The Regional Observatory for Social Inclusion of the Region of Crete and the Laboratory of Social Analysis and Applied Social Research (EKAEKE) of the University of Crete, in collaboration with the Municipality of Phaistos, are co-organizing the 1st Local Forum entitled: “Social Inclusion: Local Networks, Participatory Consultation and Joint Planning”. The event will take place on Friday, November 6, 2026, from 10:00 to 16:30 (arrival time 09:30–10:00), at the Polycenter of Moires, Municipality of Phaistos.

The 1st Local Forum inaugurates a cycle of local meetings and participatory consultation processes developed by the Regional Observatory for Social Inclusion in Crete, with the aim of strengthening dialogue, cooperation and networking between local bodies.

The focus of the meeting is on the participatory exploration of local social needs, conditions of deprivation and factors of social exclusion, as well as the identification of possibilities for shaping a network of coordinated social inclusion interventions, which link social cohesion with sustainable and inclusive local development, with the aim of improving the living conditions of the population and paying particular attention to special and socially vulnerable groups.

These interventions extend to a wide range of fields, such as access to decent employment and economic activity opportunities, health, social protection, housing, energy, education, culture and sports, with a focus on equal access to basic goods, services and social rights, strengthening social participation and creating conditions for fair and sustainable development for the benefit of the entire local community.

Particular emphasis is placed on the role of Civil Society in mobilizing local resources and capabilities, as well as in developing partnerships that can contribute to strengthening social cohesion and shaping active and participatory social inclusion policies. Through dialogue and the exchange of knowledge, experiences and proposals, the Forum seeks to contribute to the formulation of common priorities and the search for coordinated, targeted and sustainable social interventions, based on the specific needs and capabilities of the local community.

Participation is free and is addressed to representatives of local government, social services, Civil Society and K.A.L.O. bodies, collectives, as well as to any interested citizen.

For better preparation of the event, interested parties are kindly requested to complete the electronic participation form at the following link: https://forms.gle/bwAbP4xKZMyJXzzn9

See the detailed program below.