The National University of Political Studies and Public Administration (SNSPA) proudly hosted the 4th edition of the CIVICA Summer School. This international academic event brought together doctoral researchers, faculty, and experts across the CIVICA alliance. Held in Bucharest, Romania, between June 2 and 6, 2025, the Summer School centred on the theme “Challenges of Democracy in a Digital World,” providing a unique platform for interdisciplinary exchange and critical reflection on the political, technological, and social dynamics shaping democracy.
The program commenced on Monday, June 2, at SNSPA’s headquarters with opening remarks delivered by Vice-Rector Mihai Păunescu, PhD, School Director Mălina Ciocea, and CIVICA Coordinator Zeineb Mazouz. This was followed by a keynote speech from Professor Alina Bârgăoanu, Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Public Relations. Over the five days, participants engaged with leading scholars, including Kevin Arceneaux (Sciences Po), Waltraud Schelkle (EUI), Marina Henke (Hertie), and Gabor Simonovits (CEU). Discussions covered a wide range of topics, from algorithmic governance and electoral trust to the role of AI in global security.
The Summer School also featured doctoral presentations, hands-on workshops focusing on deepfake technology and automated text analysis, and a study visit to the Romanian Parliament. Discussions addressed urgent topics such as misinformation, algorithmic bias, participatory governance, and EU grand strategy. Faculty members from SNSPA, including Associate Professors Raluca Buturoiu, Valeriu Frunzaru, and Flavia Durach, served as key discussants during the doctoral research presentation sessions.
Furthermore, Florin Zeru and Andreea Stancea, Assistant Professors at SNSPA, along with Associate Professor Dan Sultanescu, led the hands-on workshop on deepfake technology. This session provided participants with practical insights into one of today’s most pressing digital challenges.
The CIVICA Summer School 2025 reaffirmed SNSPA’s steadfast commitment to internationalisation, interdisciplinary dialogue, and academic excellence within the European university landscape.
