Kutse

Investing in a fair and inclusive future for Europe:

Building inclusive pathways for better digital services

13th & 14th March 2024 The Egg, Brussels

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TAKE PART IN THE CONFERENCE DURING THE BELGIAN EU- ROPEAN PRESIDENCY ON DIGITAL INCLUSION AND HELP BUILD SOLUTION FOR INCLUSIVE DIGITAL SERVICES!

On 13 and 14 March 2024, a European conference will kick off in Brussels to strengthen the digital inclusion of vulnerable groups by further buil- ding solutions for inclusive digital services.

Instead of looking back at recent accomplishments, the conference looks forward to work on today’s challenges so that no one is excluded from a digital society of tomorrow. Two well-filled days with which to feed the next Belgian and European agendas.

There is therefore a lot on the programme. After an introductory key note on the challen- ges of a digital society anno 2030-2040, there will be a debate between Belgian regional and national ministers on the one hand and several European ministers on the other, all responsible for (part of) policies on digital inclusion and skills. Interaction with the audience is guaranteed.

Afterwards, a variety of Belgian, national, local as well as regional projects will be pre- sented alongside other European strategies, good practices and projects during the many break-out sessions on day 1 and 2. During the coffee breaks, all participants can also drop in on projects we have been able to launch thanks to the support of the European Relance Fund.

Given that a lot of projects have emerged in recent years, one can sometimes lose track. One might also ask who is best placed and which strategy seems most appropriate to help people in digital distress. Belgian and other European experts will discuss with each other in a second debate to find out who is best placed to help people in digital distress and which strategies are successful in offering help to people with digital help requests.

After the first day dedicated to building solutions for inclusive digital services, day two will also dive deeper into the skills needed to engage with these digital services. We there- fore cast our eyes on acquiring digital (basic) skills that are essential for tomorrow’s digital society and labour market.

What is needed on the one hand so that, for example, people can break out of poverty and integrate themselves into a digital society, and on the other hand what does the so- ciety and labour market of today and tomorrow expect people to have in their backpack of digital skills at least. In doing so, we bridge the goals of the European Pillars of Social Rights and Europe’s Digital Decade goals for 2030. The introductory key note will be followed by a debate between various Belgian and European experts on digital skills and what people need to be digitally able to keep up with society. As artificial intelligence is also nowadays inescapable, the experts will also elaborate on what this means for the skills of citizens on the one hand and how this can be used to provide better services in the context of, for instance, the non-take-up of (social) rights on the other.

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At the end of the day, we highlight the recommendations that will be formulated during the Belgian Presidency on the topic of digital inclusion of vulnerable groups. These re- commendations will be put forward at the high-level conference on the European pillar of social rights in La Hulpe on 15 and 16 April 2024. The aim of the conference is to reflect together with key European stakeholders on the future social agenda of the European Union. Together, we want to identify the remaining challenges in the field of employment and social affairs and identify policy priorities for subsequent EU legislation. The European Pillar of Social Rights will be the central framework for this reflection.

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HOW DO I GET TO THE CONFERENCE?

The Egg is located less than 15 minutes’ walk from Brussels-Midi national and international railway station. The address: The Egg, Rue Bara 175, 1070 Brussels (Anderlecht).

MAP OF THE EVENT VENUE AND THE SPACE THAT WILL BE USED DURING THE CONFERENCE.

Programme Day 1 - 13th March 2024

8:00-9:00 ARRIVAL OF PARTICIPANTS AND COLLECTION OF ADMISSION CARDS

Reception Riverside

All participants can pick up their admission cards at the reception desk from 8am. A welcome coffee will be provided in the Riverside until 8:50am. After that, participants will be directed directly to the Audito- rium.

