Schools for Democracy – Strengthening Democratic Culture through Trainer Development in the Republic of Moldova

4 July, 2025

Implementation period: 2024–2027
Implemented by: Educational Program “Step by Step” in partnership with the European Wergeland Centre (EWC) and with the support of the Council of Europe
Estimated number of participating schools: 20

Project Description

The Schools for Democracy project, implemented in the Republic of Moldova between 2024 and 2027, aims to support educational institutions in promoting education for democratic citizenship and human rights (EDC/HRE). The initiative seeks to build a democratic school culture through the development of local trainers and the adoption of a whole-school approach that involves the entire school community in the transformation process.

In this context, between June 11–13, 2025, a Training of Trainers workshop was held in Chișinău, gathering professionals with expertise in education and institutional development.

Objectives

To establish and strengthen a local network of trainers in the field of EDC/HRE;
To promote democratic institutional culture in schools through participatory practices;
To enhance the capacity of teaching staff to use interactive, student-centered methods;
To foster active involvement of students, teachers, parents, and the local community in school life.

Activities Carried Out

Organizing the Training of Trainers seminar for future trainers in democratic education;
Training participants in the use of the Tool for Democratic School Development, developed by EWC;
Thematic workshops on participatory governance, democratic relationships, peaceful conflict resolution, and community engagement;
Development of action plans to support the democratic transformation process in approximately 20 schools.

Expected Results

Through its activities, the project contributes to:

Forming a core group of experts to support schools in the democratization process;
Creating an educational environment where human rights, tolerance, respect, and participation are part of daily practice;
Applying Council of Europe principles in Moldova’s education system;
Facilitating cooperation between schools and local communities in promoting democratic values.