Success stories

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

Lithuania law for seconday use of health data, is based on Finish similar law, and we had possibility to get overview of how process works in Finland and to plan similar activities in Lithuania. Other similar develompents for new servcices were important, for example in Lithuania this year started electronice sales for prescibed drugs, and we had chance compare with Swedish situation.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

We have received new contacts in visited countries, this allow to get in contact when needed, specialky when it is easy to have online meetings.

References in the media

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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

Very valuable is to see projects already implemented, and see results. This allows to evaluate local projects better. Also good practice is valuable to raed how we implement pojects in local country.

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

The programme meets our expectations. But situation is changed now and at least in covid time it was not easy to organise visits with full list of meetings. Also during covid people like more virtual meetings, so we should find reorganised models how to plan meetings in the future.

Contact: Linas Kavolius, project manager of the project "Best practices in Nordic countries for telemedicine, community and hospital pharmacy, eHealth systems "

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

The knowledge and experience gained by the project team members, employees of the Ministry of Education, Science and Sport of the Republic of Lithuania, during their study visit in Denmark and Finland on 6–11 July 2022, have been used already, although very little time has passed since the end of the visit. Having considered the experience of Denmark and Finland in the sharing of functions and responsibilities among governmental and non-governmental organizations in the field of sport, the National Sports Agency with a center of excellence to provide methodological assistance to sports federations and implement good governance principles in the field of sport has been established by the Ministry of Education, Science and Sport. The National Sports Agency started operating on 1 July 2022 (https://smsm.lrv.lt/lt/naujienos/darba-pradeda-nacionaline-sporto-agentura). The new knowledge and knowhow acquired by our project team members during their visit will be used in the long term as well, to develop an effective and sustainable sports management structure in Lithuania further. For example, the report of the visit was presented to the members of the working group established by the Minister of Education, Science and Sport of the Republic of Lithuania on 16 June 2022 to prepare high-level sport funding procedures and criteria for the selection of strategic sports, which could enter into force from 2023. Co-operation between national sport governing bodies in Denmark, Finland and Lithuania has been strengthened and knowledge between these bodies have been exchanged during the implementation of the projects, too.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

The project has continued the tradition of the Nordic-Baltic co-operation in the field of sport. The project has also been an opportunity to reveal and discuss future plans for the exchange of information and cooperation between the participating institutions. The cooperation in politically prioritised areas between the Danish, Finnish and Lithuanian sport policy making institutions has been strengthened as well (the most recent example of such cooperation could be the Second statement on Russia's war on Ukraine and international sport signed by the sport ministers https://www.gov.uk/government/news/second-statement-on-russias-war-on-ukraine-and-international-sport). The project has also contributed to the increased knowledge of sport management among the participating institutions and organisations for the benefit of their sport administration at national levels. The visibility of the Baltic-Nordic cooperation has been increased during the project, too.

References in the media

News on the website of the Ministry of Education, Science and Sport of the Republic of Lithuania): https://smsm.lrv.lt/lt/naujienos/danijoje-ir-suomijoje-viceministras-susipazins-su-siu-saliu-sporto-valdymo-geraja-patirtimi
Post on the facebook account of the Embassy of the Republic of Lithuania to Finland:
https://www.facebook.com/lrambasadasuomijoje/posts/pfbid0P3wCuS7hQciCnKUeig3RCGdTFR9Fkg4JeD9UvecFL6T5H3sENnQXfSwmjpwuqueJl
News on the website of the National Olympic Training Centre in Helsinki:
https://urhea.fi/artikkelit/yleinen/liettualaisia-vieraita-urheassa/

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

- Information on the best practices of policy-making in the field of physical education and sport among the participating organisations has been shared;
- Cooperation among participating institutions and organisations in the field of the project Implementation has been strengthened;
- Participating organisations have been provided with the possibility to acquaint with the trends of the sport development and management solutions in the participating countries and in the Nordic region, which will help them improve national sport management systems;
- New contacts among administration staff have been established for further mutual consultations, exchange of information and possible joint activities in the future;
- The competence of the project participants has been increased.

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

The programme has met all our expectations. The program supports the exchange of knowledge and experience that is necessary for the improvement of public administration in the Nordic and Baltic countries. Besides, the programme management body has been very efficient and helpful, indeed, and the program online account has been very convenient to use.

Contact: Sigitas Stasiulis, project manager of the project "Sharing best practices for effective and sustainable management of the national sports system for physical activity, inclusion and high performance."

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

In Denmark, we learned that the Estonian and Danish education systems are fairly similar. Learning about how a similar system is developed and hearing about the Danish views on what works and what does not work in their context gave lots of inspiration to the Estonian Ministry of Education and Research. Especially, in the field of school and school owner self-evaluation. We plan to continue the co-operation online and use their good experiences to improve our education.

In Sweden we learned how school owner systematically works with weaker schools. The experience helps us to compile the new initiative in terms of schools’ quality and support weaker schools. We have a plan to ask Uppsala colleagues to introduce own project to our team. Their experience is very valuable because we are preparing a EU project at the same area.

In Finland we learned about the importance of trust in the education system, but also about the importance of looking at the context before applying any foreign practices. We learned how Finland has reached the level of trust that they have in their system and about how it has shaped their entire society. We found many good practices that could maybe also work in Estonia, but we also learned that every good practice actually works only if applied in a correct way in a suitable context.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

As we mentioned above, we found several common problems and challenges in education. The first meetings are planned where we can exchange our solutions and best practice in terms of supporting weaker schools. Working together we can more effectively solve challenges. Providing quality in education, data-driven management is one of the hottest topic. We saw numerous similarities that area in Denmark and Sweden. We are absolutely sure that we are working with the topic of data-driven management on the state and local level with the Nordic countries and working together Furthermore, based on the relationships established, we can more widely direct technological innovation in education.
Provided decentralized and autonomous education system in Estonia and the Nordic countries, the availability and consistency of data and evidence for schools and stakeholders, as well as increased capacity of end-users to use data and evidence for decision-making, self-assessment, evaluation, are crucial factors for the achievement of the education goals. Our study trip showed us that we have common challenges and we should work more closely together. Created relationships support that process.

References in the media

Not yet.

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

1. The project supports our 7-years EU project (ERF programme).
2. We refreshed our relationships with colleagues of the Nordic countries.
3. We created useful relationships with colleagues of the local authority level (Uppsala, Rovanieme).

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

The Nordic-Baltic Mobility Program for Public Administration met our expectations. The pandemic disrupted our initial plans. In the end, everything went well. We met several colleagues who gave an input to reforms and upcoming initiatives. The Nordic countries solutions in terms of educational problems gave us ideas how we could solve our challenges (education license, low-performing schools, boys' reading, etc.).