9:00-9:30 CONFERENCE OPENING SPEECHES

Auditorium The conference will be opened by a local host and moderator fol- lowed by an opening address of the Minister responsible for the event,

VALERIE THYS

Host and Moderator

KARINE LALIEUX

Belgian Federal Minister for Pensions and Social Integration, responsible for people with disabilities, poverty reduction and Beliris

9:30-10:15 OPENING KEY NOTE

Auditorium Ellen Helsper, Professor of Digital Inequalities will open the confe- rence with a look forward at a digital society. “Challenges for digital inclusion of vulnerable groups in a digital society anno 2030-2040.”

ELLEN HELSPER

Ellen Helsper, Professor of Digital Inequalities in the Department of Media and Communications at London School of Economics

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10:15-11:30 DEBATES

Auditorium Following the opening key note on the challenges for digital inclusion of vulnerable groups in a digital society anno 2030-2040, two debates will take place between on the on hand Belgian regional and national Ministers and on the other hand several European Ministers, all res- ponsible for (a part of) policies regarding Digital Inclusion and Skills. The debates will be moderated by an expert, referring to key issues presented during the previous key note and taking questions from the audience.

DEBATE 1 «DIGITAL INCLUSION THROUGH SUPPORT OF VULNERABLE

GROUPS FOLLOWING THE CHALLENGES IN A DIGITAL SOCIETY ANNO

2030-2040»

KARINE LALIEUX

Belgian Federal Minister for Pensions and Social Integration, responsible for people with disabilities, poverty reduction and Beliris

As Federal Minister for Social Integration and Coordinating Minister for Combating Poverty, Karine Lalieux has always defended the most vulnerable groups in our society. With the «e-inclusion for Belgium» project and the first measures to establish better cooperation between administrations at federal level on digital inclusion, she wants digital inclusion to remain high on the political agenda.

CHRISTIE MORREALE

Walloon Minister for Employment, Training, Health, Social Action, Equal Opportunities and Women’s Rights

With the Walloon Digital Inclusion Plan (Plan d’Inclusion numérique), the Walloon government aims to make digital technology accessible to all citizens, whether in terms of use or equipment. The plan addresses the various aspects of the digital divide: the access gap, the use gap and the skills gap. It also aims to increase the visibility of the services offered in Wallonia.

MARINA FERRARI (TO BE CONFIRMED)

French Secretary of State for Digital Economy

Five years after an initial digital inclusion strategy, the French govern- ment has launched the new «France Numérique Ensemble» (France digitaly together) roadmap for the period 2023-2027. Its main objective is to anchor the management of digital inclusion initiatives at local level. This document is broken down into 15 commitments and has a number of ambitions: localising digital inclusion policies, equipping digital media- tors, structuring the professional sector for digital inclusion, and collec- ting and sharing data.

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MARIE BJERRE (TO BE CONFIRMED)

Minister for Digital Government and Gender Equality

Over many years, Denmark has succeeded in laying the foundations for the digitisation of its public services by digitising administrative da- tabases and processes at an early stage. It has done this by adopting the necessary legislation to increase the use of digital services among the population and by promoting confidence and developing skills among the population, while maintaining services for people facing the digital transition.

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JAN JAMBON

Minister-president of the Flemish Government and Flemish minister of Foreign Affairs, Culture, Digitalisation and Facility Management

Accessible services for all is what Flemish Prime Minister Jan Jambon is all about. As Minister for Digitalisation, he combined the digital know- how of the Flemish government into one agency : ‘Digital Flanders’. A realignment that gave the digital transformation a solid push for the ela- boration of a digital government. From the start, he made innovation and digital transformation two priorities within the Flemish government.

BERNARD CLERFAYT

Brussels Minister for Employment, Training, Local Authorities, Digital Transition, Animal Welfare and Family Benefits

With the «Digital Brussels» project (Bruxelles Numérique), the Brussels government has decided to create new rights for the people of Brussels: the right to carry out all administrative procedures online if they so wish, and the right to be assisted in carrying out administrative procedures online if they deem it necessary. This is the first step towards digitising administrative services in the Brussels-Capital Region.

