The participatory process is a structured, multi-phase model for the development and co-creation of the Universul Cultural Centre in The Republic of Moldova. This process will be carried out with the direct involvement of relevant stakeholders and will ensure inclusiveness and transparency through facilitated participatory mechanisms that empower stakeholders to effectively use tools of deliberation, co-creation, and collective decision-making.
The purpose of the participatory process is to provide a consulted concept and governance model based on informed input from the cultural sector and wider public. The consulted concept responds to objective 1.7 in the Ministry of Culture of The Republic of Moldova’s implementation plan:
“Strengthening the independent cultural sector by supporting professional and freelance artists in accessing public spaces and by developing sustainable mechanisms for institutional support, infrastructure, and equitable funding, in order to increase public access to culture”.
The idea is simple – by embedding a participatory model in the establishment of the Cultural Center, Universul can become more than just a physical hub; it can function as a social contract between the state and its citizens in the field of culture. By creating a shared space for creative experimentation, exchange, and dialogue, Universul can become a flagship of cultural progress that is not only smart but also politically, economically, socially, and culturally sustainable, helping shape a more equitable and resilient cultural landscape for the future.
Purpose of the participatory process
The purpose of the participatory process is to create a structured framework through which stakeholders can contribute to the future development of Universul and jointly explore key questions related to its governance, use, sustainability and cultural role. The process aims to:
- facilitate dialogue between cultural actors, institutions and communities;
- identify needs, expectations and concerns related to the future centre;
- create opportunities for collaborative reflection and co-creation;
- increase transparency and trust throughout the development process;
- contribute to more informed decision-making regarding the future development of Universul;
- strengthen ownership and long-term engagement among future users and partners of the centre.
Process logic
The participatory process is designed as a progressive sequence of activities that build upon each other.
Research and Preparation
↓
Launch and Stakeholder Engagement
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Working Groups and Thematic Discussions
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Forum Discussions and Exchange
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Synthesis of Findings and Recommendations
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Inputs for the Future Development of Universul
The process combines research, dialogue, consultation and collaborative reflection. Different forms of participation allow stakeholders to contribute according to their interests, expertise and availability.
Participatory approach
The participatory process is based on the understanding that the future Universul Cultural Centre should be informed by the experiences, needs and aspirations of the people and organisations that will use, manage, support or benefit from it.
Participation is understood as more than consultation. It is a process through which experiences, concerns, ideas and expertise can inform discussions and future decisions regarding the centre.
Different forms of participation are recognised as equally valuable, including lived experience, professional expertise, institutional knowledge and community perspectives.
Main principles
The participatory process is guided by a number of principles intended to support meaningful, transparent and inclusive participation.
Inclusiveness
The process seeks to involve a diverse range of stakeholders, recognising that different groups may be affected by, contribute to or benefit from the future development of Universul. Efforts should be made to reach both organised stakeholders and groups that are traditionally less represented in public discussions.
Transparency
Information regarding the process, activities, discussions and outputs should be communicated in a clear and accessible manner. Participants should have access to relevant information that allows them to engage meaningfully in discussions.
Early and Continuous Participation
Participation should begin as early as possible and continue throughout different stages of the process. Stakeholders should have opportunities to contribute not only to specific solutions, but also to the identification of challenges, priorities and directions for future development.
Diversity of Perspectives
The process recognises the value of different forms of knowledge, including professional expertise, institutional experience, lived experience and community perspectives. Differing viewpoints should be documented and considered as part of the process.
Dialogue and Trust-Building
The process aims to create opportunities for constructive dialogue between stakeholders who may have different interests, responsibilities and expectations. Building trust and mutual understanding is considered an important outcome of the process itself.
Flexibility
The participatory framework provides a fixed and transparent structure while allowing Working Groups to adapt their methods, formats and priorities according to emerging needs and circumstances, including inviting experts, conducting surveys and interviews. The process further allows the Forum to adapt their methods and formats to emerging needs and circumstances Furthermore, Thematic Sessions will allow for ad hoc and needs based activities with cross-working.
Documentation and Feedback
Discussions, observations, questions and recommendations generated throughout the process should be documented and communicated back to participants and the public at all times. Publicly available, transparent and equal communication should help participants understand how their contributions are reflected within the broader process.
Shared Responsibility and Ownership
The future development of Universul requires contributions from multiple actors. The participatory process encourages stakeholders not only to express views and concerns, but also to contribute ideas, expertise, networks and resources that may support the future development of the centre Additionally, shared ownership includes shared accountability and the active participation and willingness to be included in decision making.
Public Value
The process seeks to contribute to the development of a cultural centre that serves the public interest, supports cultural development and responds to the needs of diverse communities and users. The Centre, if developed in a participatory manner, is expected to contribute to a culturally anchored ecosystem that enriches the cultural infrastructure of Chisinau and Republic of Moldova.
Who can participate?
Everyone is welcome to take part in the process at any given time during its implementation currently running to the end of 2026. Participation is free and entered into on a voluntary basis.
Find more information on how to participate, here.
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