Civil society actors in Moldova can gain valuable insights from the experiences of their European Union (EU) counterparts,particularly in light of Moldova’s ongoing EU accession discussions. To facilitate this,DRI partnered with Centrul de Politici u0219i Reforme (CPR Moldova) for a study trip to Berlin,which provided participants with exposure to best practices in goveance,civic participation,and NGO administration.
Germany is perfect for this educational experience, thanks to its strong democratic institutions and active civic society.
The visit to Berlin became for me not only an opportunity to exchange experiences with colleagues from civil society and NGOs in the German capital but also a chance to establish inteational connections. (Olga Antonova,C.A. “Active Citizen)
The goal of the visit was to promote cross-border cooperation between participants from Moldova and German Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) while also offering useful insights into the day-to-day activities of grassroots organisations and policy advocacy groups in Berlin. We wanted to introduce Moldovan civil society representatives to successful models of NGO management,advocacy,and public participation in decision-making processes.
Participants met with Philipp Rhein,Engagement Officer of Bezirksamt Neukölln and talked with DRI colleagues working in the MENA region. They also visited Holzmarkt and talked to Changing Cities e.V. as well as to Nomadisch Grün gGmbH.
The study visit to Berlin gave me the opportunity to see the different approaches and practices of NGOs in Berlin. I liked the diversity of the projects as well as the strong emphasis on civic engagement. (Nadejda Buzu,AO Comunitatea “DOR” Dezvoltare Oportunitu0103u021bi Rurale”)
Five participants from the Instigation to Democracy program were selected for this study trip by our partner,CPR Moldova. Priority was given to candidates who had previously participated in civil society,showcased leadership abilities,and had the capacity to use the knowledge they had gained in their communities. We also prioritised the selection of women and representatives from under-represented groups.
This study trip to Berlin was an opportunity for experiential leaing of successful practices of non-govemental organizations and public institutions in Berlin. We leaed that public-private partnerships bring about great results,and we will adopt methods and strategies for community mobilization. (Marianna Bejenari,A.O Asociau021bia Cadrelor Didactice Fu0103leu0219ti)
On the last day,participants went on a tour of significant Berlin sites: Brandenburg Gate,the Govement Quarter,and the Holocaust Memorial. They also had a bit of time to enjoy some of Berlin’s many Christmas Markets.
It was more than just a study visit and exchange of professional experiences; this visit enriched me greatly from a cultural perspective and contributed to the development of my knowledge horizon. (Aurica Guzun,AO Comunitatea “DOR” Dezvoltare Oportunitu0103u021bi Rurale”)
We hope that the study visit greatly aided in the organisational capacity building of Moldovan civil society,giving participants the information and motivation they needed to carry out meaningful projects in their local areas.
Such study visits contribute significantly to the development of organizational capacity,offer you some ceilings that you are challenged to reach,and then you understand that what you knew was little compared to what the future holds for you. (Aurica)