IVAN BARTOŠ (TO BE CONFIRMED)

Czech Deputy Prime Minister for Digitisation and Minister for Regional Development. The Czech government and Minister Bartoš have set themselves ambi- tious technical goals during their EU Presidency, such as the develop- ment of a common position between the 27 EU governments on a regu- lation on artificial intelligence. Minister Bartoš is known for his in-depth knowledge of digital issues.

DEBATE 2 «DIGITAL INCLUSION OF VULNERABLE GROUPS USING DI-

GITAL TRANSFORMATION FOLLOWING THE CHALLENGES IN A DIGITAL

SOCIETY ANNO 2030-2040»

EMILIJA STOJMENOVA DUH (TO BE CONFIRMED)

Slovenian Minister for Digital Transformation

The minister stressed the need to raise people’s awareness to en- sure they understand the huge potential of AI. Application of artificial intelligence should be of high quality, transparent, ethical, and hu- man-centred. solely for the benefit of all citizens. «In Slovenia, AI is one of the priority areas for digital transformation: we have more than 40 years of research experience and more than 30 years of experience in higher education,» .

11:30-12:15 COFFEE BREAK AND POSSIBILITY TO ATTEND PROJECT PITCHES

During the break, you will have the opportunity to stretch your legs and enjoy a coffee. All participants

can also attend several pitches where Belgian projects introduce themselves during the coffee break.

During these 15-minute project pitches, they will reflect on the challenges they faced and how they

overcame them. A great time to talk to and network with people from the field. The pitches will take

place in ROOM 1, ROOM 2 and ROOM 3 next to the Riverside where coffee will be served. (Please note:

there will be no simultaneous interpretation during the project pitches).

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PROJECT 1 DIGITAL RELAY HELPERS

Speaker(s): (to be confir- med)

The Kortrijk PCSW project consists of digital relay helpers who of- fer e-inclusion in the form of low-threshold workshops and series of courses in the six most vulnerable neighbourhoods of Kortrijk. On the basis of personal guidance, the digital relay helpers deve- lop an offer paying particular attention to specific target groups such as digitally vulnerable non-native speakers, digitally vulne- rable elderly people, etc.

City and PCSW of Kortrijk

Language: English

PROJECT 2 AMICAL DIGITAL

Speaker(s): (To be confir- med)

The project of the PCSW (Public Centre for Social Welfare) of the City of Menin consists of detection, monitoring and adjustment of access to essential services and digital skills. The current training offer will be made more accessible and tailored using a mobile meeting place, being a caravan. E-inclusion ambassadors will also be deployed in a buddy operation and/or to communicate advice, critical reflection and signals to policy.

City and PCSW of Menin

Language: English

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PROJECT 3 INCLUME

Speaker(s): (to be confir- med)

CHOQ created a support network in Picardy Wallonia in order to facilitate the digital inclusion of vulnerable groups. To ensure that the network was well guided and has a common goal, they use a pedagogical approach, which enables the organisations taking part in the network to get to know each other better and deve- lop concrete actions. As a first step, they carried out a positio- ning test with the players in relation to the DIG COMP reference framework, was made available to all the organisations that nee- ded it. At the same time, a survey of the training needs of social workers and trainers was carried out to develop training courses.

CHOQ

Language: French English

12:15-13:00 BREAK OUT SESSION 1: «PROVIDING ASSISTANCE TO PEOPLE IN NEED»

During this breakout session you will have a choice between 3 presentations, debates, panel

discussions, … from either a Belgian or an European organisation. Since some of the rooms have a

limited seating, participants need to choose which session they will attend beforehand. The brea-

kout sessions will take place in Auditorium, the Studio and the Aquarium.

