BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//Assembly of European Regions - ECPv6.1.3//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://aer.eu
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Assembly of European Regions
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:Europe/Brussels
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+0100
TZOFFSETTO:+0200
TZNAME:CEST
DTSTART:20230326T010000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0200
TZOFFSETTO:+0100
TZNAME:CET
DTSTART:20231029T010000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+0100
TZOFFSETTO:+0200
TZNAME:CEST
DTSTART:20240331T010000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0200
TZOFFSETTO:+0100
TZNAME:CET
DTSTART:20241027T010000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+0100
TZOFFSETTO:+0200
TZNAME:CEST
DTSTART:20250330T010000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0200
TZOFFSETTO:+0100
TZNAME:CET
DTSTART:20251026T010000
END:STANDARD
TZID:Europe/Dublin
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+0000
TZOFFSETTO:+0100
TZNAME:IST
DTSTART:20240331T010000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0100
TZOFFSETTO:+0000
TZNAME:GMT
DTSTART:20241027T010000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251209
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251211
DTSTAMP:20260407T043008
CREATED:20250626T151518Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T202100Z
UID:50817-1765238400-1765411199@aer.eu
SUMMARY:AER Autumn Events | 9-10 December 2025\, Brussels
DESCRIPTION:AER Celebrates 40 Years: Join Us for the 2025 Autumn Events!\nAs the Assembly of European Regions (AER) marks its 40th Anniversary\, we invite you to a series of forward-looking discussions shaping the future of territorial cohesion across Europe. From key developments in the MFF negotiations to ensuring accessible public services\, this year’s Autumn events offer spaces for dialogue\, exchange\, and action to strengthen the place-based approach at the heart of regional cooperation. \nDeadline for registrations: 24 November 2025 (COB) \n \n\nProgramme Overview\n(click here for the downloadable version) \n📅 Tuesday\, 9 December 2025\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n 10:00 – 11:30 Meeting of the AER Working Group on Mental Health\nThis meeting marks the culmination of two years of work dedicated to exploring and sharing regional best practices in mental health. It will be an opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the Working Group’s achievements\, and to discuss how to advance the work done. The discussion will be enriched by inputs from: \n\nNorbert Nagy\, President of the Youth Regional Network\nMichele Calabrò\, Director\, and Marco Di Donato\, Policy and Projects Officer\, from the network of European Regional and Local Health Authorities (EUREGHA)\n\n\n 📍Region Värmland   European Office (Rue du Luxembourg 3\, 1000)\n🔒 Only AER members\n\n\n\n\n\n\n14:00 – 15:30 First Plenary of the AER Intercultural Regional Network\nThe first IRN Plenary aims to strengthen the foundations of the IRN as a dynamic and inclusive network of regional authorities committed to intercultural inclusion and equality. The meeting will include the approval of the terms of reference and the 2026 Work plan.\n 📍AER Officces\, (Rue d’Arlon 63-67\, 1040)\n🌍 Open to the public\n\n\n\n\n15:45 – 17:30 Which Governance for the AER of the Future?\nThis in-person discussion aims to enable a thorough assessment of the effectiveness\, agility\, and impact of the current AER governance structures.\n 📍AER Offices\, (Rue d’Arlon 63-67\, 1040)\n🔒 Only AER members\n\n\n\n\n 18:00 – 19:30 AER 40th Anniversary Debate: The Future of Interregional Cooperation\nThis debate is a continuation of the principles and achievements established over 40 years of working for advancing regional democracy and interregional cooperation. It will bring together regional leaders from across Europe to discuss how regions can enhance democracy\, promote collaboration\, drive innovation\, and tackle shared challenges\, followed by the 40th Anniversary Reception offered by Lower Austria. \nConfirmed speakers: \n\nLukas Mandl\, AER President and Member of the European Parliament\nMarc Cools\, President of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe\nPavel Branda (ECR/CZ)\, Chair of the Cross-border Interregional group in the European Committee of the Regions\nAida Karimli\, AER Vice President\, Deputy Regional Councillor in Västra Götaland\, Sweden\, Vice Chair of the Environment and Regional Development Committee\n\n\n📍Lower Austrian European Liaison Office\, (Rue Montoyer 40\, 1000) \n\nRead the concept note \n\n\n🎉 Open event + Reception\n\n\n\n\n\n\n📅 Wednesday\, 10 December 2025 — Autumn Bureau Meeting & Ukraine Focus Group Meeting\n📍 Zweig Visitor Centre\, European Parliament (Ardenne-Belliard\, Rue d’Ardenne\, 1000 Bruxelles)🪪 Security Check at the Zweig Visitor Centre \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAgenda\n\n\n📝 Working documents\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n8:20 Security Check at the Zweig Visitor Centre\n\n\n\n\n\n\n9:00 Welcome & Introductions\n\n\n\nWorking Document 0. Agenda\n\n\n\n\n\n\n9:10 Bureau Updates – Institutional Relations & Advocacy \n\n\n\nWorking Document I. Bureau Updates\n\n\n\n\n\n\n9:20 Dialogue on Cohesion Policy & MFF with Members of the European  Parliament  & Adoption Position Paper on Cohesion Policy post-2027\nThe meeting will focus on the future of Cohesion Policy post-2027 and the priorities of regions for the next EU Multiannual Financial Framework. (Read more here)\n\n\nWorking Document II.  Position Paper\nWorking Document II.B Concept Note debate\n\n\n\n\n\n\n10:20 Identification of Bureau Priority Topics \n\n\n\nWorking Document III. Bureau Priorities\n\n\n\n\n\n\n10:30 ☕ Coffee Break\n\n\n\n\n\n\n11:00 Bureau Debate – “No Services\, No Stay: Turning Access Into a Right”\nThe Bureau debate on “No Services\, No Stay: Turning Access into a Right“\, will discuss how access to services is key to retaining talent\, boosting prosperity and enhancing the competitiveness of European regions. \nConfirmed speakers: \n\nGerry Murray\, Councillor\, Mayo (Ireland)\nDaniel Schützer\, Regional Councillor\, Värmland (Sweden)\nRobert Matić\, Vice-President\, Primorje-Gorski Kotar (Croatia)\nMarc Bournisien De Valmont\, Policy analyst at the Regional Development and Multi-level Governance Division of the Centre for Entrepreneurship\, SMEs\, and Regions & Cities (OECD)\nKadri Uustal\, Head of Unit Cities\, Communities\, People\, DG REGIO\, European Commission\n\n\n\n\nWorking Document IV. Concept Note debate\n\n\n\n\n\n\n12:30 Closing Remarks\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFree time \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUkraine Focus Group Meeting\n16:00\nGrand Est Representation Office (Rue du Luxembourg\, 15 B-1000 Bruxelles) \n*only for AER members\n\n\n\n\n\n\n 
URL:https://aer.eu/events/autumn-bureau-meeting/
LOCATION:Brussels\, Belgium
CATEGORIES:AER Bureau plenaries,AER Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aer.eu/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/AER-Autumn-Bureau-2025-1600-x-400-px-2-jpg.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20251020T093000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20251020T110000
DTSTAMP:20260407T043008
CREATED:20251009T180604Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251013T081635Z
UID:51265-1760952600-1760958000@aer.eu
SUMMARY:REGIONAL TALKS | Caring Communities -  Strengthening Families and Futures
DESCRIPTION:When violence strikes\, children are the first to suffer. Based in Odesa\, the Ukrainian Medical Centre for Rehabilitation of Mother and Child has a mission to restore and nurture the mental health of children\, young parents\, and families. \nThis online REGIONAL TALK session\, organised by the AER Working Group on Mental Health\, will explore how the Centre implements advanced international practices to provide free\, high-quality psychological\, mental health\, and rehabilitation services aimed at developing adaptive skills\, enhancing resilience\, and restoring mental and physical well-being. \n \n 
URL:https://aer.eu/events/regional-talks-caring-communities-strengthening-families-and-futures/
LOCATION:Catalonia
CATEGORIES:AER Working Groups,Ukraine
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aer.eu/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Study-Visits-WG-Mental-Health-2025-event-jpg.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20251014T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20251014T120000
DTSTAMP:20260407T043008
CREATED:20250708T161847Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250904T140913Z
UID:50880-1760437800-1760443200@aer.eu
SUMMARY:REGIONAL TALKS: Breakfast Briefing on Cohesion Policy post-2027 | 14 October 2025
DESCRIPTION:Cohesion Policy is one of the European Union’s most important tools to promote economic\, social\, and territorial cohesion\, supporting regional development and addressing disparities across Europe.The upcoming negotiations on the Multi-Annual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028-2034 will shape the future and effectiveness of Cohesion Policy post-2027.  \nThe Breakfast Briefing of the AER Task Force on Cohesion Policy has the goal to foster dialogue among regions\, EU institutions\, and stakeholders to assess the implementation of the current programming period and shape a robust\, inclusive\, and forward-looking Cohesion Policy for the post-2027 era. \nThe Breakfast Briefing will take place on 14 October 2025\, at the Renewable Energy House (Rue d’Arlon 63\, 1040 Bruxelles). Registrations will open soon. \nThe Breakfast Briefing will be the first AER Regional Talk of 2025\, a Brussels-based event series animated by the goal of fostering dialogue on key issues impacting regional communities and territories.  \nREGISTRATIONS OPEN NOW! \n \n 
URL:https://aer.eu/events/regional-talks-breakfast-briefing-on-cohesion-policy-post-2027-14-october-2025/
LOCATION:AER Brussels Office\, Rue d'Arlon 63\, Brussels\, 1040\, Belgium
CATEGORIES:AER Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aer.eu/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/TF-Cohesion-Policy-visual_october-2025-jpg.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251001
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251004
DTSTAMP:20260407T043008
CREATED:20250702T125201Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250908T080603Z
UID:50858-1759276800-1759535999@aer.eu
SUMMARY:Eurodyssey Forum & 40th Anniversary | Barcelona\, Catalonia | 1-3 October 2025
DESCRIPTION:Celebrating 40 Years of Youth Mobility\nJoin us in Barcelona\, Catalonia from 1 to 3 October 2025 for a very special edition of the Eurodyssey Forum as we celebrate the 40th anniversary of Europe’s longest-running regional youth mobility programme! \nA Milestone Celebration \nSince 1985\, Eurodyssey has empowered thousands of young people through meaningful international traineeship experiences across Europe. This year\, we’re coming together to mark four decades of impact\, connection\, and transformation – with an eye on the future of youth mobility. \n \nThe three-day Forum will offer a dynamic mix of: \n\nPanel discussion\nInteractive workshops\nCultural visits to discover the heart of Catalonia\nAnniversary celebration highlighting the programme’s legacy and success stories\nAs part of the ETI Labs project\, the Forum will host a dedicated focus group session on young graduate traineeship tracks\n\n  \nParticipants\nThe event is open to representatives of Eurodyssey member regions\, current and former trainees\, regional and youth mobility policy-makers\, ETI Labs project partners\, and all those committed to supporting and advancing youth mobility in Europe. \nRegistration are now closed* \n* Registrations closed on 7 September. Please contact Jeanne Demonque (j.demonque@aer.eu) for any questions. \n\nDon’t miss this unique occasion to connect\, reflect\, and shape the next chapter of Eurodyssey.
