From 17 to 21 September 2025, ALDA welcomed a group of ten journalists and media students from North Macedonia in Vicenza, Italy for a four-day study visit under the framework of the Media4EU project. The initiative aimed to strengthen professional capacities, support cross-border exchanges, and provide first-hand insights into the European integration process and the role of the media within it.
The Media4EU project addresses the pressing challenges faced by the media sector in North Macedonia, where journalists often encounter self-censorship, disinformation, and external pressures that weaken journalistic standards. By bringing young professionals to Italy, the project sought to foster dialogue, skills development, and cooperation with European counterparts, while contributing to the fight against Euroscepticism and encouraging quality journalism.
A rich and dynamic programme
The visit began with a welcome session at ALDA’s Vicenza office, where participants were introduced to the Association’s mission, its international scope, and its long-standing commitment to local democracy, citizen participation, and European integration. This opening moment set the tone for the programme, highlighting how ALDA’s work connects local communities with the wider European project.
The delegation was then formally received at Vicenza City Hall by Councillor Alessandro Bertasi, who underlined the city’s active engagement in promoting European values at the local level. This institutional welcome was followed by the participation in a press conference on “Vicenza Città delle Donne” (“Vicenza City of Women”), focusing on rights and equal opportunities. Hosted by Vice Mayor Isabella Sala, Councillor Matteo Tosetto and Councillor Ida Grimaldi, the event offered participants the chance to see first-hand how local authorities communicate on issues of gender equality and inclusion.
This early interaction between the visiting journalists and Vicenza’s municipal representatives not only provided valuable insights into local governance and public communication, but also illustrated the strong link between media, democracy, and civic engagement at the heart of the European model.
Workshops and practical activities enriched the programme, giving participants both new skills and a direct taste of European media practices. An interactive training on social media communication, led by ALDA’s communication team, allowed the young journalists to explore how digital platforms can be used effectively to encourage civic engagement and counter disinformation. This was followed by a video-pills recording session in the heart of Vicenza’s Piazza dei Signori, where each participant was interviewed on project-related issues, reflecting on freedom of expression and the challenges of the profession in their country.
The group also visited TVA Vicenza, one of the city’s main local broadcasters, for an exchange with Director Gian Marco Mancassola. Here, they discussed the role of local media in informing citizens, building trust, and maintaining editorial independence, drawing parallels with the North Macedonian context.
Another highlight was the study visit to Schio Municipality, where the delegation was welcomed by the Deputy Mayor Cristina Marigo. Beyond the institutional meeting, a guided tour of the city’s historic landmarks offered a cultural perspective on how local identity, governance, and media narratives intersect.
The programme concluded with a podcast recording session at ALDA’s office, in which participants took part in the full process of planning, producing, and recording content.
This hands-on experience encouraged creativity while emphasising the importance of storytelling in strengthening democratic dialogue
Beyond technical training, the study visit was about building trust and networks. By engaging with municipal authorities, media professionals, and civil society actors, participants experienced how media freedom, gender equality, and democratic governance are interlinked within the European framework.
The initiative also created space for peer-to-peer learning, enabling young journalists to share challenges, compare approaches with more experienced colleagues, and strengthen their role in shaping a transparent and democratic media landscape.
Towards stronger media and democracy
The Media4EU study visit in Vicenza, Italy was more than just a training event: it was a step forward for strengthening journalism in North Macedonia and increasing professional capacities.
By empowering journalists, supporting exchanges, and promoting freedom of expression, Media4EU directly contributes to a healthier public debate and a more inclusive European future.
