From October 14–17, 2025, the Bieszczady region in Poland turned into a European hub for social innovation. The ERDN team, led by Katarzyna Gizińska, with the invaluable support of the Local Action Group “Zielone Bieszczady” and its President, Iwona Woch, organized the 4th General Assembly of the ESIRA project.
The meeting brought together consortium partners from Serbia, Norway, Italy, Spain, Lithuania, Latvia, Hungary, and Poland. Gathering at the charming Zagroda Magija in Orlec, the participants focused on summarizing progress and outlining the 2025–2026 roadmap for supporting social economy initiatives across Europe.
Field Visits: Social Innovation in Action The core of the assembly consisted of two days (October 15–16) dedicated to field visits, showcasing how the Bieszczady region successfully merges business with social and environmental missions:
- BIESZCZAD.ski Wańkowa (Olszanica Municipality): A prime example of combining tourism and social entrepreneurship.
- Bieszczady Cultural Heritage Center “Fanto” in Ustrzyki Dolne: A vital institution preserving the unique regional identity.
- Ecomuseum “Na Wypale” in Radoszyce: Operated by the “Ramię w ramię” Foundation, where the traditional craft of charcoal burning meets modern environmental education.
- “Przełączenie” Association in Dwernik: A grassroots initiative demonstrating the power of community-based social tourism.
- Galeria Barak-Bieszczady: A creative space brimming with local art, ceramics, and handicrafts.
Bieszczady Flavors and Rural Traditions The assembly was also a journey through local gastronomy and heritage. Participants enjoyed hospitality in places that are social economy entities and places that support social integration:
- Chlebowa Chata w Młynie (MŁYN – Bieszczady): For a regional dinner featuring authentic local products.
- Góra Smaku in Przysłup: The first vegetarian restaurant in Bieszczady, famous for its herbal infusions and homemade cakes.
- Zajazd Pod Caryńską in Ustrzyki Górne: For a traditional meal in the heart of the high mountains.
A particularly moving experience was the meeting with the Rural Housewives’ Circle (KGW) “Babiniec – Czarna i Przyjaciele” in Czarna Górna. Partners participated in a scented plaque workshop and learned about the history of the KGW movement, founded in the 19th century by the activist Filipina Płaskowicka.
The Spirit of Bieszczady: Nature and Music Early arrivals had the opportunity to hike to the misty peak of Połonina Caryńska (1297 m), experiencing the raw beauty of the Polish mountains. The event concluded with a magical evening at Zagroda Magija, featuring a live performance by Michał Kowalonek (vocalist of Myslovitz and Snowman).
The 4th ESIRA General Assembly proved that the social economy is about more than just policy—it is about community, cooperation, and the unique spirit of local empowerment that thrives in the Bieszczady Mountains.