URL:https://aer.eu/events/eurodyssey-forum-2025/
LOCATION:Barcelona\, Barcelona\, 08034\, Spain
CATEGORIES:AER Eurodyssey Forums,AER Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aer.eu/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/EY-Forum-and-40th-Anniversary-3-scaled.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20250507T090000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20250507T110000
DTSTAMP:20260407T043008
CREATED:20250331T122925Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250505T124648Z
UID:50332-1746608400-1746615600@aer.eu
SUMMARY:Online Study Visit | Humanizing Psychiatric care – Seeing the Person\, Not the Illness
DESCRIPTION:On May 7\, 2025\, from 09:00 to 11:00\, the AER Working Group on Mental Health is glad to invite you to an online study visit to Adult Psychiatry Department in Karlstad\, Värmland Region\, Sweden\, or ‘the healing house‘. \nAbout the ‘Healing House’\nThe name of ‘healing house’ reflects Region Värmland’s approach to psychiatric care. Its professionals are committed to continuous training for treatment and safety\, to make sure to always see the person behind the illness\, not just the illness itself. As a result\, the adult psychiatric care in Värmlands is one of the psychiatric wards with the lowest number of coercive measures on patients. In terms of services to the public\, the ward consists of psychiatric outpatient clinics and psychiatric inpatient care. The inpatient care includes a psychiatric emergency department and four acute care wards\, each specializing in different areas such as mood disorders and psychotic disorders.  The region in Värmland also has a forensic psychiatric ward within the region. \nThe Region Värmland is eager to welcome you to this digital study visit\, where we will showcase the adult psychiatry services and provide insights into the care process for patients in psychiatric inpatient care in Karlstad.
URL:https://aer.eu/events/online-study-visit-humanizing-psychiatric-care-seeing-the-person-not-the-illness/
LOCATION:Catalonia
CATEGORIES:AER Working Groups
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aer.eu/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Webinar-WG-Mental-Health_May-2025-new-jpg.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250403
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250405
DTSTAMP:20260407T043008
CREATED:20250210T122224Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250305T143029Z
UID:50100-1743638400-1743811199@aer.eu
SUMMARY:Youth Regional Network (YRN) General Assembly | Brussels\, Belgium | 3-4 April 2025
DESCRIPTION:Join the Youth Regional Network General Assembly 2025! \nThe Youth Regional Network (YRN) is excited to announce its annual General Assembly\, taking place in the heart of Europe at the AER office in Brussels. To ensure wider participation\, (most of) the event will be held in a hybrid format\, though we strongly encourage in-person attendance to maximize networking opportunities and engagement. \nDRAFT AGENDA \nRegistrations are now closed \n*Your application to attend will be reviewed\, and the AER Secretariat will send a confirmation email to the selected participants. Please do not make any travel arrangements before receiving a confirmation email. \n  \nWhat to Expect\nFounded in 2008 by the Assembly of European Regions (AER)\, the Youth Regional Network (YRN) serves as a dynamic platform for young people to engage in regional governance. It empowers youth to participate actively in policymaking\, exchange ideas\, develop skills\, share best practices\, and collaborate with decision-makers to drive meaningful change. \nThe YRN General Assembly is a key event for young leaders and members of the YRN to come together\, reflect on past activities\, and shape the future of the network. Highlights of the event include: \n\nPresentation of the Activity Report by the outgoing Presidium\nInteractive workshops and cultural activities\nExchange of ideas and best practices with young people from across Europe\nElection of the new YRN Presidium for a one-year mandate\n\nFor detailed information about the YRN General Assembly and the YRN Presidium’s composition\, mission and responsibilities\, check the Statutes\, Rules of Procedure and Description of responsibilities. You can also join the YRN here.  \n  \nPractical Information\nVenue: AER Office\, Rue d’Arlon 63\, 1040 Brussels – Easily accessible by public transport and fully equipped for accessibility needs. \nAccommodation: Participants are encouraged to explore various accommodation options\, from budget-friendly hostels to hotels. Shared accommodations can be arranged upon request to help reduce costs. \nYRN Solidarity Fund: AER offers financial support of up to €150 (potentially more based on the number of applicants) for 15 selected participants whose travel costs are not covered by their regional council\, youth council\, or other organizations. This reimbursement will be provided after the event upon submission of valid receipts and documents. \n\nDon’t miss this opportunity to connect with like-minded young leaders\, contribute to policy discussions\, and be part of a vibrant youth network shaping regional policies in Europe. \n  \nFor any questions\, please contact the AER Programmes Coordinator\, Jeanne Demonque\, at j.demonque@aer.eu. \nWe look forward to welcoming you to the YRN General Assembly 2025!
URL:https://aer.eu/events/youth-regional-network-yrn-general-assembly-brussels-belgium-3-4-april-2025/
LOCATION:AER Brussels Office\, Rue d'Arlon 63\, Brussels\, 1040\, Belgium
CATEGORIES:AER Events,YRN Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aer.eu/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/YRN-GA-2025-1-scaled.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250325
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250327
DTSTAMP:20260407T043008
CREATED:20250130T125830Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250303T131947Z
UID:50065-1742860800-1743033599@aer.eu
SUMMARY:EU-Belong Final Conference | A Regional Approach for an Intercultural Europe
DESCRIPTION:In 2025\, AER celebrates its anniversary with 40 years of regional cooperation. In the same year\, the EU-Belong project comes to an end\, and a new phase of the Intercultural Regions Network begins. This milestone is not just about reflecting on past achievements—it’s an opportunity to strengthen collaboration and shape the future of intercultural integration in regions across Europe. \nOn 25-26 March 2025\, AER\, in partnership with the Grand Est Region and the Council of Europe\, will host a high-level EU-Belong conference showcasing successes\, promoting cross-regional cooperation\, and gathering insights for future initiatives. The first day will focus on institutional exchanges\, while the second day will be dedicated to technical meetings. \nThis event reaffirms AER’s commitment to fostering collaboration between regional governments and key stakeholders in the intercultural sector. As the third EU-Belong transnational knowledge-sharing event\, it will highlight successes\, promote cooperation\, and generate insights for future initiatives. \nPlaces are limited. To register or in case of questions\, contact AER EU Project Manager Emanuela Pisanò (e.pisano@aer.eu). \n\nThe event is the third EU-Belong transnational knowledge sharing event aimed at supporting regions in addressing current societal challenges through intercultural and multi-stakeholder policies.  EU-Belong is a 3.5 – year project run by the Assembly of European Regions (AER) and 12 partners\, and co-funded by the AMIF Programme (AMIF-2020-AG-CALL) of the European Union.
URL:https://aer.eu/events/eu-belong-final-conference-a-regional-approach-for-an-intercultural-europe/
LOCATION:Strasbourg – Region Grand Est Office\, 1 Place Adrien Zeller\, Strasbourg\, 67070\, France
CATEGORIES:AER Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aer.eu/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/EU-Belong-Final-Conference-2025-Website-visual-scaled.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241203
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241205
DTSTAMP:20260407T043008
CREATED:20240911T104537Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241127T085107Z
UID:48992-1733184000-1733356799@aer.eu
SUMMARY:[REGISTRATIONS ARE CLOSED] Regions Shaping Europe’s Future | Autumn Bureau & Working Groups
DESCRIPTION:At its Autumn meeting on 3 December\, the AER Bureau will pave the way for a strategic discussion on the interests of regions in an evolving European landscape. \nBy bringing together regional representatives\, political leaders and EU policymakers\, the AER Bureau will explore how regions can position their interests within the new EU policy leadership to shape policies consistent with their priorities. The discussion will focus on guiding political direction and setting policy priorities\, ensuring that regions are recognised as indispensable partners in the policy-making process. \nOn 4 December\, the event will include hands-on workshops by the AER Working Groups on Green Hydrogen and on Mental Health. These meetings will be crucial for sharing grassroots expertise\, bring together committed policymakers to learn from each other\, reinforcing the role of regions in Europe as key drivers of a sustainable future. \nParticipants will also have the option of joining visits to different EU institutions and advisory bodies to gain insights on their new asset and priorities after the EU elections of June 2024. These optional visits will take place in the context of the Erasmus+ project Climbing the Ladder (CL-YE) and will welcome up to 15 AER members each. \n\n\nDaily planning\n \n  \n3 December 2024\nVisit to the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) | 10:00-12:00\, EESC (Rue Belliard 99/101\, 1040 Bruxelles) \nRegistered participants are welcome to join the guided visit to the EESC \, which will feature an exclusive conversation with Ms Susannah Hallgren\, Representative of the EESC Youth group. \nAER Autumn Bureau meeting | 14:00 – 18:00\, European Parliament (Rue Wiertz 60\, 1047 Bruxelles) \nThe AER Autumn Bureau\, hosted by  MEPs Lukas Mandl and Alexander Bernhuber will represent an opportunity for a strategic discussion on the interests of regions in the next term 2024-2029 of the European Commission\, and the European Parliament. This high-level debate will serve as a critical opportunity for AER regions to unite\, strategize\, and strengthen their voice in the new European political cycle\, setting a foundation for proactive engagement with EU institutions over the coming years. \n\nDraft overall agenda\n\nWednesday 4 December\nBreakfast briefing on ‘How to build resilient societies to promote mental health’ | 9:00-10:30\, Renewable Energy House (REH) (Rue d’Arlon 63-67\, 1040 Bruxelles) \nThe breakfast briefing will explore the intersection between healthy democracies and mental wellbeing\, discussing both recent publications from the European Joint Research Centre and publications on participatory democracy and resilient societies\, and regional practices focused on improving resilience and mental wellbeing. \nVisit to European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA) | 9:30 – 10:30 ( Bd Simon Bolivar 34\, 1000 Bruxelles) \nRegistered participants will have the opportunity to engage in an exclusive presentation on the Erasmus+ and CERV funding programmes. \nVisit to the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) | 12:00-13:00\, European Committee of the Regions (CoR) (Rue Van Maerlant 2\, B-1040 Bruxelles)  \nRegistered participants are welcome join the guided study visit to the CoR. Recommended arrival time is 11.45. \nWorkshop on Green Hydrogen by the AER Working Group on Green Hydrogen | 11:00-13:00\, Renewable Energy House (REH) (Rue d’Arlon 63-67\, 1040 Bruxelles) \nJoin peers from across Europe to explore the role of regions in developing hydrogen value chains and fostering regional and transnational collaborations to scale the European hydrogen economy. \n  \nRegistrations closed on 20 November 2024. If you are an AER member\, please contact AER Communications and Events Coordinator Barbara Polin (b.polin@aer.eu)\n  \n  \nDeadline for visits to EU institutions and advisory bodies: 4 November 2024\nDeadline for registering in the Bureau meeting and Working Groups: 20 November 2024\n  \n  \n  \nClick here to know more about Climbing the Ladder
URL:https://aer.eu/events/regions-shaping-europes-future-autumn-bureau-working-groups/
LOCATION:Brussels\, Belgium
CATEGORIES:AER Bureau plenaries,AER Events,AER Executive Board meetings,AER Working Groups
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aer.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/AER-Autumn-Bureau-2024-1-2-jpg.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20241127T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20241127T113000
DTSTAMP:20260407T043008
CREATED:20241108T175734Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241209T175242Z
UID:49405-1732701600-1732707000@aer.eu
SUMMARY:Webinar: Green H2 Ecosystems
