Success stories

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

The project significantly benefited our organisation by strengthening international networks and providing valuable insights into the practices and working methods of our Nordic counterparts. The knowledge gained during the visits has helped us to establish closer relationships with our colleagues, creating opportunities for more efficient and collaborative future engagements. Mobility program trips have not only enriched the professional capacity of our staff but also inspired us to develop new ideas and various approaches that can be adapted and implemented within our own institutional context.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

The project significantly contributed to Nordic-Baltic cooperation by fostering direct connections and knowledge exchange between parliamentary bodies and related institutions. Our main contacts during the mobility program were colleagues from the Danish and Finnish parliaments, which enabled meaningful dialogue on shared regional challenges and best practices in parliamentary work. In addition, we visited Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs, European Centre of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats, OSCE PA secretariat, which helped us further strengthening intergovernmental and cross-sectoral cooperation within the Nordic-Baltic framework. These engagements deepened mutual understanding and laid the groundwork for continued collaboration on issues of common interest.

Do you consider your mobility project valuable in terms of sharing experience?

Yes, for my home organisation

Please give an example of experiences/values gained through the mobility project

Our fruitful meetings in Finland and Denmark have clearly demonstrated us the best possible practices how to organise parliamentary work and interparliamentary cooperation, as well as helped us to have useful comparisons to our own procedures. For example, we learned how our colleagues prepare for both incoming and outgoing official visits, and what we could adopt to improve the efficiency of our existing practices.

Visiting the European Centre of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats helped us to understand how different countries and organisations can work together in order to deal with complex and cross-border problems, especially in light of Russia’s actions in Ukraine and the resulting increase in hybrid threats.

Last but not least, our personal connections established with Nordic colleagues will support us in the future to develop more solid communication and collaboration on shared priorities and mutual learning.

Please describe briefly whether the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for %s met your expectations

The Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for Public Administration exceeded our expectations by offering valuable opportunities for exchange and collaboration with our Nordic counterparts. Meetings with the Finnish Parliament, Ministry for Foreign Affairs, and the European Centre of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats, as well as discussions with Danish colleagues at the Folketing and OSCE PA Secretariat, provided us valuable insights that have prompted us to review and improve our workflows. The knowledge gained is already being applied to enhance our day-to-day operations, making them more efficient.

Contact: Mari-Liis Linkholm, project manager of the project "Exchange of experiences and best practices with Danish and Finnish colleagues"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

The delegation from Habo was representing various areas within the technical and urban department. The main objectives of the project was to establish new contacts and create a collaboration between Habo Municipality, Sweden with Lazdijai Municipality, Lithuania as well as Rakvere and Lääne-Viru County, Estonia. Another aim was to look at best practice in the field of urban development and external funding of projects.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

The project has successfully met the objectives of the program by promoting knowledge transfer for mutual benefit across various sectoral areas and administrative levels. It has enabled the exchange of best practices in public administration and supported the harmonisation of standards. Additionally, it has facilitated joint Nordic-Baltic efforts in utilising different EU funds and project financing opportunities. As a result of our NB8 project, we have also established links between schools in Lithuania and Estonia.

References in the media

The project was mentioned in the municipality’s newsletter for international relations, and participants were asked to present their experiences and study visits within their respective departments. Several participants also shared their experiences on personal social media. This internal promotion increased interest not only in the NB8 program but also in future exchanges with our close neighbours in the Baltic region.

Newsletter: EU International relations in Sweden.
2024-10-21
https://esmaker.net/esNews/NewsLetter/ViewNewsLetter?s=51cf23ba-1573-4625-ac4a-a5f43b3fbd9e&r=eab38378-e056-4f59-92a1-d4eca6384e4a

2025-04-02
https://esmaker.net/esNews/NewsLetter/ViewNewsLetter?s=9b9b7f60-a478-4824-adde-513d4b6fb172&r=eab38378-e056-4f59-92a1-d4eca6384e4a

News in Lithuania 2024-09-24
https://lazdijai.lt/gyventojams/naujienos/7/svedijos-habo-savivaldybes-delegacija-semiasi-gerosios-patirties-lazdijuose:3830

News in Lithuania during the visit from Lazdijai to Jönköping/Habo 2024-09-20
https://lazdijai.lt/gyventojams/naujienos/7/lazdiju-rajono-savivaldybes-atstovai-semesi-gerosios-patirties-svedijoje:3819

Do you consider your mobility project valuable in terms of sharing experience?

Yes, for my home organisation

Please give an example of experiences/values gained through the mobility project

We encountered examples of good practices in several areas that are also relevant to our work. The project helped us establish contacts and networks for potential follow-up in areas where we are interested in continued cooperation. We gained inspiration and found sustainable solutions to shared challenges. Additionally, we had the opportunity to visit several public authorities at different administrative levels, which was highly beneficial.

Please describe briefly whether the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for %s met your expectations

The program has met our expectations and more. We have strengthened our cooperation with partners in Estonia and established new contacts in Lazdijia, Lithuania, thanks to the program and the visits conducted. It has also contributed to increased professional competence among the participants. The knowledge gained has been shared within our organisations through meetings and other internal events. Overall, the program provided a valuable opportunity to deepen exchanges with partners in the Baltic region. We will remain in contact with our contacts in Estonia and Lithuania and will look into other opportunities to cooperation in more specific areas. We have alreaddy established that school and education are of big interest from both sides.

Contact: Chantal Coté, project manager of the project "Sustainable and digital solutions for urban development"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

Participation in the Green Minds, Green Schools Mobility Project, through visits to Norway and Denmark, led to significant results aligned with our objectives:

Understanding and Adapting Sustainability Tools: We gained insights into the sustainability assessment tools used in Norwegian and Danish schools. These tools will be adapted for use within Lithuania’s educational system, ensuring a more structured approach to sustainability in schools.

Integration of Sustainability: Our investigation into how sustainability is integrated into schools at both the national and municipal levels provided valuable lessons. We now have a clearer picture of how to better coordinate sustainability efforts in Lithuanian schools, learning from the successful models in Norway and Denmark.

Development of Good Practices: The visits allowed us to develop and strengthen our dissemination strategies for best practices in sustainable education. We identified methods that could be adapted to Lithuania, helping schools incorporate sustainability into their curricula and daily operations.

Enhancing Dissemination Channels: We evaluated and improved our channels for sharing sustainability information. By observing the efficient communication strategies in both Norway and Denmark, we are now better equipped to reach all schools in Lithuania, fostering greater awareness and motivating action toward sustainability goals.

The results of this project will be shared with Lithuanian educators, helping to integrate sustainability more effectively across schools, promoting long-term environmental awareness, and addressing global sustainability challenges through education.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

The Mobility Project: Green Minds, Green Schools strengthened Nordic-Baltic cooperation by fostering knowledge exchange, professional networking, and collaboration in sustainable education. Bringing together representatives from Lithuania, Norway, and Denmark, the project created opportunities for cross-border dialogue and long-term partnerships.

A key benefit was the exchange of best practices in sustainability-focused education. Nordic countries, known for their advanced sustainability policies, shared insights on school infrastructure, curricula, and teaching methods. This knowledge will help Lithuanian schools adopt similar approaches, aligning with broader Nordic-Baltic environmental and educational goals.

The project also enhanced institutional ties between the Lithuanian Non-formal Education Agency and educational institutions in Norway and Denmark. These new connections open doors for future cooperation, joint projects, and policy development.

Additionally, the presentation of Lithuania’s sustainable school self-assessment tool in Oslo sparked meaningful discussions, highlighting opportunities for shared resources and collaborative initiatives.

By promoting mutual learning and professional exchange, the project strengthened the Nordic-Baltic cooperation framework, reinforcing a shared commitment to sustainability and innovation in education.

