From Voices to Action. Resilient Narratives & Civic Cooperation

Chișinău, Republic of Moldova, June 24–26, 2025

In June 2025, ERIM, an international NGO based in Lyon, France, will organize a regional networking event in Chisinau that will bring together representatives of independent media and civil society from Armenia, Moldova, and Ukraine. The event will be held within the framework of the Democracy in Eastern Partnership (DEAP) project, funded by the European Union.

Over the course of three days, participants will be able to:

• Share experiences and solutions to common challenges;
• Engage in thematic discussions and informal networking;
• Present ideas for future projects and become part of cross-border teams.

This is not a traditional conference, but rather a space for building new connections, fostering collaboration, and achieving practical results. After the event, ERIM will launch a call for joint initiatives, available only to participants, with funding ranging from €5,000 to €15,000.

Focus of the Event: Resilient Narratives and Civic Cooperation

In a time of war, disinformation, and increasing pressure on free expression, this event focuses on how civil society and independent media can collaborate to strengthen independent voices and civic resilience.

ERIM is especially seeking representatives from organizations whose work intersects with at least two of the following areas:

• Combating disinformation and propaganda at local or regional levels.
• Strategic communication and reaching beyond echo chambers.
• Innovative use of data, multimedia, or tech tools for public engagement.
• Supporting underrepresented or vulnerable communities (e.g. women, youth, LGBTQI+, war-affected or rural populations).
• Working at the grassroots level, directly engaging with communities.

Selection criteria

1. Applicant must represent a registered civil society organization or independent media outlet based in Armenia, Moldova, or Ukraine.
2. The organization’s work must align with at least two of the above mentioned areas.
3. The organization must have a minimum of two years of relevant activity in the field(s) described above.
4. Clear motivation to engage in cross-border networking, with the opportunity to co-develop project ideas and potentially take part in follow-up collaboration (e.g., joint grant applications).
5. The nominated participant must have sufficient English proficiency and availability to fully attend the in-person event in Chișinău on June 24–26, 2025 (with arrival on June 23).

Please note: ERIM will select between 6 and 8 participants per country, one representative per organization. Priority will be given to participants located in regions outside the capital.

Key Details

• Dates: Arrival on June 23; sessions from June 24 to June 26, 2025
• Location: Chișinău, Republic of Moldova
• Format: In-person

• Language: English (no interpretation available)

Travel, accommodation, and meals will be fully covered by the organizers.

What to Expect

• Cross-border networking and hands-on collaboration
• Informal meetups, and a cultural program
• Space to pitch and co-develop ideas for future joint projects

• Eligibility to apply for and participate in the selection process for follow-up funding (€5,000–15,000 per initiative)

How to Apply

Please fill out the application form by 21st of May COB Central European Time (CET). by using this link.
Selected participants will be notified by 31st of May.

About the project:

Democracy in the Eastern Partnership (DEAP) is a regional project, funded by the European Union and implemented by ERIM. The project aims to promote inclusive, resilient and democratic societies in the Eastern Partnership region by strengthening the capacities of civil society and grassroot organisations, supporting research and policy analysis, and organising cultural and networking events to promote the work of human rights defenders.

You can find more information about ERIM’s mission and vision here