Contact: Maie Kitsing, project manager of the project "State and local authorities’ support to schools"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

We studied the State policies and
recently taken national knowledge transfer measures at different institutions we visited.
From the visits to state agencies (Swedish Research Council, Vinnova) and research institutions (KTH, RISE) which are partners in knowledge transfer activities - we learned from their best knowledge on how they were established and funded, how the cooperation with stakeholders is organised and how to build trustful relations in between academia and entrepreneurs.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

We shared our knowledge of the recent practises and different solutions in the research- and
knowledge transfer policies.
We got better understanding of the most recent and effective knowledge transfer practicies
from both, research institutions and enterpreneurs sides - we agreed to make overview of technological infrastructure to see what already exists (both in VTT and in Estonia and other countries) and (Scandinavian) neighbours could cooperate and build their own infrastructure, which is not available elsewhere - could be cross-used with less investment! Cooperation is very much needed in this regard !!
We had fruitful discussions on improving the mutual cooperation within international organisations (EU, OECD) through the prisma of the implementation of sustainable development goals (SDG) in research and higher education sector.

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

Direct value came up from VTT, FIN as they pointed out the need for closer cooperation in field of technical infrastructure in entire Baltic Region - when we have information about existing facilities and services, there will be smaller need to invest in the same kind of very expensive equipment. We could offer our services around the Nordic area!

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

It was very useful and gave us the opportunity to work closer with colleagues and institutions from Nordic countries.

Contact: Toomas Murulo, project manager of the project "Development of Research Policy Making in Knowledge Transfer"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

The activities helped to educate the participants in the field of the patient injury compensation system in Sweden and Norway.
Since the patient injury compensation system in Latvia has been developed taking inspiration from the Scandinavian experience, better knowledge of the Swedish and Norwegian system helped to realize all the differences and similarities in legal regulation. It made possible for administrative courts to take over the Nordic experience in issues that are regulated similarly. Although the idea that causality should be established by probability preponderance has already been stated in the jurisprudence of the Latvian Supreme Court some years ago, there are a lot more knowledge that is relevant to take over, for instance, regarding the interpretation of the term “experienced specialist”.
However, there are also some aspects that would require legislative changes; for example, regarding statutory limitation periods. In Latvia, the law stipulate that a patient may request compensation for the harm caused to his or her life or health, as well as compensation for medical expenses not later than within two years from the date when the harm has was detected but not later than within three years from the date when it was caused. In Sweden and Norway the statutory limitation periods are longer. The amendments that in Sweden came into force on January 1, 2015, demonstrate that such a statutory limitation period as in Latvia is too short and, therefore, not entirely effective. The amendments to the law could prevent disputes regarding statutory limitation periods.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

Since the exchange of experience was mutual, the participants of the project believe it was beneficial not only for Latvians, but also for Swedes and Norwegians.
The participants of the project agreed that there has been close and enlightening cooperation between the Nordic patient insurance (Löf, the Finnish Patient Insurance Center, the Danish Patient Compensation Association, and NPE). During the meetings, the institutions discuss insurance law issues and how to best and most effectively organize claims adjustment activities. It would be great if a competent institution in Latvia would show interest in taking part in this network. However, the court could only suggest and encourage the institution to do so.
The experience of exchange visits is highly valuable and participants of the present project expressed the idea that it would further be worth visiting the competent institutions in Finland and Denmark. So it is possible to say the project is an inspiration for further Nordic-Baltic cooperation activities.

References in the media

With regard to the visit to Sweden information was provided in the following media sources:
https://www.tiesas.lv/aktualitates/latvijas-delegacija-iepazistas-ar-zviedru-pieredzi-pacientiem-nodarita-kaitejuma-kompensesanai-11285
https://www.ta.gov.lv/lv/jaunums/latvijas-delegacija-iepazistas-ar-zviedru-pieredzi-pacientiem-nodarita-kaitejuma-kompensesanai
https://twitter.com/tiesuadm/status/1511266383736320001?t=I-8Y8BVRjoqkvdx5AqQ4_w&s=19

With regard to the visit to Norway information was provided in the following media sources:
https://www.tiesas.lv/aktualitates/latvijas-delegacija-iepazistas-ar-norvegu-pieredzi-pacientiem-nodarita-kaitejuma-kompensesanai-11343
https://www.ta.gov.lv/lv/jaunums/latvijas-delegacija-iepazistas-ar-norvegu-pieredzi-pacientiem-nodarita-kaitejuma-kompensesanai
https://twitter.com/RGJorstad/status/1519643474240356353?t=5WR3bx99VQEl9WMw_Le1qw&s=19
https://www.facebook.com/tiesuadm/posts/pfbid023ZUaDzVdZn6wpk4EzAqJycRYKxHSD2iP4vxxwKcd6NjqqaRLqshpsB5LP7vxuMCLl?__cft__[0]=AZXI9NaTm3L4mQZ6pvSrC7C_jI1q6dqYBQMWXEgaJo340Plqf1aRtLauOqjSg3vP68FvdZZXQOuTuOdkZJSRLL-xreatjC0WOHMiYBFx-9eyFSz9r7mMIF5Kh1MtqcXy_7Dz91hj1ffKdfHO1679tGzpTVVS4vZrl8iqGlESm0oNrw&__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R

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 participants of the project deepened their knowledge in the field of patient injury compensation and also learned about the best resources, where to find relevant decisions and case law of the Swedish and Norvegian courts and institutions active in the field. This type of information is very useful, in case a comparative analysis is needed, when working with this category of cases. It was also a great way to meet and connect with fellow legal professionals.

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

The Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for Public Administration met our expectations. The participants gained better understanding about the programme and thanks to the very welcoming host organisations in Sweden and Norway also acquired very valuable experience and were able to exchange ideas and practices regarding patient injury compensation.

