EGTC Euroregion Baltic General Assembly in Kalmar - Strategic Directions for Future Cooperation

On 4 November 2026, the General Assembly of the European Grouping of Territorial Cooperation Euroregion Baltic (EGTC Euroregion Baltic) took place in Kalmar, Sweden. The meeting focused on the grouping’s ongoing activities, organisational matters and strategic priorities for territorial cooperation in 2027 and beyond. The meeting was also particularly significant in view of the upcoming presidency of the Association of Polish Communes Euroregion Baltic.

Organisational Matters and the Functioning of the EGTC

One of the main topics of the General Assembly concerned the functioning of EGTC Euroregion Baltic, including the 2027 budget, previously approved through a written procedure, and its potential revision. The agenda also covered accounting arrangements, the activities of the Supervisory Committee and the adoption of the Rules of Procedure governing the grouping’s operations.

A new logo for EGTC Euroregion Baltic was also presented as part of efforts to develop a consistent visual identity and strengthen the grouping’s visibility.

International Cooperation and New Initiatives

A significant part of the meeting was devoted to EGTC Euroregion Baltic’s participation as an observer in the Joint Programming Committee for the Interreg South Baltic Programme. Information was presented from the Committee’s first meeting, held in Warsaw on 27–28 October 2026.

Participants also discussed the progress of the working group addressing labour market issues, skills development and demographic challenges. Another topic was a proposal for a new project initiative from Klaipėda University, in which EGTC Euroregion Baltic had been invited to participate as an associated partner.

The agenda also included a presentation on negotiations concerning the EU’s next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), addressing future funding opportunities for European activities and initiatives.

Priorities for 2027 and Beyond

A key part of the General Assembly was a discussion on the strategic development of Euroregion Baltic in the coming years. Participants exchanged views on future priorities, shared challenges and opportunities to further strengthen cooperation among partners across the Baltic Sea Region.

The agenda also included a discussion of the draft General Assembly statement and proposed dates for meetings in 2027.

The meeting in Kalmar also had a special, personal significance. It provided an opportunity to express appreciation to Niels Chresten Andersen, one of the pioneers of Euroregion Baltic, who has spent 26 years helping shape its history and strengthen cooperation among its partners. This was his final meeting in his capacity as a representative of the Bornholm Region in the Euroregion Baltic Secretariat.

The Association of Polish Communes Euroregion Baltic Prepares to Assume the Presidency

The General Assembly in Kalmar was particularly significant for the Association of Polish Communes Euroregion Baltic in view of its upcoming presidency of EGTC Euroregion Baltic.

The forthcoming change in leadership will bring new responsibilities, including coordinating cooperation among partners and helping shape the grouping’s strategic development.

The meeting therefore marked an important step in preparing for future joint activities, strengthening international partnerships and making more effective use of opportunities offered by European programmes and initiatives.

D-EFFECT Project and Youth Democracy Festivals Featured on the Official EUSBSR Website!

Our activities are gaining international visibility! An article highlighting the D-EFFECT project, the Youth Democracy Festivals (YDF), and the methodology we have developed to engage young people in democratic processes has been published on the official website of the EU Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region (EUSBSR).

This is an important recognition for our Association and an excellent opportunity to promote our activities, including the Youth Democracy Festival in Elbląg, across the entire Baltic Sea Region. The publication is particularly significant given the D-EFFECT project's status as an Operation of Strategic Importance (OSI) under the Interreg South Baltic Programme.

The D-EFFECT project directly contributes to the implementation of the EU Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region in the field of education – Policy Area Education, Action 1: "Fostering inclusive education to prepare young people for future challenges".

Through activities implemented at both local and international levels, the project creates opportunities for young people to develop civic competences, engage in intergenerational dialogue, and participate in public decision-making.

The recognition of our activities on the official EUSBSR website is an important step in their international dissemination, as well as in promoting the Youth Democracy Festival methodology as a tool for strengthening youth participation in public life.

