Xenophon Paper No.13

Authors: Danae Bezantakou, Daria Catalui, Rumen Dobrinsky, Vasileios Kitsos, Andra-Lucia Martinescu, Aliki Mitsakos, Nato Mokverashvili, Samir Murshudov, Najiba Mustafayeva, Cristina Negoiescu, Maria Nicolaouova, Mirela Oprea, Todor Petrov, Rebecca Pitsika, Mariana Semenyshyn, Attiq Ur-Rehman, Anna Visvizi

Preface by: Zefi Dimadama

Managing Editor: Athina Korovesi

In 2013, the 6th ICBSS International Black Sea Symposium on “Empowering Civil Society in the Black Sea region: a tool for Innovative Social Change” addressed the developments in economy and society that demand the in-depth study of the modern reality and the formulation of strategic proposals, and introduced a new dimension, civil society, as key element to economic and social development. In this respect, the enhancement of social dialogue, consultation and consensus seems imperative. European Institutions, such as the European Economic and Social Committee, along with its national councils, seek to build a strong connection between civil society and EU bodies, aiming at institutionalising their cooperation and strengthening governance procedures.

The empowerment of civil society is a one-way street for the maximization of social benefits and the minimization of any negative impacts from top-down decision-making processes. Through new forms of partnerships, collaborative solutions, sharing of resources and responsibilities, we can strengthen citizens and communities and develop new models of associations and public governance.

The edition is available here.