Contact: Ilze Butkus, project manager of the project "Patient Injury Compensation"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

The project was very successful. There were two main outcomes. First, we were able to create direct contacts between our organisation and host institutions, as well as several other institutions in both Finland and Norway. In several cases, we were welcomed by high-ranking officials (for example, in Finland, the Head of the EU Secretariat, or in Norway, the Head of the International Department at the Prime Minister's Office and the Secretary General at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs). This shows that there was keen interest towards our visit and boosting cooperation with Estonia. Thanks to having longer seminars (2-3 hours) at both our host institutions, all our team members were able to meet their counterparts and discuss future cooperation. Second, both visits gave us a very comprehensive overview of Finnish and Norwegian policy positions. In Finland, this mainly focused on climate, energy and digital policies, whereas in Norway, it also included security policy. Getting to know policy positions is also possible via emails or meetings in Brussels, but learning the reasons and background of how policy is made and designed requires time and meetings in the capital, which were delivered by this project. This helped to create a better understanding of our partner countries and share best practices on our policy-making processes and government institutions.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

The basis of successful cooperation is understanding the reasons behind your partner's positions. This usually takes time to learn and therefore having the chance to visit capitals and meet with relevant policy actors is very important. Our visit helped demonstrate the similarities between Estonian policy and the policies of our partners. It also helped to embed the similar understanding of European and global issues that our countries share. Given the similarities of Nordic-Baltic countries and the shared challenges in this region, it makes sense to work together. But in order to do that, we need to share our positions and meet on a regular basis, because this helps to make other Nordic-Baltic countries the first partner that comes to mind for every Nordic-Baltic country.

References in the media

https://twitter.com/LauriBambus/status/1524440601164496899?s=20&t=9HT8bQuXHC_ZQtNiA9gR_w

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

Writing a project application, designing a travel budget, reporting skills, increase in professional skills through meetings and sharing of best practices about working methods, networking, establishing a professional relationship between organisations.

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

Yes, it met the expectations of our entire team. We were able to create direct contacts with various partner institutions, share policy positions and best practices of our daily work.

Contact: Gert Siniloo, project manager of the project "Stronger Nordic-Baltic cooperation to achieve the green and digital transition in Europe – Estonian EU Secretariat’s group visits to Finland and Norway"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

Through the study visits, the project promoted mutual collaboration, exchange of ideas and
methodological knowledge in territorial planning and international projects. Latvian participants got a lot of new knowledge (in planning, recycling, etc.) and new project ideas, which will be used in implementing new projects in future. The participants shared this information with their colleagues and others involved in municipal work so the knowledge can eventually become common practice.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

The project improved the cooperation between Arendal municipality (Norway), Torsby municipality
(Sweden) and Rezekne municipality. The project helped develop new cooperation possibilities with Norwegian, Swedish and Latvian municipality employees who are interested not only in gaining new knowledge about the territorial planning and international projects but also in developing new networks, exchanging best practices in municipality.

References in the media

After returning from the visits, the participants informed about the experience their colleagues. The information about the visits was published in homepage of Rezekne municipality and Facebook of Rezekne Municipality so reaching a wide audience and increasing the visibility of Nordic-Baltic cooperation between the involved municipalities.

Publications: https://rezeknesnovads.lv/pieredzes-apmainas-brauciens-uz-zviedriju-jeb-ka-es-braucu-zviedru-zemi-lukoties/

https://www.facebook.com/Rezeknesnovads

https://rezeknesnovads.lv/2022-gads-2/

Some more articles are still in process.

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 greatest value of the project was the possibility to develop new networks and cooperation ideas with Sweden and Norway. The project gave the possibility to experience the new concept "smart villages" in real life. During the study trips it was possible to see the new thinking concept that aims to help rural communities meet challenges and grasp the new opportunities of the 21st century. Smart villages are about people. They are about rural citizens taking the initiative to find practical solutions – both to the severe challenges they face and, importantly, to exciting new opportunities which are transforming rural areas.

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

The program is an excellent possibility for the municipality specialists to learn from the colleagues in the Scandinavian countries.
The communication with the program managers is excellent: all the questions are answered and problems solved immediately. The program does not demand extra documents, everything is arranged on-line and very effectively.
The program is an excellent example also for other EU programs.

Contact: Inta Rimsane, project manager of the project "Experience exchange of municipality specialists in exploring and developing new approaches for smart rural territories in Latvia, Norway and Sweden"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

Visiting Malmo Live Concert Hall and Sibelius Hall has been a worthful experience for us. The main benefit is the information and experience that we gained from two absolutely different cultural organizations. Each country (Sweden and Finland) have had quite different approach to Covid-19 pandemic regulations, therefore each concert hall had to deal with absoultely different situations. And our concert hall could identify itself somewhere in between these both partner organizations. Both partners were very forthcoming and opened about sharing their thoughts, knowledge and experiences. We could definately take over some of their knowledge to implement at GORS too, like communication with audience about postponed or cancelled events and ticked return, technical solutions to provide distancing and other preventive measures, program planning etc.
Another worthful benefit were the conversations about potential cooperation with both concert halls. In Malmo Live Concert hall we talked about possible collaboration with Malmo symphonic orchestra here at GORS concert hall, and our partners in Lahti claim that their team is already looking forward to coming to concert hall GORS in Rezekne. All partner organizations expressed strong willingness to keep in touch in the future too.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

During both visits we felt strong interest from the partner concert halls to find a way of cooperation in the future. In Malmo Live we discussed about possibility of bringing Malmo Symphony orchestra to Rezekne and giving performance at Concert Hall GORS, as well as we talked about various international projects of experience exchange (looking for opportunities for Malmo Live team to come to concert hall GORS).
At Sibelius hall we talked about our experience at GORS and Malmo Live, so there was a wider background for our discussions - we compared three different concert halls, their structures and challenges during pandemic period. Representative of Sibelius hall (Jussi Kortepuro) told us that their team visits one ore more Venues in Europe every year, and they are willing to put concert hall GORS in their Venue list too.

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

Both experience exchange trips were very valuable for our organization in several ways:
1) New contacts were developed;
2) Visiting two great concert halls in two different countries and sharing experiences with each other;
3) Introducing each other with the structures and operating activities of the concert halls;
4) Sharing experiences about the concert halls during the pandemic period - challenges, operations, adaptations, restrictions. program development, finances, marketing, technical solutions, audience development and impact to further operation;
5) Negotiations about further collaboration projects and supporting each other in the future

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

We really appreaciate the given opportunity. The main aim of the project was to gain theoretical and practical knowledge about cultural organizations' and concert halls' operation during Covid-19 pandemic. The acquisitions met all our expectations and we can surely claim that we gained even more - we visited inspiring places, met real professionals of their sphere, attended wonderful events, analyzed common factors and differences in our organizations, cities and countries, which is a really inspiring experience for all of us.

