On 14 November 2025, CMI – Martti Ahtisaari Peace Foundation, in partnership with the Centre for Regional Policy and Reforms, organized a roundtable discussion titled “Dialogue and Participation – Civic Dialogue Platform in ATU Gagauzia.” The purpose of the event was the official launch of the Civic Dialogue Platform in ATU Gagauzia. The event gathered representatives of civil society organizations, academia, the business community, as well as international partners, including representatives of the Embassy of Sweden in the Republic of Moldova.
“The Civic Dialogue Platform in ATU Gagauzia is a key initiative aimed at strengthening dialogue, participation, and trust in the region. It will provide a stronger voice for civil society and support more effective local governance”, – underlined the Ambassador of Sweden, Petra Lärke.
“This Platform offers a safe and constructive space for dialogue and expertise, marking an important step towards a more open decision-making process and stronger cooperation among regional stakeholders”, highlighted CMI representative Steve Young.
The Platform aims to facilitate the active participation of citizens, civil society organizations, academia, the business community, local authorities, and the media in decision-making processes and in monitoring the implementation of regional policies. It will function as an informal, apolitical, open, and voluntary structure, providing a safe environment for meaningful engagement of all interested stakeholders.
During the event, the concept, structure, and principles of the Platform were presented. Participants discussed the first steps to be taken: developing and approving the Platform’s Rules of Procedure, identifying training needs, creating thematic working groups, developing a joint agenda for the first year of activity, and defining tools for communication and online participation.
“The region needs a solid framework for dialogue, where the voices of experts, citizens, and authorities can meet regularly. The Platform will help identify practical solutions and support a more professional and transparent decision-making process”, stated Igor Guseinov, Director of the Centre for Regional Policy and Reforms.
The Civic Dialogue Platform was created within the activities of the Gagauzia Dialogue project, implemented by CMI with the support of Sweden. By developing this Platform, CMI lays the foundation for a space of cooperation in which the voice of civil society is valued and integrated into discussions about the region’s future. This initiative contributes to building a sustainable dialogue between authorities and the community, promoting transparency, trust, and more effective and inclusive public policies in ATU Gagauzia.