DESCRIPTION:The AER Working Group on Green Hydrogen was pleased to invite representatives and stakeholders from all AER member regions to participate in a webinar on green hydrogen ecosystems on 27 November 2024 from 10:00-11:30 CET. \n  \nWhat is a green H2 ecosystem?\nGreen Hydrogen ecosystems integrate the production\, storage\, and use of hydrogen from renewable sources. They play a significant role in reducing carbon emissions\, strengthening energy security\, and promoting economic growth by fostering innovation and generating employment opportunities. \nA green hydrogen ecosystem is a comprehensive network that encompasses the production\, storage\, distribution\, and utilisation of hydrogen produced using renewable energy sources\, such as wind and solar power. This ecosystem integrates various technologies\, infrastructure\, and stakeholders to create a sustainable and carbon-free energy cycle. \nThe challenge of building and nurturing ecosystems\nGreen hydrogen is crucial for reducing carbon emissions in industries that are hard to electrify\, such as steel and cement production\, as well as long-haul transport like shipping and aviation. However\, building new ecosystems comes with significant challenges\, including high production costs\, obtaining renewable energy for the electrolysis process\, and a lack of infrastructure throughout the entire value chain. \nThis webinar aims to foster mutual learning between regions working or interested in working on Geen Hydrogen to share about the development of green hydrogen ecosystems\, their pivoting from pilot to more mature ecosystem\, enablers and barriers as well as potential collaboration ideas. \nAgenda\n\n\n\n10:00-10:10\n\n\nAlbert Ballbé Programme manager at the General Directorate of Industry at the Government of Catalonia: Introduction\n\n\n\n\n10:10-10:35\n\n\nMirela Atanasiu\, Head of Unit Operations and Communications of the Clean Hydrogen Partnership: Research and innovation activities in hydrogen technologies in Europe\n\n\n\n\n10:35-10:45\n\n\nQ&A\n\n\n\n\n10:45-11:00\n\n\nKatarína Sasaráková\, Project manager Kosice Department of regional development: Development of the Kosice Green hydrogen Ecosystem\n\n\n\n\n\n11:00-11:10\n\n\nQ&A\n\n\n\n\n11:10-11:20\n\n\nJordi Candela\, Director of Aeroports de la Generalitat\, Catalunya: The use of hydrogen technologies at the Alguaire Airport project \n\n\n\n\n11:20-11:30\n\n\nQ&A\nConclusion\n\n\n\n\n\n  \nFor more information\, please contact AER Coordinator for Policy and Knowledge Transfer Johanna Pacevicius
URL:https://aer.eu/events/webinar1-green-h2-ecosystems/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:AER Working Groups
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aer.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/h2-webinar-nov-2024-scaled.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20241107T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20241107T133000
DTSTAMP:20260407T043009
CREATED:20241030T102931Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241030T103054Z
UID:49463-1730973600-1730986200@aer.eu
SUMMARY:Ukraine Focus Group @ 2024 Smart City World Expo Congress
DESCRIPTION:The Ukraine Facility is the European Union’s main investment instrument for Ukraine up to 2027\, worth EUR 50 billion. A key aim is to foster partnerships between Ukrainian and European businesses. It is therefore of critical strategic importance that companies in Ukraine and AER’s membership can make the best of the opportunities available under the Ukraine Investment Framework; to learn precisely how they can avail of these instruments to drive Ukraine’s reconstruction and recovery.  \nAt the same time\, Ukrainian and international enterprises\, regions and other stakeholders need opportunities to come together; to foster partnerships\, unlock investments and build new trade relationships that will drive Ukraine’s economic recovery. Equally\, in the spirit of the Marshall Plan\, we must leverage the power of the transatlantic relationship; working with US partners to deliver on an ambitious\, smart agenda for reconstruction and recovery.  \nHosted by AER President\, Albert Castellanos Maduell and ACCIÓ Trade and Investment as part of the 2024 Smart City Expo World Congress\, the purpose of this high-level meeting of the Ukraine Focus Group is to: \n\nBring together Ukrainian\, European and international representatives to set out major initiatives of support from Europe and the United States;\nprovide an opportunity for companies interested in investing in Ukraine and from Ukraine to meet implementing institutional partners\, notably the European Investment Bank (EIB). \nbring enterprises together in a tailored matchmaking session to network to build partnerships\, and;\nhighlight the transatlantic opportunities and networks open to Ukrainian stakeholders\, and the importance of transatlantic cooperation in driving a smart\, sustainable reconstruction.\n\nSpeakers\n\nCristina Serradell Quincannon (moderator)\, Director\, International Trade Unit at ACCIÓ Trade & Investment\n\n\nSerhii Pohoreltsev\, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to the Kingdom of Spain\n\n\nAlbert Castellanos Maduell\, President\, Assembly of European Regions (AER) \n\n\nManuel Szapiro\, Director\, European Commission Representation in Barcelona\n\n\nFernando Torija\, Head of European Investment Bank Group Office in Spain\n\n\nPaul Costello\, Senior Programme Manager\, GMF Cities\, German Marshall Fund of the United States \n\n 
URL:https://aer.eu/events/ukraine-focus-group-2024-smart-city-world-expo-congress/
LOCATION:Catalonia
CATEGORIES:AER Events,AER Member Events,Partner Events,Ukraine
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aer.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/1-jpg.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20241104T200000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20241107T200000
DTSTAMP:20260407T043009
CREATED:20240731T141627Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241030T105546Z
UID:48719-1730750400-1731009600@aer.eu
SUMMARY:Eurodyssey Forum 2024 | Delegation of the Government of Catalonia to the EU\, Brussels
DESCRIPTION:The Eurodyssey Forum is the yearly statutory event of the Eurodyssey programme\, providing the Eurodyssey regions with an opportunity for in-person peer-learning\, sharing of experience\, best practices\, challenges\, and planning the next steps of the programme. With its capacity-buildingworkshops\, plenaries\, study visits\, cultural activities and informal networking moments\, the Eurodyssey Forum is the not-to-be-missed event for the Eurodyssey community! \nIn 2024\, the Eurodyssey Forum will take place in Brussels\, from the 4th to the 7th of November\, hosted at the Delegation of the Governement of Catalonia to the European Union. The agenda will also include a visit of the European Parliament\, and two walking tours in Brussels (one focused on Art Nouveau\, and the other on bande dessinée). \nCLICK HERE FOR THE AGENDA\n********** \nREGISTRATIONS ARE MANDATORY – CLICK HERE TO REGISTER\n  \nRegistrations are open until the 25th of September\, with priority given to the regions participating in the Eurodyssey programme. The Forum will be open to other regions only if there is space left after the Eurodyssey regions’ registrations.
URL:https://aer.eu/events/eurodyssey-forum-2024-brussels/
LOCATION:Brussels\, Belgium
CATEGORIES:AER Eurodyssey Forums
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aer.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/EY-Forum-2024-jpg.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241022
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241024
DTSTAMP:20260407T043009
CREATED:20240705T112420Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241025T104756Z
UID:48539-1729555200-1729727999@aer.eu
SUMMARY:Mental Health Challenges in Today’s Youth - A Regional Perspective\, Primorje-Gorski Kotar\, 22-23 October
DESCRIPTION:Welcome to the enchanting Rijeka\, former European Capital of Culture\, the seat of the Primorje-Gorski Kotar County\, future European Region of Gastronomy and European Region of Sport! \nIn the context of the AER Working Group on Mental Health\, Primorje-Gorski Kotar County is inviting all AER members to a conference on: Mental Health Challenges in Today’s Youth – A Regional Perspective\, which will feature regional practices and experts from all over wider Europe. \nCurrent needs in terms of mental health and wellbeing are on the rise all over Europe in a context of polarisation and a decline in the popularity of human rights. Recent events in the macroregion have raised concerns around violence at school and the impact of social media\, fake news and isolation to name a few. \nAt global level there are major concerns around youth mental health\, which is also a main topic for the AER working group on mental health and one raised by the YRN. \nMental health is a key resource for coping with the changes and crises that are occurring in our everyday lives. Economic crisis\, explosion of violence\, war migration and growing demographic change\, further acceleration of digitization and introduction of artificial intelligence inevitably enhances social differences and the gap between those who have social and personal resources and those who are lagging behind. \nThe complexity of the topic of mental health\, especially in the younger population\, requires interdisciplinary and intersectoral cooperation. The conference is envisaged as an opportunity to share insights about risk factors and contemporary changes the younger generations are facing. Through the exchange of experiences\, best practices and innovative approaches to prevention\, treatment and rehabilitation of all types of addiction\, risk behaviours and associated conditions\, the conference aims to find potential new solutions to current challenges through an interdisciplinary approach based on cooperation. \nIf you would like your region to be featured in the programme of this event\, please contact AER Coordinator Policy & Knowledge Transfer Coordinator Johanna Pacevicius \n  \nDraft programme\nPlease note that the programme\, practical information and registration form are all to be found directly on the event website \nPhoto credit: xbrchx
URL:https://aer.eu/events/save-the-date-conference-on-mental-health-and-youth-primorje-gorski-kotar-22-23-october/
LOCATION:Rijeka\, Rijeka\, Primorje-Gorski Kotar County\, Croatia (Local Name: Hrvatska)
CATEGORIES:AER Events,AER Working Groups
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aer.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/A-Regional-Perspective-jpg.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20241009T143000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20241009T153000
DTSTAMP:20260407T043009
CREATED:20240705T074840Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240719T180208Z
UID:48485-1728484200-1728487800@aer.eu
SUMMARY:European Week of Regions & Cities | Workshop 'Skills: (EU)Belong here - How intercultural strategies can boost talent attraction and retention'
DESCRIPTION:Join us on 9 October 2024 in Brussels for the AER Workshop during the 2024 edition of the European Week of Regions and Cities. \nWorkshop ‘Skills: (EU)Belong here – How intercultural strategies can boost talent attraction and retention’\nThe Intercultural Regions Network and the AMIF-funded project EU-Belong provide a blueprint for shaping regions’ policies and strategies via an intercultural approach. This workshop explains how this approach can help regions to boost diversity\, and attract and retain the talent they need to prosper in the green\, digital and demographic transitions. It will address the challenges in this area and show the importance of collaboration between levels of government and the relevant stakeholders. \nSpeakers: \n\nAndrew McNulty\, Arts and Cultural Diversity Officer\, Donegal County Council\nLara Prociatti: Project Manager – Skills and Territories for Innovation Unit\, ART-ER Attractiveness Research Territory\nLupe Moreno Iturriaga: Deputy Director General of Migration\, Refuge and Anti-Racism Coordination\, Ministry of Equality and Feminisms (tbc)\n\nModerator:  \n\nEmanuela Pisanó: European Project manager\, Assembly of European Regions\n\nDon’t forget to register for the workshop! \nAbout the European Week of Regions and Cities 2024\nThe European Week of Regions and Cities 2024 with its motto “Empowering Communities” takes place in Brussels 7-10 October. \nGet ready to share ideas\, connect with regions and cities from all over Europe\, expand your network and knowledge\, all while keeping up with the latest in regional and cohesion policy. Discover over 100 sessions\, ranging from EU sessions\, political workshops and participatory labs to short innovative formats\, falling under four themes: \n\nCompetitiveness and convergence: two sides of the same coin\nRegions strengthening European democracy\nSmart and sustainable growth for regions\nRegions got talent\n\nDiscover the whole programme and sign up for sessions to get the most out of the EURegionsWeek 2024!