Contact: Liga Vaicule-Kozlovska, project manager of the project "Successful management and operation of cultural institutions during Covid-19 pandemic"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

1. The staff of the Agency as well as Ministry, also the staff of host organisations from each other gained greater understanding of the problems and challenges in the project management, social security, and labour market. Topics in agenda were newest, most relevant to the needs of the parties e.g., even the newest aspects of situation due to the refugees from Ukraine were in the discussion.
2. After study visit new relations with Iceland foreign partners was established. It is first time of collaboration with Iceland in 20 years of activity of The Agency. Development of existing relations with Swedish partners became more valuable, because of live contact and possibility to clarify additional essential topics. Now it is explicit, that our cooperation will continue in future.
3. Study visit gave positive image of the Agency as well as Ministry at the international level. Both organizations could introduce its goods practice and achievements. The Agency had possibility to share information about its new international activities (ESF Social Inovation+, EaSI, CERV) where international partners could participate as organizations or individuals as experts.
4. Mutual sharing of the countries (with Iceland) on the implemented programs for refugees and migrants: providing services, promoting integration, teaching the national language, integrating into the labour market, motivating participation in projects etc. New insights were discovered on what can be done better and more simply to achieve better results.
5.Digitalisation of processes is the future of all organizations. E.g. Iceland presented very innovative digital solutions and tools for care of elder people.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

Project meets several purposes of the Nordic-Baltic program. Project increased visibility of the Nordic-Baltic cooperation program, increased quality and involvement in the Nordic-Baltic cooperation also increased knowledge transfer for mutual benefit on all administrative levels, increased cross-sectoral cooperation

During the visit in Sweden and Island visibility about Nordic-Baltic cooperation was spread internationally. Every time, meeting new organisations, we shared information about financing we gained from Nordic-Baltic Council and about possibility for Nordic countries to apply for financing and visit Baltic countries. During both visits about 10 organisations found out about Nordic-Baltic programme. Some of host organisations made posts in intranet pages about our visit. European Social Fund Agency have announced messages in the intranet for its employees about benefit of visits to Iceland and Sweden.

The project involves representatives of different organisations of public sector and NGO, also Ministries. The project involves decision makers, project administration bodies and project implementers. That ensures cross-sectoral and ministerial cooperation. The knowledge transfer gave mutual benefit and helped to maintain sustainable co-operation relations and increase their quality by involving related representatives. The joint discussion helped to identify common problems and good practices that could be shared. Diversity of cross-sectoral organisations made it more valuable and applicable.

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

Yes, for personal skills

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

Sweden case – during study visit in Sweden we acknowledged very innovative methods of the Change theory, the Problem tree. The Swedish ESF Agency uses these new methods in almost all its applications, which seek to identify the applicants' needs, solutions, and anticipate as accurately as possible the activities, outcomes, results and expected impacts. Those methods our Agency is planning to integrate to the new Social Innovation program to application forms. Also, we had a chance to gain more information and insights for the implementation of ALMA initiative from 2014-2020 period, digitalization of the processes increasing efficiency in daily workflows, full integrated system to the claim of payment process and digital signature. The Swedish Agency was interested in the possibilities provided by the State Aid Register (KOTIS), as an example of which they could set up a similar system in Sweden. The possibilities of integrating this system could be discussed in the following cooperation activities.
Island case – The most valuable good practises were shared at the Island meeting about the activities at the Directorate of Labour, the Vocational Rehabilitation Centre (VIRK), were discussed similarities and differences in the area of professional rehabilitation. VIRK is a vocational rehabilitation fund whose members include all major trade unions and employers. The main purpose of VIRK services is to help individuals return to the labour market. The services are free of charge, in cooperation with trade unions, employers, various service providers and welfare agencies. The services are provided to person who is unable to work due to a health problem and has a doctor's referral. Reykjavik Municipality introduced innovations for the disabled and the elderly. The following technological solutions are used: tablets for remote visits / meetings with service users (with user-friendly “software” installed), medicine dispensers, as well as smartphones, emergency buttons, robot pumps etc. These solutions help to increase the quality of life, security and independence. These solutions can be adapted in the measure "Integrated Assistance to Individuals" in Lithuania.

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

The project fully met the expectations, all Nordic partners were sincerely interested to share good practice, learn good and effective ways to reduce administrative burdens for both project promoters and public sector companies, to move as many services as possible to the digital space. It was established further ways of cooperation with the newly planned activities, during which we will continue active sharing of the best practices in the selective process of project payment claims, implementation of new digitization methods, findings of the new approach to use technological solutions in the provision of social services, cooperation at the social innovation activities, to promote active aspects of the gender equality at labour market. The Nordic partners especially have lots of experience implementing the Social Innovation projects, encourage the gender equality (those examples we saw during visits in Sweden and Island). The focus was on projects for development of administrative and technical infrastructure, empowerment/computer literacy training (especially for seniors), testing of various technological solutions-smart devices, tablets for remote visits, medicine dispensers. These solutions helped to increase the quality of life, security, independence of both the services themselves and the recipients of services, as well as create better working conditions for service providers, allow optimizing service provision processes. With the help of digitization more emphasis will be placed on communication with project promoters, and part of the technical tasks will be performed by robots or artificial intelligence.

Contact: Agne Naruseviciute, project manager of the project "SSocIAL "

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

The focus of the visits was on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a tool for strategic visioning, planning and budgeting in Icelandic and Norwegian local governments. Taken into account the fact that the localization of the SDGs is a long-term and integrated process, Latvian Association of Local and Regional Governments wants to support Latvian local governments in an inclusive way from their first steps (awareness-raising activities) to the delivery of SDGs on the ground and in the assessment of the work that has been carried out. LALRG has been taking steps to enhance the role of local governments as the SDGs implementers by organizing different activities. Several successful initiatives have been developed showcasing the key role of local governments in localizing the SDGs. However, the SDGs are not yet integrated in a concrete way into the everyday work of Latvian local governments. Latvian municipalities are very interested in experience of Icelandic and Norwegian municipalities and local good practices in the field of localization of the SDGs. As we know, Iceland and Norway have, from the very beginning, been one of the driving forces behind the implementation of the SDGs. Icelandic and Norwegian examples show that efforts to achieve SDGs can turn challenges into opportunities.
The experience gained in the project will be transferred to all Latvian municipalities, promoting the implementation of SDGs in Latvian local governments.

The implementation of the project also strengthens the cooperation between national associations of municipalities, as well as between Latvian, Icelandic and Norwegian local authorities.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

The implementation of the project increased visibility of Nordic - Baltic cooperation and increased quality and involvement in the Nordic - ac cooperation.
As a result of this project, the idea arose to develop and implement a project for the exchange of experience in the reception and integration of refugees and asylum seekers in local communities, given Russia's aggression in Ukraine and the influx of refugees.

