Citizen Activation Mentoring Scheme (CAMS)

Objectives

With the aim to support small Civil Society Organizations (CSO) and/or civic movements across Europe, to better understand the complex EU legal and political landscape and to get full advantage of the tools that are available at EU level, we have launched the ECAS’ Citizen Activation Mentoring Scheme (CAMS).

CAMS is:

• a free-of-charge live consultation/mentoring, provided by ECAS’ experts;
• for small CSOs or civic movements across the EU;
• available at the beginning in a limited number of subject areas (see below);
• providing knowledge, information referrals, advice or examples of best practices that might be helpful for maximizing CSO impact when delivering their mission.

Areas of mentoring

During the pilot phase of the CAMS in 2022, consultations will be available in the areas listed below. In 2023 we will expand and add new areas.

Protecting Citizens’ Rights in the EU

Under this mentoring area, CSOs can receive information on the rights of EU citizens and the main mechanisms through which they can exercise these rights or protect them (such as YEA, EU courts, EU Ombudsman, EU complaint mechanism, petition to the EU Parliament etc.)

Fostering active citizenship

Under this mentoring area, ECAS experts may provide policy and legislative analysis, examples of innovative projects of citizens’ activation and good practices of civil society organizations on tackling disinformation, enhancing registration rates in elections, community building, etc. The experts may also point out some active calls for project proposals that are relevant.

Building inclusive digital democracies

While the EU has its own roadmap to reach its digital policies and objectives by 2030, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have been striving to leave no one behind in the process. ECAS has been leading a Digital Transformation consultation with civil society across Europe on how to build a digital future that is truly inclusive of its people. Our experts will guide you through the EU’s digital policies and explain what CSOs are calling for in the areas of digital education, digital rights, digital safeguards, digital democracy and digital economy, etc. with the ultimate aim of including your organization in shaping our European digital future together

How does it work in practice?

If you are a small CSO or a civic movement, you can fill the form bellow. It requires some contact details and information regarding your context and needs. The CAMS coordinator reviews your request, and if our team has the expertise you need, the relevant team will schedule a call/online meeting with you. During the call, our expert may provide you with resources, legislative advice, or redirect you to other services/organizations. The call usually lasts up to 15 minutes and takes place either on Tuesday morning, or Thursday afternoon.. After the consultation, you will receive an evaluation form where you can offer your feedback.