References in the media

Norway:
- Media Article 1: Linesa.lt https://tinyurl.com/2wjj9s4w
- Media Article 2: Radviliskis.lt https://tinyurl.com/5f37bn39
- Media Article 3: Šeduva https://tinyurl.com/yc692vdy
- Social Media Article 1: Linesa facebook https://tinyurl.com/mryh664b
- Social Media Article 2: Radviliškis municipality https://tinyurl.com/bdfnvuw7
- Social Media Article 3: Šeduva kindergarten https://tinyurl.com/3h4u9jtw

Denmark:
- Media Article 1: Linesa.lt https://tinyurl.com/bdcrh35x
- Media Article 2: Radviliskis.lt https://tinyurl.com/ysmyyh8b
- Media Article 3: Šeduva https://tinyurl.com/bdf87ej2
- Social Media Article 1: Linesa facebook https://tinyurl.com/5bnj4y4y
- Social Media Article 2: Radviliškis municipality https://tinyurl.com/45ypecyz
- Social Media Article 3: Šeduva kindergarten https://tinyurl.com/4kceyhf5

Do you consider your mobility project valuable in terms of sharing experience?

Yes, for my home organisation

Please give an example of experiences/values gained through the mobility project

The group visits to Denmark and Norway, organized under the Green Minds, Green Schools project, offered valuable opportunities for mutual learning and the exchange of ideas on sustainability in education. While each country faces unique sustainability challenges, the visits revealed a shared commitment to fostering environmental responsibility through innovative educational practices.

One of the key takeaways from the mobility project was the understanding that there is no single, universally correct path to sustainability. The institutions visited and the specialists engaged in both Denmark and Norway emphasized that progress in sustainable development depends on context-specific approaches. Each country must leverage its strengths while seeking to improve weaker areas, and this is best achieved through international cooperation and knowledge exchange.

For example, during the visits, Lithuania’s school sustainability self-assessment tool sparked interest among Danish and Norwegian partners. This tool, developed to help Lithuanian schools evaluate and improve their sustainability practices, was a new concept for many of the Scandinavian institutions. It prompted meaningful discussions and inspired ideas for adaptation in their own contexts. In turn, Lithuanian participants gained insights into systematic whole-school approaches in Scandinavia—such as integrating sustainability into school culture, leadership, physical infrastructure, and community engagement.

This mutual exchange of tools, methods, and perspectives contributed to greater innovation and a broader understanding of sustainability in education across all participating countries.

Beyond the content of the study visits, the project laid the foundation for future partnerships. It strengthened ties between Lithuanian institutions and their Scandinavian counterparts, with the involvement of the Lithuanian community and embassy playing a crucial role in shaping the program and identifying exemplary practices. These newly formed connections hold great potential for ongoing collaboration, joint initiatives, and long-term impact in the field of sustainability education.

Please describe briefly whether the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for %s met your expectations

The Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for Public Administration met and exceeded expectations by fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange, and best practices for educational professionals from Lithuania, Norway, and Denmark. Participants gained valuable insights into sustainability, integrating it into learning programs, and practical problem-solving.

Contact: Diana Lietuvininkė, project manager of the project "Green Minds, Green Schools"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

Following the meetings with other European Capital of Culture teams, it became clear that strong teamwork is crucial. Regular weekly team meetings are essential for collaboratively planning tasks, setting deadlines, and assigning responsibilities. It is equally important that each team member remains focused on their area of expertise and duties to ensure smooth progress.

We also confirmed the significance of open calls as a vital component of community engagement. Various ideas were outlined on how to involve all demographic groups in community programs and volunteer activities.

A key insight was the value of integrating foundation activities into well-established local events that are popular and have been refined over the years. This approach enhances community connection and leverages existing audience interest.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

The visits provided not only valuable experience and insights into the operations of European Capitals of Culture but also established new connections. We now maintain regular online communication with partners from Bodø and Oulu to explore potential project collaborations.

Henrik Sand Dagfinrud, the Artistic Director of the Bodø team, was invited to participate in the "Cultural Renovation" conference organized by Liepāja 2027, held on November 6-7 at the Great Amber Concert Hall in Liepāja. He delivered a lecture on the topic: "Renovating Relationships with the Audience: The Bodø2024 Experience."

Additionally, during the Oulu visit, collaboration was initiated on the E75 Art Vehicles project, with the Liepāja 2027 team involved in selecting artists and creating stopovers. In October, Paavo J. Heinonen from Oulu visited Liepāja to discuss project details further.

References in the media

https://www.facebook.com/liepaja2027.lv/posts/pfbid025ydLdN4gUkVcoUTGYLBKuEyQRArwAiUcXAT43Q4cT6mqAWgVj3mBQAdwXR7K7h76l

https://www.facebook.com/liepaja2027.lv/posts/pfbid02VUrGKiv3AfZMUz2UjYFinxWPog5h4YWXybGVZ5BQw2cHT9zZz4ACauZTyE7f3YWwl

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/SmCnnDXkYbjo6NrR/?mibextid=WC7FNe

Do you consider your mobility project valuable in terms of sharing experience?

Yes, for my home organisation

Please give an example of experiences/values gained through the mobility project

The mobility project provided the Liepāja 2027 organization with valuable experience in learning from the practices of other European Capitals of Culture. It enabled the establishment of new partnerships and the continuation of dialogue and consultations in an online environment. This opportunity enhanced our understanding of best practices in cultural project management and fostered a stronger sense of collaboration within the European cultural network.

Please describe briefly whether the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for %s met your expectations

The Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for Public Administration fully met our expectations. The project provided significant value by fostering new collaborations and offering opportunities for professional growth and exchange of knowledge within the Nordic-Baltic region.

Contact: Inta Šoriņa, project manager of the project "Meeting of the Nordic-Baltic European Capitals of Culture"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

The project significantly benefited the Latvian Court Administration by providing valuable insights and actionable ideas to enhance judicial processes. Through visits to Sweden, Finland, Norway, and Iceland, the organization gained exposure to diverse systems and best practices, offering a comparative perspective that highlighted areas for improvement and innovation.

One key benefit was the opportunity to learn about advanced digital systems and IT solutions. Sweden’s highly digitalized workflows, Finland’s ROMEO platform for legal aid, and Norway’s user-driven IT development provided inspiration for refining Latvia’s already strong e-lietas portal. Discussions on AI tools, like Microsoft Copilot, showcased opportunities to simplify judicial processes and improve efficiency.

The project also enriched the organization’s understanding of human resource management. Norway’s competency-based evaluations and Sweden’s performance-driven pay models highlighted ways to motivate and support judicial staff, aligning with Latvia’s focus on professionalism and efficiency.

In addition, the project emphasized the value of mediation and victim support services. Finland’s mediation practices and Iceland’s centralized victim assistance model demonstrated effective ways to reduce caseloads and enhance accessibility, ideas that could be tailored to Latvia’s needs.

Finally, the project fostered stronger international collaboration, allowing Latvia to share its successes, like the e-lietas portal, while learning from Nordic innovations. This exchange strengthened relationships and positioned Latvia as a contributor to regional judicial advancements. Overall, the project provided practical tools and fresh perspectives to further improve Latvia’s well-established judicial system.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

The project strengthened Nordic-Baltic cooperation by fostering knowledge exchange and collaboration between judicial institutions. Through visits to Sweden, Finland, Norway, and Iceland, the Latvian Court Administration engaged with counterparts to discuss shared challenges and explore practical solutions, enhancing regional ties and mutual understanding.

The project highlighted the Nordic-Baltic mobility platform as a valuable tool for fostering cooperation. By using this platform, participating institutions demonstrated its effectiveness in connecting organizations and encouraging the exchange of innovative practices. The success of this project serves as a strong example to other institutions in the region, showing the potential benefits of engaging with the platform to tackle common goals.

Discussions during the visits emphasized common priorities, such as digitalization, mediation, and victim support, while also allowing Latvia to share its achievements, like the e-lietas portal. In turn, Latvia gained useful insights into Nordic approaches, including Finland’s streamlined legal aid system and Iceland’s victim compensation processes.

