More information
Description
EMERGE puts forward a comprehensive framework to inspire and foster citizen participation in civic activities and build up the capacity and sustainability of the Civil Society in Cyprus. Specifically, the project aims to: Elevate citizens’ understanding of social and political issues and processes mobilizing them to engage in civic and public affairs, build the capacity of civil society organizations and practitioners empowering them to achieve long-term sustainability to effectively engage citizens and stakeholders, encourage and advance collaborations-synergies between CSOs and help expand their network of supporters and stakeholders, raise awareness on the importance of active citizenship and the role and contribution of the Civil Society
To that end, EMERGE will engage the following target groups: Youth aged 16-30 (GCs, TCs and Migrants), Civil society organisations, Civil Society Practitioners, Academics, Residents/Citizens
The project will work based on a structured plan that entails the development of a full suite of catered learning resources and undertaking targeted actions. Said actions will focus on building up the conception, knowledge and skills of citizens and civil society practitioners to participate effectively and influence public affairs. Additionally, it will offer opportunities for its target audiences to become actively involved in participatory processes as well to facilitate the exchange of experiences and networking.
Through the workings of the project, the following activities and resources will be delivered: An online Citizen Empowerment Course with Gamified features, a Strategic Planning and Management Course and an Online Toolkit for CSOs, training Workshops for Citizens, public Consultations between policymakers – stakeholders and citizens, informational and Awareness-Raising Campaigns, capacity Building Workshops for CSO practitioners, informational, Networking and Experience sharing events across the island, webinars
Summary of project results
The EMERGE project, initiated in July 2022 and concluding in March 2024, aimed to enhance civic participation and active citizenship in Cyprus. Addressing challenges such as the general lack of awareness about civic roles, the project aimed to empower individuals and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) through various educational resources and awareness activities. From its outset, the project showcased exemplary commitment to its goals, successfully rolling out an array of initiatives designed to bolster civic engagement. These initiatives ranged from the development of a Toolkit for CSOs, the execution of the Citizen Empowerment Course and Capacity Building Training, to conducting workshops, awareness campaigns, and public consultations. The project''s adherence to its planned timeline, despite potential external challenges, underscores a well-coordinated effort among stakeholders, demonstrating effective project management and execution.
The project''s actual implementation is closely aligned with the objectives and activities outlined in the Project Contract Annexes. Notable deviations, primarily adjustments to timelines and methodologies, were effectively managed through adaptive strategies. A key lesson learned was the importance of flexibility in project management, especially in adapting to unforeseen circumstances without compromising on the project''s core objectives. This adaptability was critical in maintaining momentum and ensuring the project''s successful delivery. Risks identified during the project lifecycle included potential engagement challenges and the adaptability of project deliverables to meet the diverse needs of the target audience. Mitigation strategies involved leveraging digital platforms for broader outreach, customizing content for varying audience needs, and fostering partnerships with local entities to enhance engagement. These measures ensured that project activities remained impactful and inclusive.
The EMERGE project implemented a series of impactful activities to foster civic engagement and strengthen collaboration between citizens and civil society organizations (CSOs). A key initiative was the organization of four public consultations, engaging 83 participants in discussions on peace education, gender and education, active citizen participation, and environmental issues. These sessions featured expert speakers, including representatives from the government and academia, providing valuable insights on pressing societal matters.
The project also held a two-day final conference, which gathered 81 participants to explore participatory policymaking, youth leadership, challenges and opportunities for CSOs, and the impact of misinformation. The event was supported by 11 speakers, four facilitators, and 10 organizations, contributing to a rich and engaging dialogue. Additionally, EMERGE collaborated with Pints of Politics to produce four one-hour-long videos on topics such as gender equality, challenges in education, and human rights. A final video, filmed during the conference, featured citizens and CSO representatives discussing the evolving landscape of civic participation in Cyprus.
To further enhance knowledge and skills, the project organized 11 workshops, attended by 75 citizens and 71 CSO practitioners. These workshops covered essential topics, including democratic ideals, human rights, financial literacy, strategic planning, and project management, and received a high satisfaction rating of 4.55 out of 5. Moreover, six webinars attracted 172 participants, delving into themes such as inclusive democracy, budgeting, think tanks in democracy, LGBTQ+ rights, peacebuilding in Cyprus, and environmental rights.
Expanding its outreach, EMERGE conducted 11 outreach events with 151 participants and 43 organizations, discussing themes like social entrepreneurship, active citizenship, digital activism, and the role of CSOs in democratic processes. To ensure sustained impact, the project developed two e-learning courses available in English, Greek, and Turkish. These courses, focusing on CSO capacity building and citizen empowerment, were accessed by 441 individuals, with 109 users registering on the platform, including 93 CSO professionals and 16 citizens.
Additionally, EMERGE developed face-to-face training materials, providing 40 hours of additional learning opportunities. The modules covered various topics, including democratic ideals, financial literacy, CSO fundamentals, strategic planning, and project management. These efforts aimed to build long-term capacity among both citizens and CSOs, ensuring the project''s impact extended beyond its duration. Through these diverse and well-structured activities, the EMERGE project successfully strengthened civic participation, empowered citizens, and reinforced the role of CSOs in democratic engagement.
The EMERGE project aimed to boost civic engagement and active citizenship in Cyprus and successfully met significant goals that align with the EEA & Norway Grants'' mission. Through a variety of strategic efforts, including capacity-building courses, workshops, awareness campaigns, and public consultations, the project effectively empowered individuals and the broader civil society. This created a supportive environment for active and knowledgeable participation.
One of the standout initiatives was the Citizen Empowerment Course, which reached 759 individuals across different communities, far surpassing the initial target of 400 participants. This achievement notably contributed to the goal of increasing civic participation among the youth, fitting perfectly with the program''s aim to promote inclusive community involvement. Additionally, the Capacity Building for Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) initiative exceeded expectations by training 71 CSO practitioners, 20% more than anticipated. This effort boosted the operational effectiveness and impact of these organizations, supporting the goal of strengthening the civil society sector and enhancing economic and social resilience.
The project''s awareness campaigns made an impressive impact as well, engaging 210,286 people through digital channels—more than double the original goal of 100,000. This wide-reaching effort encouraged active citizenship and informed public debates, furthering the EEA & Norway Grants'' mission to motivate civic participation for the good of society. The project''s success in surpassing engagement and digital outreach targets can be largely attributed to its adaptive strategies, such as shifting to online platforms due to COVID-19, which broadened its reach and accessibility. However, the project faced challenges in achieving the desired levels of in-person participation for public consultations, highlighting the importance of having flexible engagement strategies to adapt to unexpected situations.
The EMERGE project has made a significant contribution towards the EEA & Norway Grants'' overarching aim of reducing social and economic disparities and strengthening bilateral relations. By empowering young people and CSOs, the project has laid the foundations for a more equitable society. Its focus on inclusive participation and promoting dialogue among various community groups supports the reduction of social disparities and bolsters both bilateral and community relations.
In conclusion, the successful implementation and outcomes of the EMERGE project have not only fulfilled its specific goals but have also made a substantial contribution to the broader objectives of the EEA & Norway Grants. This underscores the powerful impact of civic engagement initiatives in advancing social and economic welfare and fostering harmony across communities.