The CEE Citizens Network is writing its history from 2000 when the first seminar with representatives of the six countries was held in Slovakia. The reality to move ahead with decision to form the Network officially came in August 2001 when the Network received the first grant from C.S. Mott Foundation. After operating under the assistance of the Center for Community Organizing (CCO) in Slovakia, the Network decided to venture out on their own.  In January 2005 CEE Citizens Network received official registration as an independent organization with the headquarters in Slovakia.  The Network now has its own space and manages its own contracts.  There is a clear maturation of this Network. 

Mission

The mission of the Network is to promote citizens participation in Central and Eastern Europe and provide opportunities for grassroots initiatives to learn and exchange experiences and ideas.

General aim

The main aim of the Network is to ensure democratic systems through citizen participation. Democratic systems endure when there is the mutually reinforcing practice and belief of free citizen participation. Both the practices and beliefs are new in CEE. That is why citizen participation needs to be fostered.

The Network exists to both improve each organization’s efforts and also result in some external impact in the CEE region having in mind the next values:

· Every citizen has the right to participate in the design and implementation of those activities affecting their lives, their families and their communities.

· Active inclusion of the unempowered and marginalized as equal partners must be ensured and stimulated.

· Respect for the diversity of our membership and their experiences.

· Mutual trust, shared vision, common aims and beliefs of the network members.

Objectives

· Increase awareness of the general public throughout CEE on the potential and impact of citizen initiatives.

· Increase skills and capacities of citizens to more effectively participate in local and national development.

· Promote citizen participation in CEE.

Administrative Office

CEE Citizens Network
Kapitulska 13
974 01 Banska Bystrica
SLOVAKIA
Tel: ++421 48 415 24 68
Fax: ++421 48 412 38 80
E-Mail: ceecn@ceecn.net

For more information about members and activities of CEE CN check the web site:

www.ceecn.net