References in the media

Article on the LALRG web-page, published on 10/11/2021:
https://www.lps.lv/lv/zinas/lps/7026-lps-delegacija-islande-iepazistas-ar-vietejo-pasvaldibu-pieredzi-ano-ilgtspejigas-attistibas-merku-ieviesana

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

Local Governments have challenges related to all three dimensions of sustainability. Climate change is serious, lower economic growth is expected, the proportion of working age people is declining, and the inequalities in society are growing. Therefore, when the municipality makes decisions, they must be evaluated on the basis of all three dimensions. Every municipality must ensure that the entire community is involved in the work to achieve the environmental, financial and social goals.

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

The Nordic-Baltic Mobility Program for Public Administration fully met all our expectations. The most important tasks of local governments are to provide good services to their citizens, to ensure holistic social development and to promote open and inclusive local democracy. To achieve this, local governments need to ensure both efficient operation and the necessary development work and innovation to meet the needs of the community and its citizens. The implementation of the SDGs helps expand the perspective, steer in the right direction and develop good solutions locally that also contribute globally. If the municipality is to succeed in translating the global goals into local action and practices, the SDGs must be integrated into all management, planning and governance. The implementation of this project provided an excellent opportunity to get acquainted with the good practices of the Nordic municipalities, which can be used by Latvian municipalities. The visits to both countries have been very fruitful and qualitative.

Contact: Elita Kresse, project manager of the project "Sustainable Development Goals as a Tool for Strategic Planning in municipalities"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

Gained knowledge will strengthen LHMS staff capabilities in planning and organizing hydrometeorological activities in Lithuania. The participants got ideas from Nordic best practices on how to effectively organize hydrometeorological observations, to ensure measurement data quality and advanced working methods, to serve users, to use social media, to improve communication activity, quality management systems and to participate in international projects. From visit to Finland our Lithuanian Hydrometeorological Service and FMI began some projects like partners, still in early stage.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

New contacts enhance possibilities for integration and participation in NORDMET working groups on meteorological observations, IT, data (and products) management, research, service delivery, education and training in Nordic-Baltic region, strengthening cooperation between Nordic and Baltic national meteorological services (NMS).
A cooperation between NMS working together as a network helps to continuously improve the
abilities of the NMS to serve their societies with official duties of higher quality and better cost
efficiency, manage their respective infrastructure resources, enhance the capabilities to participate
in and contribute to international infrastructural development projects, improve the preparedness
to encounter weather related events and monitor disasters likely to influence border areas or on a
scale larger than individual national areas. Also visits were successful gaining experience from what to begin working in international projects. Right now LHMS begin cooperation with FMI in international project.

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 specialists gained knowledge on organization and optimization of hydrometeorological observations networks in Finland and Sweden is considered to be applicable in Lithuania. Familiarization with specialists
from various fields of visited organizations will help LHMS in the process of restructuring to implement ideas how to achieve more effective work.

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

This project executed in the framework of the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for Public
administration has fully met the expectations both in the opinion of the study visit participants and
the administration of LHMS.

Contact: Andrius Laurynaitis, project manager of the project "Enhancing collaboration on meteorological, hydrological, climate activities and services tailored to the needs of society and different users"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

In March, it will be a year since the specialized court – the Court of Economic Affairs – started operating in Latvia. The project application was written before the pandemic to learn more about the Nordic experience in setting up specialized courts. Unfortunately, with the start of travel restrictions, the planned exchange visits were postponed for two years.
In 2022, when the specialized court has been operating in Latvia for a year, some experience has already been accumulated, but it would still be interesting to get to know the experience of specialized courts in Denmark and Sweden.
Study visits should always have a major educational element, but the impact of business trips can
extend much further. The importance of educational trips includes giving experts a
chance to build closer bonds with their colleagues, experience new environments and enjoy other
countries.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

Active co-operation between the Baltic and Nordic countries began at the same time as the process
of restoring the independence of Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania. Our countries are linked by cultural, historical, political and economic ties. There is a common desire for stability, security and
prosperity in the region, as well as on a broader geographical basis.
Regular and coordinated political dialogue and practical co-operation has been established
between the Baltic and Nordic countries, which has the potential to develop and deepen.
By strengthening ties with the Nordic countries, it is important for Latvia to promote people-to-people
contacts, support cooperation between municipalities, academic, professional, cultural and
non-governmental organizations, educational institutions, promote tourism and expand economic
contacts.

References in the media

- 2 press releases (with photos) have been spread to media
on 11.04.2022. and 28.04.2022.
- 1 special chapter of the project has been created in institution's website: https://www.ta.gov.lv/lv/projekts/specializeto-tiesu-izveide
- several posts in Court Administration Republic of Latvia Twitter and FB account have been posted

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 purpose of the study visits were to expose judges and experts to a wider range of learning
experiences and opportunities. Nordic countries were chosen because of its close economic link
with Latvia.
The exposure to these countries would hopefully add value to the delegates credentials in their
career as well as lifelong development.

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

Study visits have met the stated objectives fully, visits were suitable and reliable.

Contact: Dace Cimere, project manager of the project "Establishment of specialized courts"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

Participants have gathered experiences and good practices from leading road safety countries in Europe. A study visit in Sweden provided better understanding of strategical aspects and importance of planning in regards to road safety. Being able to see and learn how to engage with different actors within transport system in order to make sure that policies, legislation is in fact efficient and yields results rather than just existing. Swedish examples proved how important is to engage with society and educate them, include in any projects in relation to road safety. Direct communication, strategic management of each working division helps to build trust among institutions and road users which later eases any procedures with which authorities attempt to increase road safety. These experiences will hopefully benefit Lithuanian Transport Safety as a national authority responsible for road safety in Lithuania.

Norway's experience on drafting national plan for road safety and including aspects of communication, safety culture and cooperation has benefited participating experts and organization itself as LTSA is currently working on new strategy for upcoming years. This provided great opportunity to dig a bit deeper when it comes to understanding of strategy's development, goals, key performance indicators and general approach of Nordic countries towards such 'broader' developments.

Gathered practices and experience now shows its results during discussions and workshops held at LTSA to ensure that organization is heading towards modern, well-governed approach. Nordic partners and their experience and successful results in road safety during this cooperation provided great orientation for future work.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

The project has strengthened already established partnership among Sweden-Lithuanian transport activities but also has led to new initiatives related to road safety. Sweden's experience on strategical communication in relation to educating society about importance of road safety, safety culture and etc. have led to further communications on possibility to jointly participate in a EU supported project with Eastern Partnership countries. Currently such option is still in process of evaluation, but shared experiences during this project has provided great foundation for further cooperation.

Also, Norway's experience on National strategy for road safety which has been presented during online meetings have ensured further communication in relation to development of LTSA's strategy for upcoming years which is currently actively discussed via internal workshops and organizational activities.