Encouraging other institutions to use the platform can further expand its reach and impact, supporting ongoing cooperation and improvements across the region. By working together, Nordic and Baltic countries can continue to strengthen their judicial systems while fostering sustainable collaboration

References in the media

https://www.ta.gov.lv/lv/jaunums/tiesu-administracija-apmainas-pieredze-ar-somijas-tieslietu-institucijam
https://www.ta.gov.lv/lv/jaunums/tiesu-administracijas-parstavji-apmekle-stokholmas-rajona-tiesu-un-zviedrijas-nacionalo-tiesu-administraciju
https://www.ta.gov.lv/lv/jaunums/tiesu-administracijas-parstavji-apmekle-islandes-tieslietu-ministrijas-kompensacijas-cietusajiem-komiteju-un-gimenes-tiesiskas-palidzibas-centru-bjarkarhlid

Do you consider your mobility project valuable in terms of sharing experience?

Yes, for my home organisation

Please give an example of experiences/values gained through the mobility project

One key experience gained through the mobility project was learning about Iceland’s centralized victim support model at the Bjarkarhlíð Family Legal Aid Center. This approach, which integrates legal, emotional, and psychological support services in one location, highlighted the value of simplifying access for victims and ensuring comprehensive care. The Latvian delegation gained insights into effective collaboration between government agencies and NGOs, inspiring ideas for improving victim services in Latvia. This example underscores the importance of coordinated support systems and the potential for adapting best practices to enhance accessibility and inclusivity in public administration.

Please describe briefly whether the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for %s met your expectations

The Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for Public Administration fully met our expectations. It provided a valuable platform for exchanging knowledge and best practices, fostering meaningful collaboration between the Latvian Court Administration and Nordic counterparts. The project offered insights into advanced judicial practices, such as digitalization, mediation, and victim support systems, while also facilitating the sharing of Latvia’s own achievements. The high level of engagement and practical outcomes demonstrated the program’s effectiveness in achieving its goals and strengthening regional cooperation. We are confident that the knowledge gained will contribute to further improvements in Latvia’s public administration.

Contact: Ralfs Rusins , project manager of the project "Improvement of Efficiency in Providing Judicial Administration Functions"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

Social welfare and healthcare innovation is one of the most important topics when it comes to optimizing care services. Forthcoming years in Estonia are tied with budget cuts and tough financial decisions. Innovation and optimization are key factors in keeping the quality of the services provided by local municipalities. The knowledge we got on our study visit gives us input to our municipality's long term development strategies and also helps us to dream and look forward in our field of work. Sometimes we can get stuck in our daily challenges and that takes away the ability to seek out good international practices or solutions that are innovative and could help us. As one example Icelandic prevention model can be used to solve different high risk behavior problems with youngsters and not only misuse of alcohol. Realizing that on our study visit was very exciting and ideas where to use the model started to fly.

Viimsi municipality also benefited on taking care and offering motivational opportunities to their employees. As of our delegation was very motivated and full of ideas after the visits. The project programme is an excellent opportunity for public sector, helping public sector administration to get a fresh perspective on their field of work.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

All the institutions we visited showed interest in visiting us in Estonia aswell, some were also thinking using the same programme to get some help with funding.

In Iceland we got the direct contacts from Planet Youth organization, and we are moving forward applying budget funds to implement Icelantic prevention model in Viimsi. The cost to use and implement the model in Viimsi is about 40000 euros per year and it is an ongoing activity (for minimum 5 years) and support from Planet Youth.

The Healthcare Institution of South Iceland is looking forward visiting us in Viimsi and see our social welfare and healthcare solutions. Möburg nursing home gave us a good overview how architectural beauty isn't always working for nursing homes functionality. A round house cost 4 times more than a square house and has worse functionality when it comes to taking care of people.

Reykjavik city administration is also looking forward meeting us in Estonia. They have a innovative digital welfare department in the city administration and we have contacts to reach for help when we are starting to build up our digital and innovative solutions on home care or healthcare services.

References in the media

https://www.viimsivald.ee/viimsi-teataja/islandilt-saadud-kogemused-rikastasid-meie-teadmisi

https://www.viimsivald.ee/sites/default/files/inline-files/Viimsi%20Teataja%2001.11.24_0.pdf - page 17.

https://planetyouth.org/planet-youth-on-social-media/ and their Facebook post https://www.facebook.com/PlanetYouthOfficial/posts/1220638422225205

Do you consider your mobility project valuable in terms of sharing experience?

Yes, for my home organisation

Please give an example of experiences/values gained through the mobility project

For example we have new visions for our municipalitys long term development strategies, also we have seen good practices how to integrate social welfare, wellbeing and healthcare, so people in need don't get stuck between bureaucracy.

For example we saw two institutions meant for people diagnosed with dementia and how services were optimized, offered and how the facilities were structured to support the diagnose. Viimsi Municipality owns a nursing home and we plan to develop the nursing home to support people with dementia living there.

We saw different views on activities and action plans supporting preventive work with risk behavior on youngsters from Iceland and Denmark. Thanks to that we have a good overview what could work in our municipality and what we need to do.

We saw and shared experience on innovative approaches in the field of social work and welfare and also got access to networks of like minded specialists in Nordic countries (smart solutions in home care, healthcare etc)

Please describe briefly whether the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for %s met your expectations

The program met our expectations perfectly, working on the field for more than 10 years makes us sometimes get stuck into old ways, seeing different practices helped us to look things and how they work from different angle and also see how to optimize welfare services provided by our municipality. Since everything is getting more expensive and personal, optimization and smart actions are critically needed. Also we saw good practices how to influence our community and politics to think about preventive actions and to see the necessity.

Contact: Tõnu Troon, project manager of the project "Viimsi Municipality study visits to Nordic countries to exchange professional knowledge and experience in the fields of elderly care, prevention and co-creation with community on decision making processes"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

The practices of service organization seen/heard were very instructive and eye-opening. The knowledge gained during the visits gives a fresh and new perspective for raising and discussing both so-called cosmetic as well as substantive and fundamental topics in the design of everyday processes and services at the local level.

Although the goal was to learn about the organization of certain services, valuable knowledge was also gained for improving everyday processes.
The tools for substantive analysis and understanding of daily work processes, which were introduced and described in the report/learning material, help the teams of all agencies to improve the effectiveness of their processes.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

In the course of the visits, cooperative ties were established that were previously absent between the offices responsible for the provision of social services in capital cities. This is a good start and supports possible future joint initiatives and harmonization of regional practices.

References in the media

When sharing the results of service development and renewal in the future, it will be noted that the knowledge used has been obtained, among other things, during visits to the institutions of the Nordic capitals within the framework of this project. The project report/educational material will be distributed both to the employees of the agency that organized the visits and to the district governments.

Do you consider your mobility project valuable in terms of sharing experience?

Yes, for my home organisation

Please give an example of experiences/values gained through the mobility project

I would like to mark all the answer options, because the knowledge gathered within the project are valuable, both for the participants personally, in their daily work, and for the entire institution, because the completed educational material and shared experiences are useful and practical also for colleagues and contributes to improving the functioning and results of the entire home organisation. I also believe that our experiences are also interesting for the host organizations, because they aroused interest in coming to learn more about our practices.

Please describe briefly whether the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for %s met your expectations

Programm vastas meie ootusele ja on tänuväärne võimalus teadmisi arendada ja silmarigi laiendada. See aitab anda uut hingamist kodu organisatsiooni protsessidesse.

Contact: Triinu Sõelsep, project manager of the project "Practices in the organization and provision of assistance services for people with disabilities in Reykjavik and Oslo"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

Following the experience gained within two study visits the LPO is starting to develop a conceptual report on the intellectual property protection and the management system in the Republic of Latvia for the next five years which will be submitted to the Cabinet of Ministers in 2025.
The visited institutions clearly showed that IP system in the country should be strongly interlinked with the innovation and commercialization processes there. The commercialization of innovations should be more developed within Latvian Law on Scientific Activity, providing more options for commercialization process and benefits for innovators. Bilateral cooperation is of benefit for both sides, including capacity building for one side and promotion of technologies for the other one. More can be done to build the capacity of the LPO customer service, especially in collecting the clients responses on services provided.
Examples received from developed materials: Service manual for intellectual property (PRH) and IPR Awareness Manual for Industries (PTO) will serve as ideas for our office in development of promotional materials.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

The visits have strengthened the cooperation between the offices, as in face meetings are helping to set up relations allowing to continue communication on different issues arising in everyday work.
For example, Danish Inventor Advisory Service (IAS) at the Technology Institute following the visit has come up proposing the IAS model to Latvia institutions and provide training for them with the following themes:
1. Present a detailed overview of our IAS model
2. Outline a potential training program for your staff
3. Discuss how the IAS could be adapted to the Latvian context
LPO is now inquiring the stakeholders to participate in this training.
The awareness raising campaigns carried out by the LPO was of great interest for both visited offices and we were happy to share our approaches to reach the audience in the regions and to attract the attention of youth.
LPO is going to celebrate 105 anniversary in April 2025 and both offices are invited to come to Latvia for the celebration and continuation of cooperation activities.

