The GOV4PeaCE project will officially begin its journey with a three-day Kick-off Meeting in Kobarid, Slovenia, set in the heart of the Walk of Peace – a region rich in World War I heritage and cross-border cultural connections. This opening event will mark the first official gathering of all project and associated partners and will serve as the public and media launch of the initiative.
The program will include:
🔹 Day 1 – Building Connections
Participants will be welcomed with presentations introducing the project partners and associated institutions from across Central Europe. This day will focus on establishing shared goals, strengthening cross-border ties, and outlining the collaborative spirit that defines GOV4PeaCE.
🔹 Day 2 – Strategy, Work Packages & Field Visits
The second day will focus on the Interreg Central Europe programme framework and the detailed structure of GOV4PeaCE. Project coordinators will guide participants through the three key work packages, clarifying objectives, timelines, and responsibilities.
In the afternoon, participants will embark on a study visit to key memorial sites along the Walk of Peace trail:
- The Russian Chapel,
- The Austro-Hungarian military cemetery in Log pod Mangartom,
- and Fort Kluže – all deeply symbolic sites that highlight the historical and cultural value of the region.
The day will conclude with a dinner featuring local cuisine, offering a taste of regional identity and an opportunity for informal networking.
🔹 Day 3 – Public Presentation & Official Speeches
The final day (May 23) will be open to the public and hosted at the Walk of Peace Foundation headquarters. From 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM, local residents, media representatives, and invited guests will hear about the project’s vision and goals.
Welcoming remarks will be given by local and national leaders including:
Esteemed guests and high-level stakeholders will also deliver keynote speeches, emphasizing the importance of the project in cultural diplomacy, heritage preservation, and European cooperation.
🎯 Why Attend?
This event will set the direction for the GOV4PeaCE project and will be an inspiring opportunity to:
✔ Discover how World War I heritage can become a platform for cross-border cooperation and sustainable tourism.
✔ Meet key players in cultural heritage and governance across Central Europe.
✔ Explore authentic historical sites that tell the story of a shared past.
✔ Be part of shaping innovative heritage policies and practices.
📢 For better governance of WWI heritage – let’s cooperate! Join us in Kobarid to begin the journey together.