Participation in the National Meeting of the Anna Lindh Foundation Greek Network (ALF Hellas), Trikala 2026

The UNESCO Chair on Threats to Cultural Heritage and Cultural Heritage-related Activities at the Ionian University participated in the National Meeting of the Greek Network of the Anna Lindh Foundation (ALF Hellas), which took place in Trikala from 26 to 29 March 2026.

The meeting brought together 44 members from across Greece, marking the largest national gathering of the Network to date and, for the first time, adopting a hybrid format to enhance accessibility and participation. Organized within the framework of the NES-Cycle 4 programme, the four-day meeting aimed to strengthen cooperation, exchange experiences and best practices, and contribute to the strategic planning of the Network’s future actions.

The programme included presentations of members’ projects, thematic discussions, networking sessions, and strategic exchanges on key issues concerning civil society. Particular emphasis was placed on areas such as education and youth, arts and culture, environment, human rights, and entrepreneurship, fostering deeper collaboration among members. Dedicated sessions also addressed social inclusion and multiculturalism, highlighting the role of local authorities in promoting social cohesion through concrete examples and best practices.

In addition, the meeting featured updates on the activities and strategic priorities of the Greek Network, presentations of funded projects implemented during 2025-2026, and discussions on European and national policy developments affecting civil society. The event concluded with a thematic session linking local development to civil society through the lens of local production and sustainability.

The National Meeting reaffirmed the importance of dialogue, collaboration, and intercultural exchange within the ALF Network, while strengthening connections between national and local stakeholders.

Ms Athina Fatsea, Doctoral Researcher at the UNESCO Chair, participated in the meeting, representing the Chair.