Citizenship Academy: Building Democratic Participation Among Migrant Communities

forthcoming

"Across the EU, migrants remain underrepresented in democratic processes, often excluded from decision-making and civic life. The Citizenship Academy project addresses this democratic gap by empowering migrants as active EU citizens and strengthening participatory democracy from the local to the European level. The project brings together partners in Spain, Italy, France, and Romania to deliver action-based training and civic campaigns focused on EU rights, responsibilities, and political engagement. Migrants will co-create citizen-led initiatives that respond to key EU debates and local challenges such as housing, integration policies, and equal treatment. Activities begin with an international seminar to develop tailored training modules on EU law, advocacy, and civic leadership. In each country, two thematic workshops will be held, and a digital campaign involving 130 migrants will raise awareness using innovative communication tools. Local debates engaging 176 participants will foster migrant-led dialogue with policymakers, using participatory formats like the World Café. A final event in Brussels will connect migrant leaders with EU decision-makers and showcase collective solutions. The project also launches a podcast series, “Voices of Change,” where migrants share personal journeys into civic life, inspiring broader engagement. By building durable networks among migrants, NGOs, and institutions, the project ensures long-term impact and a replicable model of inclusive democracy across Europe. Rooted in a social inclusion approach, ""Citizenship Academy"" positions migrants as active agents of change, aiming to empower them as informed EU citizens and strengthen participatory democracy at local and European levels. "