Nicosia, Cyprus. The Euro-Mediterranean CSO Conference 2026 will take place at the University of Nicosia on April 23-24, bringing together civil society organisations, European Union bodies, academics, international organisations and young people.
Forum focus and objectives
The conference is positioned as a significant international forum, aiming to strengthen participation and the role of civil society in addressing complex social, economic and geopolitical challenges across the Mediterranean and Europe. With a shared focus on dialogue and cooperation, the event will serve as a platform for exchange of best practices, promoting collective action towards a more just, sustainable and inclusive society.
Keynote address by Dubravka Šuica
European Commissioner for the Mediterranean Dubravka Šuica will deliver the keynote address, focusing on the importance of strategic cooperation, innovation and development policies in the region. Šuica has served as mayor of Dubrovnik, member of the European Parliament and vice-president of the European Commission responsible for democracy and demography.
Policy initiatives and regional cooperation
Šuica’s portfolio includes the development of the New Pact for the Mediterranean and the Trans-Mediterranean Initiative for Energy and Clean Technologies, initiatives aimed at advancing sustainable solutions, strengthening cooperation between states and enhancing social participation across the region.
Programme themes and discussion areas
The conference will provide participants with the opportunity to examine issues affecting the Mediterranean, including the empowerment of civic space, social inclusion, digital transition and geopolitical developments. Discussions will address the need to strengthen civic space and counter the shrinking democratic environment, with the goal of ensuring meaningful and creative citizen participation.
SDGs, migration and inclusion
The role of civil society in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) will be explored, with emphasis on contributions to social justice, environmental sustainability and economic cohesion. Migration, skills development and social inclusion will form another key theme, focusing on inclusive policies that create opportunities for all.
What issue affecting civic space or social inclusion do you think should be prioritised at the conference?