References in the media

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=878778297617552&set=a.214677374027651
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=843748887786546&set=a.247820890712685

https://media.licdn.com/dms/image/D4D22AQFmJzxWNkJ27Q/feedshare-shrink_1280/0/1719092254231?e=1723680000&v=beta&t=gvHQoi84KicdAlRLe1ojHta2L7Q67yDHIhuM5CLSCDk

https://www.lrpv.gov.lv/lv/jaunums/patentu-valdes-parstavji-gust-vertigas-atzinas-pieredzes-apmaina-danijas-patentu-un-precu-zimju-biroja

https://media.licdn.com/dms/image/v2/D4D22AQG6ijJiEwZ7fQ/feedshare-shrink_800/feedshare-shrink_800/0/1729776412907?e=1733961600&v=beta&t=ho89ZOSc7-0yaElR6L-AN7NsEmkcMO-uFxWoO2oPQKU

https://media.licdn.com/dms/image/D4D10AQHOjnsmaf6liQ/image-shrink_1280/0/1718184664950?e=1721217600&v=beta&t=YByIrpx8fp5wKOBXAMCq38wKbyGMXFv0rj19HSipVwU

Do you consider your mobility project valuable in terms of sharing experience?

Yes, for my home organisation

Please give an example of experiences/values gained through the mobility project

The visits have strengthened the cooperation between the offices, as in face meetings are helping to set set up relations allowing to continue communication on different issues arising in everyday work.

Please describe briefly whether the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for %s met your expectations

Following the experience gained within two study visits the LPO is starting to develop a conceptual report on the intellectual property protection and the management system in the Republic of Latvia for the next five years which will be submitted to the Cabinet of Ministers in 2025.
Yes, LPO received valuable experience to be used in its everyday work and IP policy development.

Contact: Ināra Stalidzāne, project manager of the project "Facilitating knowledge transfer and exchanging best practices to prepare the concept report on the intellectual property protection and management system in Latvia"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

The Child Protection Centre perfected its activities with effect from 1 January 2024. The Centre is currently developing its activities in the field of methodology, advisory support and service. Consequently, at the time of the exchange visit; a in Finland and Iceland, when meeting with specialists working in the field of child protection, the acquired knowledge and information will be useful in future development processes of the Child Protection Centre, development of new types of service for children and families, as well as strengthening cooperation in the field of child protection with local government specialists throughout Latvia.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

Contacts were established within the framework of the project and further expert cooperation between Finland, Iceland and Latvia on child protection and support issues was promoted.

References in the media

Press releases on an exchange visit on October 10 were posted on the centre's website
https://www.bac.gov.lv/lv/jaunums/pieredzes-apmainas-vizite-uz-somiju-un-islandi

Do you consider your mobility project valuable in terms of sharing experience?

Yes, for my home organisation

Please give an example of experiences/values gained through the mobility project

Way of assessing children's needs, family resources, identifying services based directly on the individual needs of the child

Please describe briefly whether the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for %s met your expectations

The programme responded to the needs because we gained valuable experience in the development and development of services for children and their families, both at national and local level.

Contact: Ieva Sedola, project manager of the project "Possibilities for improvement of content of support services for children with behavioural and addiction problems and their families in Latvia"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

This project was a great opportunity to get acquainted with two major Scandinavian cities through the lense of our field of work – exploring public open spaces and planning that goes behind them. Also, it was an incredible experience to meet the specialists from Oslo and Copenhagen manucipalities and understand how they work, what problems that they have to deal with and how do the solve them.
We have definitely brought back a lot useful information and tools that we can imply to our projects back in Lithuania. Although we found out that there are some issues that we have not met fortunately. Nonetheless, if we‘re going to face them, we will know where to look for a advise how to solve them.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

This project was a great example of cooperation of specialist that are working in the same field. It was a great opportunity to exchange knowledge and good practice in designing public spaces.
Since we are designers of Vilnius’ public spaces it is very important for us to expand our knowledge it this field. Since public spaces are used by so many people, it is very useful that these spaces would be at the highest quality, well thought through. We do believe that our projects benefit everyone that uses them. So, it is very important to use to be curious and innovative. One of the best ways to do that is to learn from other cities – their great methods and even their mistakes.

References in the media

https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7259843359089827840

Do you consider your mobility project valuable in terms of sharing experience?

Yes, for my home organisation

Please give an example of experiences/values gained through the mobility project

We gained a lot valuable information about planning urban spaces and Scandinavian culture.

Please describe briefly whether the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for %s met your expectations

Yes, the programme definitely met and exceeded our expectations.

Contact: Gabija Tamasauskaite, project manager of the project "Study visits to Nordic countries seeking examples for good practice in public space design"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

Samso remains our mentor in the energy transmission roadmap. Further recommendations will be given to the Estonian islands about stakeholder engagement and how to smartly tackle the NIMBY effect.
Bornholm engaged us in the Horizon project application compiling about the recycling economy and its support by smart renewable energy solutions.
Our biogas plant developer is already visiting Gotland colleagues for knowledge and practice exchange; their Nässuden wind farm operator will be invited to speak at the Saaremaa International Wind Energy Conference.
Aland is coming up with new collaboration ideas, connecting also higher education institutions. I believe the Nordplus project might be the next step in the network of Baltic Energy Islands Connect.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

The project strengthened the network Baltic Energy Islands Connect. After studying other islands' developments and achievements it is much easier to contact colleagues across the sea for best experiences and build joint initiatives. Horizon and Life remain the main EU programs to form joint projects enhancing the green energy transition plans.
Besides above mentioned agreements, there is a strong interest in carrying on the hydrogen backbone development from Aland down to Bornholm, connecting also Gotland's and Saaremaa's production capacities.

References in the media

https://eisea.org/blog/eisea-aitab-leida-tarku-ja-saastlikke-energialahendusi/
https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=saarte%20energiaagentuur
https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7245379803749486592/?actorCompanyId=70885186
https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7244678871118188545/?actorCompanyId=70885186

Do you consider your mobility project valuable in terms of sharing experience?

Yes, for my home organisation

Please give an example of experiences/values gained through the mobility project

On Samso, how to work with local resources and people on a clean energy roadmap. On Bornholm, how to stand for islands' interests in the context of big offshore investments. On Gotland, how to build a biogas plant and take care of the Swedish oldest wind farm, maximizing local value. How can powerful companies be engaged in the islands' development plans on Aland?
Important lessons learned by our municipal leaders and contacts established for further collaboration.

Please describe briefly whether the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for %s met your expectations

Yes, the whole program exceeded the expectations of our group. It seemed, that likewise, all hosts liked direct contact establishment and getting to know the Estonian archiplelago.

Contact: Sulev Alajõe, project manager of the project "Energy islands"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

The project provided significant benefits to our organization. The visit to Växjö offered valuable insights into urban development, sustainability, and public-private partnerships, which we can integrate into our own projects, especially in terms of building energy efficiency and sustainable infrastructure.