OPTION 1 LOCAL CHAIN APPROACH TO DIGITAL INCLUSION IN THE NETHERLANDS

Speaker(s): Ganzevles Josanne, Deuten Makkai

In the Netherlands, between 2.5 and 4 million people are unable to participate properly in the digital society. Tackling digital in- clusion is a complex task. It requires the joint efforts of seve- ral parties. That’s why government, civil society organisations, businesses and experienced experts are joining forces in the Alliance to achieve digital inclusion. We are working on a single mission: everyone can (continue to) participate in the digital so- ciety. The «Local Chain Approach Digital Inclusion» project was launched in 2023 with the aim of improving cooperation between municipalities, civil society organisations and private parties. Various sectors (including municipalities, social welfare, libraries, telecoms operators and banks) play an important role in this. A cooperation that started off rough and is gaining momentum. We share lessons learned and ideas on how to shape the local sup- port network together.

Alliantie Digitaal Samenleven

Language: English

Auditorium

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OPTION 2 DIGIBANKS, PROVIDING ASSISTANCE TO HELP WITH DIGITAL QUESTIONS

Speaker(s): Daan Neels, Sanne Vander Beken, Maria Euwenme

This interactive session will feature discussions with several Fle- mish digibanks and explore the three objectives each digibank must meet: (1) Equal access to digital technology through condi- tional provision of laptops; (2) Strengthening digital skills through training and knowledge sharing and (3) Ensuring improved digital access to essential services through mentoring. The digibanks are an initiative from the Flemish government, Department of Work and Social Economy and are financed with European Relance funds (RRF). The digibanks anchor and streamline local partnerships around digital inclusion.

Flemish Go- vernment, City of Ghent, District09

Language: English

Studio

OPTION 3 DIGITAL INCLUSION PLAN FOR ALL WALLOONS

Speaker(s): Ariane Baré, Olivier Ruol, Naïma Mremi

Would you like to find out more about the Walloon Digital In- clusion Plan? In particular about macartonum.be, which lists all the digital help points for Walloon citizens, the ideal tool for all digital helpers and citizens, but also about all the other Walloon projects? The workshop will give you the opportunity to find out about all these projects, as well as the various mapping functions and future interactions with the Mediators’ Portal.

Walloon Government

Language: French

Aquarium

13:00-14:00 LUNCH AND POSSIBILITY TO ATTEND PROJECT PITCHES

During the lunch break, you will have the opportunity to stretch your legs and enjoy a lunch. All parti-

cipants can also listen in to several Belgian projects introducing themselves during the break. During

the 15-minute project pitches, they will reflect on the challenges they faced and how they tackled

them. A great time to talk to and network with people from the field. The pitches will take place in

ROOM 1, ROOM 2 and ROOM 3 next to the Riverside where the lunch will be served. (Please note:

there will be no simultaneous interpretation during the project pitches).

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PROJECT 4 REGIONAL COOPERATION

Speaker(s): (to be confir- med)

The Welfare Region North Limburg project consists of strengthe- ning digital skills and access to essential services. The needs detected concern more difficult access to hardware or limited mobility due to disability, need for accessible information on digi- talisation and need for strengthened digital skills of social profes- sionals in contact with the target group.

Welzijnsregio Noord-Limburg

Language: English

PROJECT 5 NUMÉRI’BUS (THE DIGITAL BUS)

Intervenant(s): (à confirmer)

The Yvoir Public Welfare Social Centre project involves allowing citizens to complete their administrative procedures online with the help of a professional in a bus with computer equipment that travels through the different villages. The project also aims to train social workers in the use of IT tools and support people in their online administrative procedures.

PCSW of YVOIR

Language: French

PROJECT 6 DIGISCAN

Speaker(s): (to be confir- med)

The Digiscan Project City of Bruges and its Public Centre for So- cial Welfacre (PCSW)’ consists of three parts. On the one hand a ‘Digiscan’ at home which forms a basis for advice, support and re- ferral. On the other hand, after analysis of these ‘Digiscan’ results, a training and coaching programme for the PCSW employees. Finally, using the results from the ‘Digiscan’ to form a basis for the e-inclusion policy of local administrations and establishing links with already existing projects.