This proves how valuable direct communication and experiences with Nordic partners could be and how it further deepens and promotes cooperation between Nordic and Baltic countries. Being able to learn from partner countries' experience helps to become more competitive, efficient and modern institution while also providing a strong partner for further cooperation with each other or third parties.

Cooperation with Swedish Transport Administration and Norwegian Public Roads Administration also has provided a framework not only to improve procedures and current practices at national level, but has also encouraged LTSA and hosting institutions to more actively discuss and engage in bilateral cooperation when it comes to new approaches and new policies on transport safety and strategical developments in order to ensure that Nordic-Baltic region has safe and welcoming transport system.

References in the media

Information about the project has been shared with LTSA representatives across different division in Lithuania and there has been an in-depth article/interview with participants of project activities in LTSA's intranet where they shared insights, experience and received knowledge during the project.

There has also been social media posts related to study visit in Sweden (links below - from both participating parties).

https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6925728014378893312/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/vision-zero-academy/posts/?feedView=all

* - upon finalizing contents and meetings with Norwegian partners, there will be official publications at LTSA's website regarding both visits - in English and Lithuanian languages.

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

As development of strategy and procedures related to that was one of key topics for both meetings with Nordic partners, there were some valuable lessons learned during discussions with representatives from Norway and Sweden.

A detailed plan and understanding of its drafting has been highlighted by colleagues at NPRA and Swedish Transport Administration - both provided examples of their own experience in the past, and future plans for strategies. National Safety plan by Norwegian partners and Swedish global strategy towards 2030 - both presented similarities in approach - relating to importance of evaluation, responsibility sharing, key performance indicators -, but also showed differences in national approaches - from general scope of the strategy ands its limits to its appeal to general audience and included authorities. Valuable experience in this regard provides both - practical and theoretical - lessons for LTSA's work in exact same field - drafting our own strategy, understanding its reach and responsibilities coming with each goal and target listed there.

Furthermore, with examples of different practices in relation to road safety itself - crash investigations, methods to analyze data and etc., some key values gained were related to communication in relation to transport safety.

Both - Norwegian and Swedish models - provide a valuable insight which is sometimes forgotten, or perhaps, not always possible in Lithuania - understanding of public opinion and general view towards public authorities. A lot of success related to road safety by Nordic partners is related to their societies and their trust towards democracy, government, community cooperation.

Their examples provide a general foundation that in order to improve transport safety in Lithuania, it requires detailed and continued work in the field of education to ensure two-way responsibilities - one from government to citizens and the other way around - citizen to government. In order for any communication campaigns from public authorities to work and yield actual results - in this case - related to safety levels in Lithuania - a trusty and committed dialogue between public sector, NGO's, private sector and society is required.

Such values are already in place in majority of Nordic countries and that is a goal and target for Lithuania as well - not only in transport sector where LTSA plays an important role, but in many other areas of our daily life.

These examples of experience come not only from direct topics which are covered by project agenda, but also from broader communication and discussions during such visits/online meetings.

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

Despite prolonged delays and difficulties due to external and internal factors - including Covid-19 - the mobility programme has met and fulfilled our expectations.

Timing and delays had some impact on topics which were relevant for our administration when activities took place, therefore agenda's and discussion topic have been adjusted to ensure efficiency and relevance of each discussed content of the agenda. This proved to work out great, as each topic presented practical experience which could be adopted/learnt from in our daily tasks which administration currently deals with.

Visit in Sweden not only covered topics of the agenda, but Swedish Transport Administration ensured that participants also get to feel and see by themselves how transport system in Sweden works and what is the culture around here from every part involved in transport system - from public authorities to each citizen. This had great effect on participating experts and they shared they gratitude for such a valuable visit.

Due to delays with Norwegian Public Roads Administration, it was agreed to move activities online, but contents and topics covered and provided have also been valuable in terms of their practical use and expanding our expert's knowledge. We still look forward to continue with upcoming online meetings with Norwgian delegation and administration believes that more possibilities to cooperate will come up in near future.

Project has reached its goals and provided personal benefits for participants - covering each topic of different agendas allows to strengthen our experts' administrative capacities, increase skills and knowledge in discussed areas. Furthermore, it helps us to expand our expert's network - which comes handy when dealing with both - national questions and also bilateral/international relations.

Contact: Eimantas Alminas, project manager of the project "Ensuring efficient regulatory framework for transport activities: development of ICT structure, strategic management and legal procedures and policies "

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

The information gathered from the meetings with the hosting organizations was of great value as our organization can implement the strategies of the hosting organizations that have been practised for a longer period.

The conversations and exchanging the information with the specialist of the hosting organization gave us additional insight on how to use scientists in science communication and how to communicate science in a way that people understand the message forwarded to the public, both nationally and internationally.

The meetings showed that implementing the strategies that already have a positive outcome in other countries would be beneficial to us as we can skip the trial-and-error part and start using already effective and working methods.

We got reassurance regarding the methods we have used for science communication from similar organizations to ours. It was inspiring to learn that similar methods are used in other countries, confirming that the tactics we are already using, have positive results in the long run.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

Regarding our visits to Finland and Denmark, it can be said that the Nordic-Baltic cooperation project is useful and beneficial for several if not for all participating parties.

Among other things, the project has helped us expand our network and make new contacts to collaborate on upcoming projects. Several specific agreements for visits and presentations regarding upcoming events were made with the board members of the Finnish Association of Science Editors and Journalists, and with specialists from Astra Center, and also with communication experts from the University of Finland.

Also plans for continuous collaboration with Rannis regarding PhD students' engagement in science communication events.

Common strategies, knowledge base and goals are necessary for better and more efficient collaboration between countries. Obtaining the knowledge from similar projects and strategies used in different organisations will help us improve the operational methods already in use.

References in the media

We had a LinkedIn post on the Estonian Research Council feed in LinkedIn about the study visit to Finland.

The post can be seen here: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/eesti-teadusagentuur_finland-tiktok-sciencecommunication-activity-6927878283212533760-K1uQ?utm_source=linkedin_share&utm_medium=member_desktop_web

Unfortunately, there's no media attention regarding our visit to Denmark.

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 biggest asset we gained from the mobility project is new contacts from the visited organizations in Finland and Denmark. By having a common purpose, the new contacts are useful for future collaboration. We already made agreements with hosting colleagues from Finland regarding future cooperation opportunities, the first of which will hopefully happen in the near future.

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

The fact that we could share our experience and learn about successful practices and strategies used elsewhere, means that we gained a lot from the project. We are planning to implement the learned new methods in our own work and engage new contacts in our future collaboration. We could say that our expectations were met and for some areas even surpassed. All the hosting organizations were very hospitable and the meetings had valuable results.