The trip to Tampere was especially beneficial, particularly in relation to their tram system. As Kaunas is currently in the research phase of determining whether to implement a tram system, this visit provided us with highly relevant and practical insights. We were able to dive deep into how Tampere planned, financed, and executed their tram project. The discussions covered essential topics such as scheduling, operational costs, infrastructure requirements, and the long-term benefits of the system for urban mobility and sustainability. This knowledge will be instrumental as we assess the feasibility and potential advantages of a similar project in Kaunas.
Additionally, during our visit to the newly developing Hiedanranta district, we gained valuable knowledge on how Tampere utilizes and attracts EU project funding to support their urban development. Understanding how they leverage these funds and partnerships for large-scale projects gave us new perspectives on how to approach similar initiatives in Kaunas. Seeing firsthand how the tram integrates with Tampere's transport network, coupled with insights into their funding strategies, has provided us with valuable perspectives to inform our own decision-making.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

The project strengthened Nordic-Baltic cooperation by fostering deeper connections between Kaunas and its sister cities, Växjö and Tampere. Through our discussions, we identified shared goals in sustainability, public transport, and urban development, which I believe can drive future collaborations within the NB8 framework. Additionally, the discussed opportunity to align Kaunas' series of events Scandinavian Days with new sustainability initiatives further demonstrates the potential for ongoing cooperation between our cities, benefiting the entire Nordic-Baltic region.

Do you consider your mobility project valuable in terms of sharing experience?

Yes, for my home organisation

Please give an example of experiences/values gained through the mobility project

Yes, for my home organization. The mobility project highlighted how Växjö and Tampere are a step ahead in urban and architectural planning, particularly in sustainability and innovative public-private partnerships. However, in the transport sector, we also shared valuable insights from our experience in Kaunas, contributing to a productive exchange of knowledge.

Please describe briefly whether the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for %s met your expectations

We were particularly pleased because we selected specialists who rarely have the opportunity to travel to Scandinavian countries. This made the experience even more valuable in gaining new perspectives and fostering collaboration.
For me personally, as someone working closely with Kaunas’ Nordic and Union of Baltic Cities projects, it was extremely valuable. I believe meeting in person fostered deeper connections

Contact: Gailė Partikaitė, project manager of the project "Study Visit_Sharing the valuable experience"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

The project provided significant benefits to our organization by sharing practical insights and best practices from Iceland and Denmark in project management across multiple sectors. Key impacts include:

Improved Project Management Skills: We gained a deeper understanding of advanced project management models, particularly the importance of a strong PMO (Project Management Office), as demonstrated by ON Power and Reykjavik Municipality. These insights will help us implement more structured and efficient project management processes.

Stakeholder Engagement: Learning about stakeholder management strategies from the University of Iceland and public institutions highlighted the importance of long-term collaboration and open communication. These practices will foster better relationships with stakeholders and ensure smoother project execution.

Risk and Resource Management: Exposure to risk management practices used in large-scale projects, such as the Reykjavik hospital project, provided tools for better risk management and resource allocation, crucial for complex projects.

Innovation and Adaptability: Insights gained through Prof. Inga Minelgaitė’s training will enhance our organization's ability to manage change and adapt to new conditions, improving resilience in dynamic environments.

Sustainability and Cultural Integration: The Reykjavik Library's approach to serving diverse communities offered valuable lessons in sustainability and inclusivity, which will help us focus on these aspects in future projects.

Overall, the project strengthened our organization’s ability to manage complex initiatives, foster collaboration, and implement sustainable, efficient solutions.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

The project strengthened Nordic-Baltic cooperation by promoting knowledge exchange and collaboration in areas such as energy, project management, and public services. Key benefits to the partnership include:

Enhanced Cross-Border Collaboration: The project created opportunities for organizations in both regions to address shared challenges, including energy sustainability and urban development. This exchange of best practices helped build stronger relationships and laid the groundwork for future joint initiatives.

Knowledge Transfer: Baltic participants benefited from the advanced project management models used in Nordic countries, such as Iceland’s PMO (Project Management Office) framework. The transfer of this knowledge can be applied to improve efficiency and project management capabilities in Baltic organizations, enhancing the overall competence of the region.

Sustainability: The project highlighted sustainability efforts, particularly through initiatives like ON Power’s renewable energy projects. These lessons support the shared Nordic-Baltic goals of advancing green energy solutions. The cooperation in this area will help both regions in their transition to sustainable energy practices.

Cultural and Social Integration: The project addressed key social issues, such as migrant integration, through institutions like Reykjavik Library. By sharing these approaches, Baltic countries can implement similar initiatives to foster inclusivity and strengthen social ties between the Nordic and Baltic regions.

The project deepened Nordic-Baltic cooperation by fostering knowledge sharing, promoting sustainability, and supporting cultural integration, laying a strong foundation for continued collaboration.

References in the media

The project and its results were mentioned on our organization's website and social media platforms.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/XWfummgKX4sMrNk7/

Do you consider your mobility project valuable in terms of sharing experience?

Yes, for my home organisation

Please give an example of experiences/values gained through the mobility project

Cultural Exchange and Understanding: Participants had the opportunity to experience different cultural approaches to project management, collaboration, and problem-solving. This helped foster greater cultural sensitivity and adaptability, enabling participants to work more effectively in diverse, international environments.

Knowledge Transfer and Skill Development: Through workshops and practical sessions, participants gained valuable insights into innovative project management models, such as the PMO framework, and new methods of stakeholder engagement. These skills are directly applicable to their home organizations, improving overall efficiency and project outcomes.

Networking and Collaboration: The project facilitated the creation of strong professional networks between participants from different countries. These relationships will support future cross-border collaborations and joint projects, promoting ongoing exchange of best practices and resources.

Sustainability and Innovation: Exposure to sustainable practices, especially in sectors like energy and public services, emphasized the importance of integrating sustainability into project planning and execution. This value will guide future initiatives, encouraging environmentally responsible and innovative approaches.

These experiences and values will have a lasting impact on participants, helping them apply new knowledge, skills, and attitudes in their personal and professional lives.

Please describe briefly whether the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for %s met your expectations

The Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for Public Administration met and exceeded our expectations in several key areas. It provided invaluable opportunities for knowledge exchange, fostering collaboration between Nordic and Baltic public administration professionals. The programme offered access to innovative project management practices, particularly through workshops and hands-on experiences, which will be directly applicable to our work. Moreover, the networking opportunities helped establish long-term professional relationships that will support future cross-border projects. The programme's focus on sustainability and best practice sharing was particularly beneficial, allowing us to integrate new approaches into our public sector initiatives. Overall, the programme fully delivered on its promise of enhancing cooperation and capacity-building.

Contact: Gintare Puckoriene, project manager of the project "Experience exchange with Iceland and Denmark, adaptation of best practice in the fields of project management"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

The benefits of the project - Municipal employees, who usually do not have the opportunity to see good examples live, like those of the Scandinavian countries, had the opportunity to go to Sweden and Finland and visit municipalities, educational centers, special institutions working with children with disabilities, and many other institutions. They not only had the opportunity to see with their own eyes how what is established in the law is applied in practice, but also made useful contacts. For example, during the visit to the Jonkoping Kålgården's adapted preschool, the specialists of the Education Department established a cooperative relationship and the arrival of the specialists of this school to Kaunas is currently being planned in order to see the experience of the city of Kaunas, as kindergartens and schools are adapted for children with disabilities. Also planned in Kaunas is a seminar of Swedish and Lithuanian pedagogues, the aim of which is to share each other's good experiences.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

The project undoubtedly contributed to the cooperation between the Baltic States and the Scandinavian States, as specialists from different countries had the opportunity to share their long-term experience on the mentioned topic. Contacts were also exchanged, from which a visit to Kaunas and further cooperation in the field of inclusive education is planned in the near future. Therefore, it was definitely an invaluable experience for the Baltic countries, and specifically in our case - for the employees of the Kaunas city municipality, to see how the Scandinavian countries have already implemented the integration of children with special needs in kindergartens and schools in their practice.

References in the media

During our first visit to Jönköping, the information about Kaunas delegation and all the project was made public in Jönköping newsletter. Here is link to it's Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/InternationellaRelationerJkpg/?fref=ts

Do you consider your mobility project valuable in terms of sharing experience?

Yes, for my home organisation

Please give an example of experiences/values gained through the mobility project

New valuable contacts were made; during live visits, you can actually see with your own eyes how everything is in reality, not just in theory.

