The status of a candidate country expands the possibilities of cooperation between Ukraine and the European Union. Strengthening civil society’s voice is important for effectively advocating Ukrainian interests abroad. Civil society organisations that work in communities are as close as possible to understanding local challenges and have expertise on the situation on the ground. Germany is one of the key partners of Ukraine in the EU and makes an important contribution to the support of Ukraine not only at the state level but also at the level of civil society cooperation of both countries. The potential of this cooperation is currently not fully utilized, especially at the level of local and regional organisations.

About the visit

Cedos and the Institute for European Politics (Institut für Europäische Politik, IEP, Berlin) announce a call for participation in a study visit for representatives of civil society organisations. The trip will take place on July 15-19, 2024 and will be dedicated to the exchange of experience between Ukrainian and German NGOs, as well as cooperation between authorities and civil society.

The study visit is a part of the “UA Transformation Lab”, a joined project by the Institut für Europäische Politik (IEP), Cedos, Ilko Kucheriv Democratic Initiatives Foundation (DIF) and New Europe Center (NEC). It is kindly supported by the German Federal Foreign Office. The project aims to strengthen Ukrainian think tanks and civil society organisations, deepen their cooperation with local authorities, and provide the necessary tools to effectively support recovery and European integration processes.

What will happen during the visit?

Participants will have a program of meetings, communication and acquaintance with representatives of German public organisations, think tanks, and politicians. The program of the visit includes the exchange of experience and discussions with German colleagues on the following topics:

  • How German think tanks and civil society organisations work, and what Ukrainian NGOs can borrow from them for their work?
  • What are the difficulties of intercultural communication and how to overcome them?
  • How is the cooperation between the public sector and the authorities organised, and how can it be developed?

What are the conditions of the competition?

8 participants will be selected. Applications are accepted from representatives of civil society organisations. We invite applications from people and organisations that do not have much experience in international advocacy and cooperation. In the selection process, preference will be given to local organisations engaged in research, analysis and advocacy. Such criteria as motivation and validity of the application, previous experience and plans for further work will be considered during selection.

The working language of the visit is English.

Travel and accommodation expenses are fully covered by the organisers.

How to participate?

To apply, please fill out the form in English: https://forms.gle/AybVxvi1LsRRYL4y7 

Deadline

The deadline for applications has been extended to 17 June 2024, 23:59.

Incomplete applications will not be considered. Selection results will be announced by June 28, 2024. The trip will take place on July 15-19.

How to ask questions?

For questions about the application and selection processes or the project in general, please send an email with the subject “Questions” to regrant@cedos.org.ua.