URL:https://aer.eu/events/european-week-of-regions-cities-workshop-skills-eubelong-here-how-intercultural-strategies-can-boost-talent-attraction-and-retention/
LOCATION:Albert Borschette Congress Center\, Brussels\, Rue Froissart 36\, Brussels\, 1040\, Belgium
CATEGORIES:AER Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aer.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/EU-Belong-Workshop_v2-2-scaled.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20241008T090000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20241008T103000
DTSTAMP:20260407T043009
CREATED:20240903T162527Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241004T180352Z
UID:48887-1728378000-1728383400@aer.eu
SUMMARY:Breakfast Briefing on the Bioeconomy
DESCRIPTION:The AER Working Group on the Bioeconomy is inviting all AER members interested in working on the Bioeconomy to join a Breakfast Briefing on Circular Bioeconomy Strategies at the AER Brussels Office (Rue d’Arlon 63-67). \nThe event is organised together with key representatives from the Circular Cities and Regions Initiative (CCRI) for the pilot region of Podravje. \nJoin us to receive first-hand insights into how this topic is being addressed within the European Commission\, and discuss possible project ideas together with like-minded peers from other regions\, around coffee and croissants. \n\nEvent reserved for AER members only \n  \nAgenda Breakfast Briefing Bioeconomy(1)\nThe AER Working Group on the Bioeconomy\nThe working group currently includes 16 regions to exchange and innovate policies and practices: Innlandet (NO)\, Värmland (SE)\, Gelderland (NL)\, Flevoland (NL)\, Fribourg (CH)\, Donegal (IE)\, Udaras na Gaeltachta (IE)\, Adana (TR)\, Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality (TR)\, Grand Est (FR)\, Dolj (RO)\, Tirana (AL)\, Valencia (ES)\, East Slovenia (SI)\, West Slovenia (SI)\, and Umbria (IT). Any member of the working group can propose an activity. \nIt’s Possible to Join Anytime!\nAER members can join an AER working Group at any time. To join the AER Working Group on the Bioeconomy\, exchange with peers\, and contribute to shaping future activities\, please fill in this short registration form. To catch-up with the activities of the working group\, check this link. \nAER members can also propose new working groups on topics of interest\, fostering innovation and impactful change. \n  \n 
URL:https://aer.eu/events/breakfast-briefing-on-the-bioeconomy/
LOCATION:Catalonia
CATEGORIES:AER Events,AER Working Groups
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aer.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Copy-of-Breakfast-Briefing-Intercultural-Regions-introducing-the-diversity-and-inclusion-approach-to-regional-level-jpg.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20240812T160000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20240816T120000
DTSTAMP:20260407T043009
CREATED:20230822T102100Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240926T090956Z
UID:45581-1723478400-1723809600@aer.eu
SUMMARY:[SOLD OUT] AER Summer Academy 2024 - Bodø\, Nordland (NO) - 12-16 August 2024
DESCRIPTION:The Summer Academy 2024 explores how culture can foster youth participation\, and it puts into focus the issues of availability\, accessibility\, and inclusivity of culture across European regions.\nHosted by Nordland fylkeskommune (Nordland County Council)\, the Summer Academy 2024 will take place from the 12th to the 16th of August in Bodø\, the European Capital of Culture.  Driven by the key theme of ‘Fostering Youth Participation through Culture’\, this edition will explore the relationship between culture\, society\, and economy through region-led workshops on the healing power of culture in humanitarian and social crises\, its capacity to connect people from diverse backgrounds\, its power to generate financial revenues from local assets and many other aspects of the generative power of culture. \nAs intergenerational dialogue and youth inclusion are at the heart of the Summer Academy\, and the 2024 edition starts on the UN International Youth Day\, the 2024 edition will feature the Award Ceremony of the MYFER Award\, rewarding the Most Youth-Friendly European Region. \nCLICK HERE FOR THE FULL DETAILED AGENDA\n  \n \n*REGISTRATION DEADLINE: 10 JULY 2024* \nParticipation in the Summer Academy is subject to a participation fee\, included in the registration form. Read below for more details. \n\nWhat’s on the agenda?\nThe Summer Academy will include plenary sessions\, workshops\, study visit and cultural activities revolving around the main topic: fostering youth participation through culture. \nThe opening plenary session will include regional representatives\, European institutional representatives and youth delegates (young elected politicians\, youth county councils…) who will share their expertise and views\, and engage in meaningful discussions. \nThe workshops are organised by members of the Organising Committee for the 2024 edition of the Summer Academy\, namely: \n\nAER: workshop on Mental Health Prevention and Planning\, with the AER Working Group on Mental Health and the Youth Regional Network (YRN).\nCatalonia: workshop by the Catalan Youth Agency and Sala d’Art Jove\, “Inventing recipes to be (together)”.\nDonegal County Council: workshop on “Intercultural integration and the EU-Belong project”.\nMaramures County Council: workshop on Art Therapy.\nNordland County Council: workshop on “The Narvik War and Peace Centre”.\nÚdarás na Gaeltachta: workshop by Muintearas\, “Cuisle na Gaeltachta / the Pulse of the Gaeltacht: an overview and insight into youth participation through Culture in the Gaeltacht”.\n Østfold County Council: workshop on “The Blikkåpner project and Gallery F15“.\nAutonomous Province of Vojvodina: workshop on ““Student participation in politics and decision-making processes”.\n Kanton Zürich: “Democratic Culture in the Canton of Zurich”\, with the Zürich Youth Parliament.\nLocal workshop: “Sámi Pathfinders and Sámi University College”\, with representatives from the Sámi people in Bodø.\n\nThe study visits and cultural activities are organised by the host region\, as a unique occasion to showcase their region’s richness\, models and diversity\, while valuing the cultural backgrounds of the other regions represented at the event\, in a closing cultural evening! \nThe closing plenary is led by the youth delegates themselves\, as a privileged feedback and interaction moment. \nHow to join the Summer Academy 2024?\nTo take part in the Summer Academy\, participants are requested to purchase a ticket on Nordland fylkeskommune’s dedicated online platform (as you would purchase a concert or festival ticket). \nThe price of the ticket includes: \n\naccess to all activities of the Summer Academy (plenaries\, workshops\, cultural activities\,s tudy visits);\naccommodation at the Radisson Blu Hotel Bodø (booked directly by Nordland County Council for the participants) for 4 nights (arrival 12 August\, departure 16 August);\nall meals from Monday dinner to Friday breakfast;\nairport transfers from Bodø airport\, and transfers from the conference venue to the other activities.\n\nThe online platform to purchase the tickets is open! Three types of tickets are available: \n\nRegular ticket: 600 EUR. Single room.\nDiscounted youth ticket: 300 EUR. Twin room (i.e. shared room between two young participants – same-sex only).\nLocal ticket (for participants living in Bodø only\, and who don’t need a hotel): 100 EUR.\n\nCLICK HERE TO REGISTER AND PURCHASE YOUR SUMMER ACADEMY TICKET\n*REGISTRATION DEADLINE: 10 JULY 2024* \nThe Summer Academy: a high-level event recognised by European institutions\nAs part of the Climbing the Ladder Erasmus+ project\, the Summer Academy enables participants to share their opinions on how and why culture matters\, and what should change – or not – to make culture a driver for engagement in public life.  The project’s main objective is to address the need for effective and meaningful structures\, mechanisms and spaces for the active engagement of young people in policy-making and decision-making processes at local\, regional\, national and European levels.  \nThe Summer Academy will be showcased as one of the three study visits of the CL-YE project\, where relevant data about models and spaces for youth engagement will be collected. Both the AER and Nordland fylkeskommune are part of the project consortium led by DYPALL Network\, a European platform gathering civil society organisations and local authorities from more than 30 countries\, whose mission is to involve young people in decision-making processes\, engage them as active citizens\, and enable municipal and regional authorities to address the needs and interests of youth. \nDid you know that the Summer Academy 2022 was awarded the European Citizen’s Prize for Ireland? Awarded every year by the European Parliament\, this Prize goes to projects “organised by people or organisations that encourage mutual understanding and closer integration between people in the EU\, cross-border cooperation that builds a stronger European spirit\, and EU values and fundamental rights.” \nIn addition\, the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe\, a long-standing partner of the AER of the Youth Regional Network (YRN)\, had supported the 2022 edition of the Summer Academy\, through the participation of their Secretary General and of their youth delegate for Switzerland. \n  \nContact persons at the AER Secretariat: Lorène Weber (l.weber@aer.eu)\, Programmes Coordinator; Barbara Polin (b.polin@aer.eu)\, Communications & Events Coordinator; Justin Sammon (j.sammon@aer.eu)\, Member Relations Coordinator. \n  \n \n  \n \n 
URL:https://aer.eu/events/save-the-date-aer-summer-academy-2024-bodo-nordland/
LOCATION:Bodø\, Nordland\, Norway\, Bodø\, Nordland\, Norway
CATEGORIES:AER Events,AER Summer Academies
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aer.eu/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/SA-2024-NordlandBodo-1-1-scaled.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20240612T080000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20240614T170000
DTSTAMP:20260407T043009
CREATED:20240226T141011Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240604T144931Z
UID:47295-1718179200-1718384400@aer.eu
SUMMARY:General Assembly & Bureau meeting | 8th Black Sea Summit in Batumi\, Ajara\, Georgia [REGISTRATIONS ARE  CLOSED]