Please describe briefly whether the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for %s met your expectations

Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for Public Administration exceeded expectations, because Kaunas city municipality specialists from different fields had the opportunity to visit municipalities, educational centers, schools and kindergartens with their own eyes and experience everything themselves, see and communicate with the people working in them. This gave them new motivation and self-confidence to do what they do next, somewhere applying the experience of the Scandinavian countries.

Contact: Karolina Šidiškienė, project manager of the project "Study Visit: Sharing the valuable experience in inclusive education and Personnel management issues"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

The knowledge and good practise gained during the mobility visit to the Nordic countries will be successfully applied in Jonas Lankutis library. Eight competent and motivated library specialists, which have improved their qualification during the mobility visit, will share the acquired knowledge with their colleagues to provide new cultural services. New educational programs for children, youth and senior people will be created, actively aiming to attract the local community to the library. Librarians competences and international colaboration between Nordic and Baltic public libraries were strengthened. The good practice acquired in the Nordic countries will encourage specialists of the Jonas Lankutis public library to provide new innovative services. Volunteering at the library by local community residents is very popular in the Nordic countries. This will be applied in our library as well. There will be interest in the basic principles of community involvement in educational activities, reading promotion programs, book clubs, the involvement of children and youth to library activities. Experiences about library buses was shared: what services are provided in the Nordic countries and how activities are organized. Lithuanian librarians had learned about sustainable use in the Nordic libraries too. The goal of the project- exchanging knowledge, promoting, sharing experience and strengthening cooperation, international relations was achieved. After the trip, an "idea bank" was already created, where we collected all the experiences, put together a plan of actions and priorities. We"ll start step by step to realize the ideas we have seen, which can be applied in JonasLankutisLibrary.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

Nordic and Baltic libraries, participated in the project had the opportunity to establish inter-institutional international relations. Organizations shared experience of their traditional and innovative services, working methodology, reading promotion programs, non-formal education for adults and youth. The visited countries have very similar cultural policy, law and structure as in Lithuania. Activities and project initiatives carried out by the Jonas Lankutis Public Library was presented to partner libraries in the Nordic countries. The project was useful for our library because participants were able to see Nordic libraries examples of cooperation with Family, Youth, Culture Centers and other city institutions. The Swedish and Danish colleagues were impressed by the activities carried out by our library, such as Robot LABIS, Reading Start, Writers' Club, the publicity strategy carried out by the library and the creation of our own production. Contacts were also exchanged between specialists of various departments. After meeting and chatting live, we gained potential partners for further projects. Colleques from Sweden libraries will come to Jonas Lankutis public library to gain experience.
The goal was achieved -cooperation between Nordic and Baltic libraries was implemented, knowledge was exchanged between libraries. It will help to facilitate the coordination of more efficient public sector work methods in library work. We managed to establish close relations with representatives of libraries in the Nordic countries. Nordic and Baltic libraries will try to work together in the future to ensure inclusive, equal and high-quality non-formal education to provide lifelong learning opportunities for all.

References in the media

https://www.facebook.com/lankuciobiblioteka/posts/pfbid02fA2JpAHVWwEDeRzKPeaDHpcX1LncYsaJM1fk782K7bJa7UM14MGaafgEmDkgCZzCl

https://www.facebook.com/lankuciobiblioteka/posts/pfbid02DPvL6hPvLGwWoqr6Sh6CjJQJYe6e542yMhAPFKBPLSfLhnUfdFnLWp9ZCZXM4q4ml

https://www.facebook.com/lankuciobiblioteka/posts/pfbid02Vw19tXUhGh1Euv3ojNhYRmfF8sgx9TcUtKEUyYThU4o1qeYTvq1sejsBEmC5if4ul

https://www.facebook.com/lankuciobiblioteka/posts/pfbid0x8mj2qdU4CFxCDhHi56UL8rixqUyQcJySbU7dtJWTCFRmizZMUvbMSJJQ3LtmMTml

https://www.facebook.com/lankuciobiblioteka/posts/pfbid0a5vQPbgar6Zx5xew68DAqbCPpdgMJ2XMUomnta8W9g9zkR74RPibQmQC9QzA47P1l

https://www.facebook.com/karlskronabibliotek/posts/947149144118486?ref=embed_page

https://www.gargzdaivb.lt/naujienos/5/bibliotekininku-vizitas-danijos-ir-svedijos-bibliotekose:666

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C_vGEJxIKNZ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C_-e1dbt6XC/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

https://mano-gargzdai.lt/component/k2/item/32930-bibliotekinink-vizitas-danijos-ir-svedijos-bibliotekose

https://gargzdai.lt/bibliotekininku-vizitas-danijos-ir-svedijos-bibliotekose/

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1SgmGfbJJtLJhQM9oS403aLwpJvAhzpaO/view (a video created by our library specialists presenting the ongoing activities).

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=949634783869505&set=a.462871959212459 (start organizing individual digital literacy training for residents on the days and hours set).

21 stories were uploaded to the library's Facebook account.

Do you consider your mobility project valuable in terms of sharing experience?

Yes, for my home organisation

Please give an example of experiences/values gained through the mobility project

The project has strengthened the competences of Jonas Lankutis public library specialists, which are necessary for creating non-formal education programs. Active work will be done on these priority areas - gender equality, sustainability, social inclusion. International cooperation of cultural organizations was promoted. Nordic libraries were an excellent example for us of how local community members and their needs are taken into account when organizing library activities, and how community members themselves are included in the organization of events, clubs, and activities. Innovative services, reading promotion for visitors of all ages, will be developed in the library. Mobility participants were interested in reading clubs, mobile libraries, the main principles of community involvement in library educational activities. Discussions took place about practical aspects of children and youth activities in library work. The development of the public sector in the field of library work was promoted in order to implement new innovative practices. After gaining good experience, mobility visit participants will strive to introduce sustainable, innovative services in the library, improve the effectiveness of the use of existing resources, and reduce the digital divide. The Nordic countries have long been known as tolerant for all nations and races, all age groups, all sexual orientations. This principle is also followed in Lithuanian libraries. Volunteering by local community residents is popular in Nordic countries. It will be tried to be implemented in the Jonas Lankutis public library. Also, Nordic libraries lend books according to a doctor's prescription (for example, for children with reading difficulties) and for specialists who work with children with various health problems (dyslexia, autism, etc.). This experience will be made to apply in Jonas Lankutis library.

Please describe briefly whether the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for %s met your expectations

The mobility program met all the expectations of Jonas Lankutis public library specialists. International cooperation of cultural organizations, exchange of best practices on traditional and innovative services in the libraries of the Nordic and Baltic countries was successfully implemented.
The project has strengthened the competences of Jonas Lankutis public library specialists, which are necessary for creating non-formal education programs. Lifelong learning services will be provided to library visitors, the social and digital divide will be reduced, giving everyone equal opportunities to improve. The strategy of gender equality in the library will continue to be followed, without dividing users according to gender identity, age, disability, ethnic origin, religion. Various activities will be organized for community members. A sustainable lifestyle will be promoted and book exchange funds will be developed (Book Houses will be established in the library branches and remote areas). Innovations will be applied in book clubs, in the activities of the mobile library, and the main principles of community involvement in the Jonas Lankutis library's educational activities will be actively implemented.
An open, advanced, communal informational and cultural space will continue to be developed for local residents, promoting reading, self-education, communication and lifelong learning.

Contact: Daiva Stasaitiene, project manager of the project "Development of librarian‘s competencies in international practise"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

The outcome of the project is significant for three departments within Valmiera Municipality: 1) Tourism Department, 2) Department of Culture, 3) Sports Department. The knowledge gained in the project is passed on to other colleagues within the departments in order to be able to work on the same line to reach better results.

First of all, the experience and knowledge about tools and platforms, how local society can be involved in the creation of cultural, sports and tourism content in the city and region. To be able to engage, locals can strengthen their sense of belonging to the community, city and region - they feel heard and taken care of. This is a huge step to strengthen social resilience in Valmiera City and region. This message is important to address to chairmen and be sure that they have understand it.

Second, we learnt about the management of youth sports system, about the motivation programmes, budgeting. Quite many ideas already implemented in Iceland and Finland might be adapted also to the sports development strategy of Valmiera region.

