From 14–20 September 2025, the fourth edition of the Cres Summer School “Defending democracy in turbulent times: challenges and opportunities. The European perspective” took place at the historic Moise Palace in Cres.
The Summer School brought together 18 young professionals and researchers from EU member states and candidate countries. Through a series of keynote lectures by distinguished speakers, interactive workshops, and open debates, participants examined some of the most pressing questions shaping Europe’s democratic future. The discussions touched on the resilience of democratic institutions, security challenges, and the prospects of EU enlargement, while also highlighting the opportunities for strengthening Europe’s democratic values.
This year’s program was made possible thanks to the dedicated cooperation of IRMO’s Senada Šelo Šabić, PhD, with colleagues from the Austrian Society for European Politics (ÖGfE) and the Austrian Institute for International Affairs (oiip). The program also benefited from the valued support of the French Embassy in Zagreb, the Elcano Institute in Madrid, and the Austrian Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs.
By fostering dialogue and understanding, the Cres Summer School continues to strengthen the exchange of ideas on Europe’s most pressing challenges, and to inspire the next generation of thinkers committed to defending democracy.
