South-eastern Europe and the EU Leadership Development Programme - July 2006 - April 2007 Visit the site of The College of Europe Visit the site of the Transfuse Association Visit the website of the European Fund for the Balkans
Introduction 2009
The future of Southeast Europe depends on targeted and consistent action to develop effective civic structures and integrate the region into Euro-Atlantic political, economic and security spheres. This requires consultation and collaboration between international and regional policy-makers. Initiatives which build confidence among citizens in the region are a prerequisite for peace and stability, and ultimately for regional integration and economic prosperity. Underlying this project is the belief that the driving force for the continuation of the political, social and economic reform and transition process are qualified young professionals with international experience.

In an effort to contribute to the reform process in Southeast Europe, the TRANSFUSE Association and the College of Europe jointly launched a programme in 2006 for young people from the region, as well as broader Europe, who aspire to play an active role in the future of their countries. (For details on the previous editions, see LDP 2006/2007, LDP 2007/2008 and LDP 2008/2009). The Programme runs over a ten-month period and aims to transmit knowledge about the EU and its relation to the region, to stimulate the leadership and professional skills of participants and to encourage an exchange of views.

The European Fund for the Balkans has been generously financing the programme since 2008 and is now, since 2009, organising it jointly with the College of Europe and the TRANSFUSE Association.

The 2009/2010 Programme will consist of the following activities:
  • Two-week Summer Academy in Germany (Berlin/Surroundings),
    29 August-12 September 2009    : The curriculum will include topics related to the European Union and the development of its relations with Southeast Europe, as well as wider issues of international and economic relations. Practical training components focusing on negotiations, project management and presentation skills will provide participants with essential leadership qualities
  • Joint activities, between November 2009 and March 2010: The participants will work together in small groups to develop and implement a joint activity or an event in Southeast Europe.
  • Final five-day seminar in Belgium (Brussels/Bruges), in April 2010: with visits to the EU institutions and NATO in Brussels and to the campus of the College of Europe in Bruges.

The Programme will be led by an Academic Dean, who will guide the participants through the different aspects of the Programme. The working language of the Programme is English.

Certificates will be awarded upon the successful completion of the Programme.

Only 30 selected applicants will be invited to participate. Their participation in the Programme will be sponsored by the European Fund for the Balkans. For information on the application procedure and sponsorship details see ‘How to apply’ and ‘Practical information’ sections.