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Description
The aim of the project is to promote closer cooperation between Latvia and Norway, peer-to-peer learning among Conversation festival LAMPA and Arendalsuka, municipalities of Cesis and Arendal and to expand and deepen understanding in Latvia and Norway about current issues at European, national, municipal and festivals’ levels. In an increasingly divided and polarised world, democracy festivals such as Conversation festival LAMPA and Arendalsuka have become outstanding platforms for discussing matters of societal concern about the respective countries, Europe and the world in face-to-face
Summary of the results
This collaborative endeavor served as a dynamic learning process. As a result, Foundation DOTS capacity and skill to articulate purpose and methodology have been significantly strengthened. Bilateral relationships have flourished, facilitating smoother communication, effective problem-solving, and the exchange of advice among like-minded individuals and festival organizers. More than 40,000 visitors attended Arendalsuka and LAMPA events as well as seventeen festival organizers enhanced and developed their competences through bilateral meetings.
A novel relationship was established between the management of Cēsis Municipality and Arendal Municipality. The exchange of experiences extended beyond festival management, encompassing collaboration with NGOs, community engagement, and strategies for attracting financial investment, labor, and residents to our respective municipalities. Given that Cēsis positions itself as a “green” municipality, valuable discussions centered around environmental protection while simultaneously attracting new industries and businesses.
Also three discussions were convened: Influencing the Future of Democracy: An exploration of strategies to shape the trajectory of democratic governance; Ukraine and Its Struggle for Democracy and Freedom: A nuanced examination of Ukraine’s courageous pursuit of democratic ideals and its implications; Democracy and Its Adversaries: A thoughtful discourse on safeguarding democracy against formidable challenges.