DESCRIPTION:General Assembly and Bureau meeting | 8th Black Sea Summit\nAER Spring Bureau meeting & General Assembly 2024 at a glance\nThe Spring Bureau meeting will take place on 12 June 2024\, the General Assembly on 13 June 2024. \nThe 8th Black Sea Summit at a glance\nThe Assembly of European Regions is co-organising the 8th Black Sea Summit with the Autonomous Republic of Ajara\, Georgia\, from 12 to 14 June 2024. A high-level political conference on regional issues\, the Black Sea Summit fosters critical discussions on the wider Black Sea region\, whose developments are crucial for global politics and economy. \nThe venue of the Black Sea Summit & General Assembly / Spring Bureau Meeting is the Hilton Hotel in 40 Rustaveli Ave\, Batumi 6010\, Georgia. \nRegistrations are closed. If you are an AER member\, please get in touch with AER Communications and Events Coordinator\, Barbara Polin (b.polin@aer.eu). \nDraft agenda*\n*changes may occur for organisational reasons \n \n Click here to read the detailed draft agenda.\n  \nDaily schedule\n12 June 2024\nWorkshop of the Working Group on the Bioeconomy “Changing perspectives on resources for a sustainable bioeconomy” | 10:00 – 12:30\nThe Working Group on the Bioeconomy will examine different regional examples to innovate bioeconomy policies & practices\, and will appoint a new Chair. \n \nInterested in joining the Working Group on the Bioeconomy? Contact AER Policy and Knowledge Transfer Coordinator Johanna Pacevicius \nSpring Bureau meeting | 14:30 – 17:30\nThe Bureau will define positions on key AER action areas and discuss our advocacy work for the coming years. \nDirect links: \n\nDraft Agenda\nWorking Documents\n\n13 June 2024\nGeneral Assembly | 10:30 – 13:30\nDirect links: \n\nDraft Detailed Agenda\nWorking Documents\n\n14 June 2024\nStudy visit to UNDP funded agro-farms in Machakhela National Park (12:00 – 16:00)\n \nBee-keeping\, wine-making and innovative use of bio-mass  are only a few of the activities implemented in agro-farms located in the  Machakhela Protected Areas. This was made possible by  support projects implemented by UNDP together with the Ministry of Environment and Agriculture of Georgia\, Ministry of Agriculture of Ajara Autonomous Republic and Khelvachauri Municipality\, through financial assistance from the Global Environmental Facility – GEF and Japanese Government. \nUseful travel information\nTransportation\n\nFree shuttle bus: The host region will organise free shuttle buses from and to the Batumi (BUS) and Kutaisi (KUT) airports. The schedule will be released consistently with the arrival and departure time of participants.\n\nInterested in the service of free shuttle buses? Share your flight details here \nAccomodation\n\nFor information about hotels in Batumi\, please consult the offers on Booking.com\nPreferential booking rates: The host region has secured favourable booking rates with the five-star hotels listed below. Booking fees and dates may vary.\nSheraton\nHilton \nLe Meridian\nRadisson Hotels\n\n 
URL:https://aer.eu/events/aer-black-sea-summit-2024-general-assembly-bureau-meeting-in-batumi-ajara-georgia-save-the-date/
LOCATION:40 Rustaveli Ave\, Batumi 6010\, Georgia\, 40 Rustaveli Avenue\, Batumi\, Georgia
CATEGORIES:AER Black Sea Summits,AER Bureau plenaries,AER Events,AER General Assemblies,AER Working Groups
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aer.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/BSS-Ajara_GA.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20240528T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20240528T143000
DTSTAMP:20260407T043009
CREATED:20240502T224545Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241007T082623Z
UID:47937-1716901200-1716906600@aer.eu
SUMMARY:Addressing Racial Injustice\, Discrimination\, and Bias in AI within Public Administration
DESCRIPTION:Join the conversation! On 28 May 2024 the AER and the DG of Migration\, Asylum and Antiracism of the Government of Catalonia organised a webinar on “Addressing Racial Injustice\, Discrimination\, and Bias in AI within Public Administration” in the context of the EU-Belong knowledge transfer clusters \n\n\n\n\n\nPublic administrations and their service providers are increasingly using AI applications to accelerate their operations\, analyse big data sets\, assess risks and make decisions. Usages may involve for instance support to recruitment processes\, fraud control\, the assessment of requests for benefits\, the security of public spaces or border control. \nRisks of AI usage in public services\nSeveral studies\, including the Council of Europe’s 2023  Study on the impact of artificial intelligence systems (…)\, have highlighted the risks of artificial intelligence (AI)\, with regards to increased discriminations of vulnerabilised people. Automated decision-making systems\, have indeed in some cases led public administrations to implement wide systems of discrimination and unprecedented injustice. \nA changing legal landscape\nIn March 2024\, the European Parliament adopted the EU Artificial Intelligence Act (“AI Act”) establishing common rules and obligations for providers and deployers of AI-based systems in the EU internal market. At the same time\, the Council of Europe finalised the draft Framework Convention on artificial intelligence\, which is the first legally binding global instrument to address the risks posed by Artificial Intelligence and is based on the Council of Europe’s standards on human rights\, democracy and the rule of law. \n\nWhat is new about these texts?\nWhat should policymakers be aware of when designing policies and practices?\nWhat should they be looking at specifically when buying services from consultancies or tech companies?\n\nA webinar for better policymaking\nIn a rapidly evolving landscape policymakers and regional stakeholders may find it difficult to simultaneously gather useful and up-to-date information\, while also identifying areas where they can act and create impact. \nThis webinar gathered experts who shared: \n\nhow they work to address racial injustice\, discrimination\, and bias in AI within public administration\nwhat are the main changes ahead and how to prepare\nwhat they see as the main elements for effective policymaking and civic participation on the topic of AI & discriminations\nwhat their advice is to politicians\, civil servants\, and different regional stakeholders\n\nDraft Agenda\n\n\n\n13:00-13:07\n \nWelcome\n \nLaura Sentis Margalef\, EU Belong Project Officer\, Department for Equality and Feminisms of Catalonia\n\n\n13:07-13:10\n \nThe Intercultural Regions Network\n \nJoan de Lara\, Senior officer\, Department for Equality and Feminisms of Catalonia\n\n\n13:10-13:20\n \nIntroduction on AI\n \nSofia Trejo\, Researcher in AI Ethics and Specialist in the ethical\, social\, political\, and cultural dimensions of AI\, Barcelona Supercomputing Center\n\n\n13:20-13:25\n \n \n \nQ&A\n\n\n13:25-13:35\n \nAI\, discrimination and human rights protection\n \nMenno Ettema\, Head of Unit\, Hate Speech\, Hate Crime and Artificial Intelligence\, Directorate of Equal Rights and Dignity\, Council of Europe\n\n\n13:35-13:40\n \n \n \nQ&A\n\n\n13:40-13:50\n \nThe intersection betweenanti-racism and digital rights\n \nSarah Chander\, Senior Policy Advisor at European Digital Rights and co-founder of the Equinox Initiative for Racial Justice\n\n\n13:50-13:55\n \n \n \nQ&A\n\n\n13:55-14:05\n \nFighting racism in digital intelligence\n \nPaula Guerra Cáceres\, Antiracist activist and Head of Advocacy at Algorace\n\n\n14:05-14:10\n \n \n \nQ&A\n\n\n14:10-14:20\n \n \n \nRoundtable discussion\n\n\n14:20-14:25\n \n \n \nQ&A\n\n\n14:25-14:30\n \n\nConclusion & Announcements \n\n \nLaura Sentis Margalef\, EU Belong Project Officer\, Department for Equality and Feminisms of Catalonia\n\n\n\nMore Information on AI in Public Administration\nFor readers interested in exploring the topics of AI bias and discrimination further\, the following resources provide valuable insights and in-depth research: \n\nGender Shades: Research on face recognition software and its biases.\nAI Bias and the Roma Community: Fundación Secretariado Gitano (FSG) has published a comprehensive report discussing AI bias in relation to the Roma community. Read the report in EnglishLeer el informe en español\nEU Artificial Intelligence Act: Learn about the common rules and obligations for AI providers and deployers within the EU internal market.\nMachine Learning Harm Framework: Harini Suresh and John Guttag provide a framework for understanding sources of harm throughout the machine learning lifecycle.\nAmnesty International Case Study: Examine the impact of algorithmic discrimination in public services through the Dutch childcare benefits scandal.\nRecommendations by Sarah Chander (Equinox Initiative for Racial Justice):– Beyond Bias: Discussion on AI-driven systems and debiasing efforts.– Civil Society Recommendations on the AI Act: Read the political statement and the recent status update.– Discriminatory Surveillance and Migration Laws\nAlgorace Website: For more information on algorithmic fairness and race\, visit the Algorace website.\nCouncil of Europe Resources:– Framework Convention on AI and HR Democracy and the Rule of Law– Study on AI and Equality– Study on Discrimination and Algorithmic Decision-Making– Committee of Experts on AI\, Equality\, and Discrimination (GEC/ADI-AI)\n\n 
URL:https://aer.eu/events/addressing-racial-injustice-discrimination-and-bias-in-ai-within-public-administration/
LOCATION:Catalonia
CATEGORIES:AER Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://aer.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/EU-Belong-Webinar-2-Visual-option-1-2.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20240423T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20240423T120000
DTSTAMP:20260407T043009
CREATED:20240221T181619Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240503T001939Z
UID:47233-1713866400-1713873600@aer.eu
SUMMARY:Online study visit on Mental Health in Odesa -23 April 2024
DESCRIPTION:On the occasion of the AER Winter Dialogues\, the members of the AER Working Group on Mental Health agreed to organise a virtual study visit to Odesa (UA) to learn about measures implemented in the region\, to address mental health needs in the current context of the war\, in particular for children \nPeer learning for mental health policies\nThe AER Working Group on Mental Health\, which kicked off activities in October 2023\, is chaired by Daniel Schützer (Värmland\, SE). The working group is collaborating closely with the AER Youth Regional Network. \nOn the occasion of the Winter Dialogues in Lower Austria (AU)\, the group held its first in-person workshop. Members exchanged about the challenges linked to social isolation\, deep fake and changing relationships in an online world\, as well as emergencies such as natural and geopolitical disasters. \nMembers of the group expressed interest in hearing more about regional policies and practices via virtual study visits. This enables policymakers\, and field specialists to: \n\nlearn from each other\nlearn about regional specificities\ndiscover new perspectives and angles for policymaking\nunderstand the rationale and approaches used in the development of mental health policies\nlearn about implementation challenges and elements of success.\n\nDiscover Odesa’s policies and practices for mental health\n(click on hyperlinks to access presentations) \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIntroduction\, technicalities \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJohanna Pacevicius\, AER Coordinator for Policy & Knowledge Transfer \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWelcome words \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDaniel Schützer\, Chair of the AER Working Group on Mental Health \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nModeration \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKaltum Hussein\, International advisor\, Department of Regional Development\, Värmland (SE) \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIntroduction by Odesa \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nVadym Shkarivskiyi\, Deputy Chairman of the Odesa Regional Council \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPresentation #1 by Odesa: \nMental & physical rehabilitation\nin the Odesa Region \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAnna Velichko\, Regional coordinator of the All-Ukrainian mental health program “How are you?” \nYuliya Yermakova\, Psychotherapist of Odesa Regional Mental Health Center \n\n\n\n\n\n\nVideo 1\nRehabilitation center\n\n\nVideo 2\nMaternity hospital in shelter\n\n\nVideo 3\nHospital of Bolgrad District: rehabilitation & salt room\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPresentation #2 by Odessa: \nDepartment of education and science of Odesa \n\n\n\n\nOksana Uglik\, Head of the Department of Preschool\, Correctional Education and Social Work of the Department of Education and Science\n\n\nVideo 4\nSchool\n\n\nVideo 5\nSchool in the shelter of Safianove\n\n\n\n  \nTo join the AER Working Group\, exchange with peers and contribute to shaping future activities please fill in this form \nFor more information on AER Working Groups\, please contact AER Policy Coordinator for Policy & Knowledge Transfer Johanna Pacevicius \n  \nPhoto credits: Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