We encourage you to read the article "Youth Democracy Festivals empower youth as the future of democracy":

Youth Democracy Festivals empower youth as the future of democracy

PORThack Elbląg 2026 - Innovative Solutions for the Future of Ports and Third Place for the STG ERB Team

On 23 October 2026, the international PORThack Elbląg 2026 hackathon took place in Elbląg, bringing together representatives of academia, business and institutions involved in the maritime and port sectors. The event focused on developing innovative solutions to real challenges faced by ports. A team representing the Association of Polish Communes Euroregion Baltic (STG ERB) and Gdańsk University of Technology won third place in the competition with their concept, PORT-WISE – Ports & Water Intelligence for Sustainable Ecosystems.

Cooperation for Innovation in the Port Sector

PORThack Elbląg 2026 brought together scientific knowledge, industry experience and creative approaches to addressing real challenges in the port sector. Participants worked together to explore solutions supporting sustainable development, innovation and the resilience of port infrastructure to environmental challenges.

The event was opened by Arkadiusz Zgliński, representing the Port of Elbląg, and Konstantinos Madias from SUBMARINER Network / EIT Water. An important part of the programme was a study visit to the Port of Elbląg, where participants had the opportunity to learn about its infrastructure, operations and development plans.

From Real Challenges to Innovative Concepts

During the hackathon, interdisciplinary teams worked on challenges related to sustainable water management, pollution reduction, the circular economy, digitalisation and port infrastructure security.

With support from mentors and experts, participants developed concepts addressing the challenges presented during the competition. Their proposals were then presented to a jury, which evaluated them in terms of innovation, potential impact, feasibility and opportunities for practical implementation.

PORT-WISE – Third Place for STG ERB and Gdańsk University of Technology

Among the award-winning teams was the group representing the Association of Polish Communes Euroregion Baltic and Gdańsk University of Technology, which secured third place with its concept, PORT-WISE – Ports & Water Intelligence for Sustainable Ecosystems.

The proposed solution involves developing an integrated smart water management system for port areas. It combines blue-green infrastructure, nature-based solutions (NBS), rainwater retention and treatment, circular economy principles and modern monitoring technologies.

The concept aims to help reduce flood risks, improve water quality, use resources more efficiently and strengthen the resilience of port infrastructure to the impacts of climate change. It was developed with the Port of Elbląg in mind, including the planned Terminal 2, with the potential for further development and application in other ports.

The award-winning team consisted of Marcin Żuchowski, Director of the Association of Polish Communes Euroregion Baltic, Prof. Magdalena Gajewska, Dr Eng. Grażyna Gałęzowska, Alicja Kupczyk and Radosław Kujawski from Gdańsk University of Technology.

International Cooperation and Knowledge Exchange

PORThack Elbląg 2026 was not only a competition for innovative ideas but also an opportunity to exchange knowledge and experience and establish connections between representatives of different sectors. The event concluded with a networking session, allowing participants to discuss potential cooperation and opportunities to further develop the concepts presented.

The event demonstrated how cooperation between academia, business and institutions can contribute to developing practical solutions that support the sustainable development of port infrastructure.

PORThack Elbląg 2026 was organised by SUBMARINER Network and the Port of Elbląg Authority, with support from EIT Water and the Grundfos Foundation.

Photo coverage: obiektywni.pro – photography and video for business.

CONE Final Conference - From Local Initiatives to a Joint Urban Greening Strategy

On 22 October 2026, the final conference of the CONE – Cities of Nature project took place in Padova, Italy. The event focused on presenting the results of international cooperation aimed at developing urban green infrastructure and implementing Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) in Central European cities. It brought together project partners, representatives of local authorities and experts working on sustainable urban development and climate change adaptation.

Reviewing the Results of International Cooperation

The conference was opened by Ciro Degl’Innocenti, representing the City of Padova, and Gregorio Vichi from the Interreg Central Europe Joint Secretariat.

The event provided an opportunity to present the key results of the CONE project, including practical pilot actions implemented in partner cities, as well as tools, methods and strategies developed to support municipalities in implementing Nature-Based Solutions.

An important aspect of the project was also strengthening cooperation between local authorities, researchers and residents, particularly through local Living Labs. These participatory initiatives enabled stakeholders to jointly identify environmental challenges and develop solutions tailored to the needs of local communities.

Expert Discussions – Experiences, Tools and Opportunities for Replicating CONE Results

Expert discussions formed an important part of the conference, focusing on the project's results and their potential application in other cities and regions across Central Europe.