City and PCSW of Bruges

Language: English

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14:00-15:00 DEBATE : « WHO IS BEST QUALIFIED AND WHAT STRATEGY SEEMS MOST

APPROPRIATE TO HELP THOSE IN DIGITAL DIFFICULTY?»

Auditorium Belgian and other European experts will debate who is best placed to help people in digital distress and what strategies are successful in providing help to people with digital assistance needs.

The debate will be moderated by an expert, referring to key issues presented during the previous key note and taking questions from the audience.

ALENKA LE COMPTE

Mediawijs (Belgium)

Alenka Le Compte is Mediawijs’ focal point for digital inclusion. She coor- dinates a number of networks and meetings in Flanders, such as the e-Inclusion Taskforce, which brings together public players, non-profit organisations and academics.

PIERRE MAZET

Labacces - Tilab Bretagne (France)

Pierre Mazet is a social science researcher specialising in access to rights and its relationship with public services. He worked for 10 years at the Observatoire des non recours aux droits. For several years now, he has been studying the effects of the dematerialisation of administrative relations on the public, the professional practices of social intermediaries and public policies.

ALFONSO LARA-MONTERO

European Social Network (ESN)

Alfonso is Director General of the European Social Network, where he manages the network’s strategic direction, programme of activities and annual editions of the European Social Services Conference and the European Social Services Award. He has over 15 years’ experience in the formulation and evaluation of public policies,

ERIC BLANCHART

Technofuture TIC (Belgium)

Eric is a project manager at Technofutur TIC, coordinating the Digital Public Spaces (Espaces Publics Numériques) scheme in Wallonia (176 public digital spaces). He also manages the centre’s non-commercial projects.

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EUROPEAN EXPERT OR FIELD AGENT To be confirmed (Europe)

At this stage, the organisation is still in talks with experts and specialists in the field. As soon as the discussions are finalised, the name will be announced.

EUROPEAN EXPERT OR FIELD AGENT To be confirmed (Europe)

At this stage, the organisation is still in talks with experts and specialists in the field. As soon as the discussions are finalised, the name will be announced.

15:15-16:00 BREAK OUT SESSION 2: « NATIONAL AND LOCAL STRATEGIES ON DIGITAL

INCLUSION »

During this breakout session you will have a choice between 3 presentations, debates, panel

discussions, … from either a Belgian or an European organisation. Since some of the rooms have a

limited seating, participants need to choose which session they will attend beforehand. The brea-

kout sessions will take place in Auditorium, the Studio and the Aquarium.

OPTION 1 THE EUROCITIES DIGITAL DIVIDE TASK FORCE

Speaker(s): Manon Reniers, Joab De Lang, Maria Euwema

The Digital Divide Task Force is an urban lobby group dedicated to ensuring that decision-makers take digital inclusion into ac- count. Awareness and actions are needed to envision funding to ensure that cities can carry out a digital inclusion analysis in their territories, During the working group, more in-depth discussions of the strategy implemented by some European cities : Ghent, Leipzig, Amsterdam, Bordeaux, Rotterdam, ...) Furthermore, we are looking at deploying an international / EU framework to mea- sure digital inclusion and enable comparison between cities.

Eurocities

Language: English

Auditorium

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OPTION 2 TOGETHER IN A DIGITAL ROMANIA

Speaker(s): Gabriela Ford, Laurentia Bunescu, Victor Negrescu, Iona Crihană, Peter Palvolgyi

Romania is consistently at the bottom of the EU in digital per- formance, as shown by the Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI), In this context, the EOS Foundation Romania is urgently carrying out the national project for digital education and in- clusion “TOGETHER IN A DIGITAL ROMANIA”. The project aims to propose a national strategy for digital inclusion. Only imple- menting coherent public policies and developing citizens’ digital skills can lift our country from the bottom of the European DESI ranking.

