
Minsk Mazowiecki, an EU Local Councillors network partner municipality was the only Polish city joining the European Local Democracy Week celebration, a pan-European event, aiming to boost local democracy and citizen participation.
The week-long programme was the initiative of Minsk Mazowiecki’s deputy mayor, Katarzyna Laziuk, and EUROPE DIRECT Centre manager, Katarzyna Trojanek.
Between 14-18 October, 2024, thematic sessions were organised with the ultimate aim of further strengthening democracy in the city. For instance, as part of the conference, “The everyday dimension of democracy - how to build and strengthen local civil society” participants learned how they can be in charge of their own ‘local democracy’ and influence decisions about their city.
Team Europe expert Prof. Marta Witkowska also attended the event and spoke about the challenges for local democracy in the European context. A youth representative, Bartlomiej Kulma, spoke about the benefits of young people’s community involvement.
The panel discussion was followed by a WORD CAFE workshop, during which topics related to civic engagement in Minsk Mazowiecki were discussed.
During the week of democracy in city schools, an engaging game was conducted for students. It was developed by experts from the Center for Civic Education as part of the “Laboratory of School Democracy” programme. During the game, students could advise what aspects of school life should be changed or improved.
The events, coordinated by Europe Direct Minsk Mazowiecki, were held with the support of the European Commission in Brussels and co-financed by the European Union.
Information about the events was published on the Minsk Mazowiecki City Hall website and the Facebook pages of the city hall, Europe Direct and the schools.

Details
- Publication date
- 14 October 2024
- Author
- Directorate-General for Communication
- Who
- Katarzyna Laziuk
- Where
- Poland, Minsk Mazowiecki
- What
- Democracy and public participation