1

Why the project matters

In many Mediterranean cities, decisions about social inclusion are made without meaningful input from the communities most affected. This top-down approach has resulted in ineffective or misaligned policies, undermining equity and civic engagement. Strengthening participatory governance – where local authorities and civil society jointly shape inclusion strategies – is key to delivering fairer, more responsive public services.

2

What it aims to achieve

• To enhance the capacity of local authorities and civil society actors to jointly design inclusive local plans.
• To share and adapt four successful governance models for social inclusion across Mediterranean cities.
• To foster policy learning and cooperation at national and regional levels for a more inclusive society.

3

Expected change

• Stronger cooperation between local authorities and civic actors in five countries.
• Improved institutional capacity to address social inclusion challenges with participatory tools.
• Better-aligned, community-driven local plans responding to real social needs.

4

What the project delivers

• 1 Transnational Handbook based on lessons from 4 successful inclusion programs and 5 community symposia.
• 5 demonstration pilots and peer learning labs to test and transfer participatory methods.
• 5 jointly developed Local Planning Blueprints addressing key inclusion priorities in partner countries.
• Online knowledge capsules and mentorship programs connecting civic actors and policymakers.
• A regional Knowledge Sharing Exhibition to scale visibility and influence of inclusive governance models.

5

Who benefits

• 5 local authorities and 5 civil society organizations in Egypt, Italy, Cyprus, Lebanon, and Greece.
• At least 125 participants in national and transnational learning events.
• Regional policy makers and intergovernmental bodies informed through the project’s outputs and exhibition.
• Local communities benefiting from more inclusive and responsive public programs.