Museum of Masks and Fiore Sardo Museum, facilitated deeper cultural exchange and strengthened ties among participants. The Coffee Talk session provided a platform for each delegation to share experiences on digital literacy initiatives, while the workshop at Istituto Carmelo Floris highlighted practical approaches to youth digital engagement. Evaluation forms indicated high satisfaction with the event’s organization, content, and hospitality. Dissemination efforts through social media, local press, and participant testimonials enhanced the project’s visibility, with collected materials contributing to the upcoming e-book.
Event VI in Gavoi underscored the relevance of digital literacy as a tool for empowering citizens and enhancing European rights, particularly in rural and semi-rural areas. By fostering open dialogue, hands-on workshops, and cultural exchange, the event strengthened the project’s objective of connecting citizens across Europe through shared learning experiences. With the next event planned for Fort-de-France, Martinique, the project will continue to emphasize the role of European citizenship in promoting inclusion and digital empowerment across diverse European territories.
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For more details on the activities carried out and the results of the initiative, click here.