Urban X-Change Network ІІ
About the project
In November 2024, the second stage of the Urban X-Change Network project was launched — Urban X-Change Network II. This second phase expands intercultural exchange, promoting mutual understanding and cooperation between German, Ukrainian, and Polish cities. Just like in the first phase, Urban X-Change Network (2021–2023), the plan is to support the cooperation of ALE centres as part of intermunicipal partnerships, which work together on local solutions to contribute to overcoming global challenges. The Urban X-Change Network II project will include a unique educational programme on citizen diplomacy, allowing ALE centres to engage municipal residents in decision-making more, particularly by using the potential of connections between sister cities and active participation of their residence in the implementation of international initiatives and joint projects. Sister cities and adult education centres will play a key role in this process by creating opportunities for dialogue and providing a proper base for exchange among city residents.
Leverkusen (Germany) — Nikopol (November 2024 — July 2025)
The City Images project aims to show how cities and their residents use art as a tool for international cooperation. Participants will explore and share their cultural heritage, demonstrating unique architecture, landscapes, and everyday life of Nikopol and Leverkusen. The project highlights both commonalities and differences, encourages participants to value their shared European identity and cultural diversity, thereby promoting intercultural understanding and strengthening ties between the residents of both cities through art and history.
Leinfelden-Echterdingen, Filderstadt, Ostfildern (Germany) — Poltava (November 2024 — July 2025)
The BRIDGES project aims at promoting international cooperation and cultural understanding. It focuses on citizen diplomacy via STREAM — a series of joint educational events on a variety of topics: science, technology, reading and writing, engineering, art, maths. The initiative involves holding a number of joint seminars in a hybrid format, simultaneously in Germany and in Ukraine, to bring citizens and civil society representatives from both countries together. Each workshop will include theoretical materials in Ukrainian and German, as well as a practical part for residents of partner cities. This approach promotes shared knowledge, experience, and formation of citizen diplomacy based on common values.
The Urban X-Change Network II project is implemented with financial support from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).