Foundation EOS for Digital Education

Language: English

Studio

OPTION 3 THE BELGIAN “WOMEN IN DIGITAL STRATEGY” : EXCHANGE OF BEST PRACTICES

Speaker(s): Michela De Biaso, Els Jans, Marie Vanoost, Laila Deeb

This workshop is designed to familiarize participants with the five primary objectives of the Belgian Women in Digital (WiD) strate- gy, which seeks to enhance the integration of women into the digital realm.

Five speakers will share their perspectives, each focusing on one of the strategic objectives. These speakers represent diverse countries, regions or area of expertise , allowing for a critical examination of the strategy from various perspectives, each within their respective areas of specialization. Each speaker will analyze the strategic objective, drawing connections to initiatives in their country or institution, and facilitating the exchange of best practices to collectively advance the overarching goal: fostering greater inclusion of women in the digital sector.

This breakout session is organised by the Federal Ministry for Economy, The Digital Agenda Department of the Emilia-Roma- gna Region, The Conseil supérieur de l’audiovisuel, Axa Belgium and Esko, Syrian Women in Tech, Brussels Binder

Federal Ministry for Economy

Language: English, French, Dutch

Aquarium

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16:00-16:45 BREAK OUT SESSION 3: «PROVIDING INCLUSIVE DIGITAL SERVICES »

During this breakout session you will have a choice between 3 presentations, debates, panel

discussions, … from either a Belgian or an European organisation. Since some of the rooms have a

limited seating, participants need to choose which session they will attend beforehand. The brea-

kout sessions will take place in Auditorium, the Studio and the Aquarium.

OPTION 1 GIVING CITIZENS A VOICE IN THE DEVELOPMENT AND DESIGN OF DATA-DRIVEN SERVICES AND APPLICATIONS

Speaker(s): Pieter Duysburgh

How do you give citizens a voice in the development and de- sign of data-driven applications and artificial intelligence? In this break-out session, the Data & Society Knowledge Centre explains three methods for engaging with citizens about their ex- periences, wishes and needs in relation to the use of data-driven services and products. Discover how you too can engage them with these easily deployable methods.

The Data & Society Knowledge Centre (Kenniscentrum Data & Maatschappij) is the central hub for ethical, legal and societal aspects of data-driven applications and artificial intelligence. The Knowledge Centre is a collaboration between three univer- sity research groups, is part of the Flemish policy plan AI and receives support from the Flemish Government.

Kennis- centrum Data & Maatschappij

Language: English

Auditorium

OPTION 2 HUMAN CENTERED DESIGN & SOLID Speaker(s): Tom Van hoey, Stépahnie Schaubroeck

Whether citizens, entrepreneurs or associations, the digital applications we create as a government are meant for people. Well-designed services need no manual or training, and take the user through the process in understandable steps. Human Centered Design puts people at the heart of the conception and design of digital services. In this session, an expert will explain the principles of human-centred design and how to get started in practice.

We will also zoom in on the importance of design to create a comfortable, safe and secure environment for users. Using an example case, we show the principles of human-centred design at work when designing the solution how to share a diploma from a Solid data vault.

Flemish Go- vernment

Digital Flan- ders, District09

Language: English

Studio

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OPTION 3 THE DIGITAL INCLUSION BY DESIGN INDEX : HOW INCLUSIVE IS YOUR DIGITAL PRODUCT?

Speaker(s): Linde Verheyden, Ali Chari

There are currently insufficient measuring instruments or global guidelines for digital inclusion that take account the needs of vulnerable users right from the design phase of digital processes and tools. Using DigitAll’s Digital Inclusion by Design Index when you develop your digital products is a win-win solution for eve- ryone. You find it easier to connect with your target group and your target group find their way to you more easily.

The Digital Inclusion by Design Index gives you insight into just how inclusive you are as a digital service provider. It helps you to remove obstacles for users when designing your digital product or service. It provides actionable data to various stakeholders within your organization, from marketers and product designers to website designers.