Third, during the visits quite many new contacts were established, which might transform into new project applications. Also new aspects of collaboration in ECoC activities and contemporary art development projects elaborated.

Fourth, international experience, best practice and knowledge share is important both for organisation and individual participant to be able to grow and easier addapt to new challenges and situations.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

It is important to strengthen Nordic-Baltic cooperation, and within implementation of this project,
definitely the partnership between Valmiera (Latvia) and Oulu (Finland) were raised to a new level. There was previous contact between ECoC teams at both cities (Oulu 2026 and Valmiera2027 candidate city), and this visit allowed to open new cooperation windows also in sports and tourism field.

Although Reykjavik is capital city, it has only 3 times more inhabitants than Valmiera region, and it allowed to be on the same page during the meetings, as both cities face similar challenges. Before the visit to Reykjavik we did not encounter how close the cooperation between Iceland and Latvia already is in various fields. As tourism is the most exportable economical sector in Iceland, we were able to identify similarities and struggles which allowed to think about further collaboration.

References in the media

Up to the date of submission of project report, Public Administration mobility activities didn't attract the media attention. But there is going to be a short news story on local TV Re:TV in November.

Do you consider your mobility project valuable in terms of sharing experience?

Yes, for my home organisation

Please give an example of experiences/values gained through the mobility project

In Nordic countries the bottom up involvement of the society/ community is in a very advanced level. The engagement of the locals in order to create events, develop their ideas for better and more resilient life for the citizens, makes the city more attractive place where to live, raise the kids and spend the free time, which allows the city to grow and accumulate knowledge and talents. The knowledge transfer of tools, how society is involved in the development of the social resilience within the city, was valuable for the whole team, for example, the municipality can give a platform for locals (city festival) and they can apply to implement their idea/ event/ project.

Once again we were surprised, how Nordic countries educate their people, and thus the locals trust their governments and are eager to stay in place and make it better home for their families, neighbours and community.

Please describe briefly whether the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for %s met your expectations

The Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for Public Administration equally met our expectations. It provided valuable opportunities for knowledge exchange, networking, and professional development between Nordic and Baltic countries. The programme's structure, support, and the collaborative environment were well-aligned with our goals of the project. Additionally, the quality of participants and experts, as well as the relevance of the topics covered, ensured that we gained both practical insights and strategic perspectives. The budget distribution is fair and equitable. Overall, it exceeded our objectives, contributing to both organizational growth and regional cooperation.

Contact: Vineta Puce, project manager of the project "Mutual interaction of tourism, sport and culture to ensure and maintain social resilience"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

Meetings with specialists from similar offices have made it clear that the advisers in the offices of the committees of the Lithuanian Parliament are more involved in drafting the texts of legal acts and preparing arguments in the performance of their duties. In other countries, parliamentary advisers carry out more technical tasks. Since working on the content of legislation is the largest part of our work, we see the project as having a major benefit in terms of broadening our knowledge of the educational systems of other countries that are considered to be exemplary.

1. Participation in this project was very valuable in broadening the knowledge of the legislative procedures of the countries visited, the dialogue between the offices with similar functions and the public authorities and the interested intermediaries in the formulation of legislation implementing education. Meetings with the offices of similar committees in both the Norwegian and Icelandic parliaments have shown that in Lithuania, the advisors of parliamentary committee offices are more involved in the drafting of the content of the legislation, and we conclude that it is very important to ensure that the advisors' resistance to potential political influence is maintained when participating in the drafting of the content of the law.

2. It was very valuable to learn more about the education systems in these countries, their specificities and the means to address the challenges in education. In Lithuania, inclusive education is just starting to be implemented in the education system, so we had the unique opportunity to

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

The Office of the Committee on Education and Science of the Seimas of the Republic of Lithuania has established close and friendly relations with the offices of similar committee of the Norwegian and Icelandic parliaments, and we have been assured that in the future, if we need information about an institution or an educational system, we will receive it.
The exchange of knowledge about the functions of the advisers of the counterpart offices led to the conclusion that the Lithuanian Parliament's advisers need to strengthen their resilience against political influences, as we work more with the text of legislation.
The newly established relationshipwill allow us to contact each other directly in the future for specific examples of the regulation of the education system, when there will be a major debate in the Education and Science Committee of the Lithuanian Parliament, and we need examples of good practice, or the reasons for why other countries prefer or do not prefer a certain direction.

References in the media

The meetings did not receive media coverage. However, we plan to share the success of the project with the Lithuanian Seimas Chancellery community in order to encourage them to also participate in the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for Public Administration.

Do you consider your mobility project valuable in terms of sharing experience?

Yes, for my home organisation

Please give an example of experiences/values gained through the mobility project

The project is of great benefit both for the quality of our own future work and for other colleagues in our organisation.

Please describe briefly whether the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for %s met your expectations

The programme fully met our expectations. We had a great opportunity not only to establish collegial relations with similar offices, to learn about the legislative procedures in other countries, but also to have lively discussions with the actors of successful education systems. The opportunity to not only see a presentation on a topic of interest, but also to ask questions, make clarifications, and inquire about details that have not been presented, is invaluable from a professional perspective.
The knowledge gained will be applied to working on draft legislation and preparing arguments for or against various initiatives.

Contact: Deimantė Žegunė, project manager of the project "A successful education system: education policymaking, national individuality, actors and their interconnections"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

The project "Smart Green Works!" has provided significant benefits to our organization by facilitating the adoption of best practices in the sustainable management of Riga's public parks and green areas. Through exchanges with experts in other Nordic countries, we gained valuable insights into innovative, smart, and digital solutions for managing green spaces. Specifically, the following benefits were realized:
1) Improved Knowledge and Skills: Our team was able to directly observe the application of cutting-edge technologies in green area management in Turku, Finland, and Oslo, Norway. This included digital systems for tree accounting and maintenance, and innovative planning strategies for large-scale green areas. These experiences equipped our staff with new skills and knowledge that can be applied to the context of Riga’s parks and gardens.
2)Adoption of Smart Solutions: By learning from the cities of Turku and Oslo we identified digital and innovative solutions that can be adapted to manage Riga’s green spaces more efficiently. The examples from these cities showcased how smart technologies can optimize resource allocation and enhance the sustainability of urban green areas.
3)Development of Recommendations for Sustainable Management: Based on the study visits, each memeber of the stuy developed actionable recommendations for "Riga's forests" on how to implement smarter and more sustainable management practices from her work perspective. These recommendations will help streamline operations, reduce environmental impact, and improve the long-term health of Riga’s parks and green spaces.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

The following key benefits emerged from the collaboration:
1) Knowledge Exchange: The project facilitated the sharing of expertise between Nordic and Baltic countries, particularly in the areas of smart and sustainable management of urban parks and green areas. Through study visits to Turku, Finland, and Oslo, Norway, our team from Riga was able to observe first-hand the innovative practices employed in these leading Nordic cities. This cross-border exchange of knowledge fostered mutual learning and encouraged the adoption of best practices across the region.
2) Collaboration on Sustainability Goals: The project aligned with broader regional sustainability goals by promoting the use of smart technologies and sustainable practices in urban green management. This collaboration supports the common vision of a greener, more sustainable future for the Nordic-Baltic region, where cities work together to combat environmental challenges and improve the quality of life for their citizens.
3) Strengthened Institutional Partnerships: The interactions with experts and institutions in Finland and Norway helped to establish and deepen partnerships between public bodies in Riga and their Nordic counterparts. These relationships pave the way for ongoing collaboration and future joint projects in areas such as digitalization, environmental conservation, and urban planning.
4) Promotion of Regional Innovation: By sharing and implementing innovative methods from Nordic cities, the project contributed to raising the overall standard of green space management in the Baltic region. It highlighted the potential for innovation in the public sector and demonstrated how technological advancements can enhance sustainability in urban planning, benefiting both regions.

