From fundamental rights to concrete action: first CharterNet multiplier event

The fundamental rights enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union are not always fully realised in practice. Identifying gaps in their implementation and developing concrete measures to strengthen their protection were therefore at the heart of the first multiplier event of the CharterNet project, which brought together representatives of organisations from eight European countries.

From 19 to 21 October 2026, Peace Institute representatives Tjaša Turnšek and Lana Zdravković, together with Jošt Žagar from ZRC SAZU, participated in an international event in Sarreguemines, France, where participants discussed the interconnectedness of different fundamental rights and their practical implementation.

Through discussions and the examination of concrete cases, we explored the various areas covered by the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights and identified challenges to their protection. A key part of the meeting focused on developing concrete initiatives to strengthen the implementation of fundamental rights. In working groups, we developed action plans, including an initiative for EU-wide education and mobilisation of young people on equality and the prevention of discrimination, as well as a proposal to strengthen the recognition and treatment of forced labour as a form of human trafficking. The initiatives were also presented in Strasbourg at the Europa Power Youth Summit, held on 21 October.

The event also provided an opportunity to exchange views with representatives of the local authorities in Sarreguemines, with whom we discussed the importance of protecting fundamental rights and the role of local communities in ensuring their effective implementation.