The Digital Inclusion by Design Index is a handy instrument to prevent stress in the end users of your digital product or ser- vice, whether it’s a website, an app or any other digital tool. By using this self-assessment, you can check your digital inclusivity against the seven criteria of the Digital Inclusion by Design Index and receive tips on how to make improvements.

DigitAll

Language: English

Aquarium

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Programme Day 2 - 14th March 2024

8:00-9:00 ARRIVAL OF PARTICIPANTS AND COLLECTION OF ADMISSION CARDS

Reception Riverside

Tous les participants peuvent récupérer leurs billets à la réception à partir de 8 heures. Un café de bienvenue sera servi dans le Riverside jusqu’à 8h50. Ensuite, les participants seront dirigés directement vers l’auditorium.

9:00-9:05 CONFERENCE OPENING SPEECHES

Auditorium The conference will be introduced by Alexandre Lesiw with a short review of the first day and look ahead to Day 2.

ALEXANDRE LESIW

Alexandre Lesiw is the president of the Belgian federal ministry for Social Integration and Poverty Reduction. Its mission is to guarantee a dignified existence to everyone who falls through the social secu- rity net, lives in poverty and is no longer entitled to other forms of assistance such as unemployment benefits, disability benefits, etc. Since 2021, Digilab (Laboratory for Digital Inclusion) was set up within this ministry to work on the digital inclusion of vulnerable groups.

9:05-9:50 OPENING KEY NOTE “DIGITAL (BASIC) SKILLS ACQUISITION: ESSENTIAL

FOR TOMORROW’S DIGITAL SOCIETY AND LABOUR MARKET.”.

Auditorium Saskia Van Uffelen is to open the second day of the conference with a look at acquiring digital (basic) skills that are essential for tomorrow’s digital society and labour market. On the one hand, what is needed for people to be able to integrate themselves in a digital society and, on the other hand, what does the society and labour market of today and tomorrow expect people to have in their backpack of digital skills at the very minimum. With this, we build a bridge between the goals of the European Pillars of Social Rights and Europe’s Digital Decade goals for 2030.

SASKIA VAN UFFELEN

Saksia van Uffelen has worked in the ICT and telecoms sector for more than 25 years. Since 2012, she has represented Belgium as Digi- tal Champion for the European institutions. In this role, she strives to roll out Belgium’s digital agenda: efficient, secure and e-inclusive.

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9:50-10:30 DEBATE « DIGITAL (BASIC) SKILLS ACQUISITION: ESSENTIAL FOR TOMOR-

ROW’S DIGITAL SOCIETY AND LABOUR MARKET, AND THE ROLE OF

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE.»

Auditorium Following the opening key note on the importance of acquiring digi- tal skills, a debate will follow between various Belgian and European experts on what at least should be in everyone’s skills backpack to be able to participate digitally in society and actively participate in the labour market.

As artificial intelligence has also become indispensable nowadays, the experts will also elaborate on what this means for the skills of citizens on the one hand and how this can be used to provide better services in the context of, for instance, the non-take-up of (social) rights on the other.

The debate will be moderated by an expert, referring to key issues presented during the previous key note and taking questions from the audience.

KATARINA IVANKOVIĆ KNEŽEVIĆ

Director of Social Rights and Inclusion in the European Union’s Directo- rate-General for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion.

Her area of expertise is the modernisation of social security systems and wider social policies to promote social and labour market inclusion, through the implementation of the European pillar of social rights and other relevant EU social policies. Before joining the European Commis- sion, she was State Secretary at the Ministry of Labour and Pensions of the Republic of Croatia, where she was responsible for the management and implementation of the European Social Fund and other EU instru- ments. Over the past 20 years, she has worked on human rights and gender equality, social policy and employment.

CATHERINE BALS

Sustainability Department Lead at Proximus

Catherine is the driving force behind Proximus, ensuring that sustainabi- lity is at the heart of its way of working and integrating it into everything it does. She joined the DigitAll initiative because she is convinced that an ecosystem of connected parties pursuing a multiplier effect can achieve more to ensure the realisation of an inclusive digital society.