URL:https://aer.eu/events/save-the-date-online-study-visit-on-mental-health-in-odessa-23-april-2024/
LOCATION:Odessa\, Ukraine
CATEGORIES:AER Working Groups
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aer.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/kelly-sikkema-XX2WTbLr3r8-unsplash-scaled.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20240418T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20240418T153000
DTSTAMP:20260407T043009
CREATED:20240313T090017Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240416T223038Z
UID:47470-1713448800-1713454200@aer.eu
SUMMARY:Debate - Feeding the Future: Regional Perspectives on Agriculture and Rural Development in Europe
DESCRIPTION:Join us on the 18 April 14.00-15.30 in Brussels (Renewable Energy House\, Rue d’Arlon 63/67) for an engaging debate: “Feeding the Future: Regional Perspectives on Agriculture and Rural Development in Europe“. \nAER and the Province of Gelderland are inviting regional representatives\, institutional stakeholders\, farmers\, and rural actors to engage in a lively discussion on the future EU agricultural and rural development policies. \nThe debate will explore the prospects for a new era in farming and rural policy in Europe\, focusing on the opportunities to build a more resilient\, sustainable\, prosperous and inclusive future as we move through the digital and green transition. It will serve as an opportunity to understand what European regions\, farmers and rural communities need from the future EU Common Agricultural Policy\, setting the stage for discussions on shaping a policy and support framework that aligns with the evolving needs of our people – who need healthy and affordable food – our agricultural sector and our rural areas. \nConfirmed Speakers \nHarold Zoet\, Regional Minister of the Province of Gelderland and Chair of the AER Task Force on Agriculture and Regional Development\nIsilda Gomes\, Chair of the European Committee of the Regions’ Commission for Natural Resources and Rapporteur on “Future of the Common Agricultural Policy”\nRūdolfs Pulkstenis\, Vice President\, CEJA – European Council of Young Farmers\nRaschad Al-Khafaji\, Director of the FAO Liaison Office with the European Union and Belgium\nRicard Ramón i Sumoy\, Deputy Head of Unit for policy perspectives\, Directorate-General for Agriculture and Rural Development\, European Commission \nYou can find more details in the concept note HERE. \nDon’t miss this chance to contribute to the conversation shaping the future of Agriculture and Rural Development in Europe. \nRegister HERE. \nRefreshments and networking opportunities will be available following the debate\, and we invite you to stay and engage further. The debate will be organised by the AER Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Development chaired by Harold Zoet\, Regional Minister of the Province of Gelderland\, as part of the MEET project.  \nAbout the MEET Project \nWith Europe at a crossroads at the end of the Conference on the Future of Europe and in the middle of the implementation of the Green Deal and the digitalisation agenda\, active European citizens must be at the forefront. In the period before the upcoming European elections\, the MEET project offers space for diverse groups of European citizens to bring Europe to local level through a diverse set of activities encouraging continuous activism and interaction with European politicians. The project is led by the European Youth Forum (YFJ)\, and AER participates as a partner. \nMEET meaningfully contributes to a depolarised and less-tense democratic space. This allows more participation\, and more respect and understanding of others’ positions\, ultimately helping revive the flagging belief in democracy as a system. \nCheck out the MEET project page for more information and future events! \nThe MEET project is funded by the Citizens\, Equality\, Rights and Values (CERV) 2021-2027 programme of the European Union.
URL:https://aer.eu/events/debate-feeding-the-future-regional-perspectives-on-agriculture-and-rural-development-in-europe/
LOCATION:Renewable Energy House\, Rue d’Arlon 63/67\, 1040 Brussels
CATEGORIES:AER Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://aer.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Gelderland-debate-event-page-FB-LinkedIn-2.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20240326T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20240326T203000
DTSTAMP:20260407T043009
CREATED:20240321T120311Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240321T163035Z
UID:47567-1711479600-1711485000@aer.eu
SUMMARY:MEET Project | Debate "Net Zero: a Green Deal or a Green Dream?"
DESCRIPTION:Join us on the 26th of March from 7 pm to 8:30 pm in Brussels for the debate: “Net Zero: a Green Deal or a Green Dream?“. \nThe AER and the European Leadership Programme are excited to introduce you to Mr. Gaël Giraud\,  economist\, Director of Research at the CNRS (Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique)\, professor at the French École nationale des Ponts et Chaussées and author. He directs the Environmental Justice Program at Georgetown University (USA)\, and his research work focuses on the interaction between economics and ecology. \nDo not miss the unique opportunity to engage in a debate accounting for the challenges represented by the green transition and our economic model. \nRegister here for this event\, and be quick\, the capacity is limited only to 20 people!\nAbout the MEET Project \nWith Europe at a crossroads at the end of the Conference on the Future of Europe and in the middle of the implementation of the Green Deal and the digitalisation agenda\, active European citizens must be at the forefront. In the period before the upcoming European elections\, the MEET project offers space for diverse groups of European citizens to bring Europe to local level through a diverse set of activities encouraging continuous activism and interaction with European politicians. The project is led by the European Youth Forum (YFJ)\, and AER participates as a partner. \nMEET meaningfully contributes to a depolarised and less-tense democratic space. This allows more participation\, and more respect and understanding of others’ positions\, ultimately helping revive the flagging belief in democracy as a system. \nCheck out the MEET project page for more information and future events! \nThe MEET project is funded by the Citizens\, Equality\, Rights and Values (CERV) 2021-2027 programme of the European Union. \nAbout the European Leadership Programme (ELP) \nThe European Leadership Programme is a five month long formation where the Fellows receive leadership training and support in their vocation discernment during their time in Brussels. The Fellows live and work in the heart of Europe\, they help marginalised communities\, receive coaching and professional mentoring. Check here for more information. \n 
URL:https://aer.eu/events/meet-project-debate-net-zero-a-green-deal-or-a-green-dream/
LOCATION:Rue André Fauchille 6\, 1150 Woluwe-Saint-Lambert\, Belgium\, Brussels\, Belgium
CATEGORIES:AER Events,Partner Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20240322T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Dublin:20240322T163000
DTSTAMP:20260407T043009
CREATED:20240307T154033Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240307T155006Z
UID:47287-1711119600-1711125000@aer.eu
SUMMARY:MEET Project | Writing the story of Europe: 2024 EU Elections and the next chapters| Debate in Letterkenny (Ireland)
DESCRIPTION:Join us on the 22nd of March in the Central Library in Letterkenny for a discussion about the upcoming EU elections and the Future of Europe. \nWe will address the upcoming 2024 EU elections\, citizenship and participatory democracy as main topics. There will be space to ask questions and discuss the important topics surrounding the Future of Europe\, such as sustainability and inclusion. \nPlease complete our registration form if you would like to attend. \nAbout the MEET Project \nWith Europe at a crossroads at the end of the Conference on the Future of Europe and in the middle of the implementation of the Green Deal and the digitalisation agenda\, active European citizens must be at the forefront. In the period before the upcoming European elections\, the MEET project offers space for diverse groups of European citizens to bring Europe to local level through a diverse set of activities encouraging continuous activism and interaction with European politicians. The project is led by the European Youth Forum (YFJ)\, and AER participates as a partner. \nMEET meaningfully contributes to a depolarised and less-tense democratic space. This allows more participation\, and more respect and understanding of others’ positions\, ultimately helping revive the flagging belief in democracy as a system. \nCheck out the MEET project page for more information and future events! \nThe MEET project is funded by the Citizens\, Equality\, Rights and Values ​​(CERV) 2021-2027 programme of the European Union.
URL:https://aer.eu/events/meet-project-writing-the-story-of-europe-2024-eu-elections-and-the-next-chapters-debate-in-letterkenny-ireland/
LOCATION:Central Library Letterkenny\, Oliver Plunkett Road\, Leterkenny\, Ireland
CATEGORIES:AER Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://aer.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Donegal-debate-event-page-FB-LinkedIn-.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20240320T090000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20240320T100000
DTSTAMP:20260407T043009
CREATED:20240222T155025Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240305T105945Z
UID:47217-1710925200-1710928800@aer.eu
SUMMARY:MEET Project | Green Horizons: navigating decarbonization\, critical raw materials and recyclability
DESCRIPTION:Join us on the 20th of March for the debate on “Green Horizons: navigating decarbonization\, critical raw materials and recyclability” \nThe event will dive deep into the crucial nexus of decarbonization\, critical raw materials extraction and recyclability. We are happy to welcome key experts from the Swedish region Norbotten\, known for its significant deposits of critical raw materials\, alongside private sector representatives offering insights into the latest trends in recyclability and decarbonization efforts. \nThis debate aims at fostering knowledge exchange and collaboration towards a greener\, more sustainable future in the European Union and beyond. \nDon’t miss this opportunity to be part of the conversation shaping the path towards decarbonisation and responsible resource management. Please complete our registration form if you would like to attend. \nAbout the MEET Project \nWith Europe at a crossroads at the end of the Conference on the Future of Europe and in the middle of the implementation of the Green Deal and the digitalisation agenda\, active European citizens must be at the forefront. In the period before the upcoming European elections\, the MEET project offers space for diverse groups of European citizens to bring Europe to local level through a diverse set of activities encouraging continuous activism and interaction with European politicians. The project is led by the European Youth Forum (YFJ)\, and AER participates as a partner. \nMEET meaningfully contributes to a depolarised and less-tense democratic space. This allows more participation\, and more respect and understanding of others’ positions\, ultimately helping revive the flagging belief in democracy as a system. \nCheck out the MEET project page for more information and future events! \nThe MEET project is funded by the Citizens\, Equality\, Rights and Values ​​(CERV) 2021-2027 programme of the European Union.
