On December 10 and 11, DiGiN project partners gathered for a two-day work visit at the City of Ghent, where the project leaders and municipality staff came together to exchange knowledge, share challenges and plan for more inclusive local governance. Far from being a routine meeting, this visit marked a significant step forward in embedding Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) principles into municipal operations.
Key highlights from the visit
As the host city, Ghent provided an inspiring backdrop. Its blend of historic heritage and forward-thinking governance highlighted innovative DEI practices, creating the foundation for discussions. Partners shared innovative approaches already driving change in their cities. For example: Rotterdam’s Inclusivity Panel has been at the forefront of shaping DEI policies since 2019, offering valuable lessons on fostering inclusivity at the municipal level. Discussions highlighted how practical tools—like stakeholder mapping and DEI monitoring systems—can strengthen workplace cultures and improve community engagement.
Interactive panels and workshops brought partners together to promote inspiring practices, including insights into DEI practices implemented at the partner municipalities, experience-sharing with local change agents from the City of Ghent and tools and measures for multiple perspective decision-making. These hands-on sessions equipped participants with actionable steps to enhance their efforts.
The visit fostered cross-border collaboration, with municipalities exchanging ideas and experiences. By building connections, participants left with a stronger sense of shared purpose and inspiration to advance DEI in their own workplaces and communities. Moments like this work visit drive momentum, refine strategies and inspire innovation for long-term transformation.
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