Third sector in Europe – #CivilSocietyTogether

It enabled delegates to explore and engage in conversations with
a wide variety of European organisations and networks, working on a
range of issues and problems which are mirrored across Europe and
beyond. Areas of interest included citizens’ rights, civic pride,
health and care, poverty, participative democracy and social
action, to name a few.

The meetings provided an opportunity to consider how existing
links could be maintained and new ones forged, now the UK has
officially left the European Union

The message received throughout the trip was that European
networks are not closed to Wales. There is a genuine enthusiasm and
passion to ensure that our shared values form the basis of building
future relationships to benefit the most deprived in our
communities.

Phil Fiander, Deputy Chief Executive of WCVA said ‘This is an
important time to be engaging with civil society across Europe as
we enter this new relationship with our European partners. The
European project has always been about more than just trade, it’s
been about peace and bringing people together. 

This has been a fantastic opportunity to for civil society to
promote and forge links for the future so that we can remain a key
part of the fabric of Europe.  The response during our visit
from our European counterparts have been nothing short of amazing
it’s great to know we are on the same page and will be working
together for years to come.’

Charles Whitmore, Brexit Civil Society Forum Coordinator said
‘Civil Society is an essential component in ensuring that in Wales
we remain an open and internationally minded nation. From
international and cross border volunteering to information,
knowledge and good practice sharing, it is essential that we as
Civil Society keep the connections and dialogue that has been
established between Europe and Wales alive despite Brexit’

To find out more about the work of the Empowering Communities in
the Context of Brexit project which funded this work come along to
our session at gofod3. For more information on how to register
click here.