Founded in 1996, MitOst is an international network bringing together people and organisations committed to social change, cultural exchange, active citizenship, social cohesion, and sustainable urban and rural development. Today, MitOst connects a diverse community of more than 1000 members across over 40 countries, working in fields such as culture, education, civic engagement, and sustainability.
The 22nd MitOst Festival goes to Armenia from 17–20 September, 2026!
The MitOst Festival 2026 marks the 30th anniversary of MitOst, and we’re proud to be organizing this year’s Festival with our partners from Armenia and institutional member represented in the MitOst Executive Board, EcoHub Foundation.
The Festival takes place at an important moment for the South Caucasus and Eastern Europe. Across the region, civil society is navigating complex challenges — from geopolitical tensions and shrinking civic space to the ongoing impact of Russia’s war against Ukraine. At the same time, Armenia is undergoing democratic reforms and increasingly positioning itself as a place for dialogue, cooperation, and regional exchange.
Taking place soon after Armenia’s 2026 parliamentary elections and during a period of closer alignment with European democratic standards, the Festival offers a space to collectively reflect on how civil society can remain resilient, collaborative, and forward-looking in times of uncertainty. Under the title “Democratic Resilience in Practice: Civil Society Between Transformation and Uncertainty,” we will come together with local civil society actors to exchange practical ideas, learn from one another, strengthen regional solidarity, and build meaningful relationships.
We are looking forward to diving into Armenia’s unique social and cultural landscape, while keeping the Festival’s staples, co-creative approach, and community spirit! The 22nd MitOst Festival is organized by MitOst in collaboration with local host organization EcoHub and the Bosch Alumni Network.
The 22nd MitOst Festival is organized by MitOst in collaboration with local host organization EcoHub and the Bosch Alumni Network.
EcoHub Foundation aims to foster active citizenship, democratic governance, and sustainable development in Armenia by empowering young people from the regions who have limited access to such opportunities.
a publication on Participatory Placemaking in Armenia
a guide on Social Entrepreneurship for CSOs
a growing network of local facilitators, mentors, and volunteers.
EcoHub’s main program areas focus on youth empowerment through non-formal, peer-to-peer training in citizenship and education for sustainable development. A key initiative is Boo Alternative House, a sustainable and eco-friendly training space, community center, and tourist attraction located in the Lori region.
EcoHub also works closely with the Vanadzor local government and contributes to the town’s development strategies, including projects on public space revitalization and the regeneration of former industrial zones. One of the major concepts initiated by EcoHub is the Green Iron Vanadzor microfiber plant revitalization concept.
Programme
Together with EcoHub, we are curating a special programme that we hope will celebrate our network in its best light and foster connection, exchange, and collaboration! The full program will be announced closer to the Festival, once we have received and included the workshops ideas proposed by participants. Some of the topics and areas of discussion that will be integrated in the program are:
Civil society resilience under political pressure
Armenia as a safe space for regional cooperation
Democratic transition and elections in times of uncertainty
Between geo-political pressure and European alignment
English