News Item

Civic engagement and fundamental rights self-assessment discussed by cities

FRA took part in the EU RIGHTS CITIES project partner workshop organised in Zagreb from 28 September to 1 October. The meeting focused on civic engagement and participation in human rights cities.

Discussions particularly looked into ways to reach out to the most vulnerable and those not engaged. It also explored ways to create a safe space for civic engagement. 

FRA provided an overview of the role of civil society and participation in the FRA Framework for Human Rights Cities. FRA also shared knowledge on key challenges faced by civil society, and areas where cities could help strengthen civic space locally. 

The meeting was also an opportunity to discuss the development of another project deliverable that will help cities to self-assess human rights implementation building on the EU’s Fundamental Rights Charter and the FRA Framework. 

The project includes the cities of Vienna, Utrecht, Lund, Sopot and Gdansk, the Raoul Wallenberg Institute, the Utrecht University and the Boltzmann Institute. The closing conference will take place in Gdansk in March 2026.