During the PES Congress this past weekend in Amsterdam, the EFDS together with FEPS and Renner Institut introduced a brand-new training program called the Skills Booster Workshops, based on our “Training of Trainers” program.
Giving progressive activists, party members, and campaigners tangible tools to support their work is the straightforward yet effective concept of the Skills Booster Workshops. Developing a progressive narrative and taking on the far right are the two pressing issues that are the focus of the seminars.
The first theme, creating a progressive narrative, looks at how we might convey ideals like justice, equality, and solidarity in ways that genuinely affect people’s day-to-day lives. It’s about engaging via purpose, emotion, and storytelling rather than just talking about policies.
Confronting the far right is the second subject, and it couldn’t be more relevant. Far-right movements are expanding throughout Europe, frequently by taking advantage of division and fear. This last Skills Booster session examined how progressives can effectively respond—not just by opposing, but by providing believable, optimistic alternatives that unite rather than divide.
We will continue this program, with upcoming work in Croatia, the Netherlands and much more work to update our trainers and facilitators throughout Europe. And thank you to the trainers and organisers for making it happen!
