An international event within the EU ECO project (Cooperation and Enhancement of Local Knowledge for Sustainable Places to Live) was held in Križevci, Croatia, from 6 to 8 November 2025. Over the course of the three-day program, more than 200 participants from Croatia, Serbia, Hungary, Slovenia, Greece, Bulgaria, and Italy came together.

The program included workshops, discussions, exchanges of experience, and cultural activities, through which participants presented examples of good practice and initiatives from their local communities. Particular emphasis was placed on the inclusion of marginalized groups, equality, and the fight against discrimination.

The aim of the project was to empower citizens—especially young people—to become more familiar with European Union policies, European values, and opportunities for active participation in democratic processes, with a special focus on ecology, sustainable development, and the objectives of the European Green Deal.

Through the implementation of the project, cooperation among partner organizations and cities from seven European countries was strengthened, and an agreement on the continuation of the partnership was signed. Participants gained new knowledge and tools for critical thinking and active engagement in local and European processes, while civil society organizations received a solid foundation for the development of future joint initiatives.

The project was co-financed by the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA) through the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) Programme, under the Town Twinning sub-programme.

Details on the implementation of activities are available HERE.