Catalyst of Change EU and Media Engagement Knowledge-Sharing Event
The knowledge-sharing event “EU and Media Engagement Strategies to Protect Human Rights” (30 September-02 October 2025, in Sofia, Bulgaria) will bring together civil society actors, legal experts, journalists, and media professionals to strengthen collaboration on protecting civic space and human rights. Over two days of discussions, trainings, and workshops, participants will explore the legal frameworks of the EU, opportunities for advocacy, and strategies for combating threats such as SLAPPs. The program emphasizes building media literacy on EU and human rights issues, improving journalist engagement, and developing effective communication campaigns. Through panels, group work, and practical exercises, we hope to enhance participants’ skills in legal strategy, media pitching, and advocacy, while fostering cross-border dialogue and partnerships to advance human rights protection.
This event will take place as part of the Catalyst of Change project, and is organized by the Netherlands Helsinki Committee (NHC), the European Center for Not-For-Profit Law (ECNL), and Free Press for Eastern Europe (FPEE), and aims to equip civil society organisations (CSOs) with the skills needed to enhance their media outreach, advocate for EU values, and build resilience amid growing challenges in the civic space.
Find the full programme here.
About “Catalyst of Change: Supporting a Vibrant Civil Society in Europe”
Set against the backdrop of shrinking civic space in the European Union (EU), the Catalyst of Change project seeks to create an enabling environment for civil society in countries facing significant pressures, namely Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia, Slovenia, and Portugal. The project specifically targets CSOs working on women’s rights, environmental justice, and anti-corruption, empowering them to become more effective in promoting EU fundamental rights and values. The goal is to ensure these organizations can respond quickly to concerning trends, strengthen their advocacy efforts, and enhance their resilience to external threats.
