What a weekend in Amsterdam! The EFDS was thrilled to host three inspiring sessions during the PES Congress — bringing together social democrats from across Europe to talk democracy, equality, and solidarity.
1. In Conversation with Our Sister Parties on Serbia’s Political Situation (with CEE Gender Network)
We kicked things off with an honest and engaging dialogue featuring representatives from Serbia’s sister parties SSP and DS. The discussion, moderated by Tamara Tripić from the CEE Gender Network, dived into Serbia’s political climate — from the challenges for democracy during the student protests to advancing gender equality and social justice. Together, we explored what European progressives can do to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with democratic movements in Serbia.
2. Progressive Voices from the EU’s Eastern Neighbours
Also, we turned our focus to the Eastern neighbours of the EU. Tamar Kekenadze (Georgia), Igor Batog (Moldova), and Kateryna Lototska (Ukraine) joined us for a powerful conversation on democratic transformation, human rights, and the EU’s role in supporting reform and resilience in their countries. With Tobias Cremer, MEP, offering a European perspective and Amy Eaglestone skillfully moderating, the room was full of insight, passion, and hope for the region’s future.
3. Europe’s Commitment to Ukraine: Beyond Defense
To wrap things up, we looked beyond our commitment on defence to focus on Ukraine’s long-term recovery. Bohdan Ferens, Anna Kolesnichenko, and other speakers shared how social democratic values are being rebuilt on the ground — with Antony Beumer (PES Contact Group Ukraine) moderating an inspiring exchange on how Europe can support not just Ukraine’s defense, but its social justice, equality, and path to EU integration.
