PLEASE NOTE: Changes may occur to the programme. Please check for any updates.

Day 1 - Understanding democracy: Learning, protecting, innovating

Saturday, May 2

Day 1 establishes a shared analytical and experiential foundation, combining perspectives fromresearch, media and youth practice. Sessions are structured to facilitate reflection, dialogue andpeer exchange.

Moderator & host: Nancy Herz

Arrilval, coffee & registration

Opening Session

The forum opens with a facilitated introduction, creating a shared space grounded in mutualrespect, intercultural understanding and active listening. Participants reflect on their experiences ofdemocracy as young people in Europe today.

Session 1: Learning & Practicing Democracy

This session explores how democratic values and practices are experienced across differentEuropean contexts. Through guided discussion, participants examine the relationship betweenformal democratic structures and lived democratic participation.

The session is lead by Adam Lambe og Marcus Melau from Advisory Council on Youth/Council of Europe.

Walk & talk

An informal reflection activity supporting continued dialogue.

Session 2: Protrecting democracy in the digital Age and algorythmic regulation

With Murtaza Mohiqi

This session addresses the protection of democratic systems in the context of digitaltransformation and evolving information environments.

Dr. Murtaza Mohiqi is law lecturer, legal columnist, and international human rights researcher at University of Agder. He a broad academicand professional experience in human rights and private law across both national andinternational contexts. His research explores the intersection of human rights, law, and technology, with particular attention to how artificial intelligence and digital platforms shape democratic participation and social inclusion.

Lunch

Session 3: Innovating democracy (and AI)

With Amanda Machin and Abit Hoxha

This session explores how democratic systems can evolve in response to technological, environmental and societal change. Participants engage in structured dialogue on how artificial intelligence and emerging technologies reshape democratic participation, and consider pathways for democratic innovation in this context.

Amanda Machin, Professor of Political Sociology at the University of Agder, contributes expertise on democratic theory, political participation and the role of contestation in democratic processes.

Abit Hoxha is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Nordic and Media Studies at the University of Agder. His work focuses on media systems, freedom of expression and democratic communication, including how journalism and information environments shape public discourse and democratic participation.

Break

Session 4: "AI & I" - Youth perspectives

Led by Ung Ytring 2030

A youth-led, participatory workshop examining the relationship between artificial intelligence and everyday life. The session focuses on agency, inclusion and the role of young people in shaping democratic digital futures.

Break

Mini youth talks: Presenting ideas

An open session for participants to share perspectives, experiences and creative contributionsfrom their respective contexts.

Closing reflections

End of program

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Evening program

Evening dinner at Teateret (optional - not included)

Join us for a shared evening dinner bringing together participants, speakers, and partners in arelaxed setting. The dinner offers space to continue conversations, exchange perspectives, andbuild connections across cultures and contexts.

European karaoke night at Biscenen (Teateret)

End the day on a lighter note with an informal karaoke session hosted by Adrian Dark. A fun andlow-threshold space where participants and locals come together through music, creating energy,laughter, and shared moments across borders.

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Day 2 - From dialogue to action

Sunday, May 3

Day 2 focuses on translating dialogue into concrete outputs. Through facilitated group work led byNancy Herz from Ung Ytring and Blanke Ark, the democratic youth project of Arkivet - Peacе &Human Rights Center and Samsen Culture Center, we will work together to develop the Call toAction document.

Walking tour at Odderøya

A shared nature experience providing space for informal exchange and reflection.

Meet outside Teateret. Led by Seif Zakaria.

Youth panel:  Power, possibilities and potential for real change

A facilitated discussion linking key themes from Day 1 and preparing participants for the cocreation process.

Speakers TВА.

Introduction: The new Democracy Pact & Call to Action

Participants are introduced to the framework and objectives of the Call to Action, including its roleas a contribution to the Council of Europe's Democracy Pact.

Blanke Ark: Call to Action session

Participants work in facilitated groups to identify key challenges, formulate recommendations anddevelop policy-relevant proposals.

Lunch

Blanke Ark: Call to Action session

Participants work in facilitated groups to identify key challenges, formulate recommendations anddevelop policy-relevant proposals.

Break

Blanke Ark: Call to Action session

Finalisation of the Call to Action.

Summary & evaluation

End of program