Rethinking and Reshapingthe EU’s Democracy Supportin Its Eastern and Southern Neighbourhoods

Consortium holds its 2nd Annual Progress Meeting in Barcelona

From September 30 to October 2, SHAPEDEM-EU partners gathered at the Barcelona Centre for International Affairs (CIDOB) for their 2nd Annual Progress Meeting (APM).

The APM began with a consortium-internal workshop on Work Package 6, titled "Non-EU External Actors: Partners, Competitors, or Adversaries?" During this session, partners presented their findings on the democracy support practices — or lack thereof — of 12 non-EU actors in the Union’s Eastern and Southern Neighborhood.

In the afternoon, the consortium shifted focus to engage with the general public by hosting a conference on the EU's role in Ukraine and Palestine. With an external audience in attendance, panelists led insightful discussions on the EU's differing approaches in these two conflict-affected regions.

The second day featured presentations from all Work Package leaders, who shared key achievements and challenges from the project's second year. These presentations sparked lively discussions among project partners. The consortium is pleased to report significant progress toward its objectives and confirms that tasks are progressing on schedule.

On the final day, the consortium met with European Commission officers and then discussed internally outreach strategies and the sustainability of project results.

The consortium extends its gratitude to CIDOB for hosting the meeting in their beautiful venue, surrounded by the vibrant atmosphere of sunny Barcelona.