References in the media

Rigas dārzi un parki Facebook account:
- https://www.facebook.com/RigasDarziParki/posts/pfbid02XFZVYJU1aYR7VQqdMHyfthpGr2X6YwnrLGFy242dp1BJNxFzj9D922Wu74jqNgntl;
https://www.facebook.com/RigasDarziParki/posts/pfbid0mdi3SGPg4HkqszEFZ6f3siKWtxxZswYMu3M6sSmVy3okffFiFdHTmkrdC7RGbErkl;

https://rigasmezi.lv/ziemelvalstu-un-baltijas-valstu-mobilitates-programmas-valsts-administracija-granta-projekts-smart-green-works-tulk-viedais-zalais-strada;

Do you consider your mobility project valuable in terms of sharing experience?

Yes, for my home organisation

Please give an example of experiences/values gained through the mobility project

The primary experience and value gained during the mobility program was the opportunity to meet and observe the work styles and practices of colleagues from the Nordic countries who perform similar roles to mine in Latvia. It was highly rewarding to connect with my counterparts and recognize that we share similar perspectives and ideas. Moreover, it was reassuring to see that they face comparable challenges and that we are aligned in our concerns and priorities.

Please describe briefly whether the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for %s met your expectations

Yes, the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for Public Administration met my expectations and provided valuable inspiration for future work. I sincerely hope that our Nordic colleagues will accept the invitation to visit us in Riga soon, allowing them the opportunity to become more familiar with our work and to experience the beauty of our parks.

Contact: Arta Krūmiņa, project manager of the project "Smart green works! (Exchange of knowledge in the field of maintenance urban green areas)"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

Latvian municipalities are very much interested in joining the UNICEF's Child Friendly Municipality initiative. Among the participants of Latvian delegation was Vice Chairperson of the Jelgava City Council Mrs. Rita Vectirane, who is also the Chairperson of the Education and Culture Committee of the Latvian Association of Local and Regional Governments. Mrs. Vectirane is interested in Jelgava City as well as other Latvian municipalities becoming child-friendly municipalities. Mrs. Vectirane will introduce the experience of the Nordic countries gained during the study trips both to the members of the Jelgava City Council and to the members of the Education and Culture Committee of the Latvian Association of Local and Regional Governments. With this, Latvian municipalities will be encouraged to assess the situation of children, prioritize actions and include them in the local development plans.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

Latvian Association of Local and Regional Governments (LALRG) established contacts with the Association of Municipalities of the Faroe Islands and discussed further opportunities and directions for cooperation. LALRG has always actively supported the cooperation of twinning municipalities, and such study trips, in which the leaders of municipalities participate, contribute to the formation of new municipal cooperation. Latvian local governments are willing to start and expand cooperation with local governments in Nordic countries that promotes sustainable development.

References in the media

https://www.klaksvik.fo/news/5838/ferdalag-ur-lettlandi-vitjadi-klaksvikar-kommunu

https://www.lps.lv/lv/zinas/eiropa-un-pasaule/8168-kuopio-pilseta-somija-tiecas-klut-par-labako-vietu-berniem-un-jauniesiem

https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.klaksvik.fo%2Fnews%2F5838%2Fferdalag-ur-lettlandi-vitjadi-klaksvikar-kommunu&h=AT2cZsEkxcF1yfrGvjb8JwVhpfQ9sPA3q-9qgLCnCmr8LHrUoQVlNxEzsRcIpPTORiCc90m8wrzJdQ0w7Z9lLcUoX52lQH_oCdr6AxYVzzgLfKno1fY3QJ4PX433gv1IwqQO&s=1

Do you consider your mobility project valuable in terms of sharing experience?

Yes, for my home organisation

Please give an example of experiences/values gained through the mobility project

During the study visits, it was useful to learn in practice how to become a UNICEF child-friendly city. It turns out that it takes three to five years before a municipality is officially recognized as a child-friendly city. The municipality must develop a comprehensive analysis of the situation and propose a plan on how it will change the situation of children for the better.

Please describe briefly whether the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for %s met your expectations

Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for Public Administration is a wonderful opportunity to get acquainted with the experience of other countries in solving various issues and to borrow innovative and best solutions.

Contact: Elita Kresse, project manager of the project "Development of the child-friendly municipalities"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

1. The project offered an opportunity to benchmark our work with the model examples of the Finnish Committee for the Future and the Grand Committee and with the committee organisation of the Storting. Discussions with Finnish and Norwegian collegues helped to identify both our strengths and achievements and prospects for further improvement. In particular, strong links with strategic governance system and good staffing were identified as advantages of Lithuanian practice; focusing of our activity on shortlisted priorities and supply of evidence appeared to be main avenues for improvement.
2. Meetings with the Office of Prime Minister of Finland and with the Eduskunta helped to understand the importance of well orchestrated interaction between the Parliament and the Government in futures governance. The Finnish process of reporting on future challenges and securing the continuity of futures policy across the electoral cycles is an instrumental example for our current work.
3. Meetings at the University of Turku and at the University of Oslo confronted us with breadth and depth of futures-related scientific research and with hands-on examples of its application in policy development and implementation. These meetings helped to acquire a more detailed understanding of global futures ecosystem; we got suggestions for participation in relevant events and fora; and contacts for personal connections.
4. At all visited institutions we had opportunities to discuss areas of personal responsibility of our team members, such as innovation governance; sustainable development; artificial intelligence; demographic policy; migration, etc. Insighs we got will be channelled into our day-to-day

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

1. At all institutions visited we have presented the Committee for the Future of the Seimas and its work, in particuliar the development ot the Lithuanian National Strategy “The Vision of the Future of Lithuania “Lithuania 2050”. Both persentations were commended by the collegues of host institutions as contribution to exchange of policy innovation among Nordic-Baltic countries. In Finland, it was acknowledged that Lithuanian parliamentary Committee for the Future has gained its individual profile which challenges the Finnish predecessor and fosters its renewal. In Norway, a mutually enriching exchange on necessity of futures governance and innovation in Parliaments’work took place with participation of the Member of Storting, members of the Standing Committee on Education and Research, Ms. Lise Selnes. Joint input of Nordic and Baltic parliaments to global Summit of the Future was also discussed.
2. Members of Lithuanian delegation benefited from close examination of specific Nordic practices of anticipatory governance that are beint constantly adapted in (some) Baltic countries. Of particuliar importance were dives into work processes of the Finnish parliamentary Committee for the Future and its office; into model and process of Finnish Government futures reporting; as well as into the functioning of Finnish Futures Research Centre with its connections with national and international futures policy making. This examination will help to streamline the development of Lithuanian futures ecosystem with broader Nordic-Baltic context.
3. Mutual connections were developed with the representatives of parliamentary administrations and with research centres visited. Possibilities of future networking and mutual learning identified.

Do you consider your mobility project valuable in terms of sharing experience?

Yes, for my home organisation

Please give an example of experiences/values gained through the mobility project

Exchange of best practices of futures governance and discussion on opportunities of future cooperation with officers of the Eduskunta and the Storting and with researchers at futures research institutions. The Finnish process of reporting on future challenges and securing the continuity of futures policy across the electoral cycles is an instrumental example for our current work. We had opportunities to discuss areas of personal responsibility of our team members, such as innovation governance; sustainable development; artificial intelligence; demographic policy; migration, etc. Insighs we got will be channelled into our day-to-day work at Seimas.

Please describe briefly whether the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for %s met your expectations

At all institutions visited we have presented the Committee for the Future of the Seimas and its work, in particuliar the development ot the Lithuanian National Strategy “The Vision of the Future of Lithuania “Lithuania 2050”. Both persentations were commended by the collegues of host institutions as contribution to exchange of policy innovation among Nordic-Baltic countries. It was acknowledged that Lithuanian parliamentary Committee for the Future has gained its individual profile which challenges the Finnish predecessor and fosters its renewal. Joint input of Nordic and Baltic parliaments to global Summit of the Future was also discussed.
We benefited from close examination of specific Nordic practices of anticipatory governance that are beint constantly adapted in (some) Baltic countries.
Mutual connections were developed with the representatives of parliamentary administrations and with research centres visited. Possibilities of future networking and mutual learning identified.

Contact: Kosma Gulbinskienė, project manager of the project "Exploring parliamentary anticipatory governance practices in the Nordic countries"