The Lumina Commune City Hall, with the support of Novapolis Association – Center for Analysis and Initiatives for Development, successfully organized the Local Event “Empowering Communities”, held on 26, 29 and 30 June 2026 at the Summer Club on Morii Street no. 79, within the European project ENgage, COnnect and emPower citizens living in the border towns of Europe – EN.CO.P, number 101249545, CERV-2025-CITIZENS-TOWN-NT call.
During three days, more than 60 participants – public officials, decision-makers, representatives of civil society organizations (CSOs), women, activists, minority community members, and refugees – took part in training sessions, practical workshops, and community mobilization activities dedicated to strengthening local capacities and promoting European values and policies related to local governance, gender equality, nondiscrimination, cultural diversity, and civic participation.
The first day of the “Empowering Communities” event was dedicated to strengthening the capacities of local authorities. More than 20 public officials and community representatives worked hands-on with key European Union policies, analyzed the specific needs of Lumina community, and identified strategic directions for integrating European principles into local governance. The workshop generated concrete proposals for developing inclusive measures, actions, directions, and administrative tools tailored to the real challenges faced by the community.
The second day brought together representatives of civil society organizations, women, activists, minority community members, and refugees in a learning environment and open dialogue. The working sessions focused on the role of local communities in promoting fundamental rights and civic participation, while the working groups identified urgent needs and community priorities. Participants formulated practical solutions for active involvement in the public life of Lumina commune and outlined collaboration opportunities between CSOs and authorities that could strengthen community voices and increase the capacity of local actors to influence public processes.
The final day reunited local authorities and civil society in a collaborative workshop dedicated to building a multi‑actor working group for Lumina commune. Participants worked on the project’s priority themes, developed ideas for local initiatives, and explored European and national funding opportunities that could support their implementation. The session dedicated to disseminating conclusions highlighted the shared commitment to continuing the community mobilization process and transforming ideas into concrete actions and projects. This day strengthened cooperation between institutions and the community, creating the foundation for sustainable and coordinated local engagement.
The event contributed to strengthening dialogue between institutions and the community, increasing civic engagement, and developing essential skills for local actors who wish to generate change and build a more inclusive and resilient community.
For additional information, please contact: Alexe Narcisa – 0766.304.610 Bogdan Chirea – 0766.899.369.
