Two important Green ERA-Hub (GEH) events took place in Rome in April, back to back.

1. Annual Socratic Dialogue Event (ASDE 2024)

Introduction to ‘Socratic Dialogue’

"Socratic Dialogue" events acts as a conduit for collaboration among funding agencies and stakeholder partners, particularly within the Agri-food and Biotechnology sector  targeted by the GEH.

The choice of the term "Socratic Dialogue" draws inspiration from the ancient Greek philosopher Socrates (Athens, 469-399 B.C.E). Socrates, known for his open dialogues with fellow citizens, engaged in conversations that touched upon diverse subjects, transcending the confines of traditional philosophy. In the GEH context, specifically in this task, which focuses on the transnational exchange of best practices related to international research cooperation, we embrace a broader interpretation of Socratic Dialogue.

In the GEH context, where transnational exchange of best practices related to international research collaboration is central, we adopt dialogue as a collaborative interrogation method with the aim of promoting mutual learning and collaboration among participants. Our focus is on a dialogical aspect, and the intention is to create an interactive conversation by asking questions within a relevant topic that fosters a valuable exchange between participants towards mutual learning and upgrading knowledge.

The theme of this Socratic event was "A sea of cooperation: Towards a close Euro-Mediterranean research community".

• Date: 11 April 2024
• Location: Rome, MASAF

This engaging dialogue, was designed to facilitate the exchange of information and reflections on strengthening cooperation among Mediterranean countries in the ERA. Our focus was on joint research and innovation (R&I) efforts in the agri-food and bioeconomy sectors.

2. Widening to Western Balkan Countries Event

Introduction 

One of GEH's activities is aimed at expanding into the Western Balkan countries. The opportunity to strengthen cooperation with and within the ERA is a great opportunity to improve both ties and relationships between countries at all levels (institutions, research centers, stakeholders) in our areas of interest, and the capacity itself to jointly address research needs that are, particularly in our remit, transboundary and multi-sectoral. The GEH is therefore focused on establishing contacts with funders and researchers from the five target countries (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia) to exchange experiences, inform them about the functioning of the new EU partnerships and related opportunities, and explore concrete opportunities for cooperation, in particular for implementing joint calls for research projects in the context of Horizon Europe. Other cooperation activities may also be considered. 

After a successful online meeting on 7 February 2024, our second event was on 12 April 2024, at the same venue, dedicated to extending cooperation to Western Balkan countries. The event srengthened ties and promoted cooperation in the region.

• Date: 12 April 2024
• Location: Rome, MASAF

Are you from the Euro-Mediterranean region want would like to get involved? Get in touch with the Green ERA-Hub here:  greenerahubilvo@ilvo.vlaanderen.be