The fourth General Assembly of the ESIRA project (Enhancing Social Inclusion and Rural Areas) took place from October 15 to 17, 2025, in Orelec, in the Bieszczady Mountains, Poland. The event was hosted by the local partner, the European Rural Development Network (ERDN), and brought together representatives of ESIRA partners from across Europe, including Spain, Italy, Hungary, Serbia, Norway, Lithuania, France, and Poland. A four-day programme combined presentations on project progress, discussions, interactive workshops, and field visits.
On October 15–16, participants had the opportunity to explore various social economy initiatives in the Bieszczady region that successfully combine community engagement, sustainable development, and entrepreneurship. Visits included organizations active in cultural heritage, education, tourism, and women’s empowerment in rural areas, such as Olszanica Municipality, Bieszczady Cultural Heritage Center “Fanto”, Foundation “Arm in Arm”, Association “Przełączenie”, and Association “Babiniec – Czarna and Friends”. Participants also met representatives of municipalities, Local Action Groups (LAGs), and other Multi-Actor Platform (MAP) members.
The programme featured tours of notable tourist attractions in the Bieszczady region, offering participants the chance to experience the natural beauty, culture, and unique identity of the area. Highlights included Lake Solina, Poland’s largest artificial lake, BIESZCZAD.ski Wańkowa, and the San River campsite.
The ESIRA project, funded by the Horizon Europe programme, aims to improve social inclusion and empower marginalized groups in rural areas across Europe. It places special emphasis on strengthening local actors, supporting social economy initiatives, and applying participatory approaches in decision-making, and events like this provide a valuable opportunity to exchange good practices and gain insights into the specific needs of local rural communities.
The next General Assembly of the ESIRA project will take place in Lithuania, hosted by the Lithuanian Centre for Social Sciences (LCSS).