The first discussion featured Attila Varga, Marcin Żuchowski, Magda Kasprzyk and Michaela Novotná. The conversation focused on experiences gained from implementing pilot investments, the role of local Living Labs and tools supporting municipalities in planning and implementing NBS.

Participants also addressed opportunities to transfer good practices to other cities, taking into account local environmental, organisational and social conditions. Particular attention was given to the guidelines for Living Labs, the NBS Toolbox and the Joint Strategy for Urban Greening Plans across Central Europe developed within the project.

One of the key messages emerging from the project is the need to treat green infrastructure as an integral part of long-term urban development planning rather than as a series of isolated investments. Effective implementation of Nature-Based Solutions requires institutional cooperation, appropriate technical preparation and active involvement of local communities.

Nature Restoration and the Perspective of Local Authorities

The conference programme also included a presentation by Michele Munafò from the Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA), focusing on the EU Nature Restoration Law.

A further expert discussion brought together representatives of Italian local authorities, including Nicoletta Paiaro from the City of Padova and Francesca Salsi and Graziana Bonvicini from the City of Reggio Emilia. The discussion provided an opportunity to explore the perspective of local governments on the development of urban green infrastructure and the challenges associated with implementing NBS.

Workshops and the Future Use of Project Results

The afternoon session was dedicated to workshops, providing participants with an opportunity to exchange experiences and explore the practical application of the knowledge and results developed within the CONE project.

The final conference was not only an opportunity to review the activities carried out but also to reflect on the future of Nature-Based Solutions in Central European cities. Experiences gained from pilot investments, the development of tools supporting municipalities and international cooperation provide a foundation for further sharing of good practices and strengthening urban resilience to climate change.

The results of the CONE project demonstrate that effective climate change adaptation requires a combination of technical expertise, long-term planning, institutional cooperation and active citizen participation in shaping urban spaces.

CONE Project Partners Meet inbPadova - Study Visits Highlight Practical Nature-Based Solutions for Climate Adaptation

On 20–21 October 2026, an international meeting of partners from the CONE – Cities of Nature project took place in Padova, Italy. The two-day programme combined a project consortium meeting with study visits focusing on the implementation of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) in urban areas. Participants discussed project progress and explored the CONE pilot investment alongside other examples of green urban infrastructure developed in Padova.

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Consortium Meeting and Review of Project Activities

The first day was dedicated to a consortium meeting, during which project partners discussed project management, the current status of planned activities and preparations for the final project event.

The meeting also provided an opportunity to exchange experiences related to implementing Nature-Based Solutions in partner cities. Particular attention was given to progress in pilot activities and the potential to use the project's results in future initiatives supporting sustainable urban development.

CONE Pilot Investment – Rain Gardens in Padova

On the second day, project partners participated in study visits, with the main focus on the CONE pilot investment located in Via della Ricerca Scientifica in Padova.

The investment involves transforming 256 m² of paved surfaces into a system of 16 rain gardens designed to naturally collect, filter and gradually absorb rainwater. The solution aims to reduce surface runoff, relieve pressure on the urban stormwater drainage system and improve local environmental conditions.

An important component of the pilot investment is the integration of environmental monitoring technologies. A system of sensors enables the collection of data on water retention and meteorological parameters, including temperature and rainfall. The information gathered will help assess the effectiveness of the implemented NBS measures and provide valuable insights for planning similar investments in other urban areas.

The Padua pilot demonstrates how even relatively small interventions in highly urbanised areas can support climate change adaptation, improve stormwater management and contribute to the development of green infrastructure.

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Urban Green Infrastructure – Study Visits to Piazza Savelli and Parco Guizza

The second day's programme also included visits to two other locations in Padova – Piazza Savelli and Parco Guizza. Participants explored initiatives implemented by the City of Padua independently of the CONE project budget, providing additional examples of Nature-Based Solutions in practice.

At Piazza Savelli, the participants learned about the transformation of paved urban space into an area with more permeable surfaces and increased greenery. At Parco Guizza, they explored solutions aimed at expanding urban green spaces, supporting biodiversity and improving environmental and recreational conditions in the city.

Knowledge Exchange and Practical Applications of Nature-Based Solutions

The two-day meeting in Padua provided CONE project partners with an opportunity to exchange experiences and gain first-hand insights into different approaches to urban climate change adaptation.