URL:https://aer.eu/events/meet-project-eu-debate-launch-of-the-task-force-on-decarbonisation/
LOCATION:North Sweden European Office\, Av. des Arts 11\, Brussels\, 1210\, Belgium
CATEGORIES:AER Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://aer.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/TF-debate-event-page-FB-LinkedIn.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20240320T080000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20240321T190000
DTSTAMP:20260407T043009
CREATED:20240126T110014Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240419T052013Z
UID:46989-1710921600-1711047600@aer.eu
SUMMARY:EU- Belong | Intercultural Integration: A Shared Journey towards Equality and Belonging
DESCRIPTION:The EU-Belong knowledge-sharing event was hosted by Donegal (Ireland) from 19 to 21 March 2024 on the occasion of One Donegal Social Inclusion Week. One Donegal Social Inclusion Week is coordinated by Donegal County Council and aims to highlight the very positive work being done\, not only by the Council but also by other statutory and community organisations\, to raise awareness of social inclusion-related issues in Donegal. \nThe EU-Belong knowledge-sharing event was co-organised by the AER and Donegal County. It gathered international experts\, regional politicians and civil servants\, professionals\, and volunteers engaged in creating intercultural societies to: \n\nLearn in detail about the policies and practices employed in Donegal for intercultural integration.\nMeet peers working on similar challenges in different regions across Europe\nEngage in mutual learning\, get inspired by each other’s experiences and insights\, create sounding boards\, spaces for reflexivity and continuously improve policies and practices.\nShowcase regional initiatives: Feature speakers from Donegal and EU-Belong regions sharing approaches to building inclusive and intercultural communities.\nHighlight the principles of interculturalism and their translation in real life: Emphasize core principles such as equality\, the diversity advantage\, meaningful interaction\, and active citizenship.\nDiscuss key operational elements\n\nAGENDA & PRESENTATIONS \nEU-Belong One Donegal Social Inclusion Week Conference \n\nWelcome address\, Emanuela Pisanò\, EU Belong Project Manager\, Assembly of European Regions\n\nDonegal: a Landscape of Multiple Collaborations \n\nOne Donegal Social Inclusion Week & The Donegal Black and Ethnic Minority Strategy\, Charles Sweeney\, Social Inclusion\, Donegal County Council\nEU-Belong pilot projects in Donegal: Supporting Pathways\, Denise McCool\, Team Lead Community Development & Sustainability\, and Sinead McDaid\, Team Lead\, Enterprise & Employment at Inishowen Development Partnership\nCommunities Against Racism Actions (CARA) Donegal\, Nolunga Shologu\, Community Links Worker & Project Lead for CARA- DONEGAL\, and Sheril Davies\, CARA facilitator\n\nModerated by Fadl Mustapha\, Donegal Youth Service and Co-Chair of Implementation Group – Donegal Black and Ethnic Minority Strategy \nJourneying towards equality and belonging: experiences from regions across Europe \n\nListening better to improve policymaking: the case of the Timis Minority Council\, Agneta Kardos\, EU-Belong Project manager\, Timis\, Romania\nAddressing the issue of youth gangs through street education\, Marzio Barbieri\, Social\, inclusion and equal opportunities policies\, Emilia Romagna\, Italy\nThe intercultural approach in rural areas: an instrument for regional attractiveness\, Joakim Sandberg\, Director of Cultural Affairs\, Västerbotten\, Sweden\nIntroducing interculturalism into public institutions and their agenda to address societal challenges\, Agnieszka Szczepanik\, Migration Specialist – Intercultural Advisor\, Poznan\, Poland\n\nModerated by Emanuela Pisanò\, EU Belong Project Manager\, Assembly of European Regions. Co-moderated by Vania Freitas\, Coordinator for Institutional Relations & Advocacy\, Assembly of European Regions.\n \nCharting the course of intercultural policies & practices in Ireland\n \n\nPresentation by Geraldine McTavish\, Equity\, Diversity and Inclusion Manager\, Gaelic Athletic Association\nPresentation by Sharon McLaughlin\, EDI Lead for Atlantic Technology University Letterkenny\,  and 2 students\nPresentation by Carmel Irandoust\, Founder of NETLOVE\n\nModerated by Micheal O’Heanaigh\, AER Vice President for Youth\, Culture & Tourism \nVisit to Intercultural Coffee Morning: Inishowen Partnership’s projects \nVisit One Million Stars Exhibition \nCommunity Cornerstones: learning with and from stakeholders \n\nDonegal Intercultural Platform\, Paul Kernan\, Project Coordinator DIP\, and Balume Dube\, Community Worker DIP and Training & Development lead\, Think Equality Donegal project\nDonegal Travellers Project\, Kate Hagan\, Community Development & Health Worker\, Hugh Friel\, North West Roma Health Coordinator\nDonegal Youth Service\, Loraine Thompson and Fadl Mustapha\nDonegal Volunteer Centre\, John Curran\, Manager\nDonegal Local Development Company\, Joleen Kuyper Machado\, Diversity\, Equality and Inclusion Officer\nDonegal Regional Culture Centre\, Jeremy Howard\, Director\, Regional Cultural Centre\, and Dr. Harriet Purkis\, Curator\, Living in Donegal Project\n\nFacilitated by Johanna Pacevicius\, Coordinator Policy & Knowledge Transfer\, Assembly of European Regions \nClosing Addresses \n\nChristina O’Donnell\, Staff Officer\, Social Inclusion Unit Donegal County Council & EU-Belong project Manager\nEmanuela Pisanò\, EU Belong Project Manager\, Assembly of European Regions\n\n  \nRead the full concept and agenda of the event\nFor more information\, contact Mirjam de Jong (m.dejong@aer.eu) \n\nThe event is the second EU-BELONG transnational knowledge sharing event aimed at supporting regions in addressing current societal challenges through intercultural and multi-stakeholder policies.  EU-Belong is a 3-year project run by the Assembly of European Regions (AER) and 12 partners\, and co-funded by the AMIF Programme (AMIF-2020-AG-CALL) of the European Union.
URL:https://aer.eu/events/eu-belong-intercultural-integration-a-shared-journey-towards-equality-and-belonging/
LOCATION:Letterkenny\, Donegal\, Ireland
CATEGORIES:AER Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://aer.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/EU-Belong-Donegal-KTE-March-2024.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20240314T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20240314T130000
DTSTAMP:20260407T043009
CREATED:20240227T155237Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240311T132225Z
UID:47305-1710410400-1710421200@aer.eu
SUMMARY:AER & Interreg NEXT MED | Online info session | Funding Opportunities
DESCRIPTION:Are you looking into funding opportunities for projects in the Mediterranean region? \nJoin us for an online information session with the managing authority (the Autonomous Region of Sardinia) of the Interreg NEXT MED funding Programme on 14 March from 10am – 1pm (CEST). \nThe online event will focus on the Programme and the funding opportunities it gives to EU and non-EU countries in the Mediterranean region. For the first time\, the Programme is open to Algeria and Turkey (more info on the Programme and eligible countries here). \nTogether\, we will delve into funding opportunities and the first call for project proposals\, with an interesting outlook on future calls for projects foreseen for the next years. \nDo not miss out on the opportunity to have a dedicated Q&A session with the managing authority of the whole funding Programme\, as we will have time to address general aspects\, such as how to be part of the first project call\, and specific aspects\, such as funding rules and how to find partners to join forces in applying for funding. \nThe event is open for AER members and non-AER members\, but we recommend checking the eligibility area with its list of countries to be sure that you are within the geographical area of interest! \nHave a look at the agenda of the event! \nPlease complete the registration form if you would like to attend.
URL:https://aer.eu/events/aer-interreg-next-med-online-info-session-funding-opportunities/
LOCATION:Catalonia
CATEGORIES:AER Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://aer.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/AER-Interreg-NEXT-MED-Online-info-session.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240314
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240318
DTSTAMP:20260407T043009
CREATED:20231215T113737Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240314T094608Z
UID:46686-1710374400-1710719999@aer.eu
SUMMARY:[Sold out] Youth Regional Network (YRN) General Assembly | Zalău\, Sălaj County\, Romania | 14-17 March 2024
DESCRIPTION:Save the Date & Apply! The Youth Regional Network (YRN) will gather in Zalău (Sălaj County\, Romania) for their annual General Assembly\, between the 14th and the 17th of March 2024! \n\nDRAFT AGENDA \nCLICK HERE TO APPLY* \n*Your application will be reviewed\, and the AER Secretariat will send a confirmation email to the selected participants. Please do not make any travel arrangements before receiving a confirmation email. \n  \nPRACTICAL INFORMATION\n# Event’s location \nThe YRN General Assembly will take place in Zalău\, Sălaj County\, Romania. \nThe location can be reached by flying to the Cluj-Napoca “Avram Iancu” International Airport. Shuttles (3 maximum: morning\, mid-day\, end afternoon) will be organised by Sălaj County between Cluj airport and Zalău on Thursday 14 March\, and between Zalău and Cluj airport on Sunday 17 March. Selected participants only will receive detailed information and schedule of these shuttles. Pre-booked taxis could constitute an option if necessary. \nOnce you receive your confirmation email from the AER Secretariat\, it will be mandatory to send us your exact arrival and departure times. Otherwise\, your participation will be canceled. \n# Accommodation \nHotel options in Zalău are to be communicated to selected participants only. The current prices are approximately between 30€ and 60€ per person and per night (prices vary if you opt for a shared room with another participant\, or for a single room). \n# Solidarity Fund \nYoung participants whose travel costs cannot be supported by their region\, a regional council\, a youth regional council\, a youth organisation\, etc.\, may apply to the MEET/YRN Solidarity Fund. If accepted\, the AER can cover up to 200-250€ of your travel and accommodation costs\, as a reimbursement by bank transfer after your attendance to the entire event\, and if you provide all necessary supportive documents (invoices\, receipts\, original boarding passes\, train tickets\, bus tickets). The reimbursement may exceed 250€ depending on the final number of participants. \n  \nWHAT IS THE YRN AND ITS GENERAL ASSEMBLY?\nCreated by the Assembly of European Regions (AER) in 2008\, the Youth Regional Network (YRN) is a cross-regional youth platform\, promoting active youth participation at regional level. The YRN provides young people with an opportunity to express policy recommendations\, foster debate and capacity-building\, to exchange good practices\, to reach out to decision-makers\, and to influence policies. JOIN THE YRN HERE. \nThe YRN General Assembly is an annual event where YRN members and young people interested in the programme have the opportunity to gather around workshops\, capacity-building activities and debates\, to exchange views and ideas with other young people from across Europe. \nThe YRN General Assembly is also the moment to elect the YRN Presidium for a one-year mandate. Here\, members of the YRN only have the chance to elect the YRN President\, Vice-Presidents and Chairs of the Thematic Committees. YRN members only can apply to such positions (the application form is included in the registration form to the present event)\, with priority given to YRN members based in AER member regions. Voting and eligibility rights are detailed in the YRN Statutes. \n# MEET Intergenerational Debate on the Future of Europe \nThe YRN General Assembly 2024 will include a MEET Intergenerational Debate on the Future of Europe. The MEET project (Mobilise Europe = Engage Together) is funded by the Citizens\, Equality\, Rights and Values Programme (CERV) of the European Commission and led by the European Youth Forum (YFJ)\, in partnership with the AER. Ahead of the 2024 European elections\, the MEET project aims at offering space for diverse groups of European citizens to discuss the future of Europe at local and regional level. The MEET Regional Debates aim at creating space to make youth voices heard and to foster intergenerational debate between young people and politicians.
