From 1-3 October 2023, in Dubrovnik, Croatia, CEV hosted the CEV Autumn Volunteering Congress 2023, themed “Collaborative Communities” under the banner of #REACT – Rights & Equality – Active Citizens Together. The event brought together experts, CSOs’ representatives, and advocates of volunteering across Europe, creating a platform for meaningful discussions on civic engagement and volunteering. Among the participants was Ms. Simona Mladenovska, BCSDN Policy, and Advocacy Officer, who shared insights into BCSDN’s work and its advocacy strategies based on the findings of annual Monitoring Matrix report.
During the Plenary Presentations, Simona Mladenovska shared the stage with Mr. Richard Allen, the team leader of EU TASCO 3. In her address, Mladenovska introduced the audience to the essential work conducted by BCSDN. She presented the latest findings from the Monitoring Matrux report, shedding light on the current state of volunteering in the Balkans, including both challenges and opportunities. Utilizing MM data and insights, Ms. Mladenovska further elaborated on how the network advocates effectively for volunteering and civil society development. Additionally, Ms. Mladenovska provided valuable cultural context about volunteering in the Balkans, highlighting its deep historical roots and its role in fostering community cohesion.
Ms. Mladenovska speech at the CEV Autumn Volunteering Congress 2023 highlighted the importance of teamwork in promoting civic engagement and collaborative communities in Europe, emphasizing the impact of collective action in shaping a better future through volunteering and civic participation.
The CEV Autumn Volunteering Congress 2023 connected stakeholders, encouraging collaboration, and renewing civic engagement efforts. It emphasized volunteering’s role in building communities and highlighted CSOs’ impact on positive regional change.