Contact: Carlos Kuiv, project manager of the project "Exchange of Good Practices in Science Communication"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

The knowledge gained during the visits will have a direct impact on the quality-based changes of the Lithuanian penitentiary system, as Norway's and Finland's good practice examples shall be used for the development of the Lithuanian penitentiary strategy 2030 (organisation of employment and work activities, marketing of inmates production, assessment of the feasibility of the online shop for inmates production, more active implementation of the principle of dynamic security in direct contact with inmates, forecasting the decreased number of inmates, etc.).
The Norwegian and Finnish good practice might be implemented in the Lithuanian penitentiary system:
1. in the areas of positive employment activities for inmates, i.e. expanding the range of activities, involving more NGOs and volunteers, introducing prerequisites for the marketing of inmates products (e.g. through the establishment of an online shop);
2. inmates motivation measures to participate in positive employment by paying a specific monthly allowance (consider the possibility of limiting the remittances from outside if an inmate refuses to work or study);
3. organise a trip outside a penitentiary facility for positive well-behaving inmates, who are working or studying, together with an officer/ officers (e.g., 2-3 inmates and 1-2 officers);
4. organise work and production development inside the facility;
5. apply motivational measures for correctional officers and other staff. Take measures to increase the attractiveness of correctional officer profession, involvement of inmates in good initiatives;
6. provide training on the principles of dynamic security to correctional officers at all levels and units;
7. install e-terminals for inmates to assisst them in improving their digital skills.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

The participation of the Lithuanian, Norwegian and Finnish public administration institutions in the Project activities had the direct benefit as the representatives of the participating countries were able to exchange relevant information during the meetings and get to better know each other for further cooperation and developing of joint partnership initiatives and projects. Knowledge and experience exchange of best practices between the Lithuanian and Nordic public administration institutions gave a better insight in the prison management and resocialization areas.

References in the media

The project did not attract media attention. On 16 November 2021, the staff of the Resocialisation Unit of the Prison Department presented the Norwegian good practice to the management and staff of the Prison Department. A short presentation on the outcomes of the visit to Finland was released both to the representatives of the penitentiary system and the public.

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 participants of the internship got acquainted the trends and context of inmates’ resocialization in the Norwegian penitentiary establishments, applied resocialization measures and their individualization, organization and legal regulation of inmates’ occupation and employment, role of NGOs and volunteers in the resocialization process.

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

The Nordic-Baltic Public Administration Mobility Program meets our expectations

Contact: Jolanta Beliavskienė, project manager of the project "Prison Management, Particular Features of Resocialization of Sentenced Inmates and Good Practices"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

The role of Estonian Social Insurance board in the field of child protection in Estonia and the mediation of international child protection cases needs to be reviewed and updated. It was very beneficial for us to get an understanding how Bufdir (which is similar to Estonian Social Insurance Board on the level of where it stands in the child protection system in the country) works, what are their roles and responsibilities regarding Norway's child protective system and the international cases. At the time of the visit we were aware that the Estonian Ministry of Social Affairs was planning on assessing and researching the Estonian Child Protection system (inc. the social insurance board) and thank to our visit we made some meaningful contacts in Norway whose expertise will be included into the research

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

Norway is starting to develop a nationwide child protection casework database. Estonia has had a casework database for many years and we exchanged IT development team contacts so they can cooperate.
The visit to Norway also benefits the cooperation of Estonia and Norway in international child protection cases.

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 practices, information and contacts. Very valuable for us was to meet our colleagues as that highly benefits cooperation.

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

It is a wonderful program and it met our expecations. Only issue for us was that due to Covid and then the war in Ukraine, Sweden was unable to welcome us for a study visit.

Contact: Kadi Lauri, project manager of the project "Nordic-Baltic Study Visit and Knowledge Exchange - International Child Protecion "

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

Shortly after visits we started development of public involvement strategy and participatory budgeting in our our municipality. It will be launched in couple of months.
We were introduced with numerous methods and their results. Introducing them in our municipality we can increased competitive power of the region, high level of public involvement in governance, reduced environmental footprint and educated society as a result of awareness.
building events. Comparing public involvement methods in Rebild municipality and Helsinki municipality helps us to find out the most effective methods and solutions that are adaptable for Marupe
municipality. We established new partnerships as well.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

During group visits we saw mutual exchange of experience. In Marupe municipality we developed some good ideas we shared with our hosts as well. Also it was important that Rebild and Helsinki municipalities could get another perspective which aroused in our discussions.

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 of most significant values gained was possibility to discuss various approaches of municipality work as well as challenges municipalities are facing every day. Even if in Latvia we have limited resources and budgets are way smaller than in Nordic countries we still find creative solutions for various problems. We also were proud that we were able to introduce with our Geographic Information System - where we collect and graphically present data important for coworkers of municipality as well as necessary for our inhabitants.

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

Yes the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for Public Administration met our expectations. We felt experience was shared both ways and we are happy to have had this opportunity to participate.

Contact: Ilze Kamolina, project manager of the project "Exchange of experiences and best practices on public involvement methods - participatory budgeting, awareness building events and e-participation tools"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

In the city of Malmö, the city's development strategy was introduced, which envisages active construction and transformation of the city's infrastructure for the needs of a growing population. Several quarters of the city were visited where active construction and transformation is taking place.
In Lejre municipality, various municipal institutions, administration, school, senior activity center, youth center and others were visited. During the mission, various meetings were held with municipal employees, deputies, representatives of non-governmental organizations, etc.

During the mission, many and various suggestions were received in various areas of the municipality's activities, which should be submitted to colleagues for evaluation and implementation. It is concluded that the needs of Malmö municipality differ significantly from Dienvidkurzeme municipality and it is possible to adopt only some examples of good practice. In turn, the municipality of Lejre is very similar to Dienvidkurzeme municipality in terms of population and population structure, and a lot of what would be seen would be applicable in our municipality.
We gained excellent experience from Lejre on administrative-territorial reform. The municipality of Lejre is already an experienced 14-year-old municipality. Our two municipalities have very similar values ​​- both are rural municipalities, with an ageing society and with interest in accessibility and sustainability. As part of a new municipality, Lejre's good practices were very useful to us.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

If we talk specifically about Dienvidkurzeme municipality, which we represented, then it was especially interesting for us to find out how the communication between the residents and the municipality is implemented, how the mutual flow of information takes place, because the residents must be informed about the municipal activities. The second aspect that was particularly useful in this project was the integration and cohesion of society. It is no secret that people from other countries come to the Baltic States every year, including Latvia and Dienvidkurzeme municipality. The Nordic experience in integrating these people into the local community was useful. And the exchange of experience in caring for seniors in the Nordic countries was also valuable, so that they would not be left alone after completing their active work, but would find activities that suit their interests. We have gained a lot of initiatives from the project program related to the environment and ecology, education, volunteering and much more that we will be able to take over in our municipality.

