Course objectives
The course aims to provide participants with a solid and accessible understanding of how the European Union works, combining institutional knowledge with awareness of European policies, values and democratic processes.
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
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understand how EU institutions and decision-making processes function;
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recognise the concrete impact of EU policies on everyday life;
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connect civic participation with European priorities and values;
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use Artificial Intelligence as a support tool to analyse European policies and information critically and responsibly.
The course follows a practical, participatory and accessible approach and does not require prior knowledge of the European Union.
Course structure (12 hours)
1. EU institutions and cross-cutting priorities
Overview of EU institutions and decision-making processes, with focus on four cross-cutting priorities:
- inclusion and diversity
- digital transition
- green transition and sustainability
- European values, citizenship and democratic participation.
Introduction to the concept of European added value and policy impact on citizens.
2. European programmes and policies
Overview of key EU programmes and policy areas affecting citizens, with in-depth focus on:
- Erasmus+
- Creative Europe
- CERV – Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values
Understanding how European initiatives translate into local opportunities and territorial impact.
3. Active participation and European citizenship
Key principles of civic participation in the European context:
- rights and responsibilities of EU citizens
- how EU policies are developed
- democratic participation tools
- needs and territorial challenges analysis
- link between local realities and EU priorities
- social impact assessment
4. Democratic processes and European governance
- European legislative process
- public policy cycle
- stakeholder roles
- transparency and accountability
- the role of civil society
5. Artificial Intelligence and European democracy
- how AI can support policy analysis
- how not to use AI
- limits, risks, ethics and transparency
- alignment with European democratic values
6. Case studies and future perspectives
- Analysis of EU-funded civic initiatives and participatory projects.
- Overview of key political trends and future European programming (2028–2034).
Skills developed
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
- understand EU institutions and policies;
- connect EU priorities to their daily lives;
- identify civic participation opportunities;
- critically analyse European information;
- use AI responsibly in civic contexts;
- assess the social impact of European initiatives.
A course designed to move from information to active participation, with strong focus on values, citizenship and democratic awareness.
Additional practical details
Lecturer
Michele Barghini
Course period
From 19 May to 23 June
Schedule
Every Tuesday, from 6 pm to 8 pm
Delivery mode
Online, live sessions with interactive moments and open Q&A with the trainer.
Language
English. Real-time captioning with automatic multilingual subtitles is available to support participants’ comprehension.
Total duration
12 hours
Participation fee
€ 350
If the minimum number of students is not reached, alternative dates will be proposed or a full refund of the amount paid will be made.
For further information, please contact us at info@eu-gen.org
To complete the registration form, click the button below:
In line with the principles of inclusion and equal opportunities promoted by the Erasmus+ Programme, EuGen provides a one-off contribution of €250, granted as a reduction of the course registration fee, for participants who are in a documented situation of economic disadvantage.
The contribution is allocated until the available funds are exhausted and is reserved for those belonging to households with income or asset indicators below the thresholds established by the national regulations of the country of residence. Requests may be submitted by email, attaching documentation certifying the economic condition. Applications are assessed in accordance with the principles of confidentiality, data protection and non-discrimination.