One of the most valuable aspects of the study visits was the combination of Nature-Based Solutions with technologies designed to monitor their effectiveness. This approach makes it possible not only to implement green infrastructure but also to assess its actual impact on stormwater management and environmental conditions in urban areas.

The experiences gained during the meeting provide a valuable reference for further use of the CONE project's results and the development of similar solutions in partner cities.

3rd Round Table in Elbląg – Young People and Adults Jointly Develop the Programme for the Youth Democracy Festival

On 7 October 2026, the third and final Round Table meeting was held in Elbląg as part of the D-effect project, focusing on preparations for the Youth Democracy Festival (YDF), scheduled for November. During the meeting, young people and adults worked together to develop the festival programme, drawing on experiences from previous festivals and ideas generated during earlier consultations.

The meeting marked the culmination of several months of preparations based on intergenerational dialogue and active participation of the local community. Its main objective was to turn the collected proposals into a preliminary festival agenda, ensuring that the event would not only be aimed at young people but, above all, developed with their direct involvement.

An important part of the meeting was the exchange of experiences among young people who had previously participated in Youth Democracy Festivals held in Kretinga, Lithuania, Odsherred, Denmark, and Olsztynek and Dzierzgoń, Poland.

The young participants identified both the most valuable aspects of these events and areas for improvement. They highlighted the importance of international integration, appropriate division of participants into groups, communication in English, and maintaining a balance between workshops, discussions and time for informal conversations.

They also emphasised the need for greater youth involvement in organising events, reducing the length of panel discussions, and preparing alternative activities in case of unfavourable weather conditions.

These conclusions provided a foundation for further work on the programme of the festival in Elbląg.

Democracy, Disinformation and Intergenerational Dialogue

During the workshops, participants developed numerous proposals concerning both the themes and format of the upcoming event. Ideas included a mock trial addressing the issue of hate speech, workshops on disinformation and the manipulation of health-related information, debates on cultural differences, and activities focusing on civic education and the functioning of e-government services.

Intergenerational relations also played an important role in the discussions. Participants proposed activities that would enable young people and senior citizens to exchange experiences and discuss their mutual expectations and challenges.

Participants stressed that the festival should combine education with active participation and social integration. This led to proposals for intercultural quizzes, dance workshops, artistic events and even a stand-up comedy performance focused on democracy.

The First Outline of a Two-Day Festival

One of the most significant outcomes of the third Round Table meeting was the development of a preliminary programme for the Youth Democracy Festival.

Participants jointly selected priority activities, arranged them along a timeline and discussed how the different parts of the event should unfold. The draft programme included thematic workshops, group activities, opportunities for social interaction and accompanying events.

Participants also worked on a name for the festival. Among the suggestions were "Demokraton" and "Discokracja", reflecting the ideas of democracy, youth engagement and the inclusive nature of the event.

Another important stage of the workshops involved testing the programme "through the eyes of a participant". This exercise allowed participants to assess the planned event from a young person's perspective, considering its attractiveness, accessibility and organisation.

The resulting agenda is preliminary and will serve as a basis for further preparations for the festival in November.

Young People Not Only Participate but Also Help Make Decisions

The third Round Table meeting demonstrated the importance of genuinely involving young people in decision-making processes when organising civic events. Their experiences, needs and ideas became the main reference point for shaping the programme of the upcoming festival.

This approach lies at the heart of the participatory Youth Democracy Festival methodology, developed within the D-effect project. It aims to create opportunities for dialogue, intergenerational cooperation and active youth participation in social and civic life.

The Youth Democracy Festival in Elbląg, scheduled for November, will provide another opportunity to put this methodology into practice and demonstrate that young people can have a real influence on the events organised in their city.

More information about the Youth Democracy Festival methodology and the tools developed as part of the D-effect project can be found at:

D-Effect Toolbox

Youth4Agri - Partners Work on Developing Educational Activities for Young People

During an online meeting held on 8 October 2026, Youth4Agri project partners worked on preparing educational and development activities for young people interested in the future of agriculture and rural areas. The discussions focused primarily on developing an online course and aligning planned training programmes, mentoring activities and youth initiatives with the project's four strategic areas.