URL:https://aer.eu/events/yrn-general-assembly-2024/
LOCATION:Catalonia
CATEGORIES:AER Events,YRN Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://aer.eu/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Visual-YRN-GA-2024.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20231123T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20231123T100000
DTSTAMP:20260407T043009
CREATED:20231102T154913Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231102T173546Z
UID:46479-1700733600-1700733600@aer.eu
SUMMARY:Addressing racial discrimination in housing: a multistakeholder approach
DESCRIPTION:For this first EU-Belong webinar on 23 November from 10:00-11:00 CET\, we will discuss the challenge of addressing racial discrimination in access to housing\, based on the experience of the Municipality of Olot\, a medium-sized city of Catalonia. \nThe event\, which will provide insights into this specific case\, foresees 30mn of exchange with participants to explore obstacles\, enablers and elements for transferability. The event is open to all. \n \nProfessor Quim Brugué\, from the University of Girona\, will share how the Municipality of Olot \n\nAnalysed the causes and the impact of racial discrimination practices faced by third-country nationals\nBrought together key stakeholders in a regular exchange to identify solutions\nEnvisages the processes to enable the implementation of proposed solutions\n\nIn particular\, when it identified a problem of racist-driven real estate discrimination\, the municipality of Olot decided to collaborate with the University of Girona to analyse the problem and develop solutions. In collaboration with academia experts\, real-estate representatives\, entities\, and affected people the municipality of Olot started out a process to outline a comprehensive approach to fight discrimination. \nThis process involved arranging meetings and dialogues among key stakeholders\, with the support of the University. The primary goal of these interactions was to identify potential solutions and present them to the City Council. \nThe approach placed strong emphasis on building mutual understanding\, recognition\, and trust among all the people involved. \nThe webinar will be moderated by Laura Sentis Margalef\, EU Belong Project Officer at the Department for Equality and Feminisms of Catalonia. \nQuim Brugué is Professor of Political Science at the University of Girona as well as researcher on democratic innovation and modernization of public policies in the Research Group on Applied Social Sciences at the same university. \nFor more information about this event\, please contact AER Coordinator for Policy & Knowledge Transfer Johanna Pacevicius
URL:https://aer.eu/events/addressing-racial-discrimination-in-housing-a-multistakeholder-approach/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:AER Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aer.eu/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/EU-Belong-Webinar-1-2--jpg.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20231106T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20231109T140000
DTSTAMP:20260407T043009
CREATED:20230724T070056Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240201T163624Z
UID:44966-1699293600-1699538400@aer.eu
SUMMARY:[Sold out] Eurodyssey Forum 2023\, São Miguel Island\, Azores
DESCRIPTION:Organised every year in a Eurodyssey region\, the Eurodyssey Forum offers a unique opportunity for regions to exchange around plenary sessions\, capacity-building workshops\, study visits and informal networking moments. Open to elected politicians\, civil servants and young beneficiaries from the AER/Eurodyssey member regions and beyond\, the Forum is the annual showcase of the Eurodyssey programme. In 2023\, for the European Year of Skills\, the Region of Azores (Portugal) will host the Eurodyssey Forum for the first time since 2008! \n \n \n*Registrations are open until the 8th of October on a “first-come\, first-served basis”. After this date\, registrations will be possible only based on the number of spots still available. This deadline applies to international participants only. Participants based in the Azores will still be able to register after the 8th of October. \n  \nA Eurodyssey Forum for the European Year of Skills\nEurodyssey is the flagship youth regional mobility programme of the Assembly of European Regions\, entirely managed at regional level\, and providing paid traineeships to the young beneficiaries across the participating regions\, in various sectors. During 3 to 7 months\, the trainees will benefit from valuable professional experience and mentoring in another European region\, together with language training and cultural and social activities. Enriched from this experience\, the programme’s beneficiaries will have boosted their employability\, skills\, international comfort and personal development. Besides the traineeship experience\, Eurodyssey is a unique opportunity to boost mutual understanding and intercultural learning\, and to raise awareness about regional diversity in Europe –  one of AER’s strong pillars. \nOn this year’s European Year of Skills\, the opening plenary of the Eurodyssey Forum 2023 will focus on Youth mobility and skills development in rural and peripheral areas. \nThe programme also includes capacity-building workshops and exchanges of best practices to boost the Eurodyssey programme in the participating regions\, and to give the opportunity to other stakeholders and regional representatives to discover first-hand what the programme is about\, and how it could be developed and implemented in their own regions\, should they wish to join Eurodyssey. In addition to the plenaries and workshops\, the host Region of Azores will take the participants to study visits\, to discover the natural and industrial heritage of the region. \n  \nElection of the Eurodyssey Steering Committee\nThis year’s Eurodyssey Forum will include the election of the Eurodyssey Steering Committee\, including the Eurodyssey President\, for the next two-year mandate. The Eurodyssey participating regions will receive a dedicated call for candidacies. Please note that only regions taking part in Eurodyssey are eligible to these elections. \n  \nA MEET Intergenerational Regional Debate\nThe Eurodyssey Forum will include an Intergenerational Regional Debate as part of the MEET project (Mobile Europe = Engage Together)\, an EU-funded project led by the European Youth Forum (YFJ)\, in partnership with the AER. Ahead of the 2024 European elections\, the MEET project aims at offering space for diverse groups of European citizens to discuss Europe at local and regional level. The MEET Regional Debates aim at creating space to make youth voices heard and to foster intergenerational debate between young people and politicians. 
URL:https://aer.eu/events/eurodyssey-forum-2023-azores-european-year-of-skills/
LOCATION:São Miguel Island\, Ponta Delgada\, Azores\, Portugal
CATEGORIES:AER Eurodyssey Forums
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aer.eu/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/logo-EY-forum-2023-jpg.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20231027T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20231027T160000
DTSTAMP:20260407T043009
CREATED:20230928T212321Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231024T102600Z
UID:46033-1698415200-1698422400@aer.eu
SUMMARY:[Registrations open] Working group on Mental Health | Kick-off meeting
DESCRIPTION:The AER General Assembly in Barcelona in June 2023 adopted the creation of a working group on mental health. \nThe group will meet online on 27 October from 14:00-16:00 CEST for the first time to define its action plan for the coming months. This meeting is open to all AER members \n \nKicking-off activities\nThe proposal to develop a working group on the mental mealth was presented by Värmland (SE)\, with the support of Alba (RO)\, Arad (RO)\, Kharkiv (UA)\, Odesa (UA)\, Norrbotten(SE)\, and Vojvodina (RS). Since the General Assembly last June\, several other regions including Nordland (NO)\, Västerbotten (SE)\, Västra-Götaland (SE) Brussels Capital (BE) have also expressed interest in joining the activities of the group. All AER regions are welcome to register! \nDuring this first meeting\, AER members interested in sharing experiences and knowledge on the topic of mental health will: \n\nget to know each other (pitch on the region)\nshare why the topic matters for them now\nshare how the working group will create value for them: what they expect\, how they would like to contribute\nagree on how to collaborate with the AER Youth Regional Network\, which has also been working on the topic\ndefine activities for the coming months\n\nThe group will also agree on who should be the Chair of the Working Group \nMore information on how to set-up a working group at AER here. \nFor any questions\, please contact AER Coordinator for Policy & Knowledge Transfer Johanna Pacevicius \n  \nPicture by Sonia Sanmartin on Unsplash
URL:https://aer.eu/events/working-group-on-mental-kick-off-meeting/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:AER Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://aer.eu/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/test-knowledge-cohesion-policy-Instagram-Story-jpg.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20231009T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20231009T220000
DTSTAMP:20260407T043009
CREATED:20230925T133658Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20231010T102535Z
UID:45993-1696874400-1696888800@aer.eu
SUMMARY:[Registrations closed] YOUTHopia Evening Debate & Photojournalism Exhibition
DESCRIPTION:  \nAre you in Brussels during the European Week of Regions and Cities?  You still have some space in your busy agenda? Then\, here is something you should not miss! \nDive into YOUTHopia and join us for an evening discussion and an Italian Aperitivo\, on the 9th of October at @Atelier 29\, in Brussels. \nThis evening dialogue\, which marks the conclusion of the YOUTHopia project\, aims to promote strategic collaboration between politicians\, regional representatives and youth representatives\, and foster better communication and storytelling on Cohesion Policy. We have the goal of creating a community of good practices based on the involvement of citizens in the upcoming discussions on the future of Cohesion Policy. \nHear inputs from Babel International\, media professionals\, the Youth Regional Network (YRN) and the European Commission. \nYOUTHopia ends\, but our work on Cohesion continues! \nOn this occasion\, the AER – a long-standing partner in the defence of a strong Cohesion Policy – will not only showcase the results of the project\, but will also launch a renewed political Task Force on Cohesion\, with a view to advocate for our regions in the crucial coming months ahead of new negotiations. \nPictures (see more here)\n\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n			\n				\n			\n		\n \n  \nMain contacts: \nBarbara Polin\, b.polin@aer.eu \nLarisa Stanciu\, l.stanciu@aer.eu
URL:https://aer.eu/events/registrations-open-youthopia-evening-debate-photojournalism-exhibition/
LOCATION:Catalonia
CATEGORIES:AER Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20230906T080000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/Brussels:20230907T170000
DTSTAMP:20260407T043009
CREATED:20230704T144519Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20230823T112702Z
UID:44922-1693987200-1694106000@aer.eu
SUMMARY:[REGISTRATIONS OPEN] Includ-EU Final Conference: Including all & embracing diversity
DESCRIPTION:  \nInclud-EU is proud to announce the dates for its final conference in Brussels on the 6th and 7th of September\, open to all AER member regions regions\, cities and organisations across Europe!   \nThe conference is mostly an in-person event but allows for online attendance and interaction through a dedicated live stream. \nThe focus will be on the Includ-EU results and lessons learned\, outlining the contexts and needs in which the pilot initiatives promoting integration at regional and local levels were implemented in their respective territory. After high-level plenary discussion with key pan-european stakeholders\, participants will have the chance to “deep-dive” into the challenges and learnings of some of the pilots and gather inspiration regarding the good practices when it comes to replicating them in their own context. \n Finally\, the results of the project\, as well as findings on what creates sustainable learning communities around inclusion policies and practices will be handed officially over to the donor\, the European Commission. This will also represent a moment to strengthen the institutional commitment of the involved partners to a more inclusive and cohesive Europe. \nRegistration Link for onsite participation (deadline 30 August):  \nhttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe-iYzzPLiHz1gB8z42S3Z4bpSyrSxCdICQ9_pz54tJKnpLMg/viewform  \n  \nRegistration Link for online participation (DAY 1 only): https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_IJ3CEhLsRPOiuTWPK9JSBA  \n  \nAgenda: \nInclud-EU Final Conference_Agenda_website (1) \nFor more information\, please contact: Anna Comacchio\, a.comacchio@aer.eu
URL:https://aer.eu/events/includ-eu-final-conference-save-the-date/
LOCATION:Catalonia
CATEGORIES:AER Events
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR