About Debating Europe
Making European democracy fit for the 21st century
HISTORY AND VISION
Debating Europe: making European democracy fit for the 21st century
Debating Europe is the citizen engagement unit of Friends of Europe, an independent Brussels-based think tank working for a more inclusive, sustainable, and forward-looking Europe.
 
OUR MISSION
We harness the collective intelligence of citizens across the EU to generate, test, and refine bold policy ideas - all contributing to promoting a Renewed Social Contract for Europe by 2030.
HOW WE ENGAGE
Through focus groups, surveys, and public events, we work with a growing network of citizens and civil society organisations (CSOs). Our goal? To help institutions and member states reframe and rebalance their relationship with citizens.
A VISION FOR THE 21st-CENTURY DEMOCRACY
Together with policymakers, foundations, and business leaders, we’re co-designing a Renewed Social Contract that:
- Empowers citizens to shape strategic and policy decisions.
- Fosters inclusive dialogue and builds democratic skills.
- Supports a vibrant public space where citizens and leaders connect for change.
 
WHY IT MATTERS
By shifting the dynamic between political institutions and the public, we aim to make decision-making more inclusive, responsive, and citizen-led.
 
COLLABORATION IS KEY
Realising this vision isn’t quick - or something we can do alone. That’s why we collaborate with citizens, governments, CSOs, businesses, and foundations to strengthen Europe’s democratic infrastructure.
Featured Initiatives
- 2024 Voices - Citizens Speak UP! (2023-2024)
- Voices for Choices - Data for decisions that matter (2024-2025)
- Stay tuned for our next follow-up project Voices for Choices - Preparing for an Ageing Europe (2026)
These flagship engagement projects are now being shared across EU member states and are helping to shape Friends of Europe’s broader work on the Renewed Social Contract.Â
THE TEAM
The people behind Debating Europe
Adam Nyman
Director, Citizen Outreach and Engagement
Alessandra Cardaci
Head of Programming and Operations
Julie Malaize
Project Manager
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
Building democratic resilience together
Strengthening democracy across Europe requires time, collaboration, and shared purpose. That’s why we work alongside citizens, civil society organisations (CSOs), governments, and institutions to promote active citizenship, inclusive governance, and a new kind of democratic leadership.
At the heart of our mission is a commitment to regenerating European democracy by empowering communities and inspiring civic participation.
Ready to make a difference for the common good? Contact us today and discover how we can work together to build stronger, more inclusive democracies.
Contact
Alessandra Cardaci : alessandra.cardaci@debatingeurope.eu
Head of Programming and Operations
FUNDING
Our funding
Debating Europe is a project of Friends of Europe. More information about our finances and fundraising guidelines can be found here.