The Youth4Agri project is based on cross-border cooperation, bringing together knowledge, experience and good practices from partners across different countries. Its aim is to develop young people's skills, support entrepreneurship and strengthen their involvement in shaping the future of agriculture and rural areas.

Four Strategic Areas of Youth4Agri

All project activities will focus on four interconnected strategic areas:

During the meeting, partners emphasised that all planned activities should incorporate these four areas, creating a coherent and practical educational offer for young people.

Online Course and Skills Development for Young People

One of the key topics of the meeting was the preparation of an online course as part of the project's educational activities. Partners discussed its thematic scope, structure and opportunities to build on existing educational materials and proven learning solutions.

An important objective is to combine theoretical knowledge with practical skills that young people can apply in their further education, professional careers and entrepreneurial activities.

Discussions also covered the preparation of training programmes, Summer School, mentoring activities and the Youth Forum. Particular attention was given to engaging young people and developing attractive learning opportunities that respond to their actual needs and interests.

Cross-Border Cooperation and Building on Partners' Experience

An important aspect of the project is making use of the knowledge and experience already gained by its partners. Rather than developing all educational materials from scratch, the project aims to build on existing resources, good practices and proven methods of working with young people.

Cross-border cooperation will bring together different perspectives and experiences while supporting the development of solutions that can be applied in various countries and local communities.

Young People at the Centre of Youth4Agri Activities

Youth4Agri aims to create a space where young people can not only acquire knowledge and new skills but also exchange experiences, develop their own ideas and actively participate in finding solutions for the future of rural areas.

The partners' meeting marked another step in preparing activities that will combine education, innovation, entrepreneurship and international cooperation, empowering the younger generation to address the challenges facing modern agriculture.

International Youth Democracy Festival in Olsztynek and Dzierzgoń

On 23–24 September 2026, Olsztynek and Dzierzgoń became spaces for discussing how young people can actively participate in the life of their local communities. The International Youth Democracy Festival combined workshops, discussions and work on specific local challenges, demonstrating in practice that young people can not only make their voices heard but also contribute to developing solutions that affect their immediate surroundings.

Young people as co-creators of local initiatives

One of the main objectives of the event was to introduce the YDF – Youth Democracy Festival method, based on dialogue, cooperation and active youth participation. In this approach, young people are not simply recipients of a pre-designed programme. Instead, they are given space to express their opinions, identify their needs and work together to develop solutions.

The Festival provided an opportunity to put these principles into practice. Participants discussed issues directly related to their everyday lives and local communities and then worked together on their own ideas and recommendations.

From discussing needs to developing concrete ideas

An important part of the programme consisted of workshops addressing various aspects of young people’s lives. The topics included access to psychological support, sports infrastructure and activities in Olsztynek, the D-effect project and local self-governance.

The workshops went beyond discussion. Participants analysed problems together, exchanged experiences and developed concrete ideas and recommendations, including proposals related to a film and the local budget. This gave them an opportunity to see how their opinions and experiences can contribute to planning activities within their local community.

Democracy in practice

The International Youth Democracy Festival presented democracy primarily as an opportunity to speak up, engage in dialogue and influence issues that directly affect young people and their communities.

This format enables young people not only to talk about their needs but also to listen to different perspectives, seek solutions together and take responsibility for the ideas they develop. At the same time, it creates space for direct exchange between young participants and people involved in public and community life.

Open discussion with Marcin Kruszewski

Another part of the programme was a meeting with Marcin Kruszewski, creator of “Prawo Marcina”. The open discussion gave children and young adults an opportunity to ask questions directly, share their opinions and discuss issues that are important to the younger generation.

The meeting complemented the practical character of the Festival, which focused on creating conditions in which young people could freely express their views and participate in discussions about matters that concern them.

A space for dialogue and participation in decision-making

The events in Olsztynek and Dzierzgoń demonstrated that youth civic engagement can begin with very concrete, local issues – access to support, sports opportunities, decisions on how local funds are spent and opportunities to influence activities undertaken in their communities.

The Youth Democracy Festival format combines civic education with practical experience of cooperation and participation in decision-making. It helps young people see that their role in community life does not have to be limited to passive participation and that their ideas can become a starting point for concrete action.