References in the media

During the visit, representatives of the municipality were interviewed by two Lejre regional newspapers:
https://www.sn.dk/lejre-kommune/lettere-paa-inspirationstur-i-lejre/
https://www.sn.dk/lejre-kommune/letter-paa-besoeg-vil-laere-af-lejre/

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 implementation of this project, we have gained a lot of easy-to-implement experiences and ideas that can be implemented over a long period of time. The words we heard most often during this project were "communication" and "volunteering". These are the words that permeated any topic throughout this project. Volunteering is something that there is still a lot to do in our society. Experience in working with seniors and the local community as a whole was a valuable benefit. Integration and involvement of different communities in a single society. Education and security issues. Involvement of children in reading books and operation of youth centers. And much more. The common conclusion is that every member of society, regardless of their age, level of education, age or other parameters, has value, and everyone deserves support and respect. And everyone's ideas are heard.

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

Thanking the Nordic-Baltic Mobility Programme for the opportunity to participate in this programme by the delegation of Dienvidkurzeme municipality, we are happy to say that the very fulfilled and valuable programme not only met our expectations, but significantly exceeded them. This was especially true of the section we implemented in Lejre municipality, because our situations are quite similar - we are similar both in terms of the size of the territory and the number of inhabitants. We got a lot of simple and valuable ideas that we can gradually take over in our municipality. In Malmö, on the other hand, we gained a broader view of how a large-scale, fast-growing municipality operates and what the problems and solutions are there, so we also gained valuable initiatives there.

Contact: Kristine Pastore, project manager of the project "How to reach everyone in municipality"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

When visiting and interacting with archaeologists exploring the Slussen area, it was amazing to hear how much freedom and trust the public authorities give to the archaeologists themselves and how the quality and timing of archaeological research speeds up, but certainly does not worsen the process. When visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Birka and Hovgarden, it was interesting to see the nuances of the care of such sites and the general sense of liberalism that enables a variety of small-scale and low-invasive land movements without any complicated bureaucratic procedures. Also, a very interesting and completely unused area in Lithuania turned out to be the maintenance of the cultural heritage landscape, the focus of which is on the selection of vegetation of such a landscape, questions about the image of the chronological stage of the heritage object to be presented/revealed to the visitor. Also, the healthy tendency of cultural heritage landscape maintenance specialists not to build or build visually expressive areas was very impressive (in Lithuania, a similar is done with visual protection elsewhere (eg in Kulautuva cemetery, Kaunas district municipality) houses germinate in the object itself and thus irreversibly change the image of the cultural landscape, the possibility of visual perception of the cultural heritage object disappears).
The study visit revealed examples of successful collaboration with a variety of community-based institutions. We learned how inhabitants' needs influence urgent archaeological excavation works - in Stockholm, Slussen, it was the urgent need to replace dilapidated water and transport infrastructure.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

-It strengthened long-term cooperation with Nordic partners;
- It was an experience sharing on modern Nordic management of heritage attracting local business and community (managers, guides, etc)
-It was shared experiences of tackling nowadays challenges (climate change, use of new technologies, accessibility of heritage values, user-friendly environment);
-The project allowed us to discuss the issues with a lot of needed Nordic experts on management, heritage accessibility, educational programs for the community, practical issues of heritage protection of the Reserve;
- The participants shared values: identity, sustainability, environmental preservation, urban
planning knowledge, heritage accessibility, and world heritage protection.

References in the media

- The results of each study visit – textual and visual information was placed on the website of The Directorate of the State Cultural Reserve of Vilnius Castles ww.vilniauspilys.lt

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

Sustainability is not only environmental sustainability, but political, economical, social, cultural sustainability

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

Nordic partners were engaged very much in our project. The results of the study visit were excellent.

Contact: ANGELE DANUTE CEPENAITE, project manager of the project "NORDIC CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE USER-FRIENDLY SERVICES IMPLEMENTATION : ARCHEOLOGICAL HERITAGE SITE DIMENSIONS"

Please describe how the project benefited your organisation

Communications is getting new knowledge and practical recommendation in next areas:
1) Bottom – up policymaking.
a. Involvement of different stakeholders for create a united strategy with the implementing plan.
2) The building-up Innovation eco-system and involving in the process all relevant stakeholders.
3) Green transition and circular economy policy making.

Some detailed examples.
1) The Nordic countries have long-term experiences for working-up consensus-based policies where all stakeholders are involved. We had got good knowledge how to agree on results, drive the process and get to the result, which is acceptable for all stakeholders from privet and public sector. The good example is the Norwegian recycling and deposit system for plastic bottles and cans.

Within the administrative remit of Estonian Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications will be launched an innovation agency. The Enterprise Estonia and KredEx merged at the beginning of 2022. Innovation Norway, Vinnova and RISE are good examples for building up well-functioning innovation implementing agency. For instants, The Matrix Model is the most popular organisational governance model in the Nordic counties.

In Norway and Sweden the Topics Green transition and circular economy are led by the privet sector, who sees there some new business opportunities. These topics are built up via economic parameters. The main target for the topic are save the climate and nature and preserve the well-being of society in the Nordic countries.

Please describe how the project benefited the Nordic-Baltic cooperation

It should be admitted Nordic countries are in the topics green transition and circular economyre world-class frontrunners. While Estonia has just taken the first steps for putting these themes on the board. We should built up our cooperation in the way that all parties could get some benefits in the future. In the first order, Estonia should join with initiative of Nordic countries and take over their principals for promoting green transition and circular economy.
We have had very fruitful and open discussions with the hosted organisations. By having, these study visits we have had very good contacts and networks for cooperation and cooperation on EU level in the future.
In short term we try to find some possibilities to start cooperation with Ignite Sweden and RISE. There are some interreg programmes that could suit for the next cooperation stage. In addition, very important is cooperation on EU level for having regulations that suits as much to the Nordic countries as to the Baltic countris

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 have had very open and fruitful discussion about consensus-based policy makeing process. We have got very many practical solution that we can put into the practise for impementing green transition and circular economy. The most imporatant result of the project is broad network and direct contacts in nordic countries for creating new projects and implementing initatives of green transition and circular economy.

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

The programm meets fully our expectations.

Contact: Kaie Nurmik, project manager of the project "Green and Digital Future"