EUNET (European Network for Education and Training e.V.) is an independent European network that connects approximately 60 non-governmental organizations and educational institutions united by a shared vision of promoting European integration.

Serving as a vibrant communication channel for civil society, the network focuses on informing and educating youth and adults about European issues, exchanging innovative educational methods, and strengthening democratic values, with the ultimate goal of encouraging active citizen participation in shaping a free and peaceful Europe.

General Overview

At a time when Europe and the world are facing multifaceted crises – ranging from economic and environmental challenges to growing pressures on democratic institutions – the need for resilient communities has never been more urgent. Under the theme “Community Resilience and the European Civil Society”, EUNET invites you to this year’s annual conference, taking place from 12 to 15 November 2026 on the historic island of Rhodes, Greece.

Today, European civil society is navigating the deep anxieties of a continent striving to safeguard social cohesion, peace, and its fundamental democratic values. True to its mission, EUNET is creating a safe, dynamic space for dialogue and concrete action. The conference program directly addresses the primary challenges and opportunities of our time through targeted sessions:

• Addressing Threats to Cohesion: Unpacking the key challenges facing Europe today regarding democracy, resilience, and the current pressures on European cohesion.
• Networking as a Shield: Exploring how collective networking and civil society alliances serve as a protective shield for a more resilient democracy.
• The Future of Civil Society: Engaging in strategic debate on the direction, role, and sustainability of European civil society organizations.
• Local Realities & Sectoral Impact: Examining the critical interplay between local economic drivers and civil society through a dedicated panel discussion on Tourism and Civil Society.
• Collaborative Action: Moving from dialogue to practice through interactive Thematic Working Groups and a high-energy Project Speed Dating session designed to forge tangible partnerships.

The choice of Rhodes for this crucial gathering is deeply symbolic. Standing at the crossroads of East and West, with over 3,000 years of continuous history, Rhodes represents the ultimate example of historical resilience. It is a community that has survived through the centuries, absorbing diverse cultures and constantly reinventing itself. This exact spirit of adaptability, endurance, and cooperation is what global civil society is called to display today.

At the same time, the conference directly connects with the local rhythm and heritage of the island. On Saturday, 14 November, participants will have the unique opportunity to experience local traditions firsthand and explore the recently made-public archaeological site, “Pervola,” taking us on a journey through 3,000+ years of Rhodian history – a powerful reminder that understanding our past is the strongest foundation for building our future.

We look forward to welcoming you to Rhodes, where historical heritage, collective action, and shared values will come together to forge a strong, cohesive, and resilient Civil Society.

Official Program

Thursday, 12 November 2026

Arrivals

Friday, 13 November 2026

08:30-09:00 – Arrivals to the Venue

09:00-09:30 – Welcome / Conference Overview

09:30-11:00 – The challenges for Europe: Democracy, Resilience, Civil Society and the Threats to European Cohesion

11:00-11:30 – Coffee Break

11:30-13:00 – Networking as a shield to the European Civil Society: together we are stronger

13:00-14:00 – Light Lunch

14:00-15:30 – Quo Vadis European Civil Society

15:30-16:00 – Coffee Break

16:00-18:00 – EUNET General Assembly 2026

Free Time

19:30-21:00 – Panel Discussion: Tourism and Civil Society

Saturday, 14 November 2026

08:30-09:00 – Arrivals to the Venue

09:00-10:30 – Thematic Working Groups

10:30-12:00 – Attending the local festivities for the Patron Saint of Rhodes

12:00-14:00 – Cultural Visit to “Pervola” and the 3000+ year of Rhodian history

14:00-15:00 – Light Lunch

15:00-17:00 – Project Speed Dating

Free Time

20:00-22:00 – Farewell Dinner

Sunday, 15 November 2026

Departures

Participation information

Conference Fees

• Full Delegate Fee (with Accommodation):
  • Early Bird: 350€ (For applications received by September 15th, 2026, and paid by September 30th, 2026)
  • Standard: 450€ (For applications received between September 16th and October 15th, 2026, and paid by October 30th, 2026)
  • Includes: 3 nights accommodation in a single room (with free Wi-Fi & breakfast), all coffee breaks, lunches and dinners mentioned to the program, and full access to all conference events.
• Delegate Fee (Without Accommodation):
  • Early Bird: 180€ / Standard: 250€

Travel and Transfer Expenses

All expenses for travel to/from Rhodes, including transfers from the airport/harbor to the hotel and vice versa, are the sole responsibility of the participant, unless otherwise specified in the Official Program.

Location and Venues

The conference will take place in the city of Rhodes. Delegates will stay at the Manousos City Hotel, while all events and sessions will take place in venues within 20 minutes walking from the hotel, around the city center and the Medieval City of Rhodes.

Stipends and Delegate Fee Waivers

Conference participants are entitled to apply for financial support under the following conditions:

1. Travel Expenses Stipend

A limited number of travel stipends are available, provided that:

• The applicant represents an organization that is a full member of EUNET with no outstanding financial obligations.
• Only one applicant per member organization may apply.
• The stipend covers up to 80% of the total travel costs (base-to-airport transportation, flights, and return) up to a maximum of 250 euros.
• The stipend will be reimbursed after the event, subject to full participation in the conference and the submission of all required receipts/documentation.
• The EUNET Board retains the final decision on granting stipends, based on application priority and budget availability.

2. Delegate Fee Waivers

Fee waivers may be granted to applicants contributing expertise to the conference (as speakers, experts, facilitators, etc.) in alignment with the EUNET conference priorities.

• The EUNET Board is solely responsible for selecting the conference content and approving fee waivers for contributors, whether by application or direct invitation.
• Recipients of a fee waiver remain responsible for their own travel expenses, unless officially decided otherwise by the EUNET Board.

How to Apply

Fill in and submit the application below!

Contact for Inquiries: For any questions regarding registration, venues, or stipends, please contact us at conference@european-net.org.