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TONY VANDERSTRAETE

Head of the Flemish digital strategy department at «Digitaal Vlaande- ren».

Together with his team, Tony guides Flemish entities and local administra- tions on how to refine business objectives and convert them into concrete digital transformation projects to ensure an executable Flemish digital strategy and facilitate knowledge exchange within the Digital Transforma- tion Centre of Expertise.

VIIVI KORPELA

Centre of Excellence in Research on Ageing and Care (Finland)

Viivi Korpela is a passionate advocate of digital inclusion and focuses on improving digital literacy among older people. Based in Finland, she focuses on digital citizenship and digital assistance, with the aim of brid- ging the gap between rapid digital transformation and practical every- day use.

LOUISE CULOT

Non proft organisation «Lire et Écrire» French speaking Community (Belgium)

Louise is research and analysis coordinator at Lire et Ecrire. To stren- gthen digital accessibility, Louise advocates financial penalties for non-compliance with existing legislation. When European directives are transposed, the concept of accessibility needs to be broadened and consultation with stakeholders in website accessibility needs to be or- ganised. It is important to preserve counters and telephone services as well as mail and paper forms, which is why it advocates a combination of digital interfaces designed to be inclusive and counters accessible to all.

NATHANAEL ACKERMAN OR ISAURE DEVILLENFAGNE (TO BE CONFIR- MED)

Federal Ministry BOSA (Belgium)

The federal government wants to take full advantage of the opportuni- ties offered by AI, and has therefore drawn up a national convergence plan for the development of artificial intelligence. The Ethics & Law wor- king group of AI4Belgium (SPF BOSA and its partners) has launched an initiative «Consultation of civil servants on the proposal for a charter for the responsible use of artificial intelligence in the public sector».

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10:50-11:20 COFFEE BREAK AND POSSIBILITY TO ATTEND PROJECT PITCHES

During the break, you will have the opportunity to stretch your legs and enjoy a coffee. All participants

can also attend several pitches where Belgian projects introduce themselves during the coffee break.

During these 15-minute project pitches, they will reflect on the challenges they faced and how they

overcame them. A great time to talk to and network with people from the field. The pitches will take

place in ROOM 1, ROOM 2 and ROOM 3 next to the Riverside where coffee will be served. (Please note:

there will be no simultaneous interpretation during the project pitches).

PROJECT 7 123 DIGIT

Speaker(s): (to be confir- med)

With this project, the organisation wants to expand the commu- nity of digital assistants in Belgium to help disadvantaged groups and young people to become digitally independent and meet the social challenges of digitisation in Belgium. A new version of 123digit.be will be the cornerstone of their project. The project has three dimensions:1 Awareness-raising and tools for carers. Bringing digital inclusion closer to those who struggle the most, as they are the organisations best placed to provide help. 2 Change management for facility managers. Individual and collec- tive support for social referrers, association networks and public bodies to equip them with coherent digital inclusion policies.3 Raising awareness and providing tools for learners with an initial level of digital autonomy.

WeTechCare

Language: English French

PROJECT 8 SOCIOCONNECT

Speaker(s): (to be confir- med)

«SocioConnect» is a 2-year project which aims to improve the digital skills of social workers in Wallonia in order to facilitate the digital inclusion of their beneficiaries. In collaboration with 6 pilot organisations in the social sector, needs will be identified and new tailor-made training solutions will be developed, with a particular focus on developing problem-solving skills (DigComp 5 skills area). Taking into account existing resources, training will focus on the digital skills of workers in 2024 and on the needs of beneficiaries in 2025. The training courses will be tested and evaluated with partner organisations, then opened up to all social workers, while the programme will be subject to ongoing evalua- tion. Between 350 and 500 people will be supported and trained over 2 years, contributing to the digital inclusion of vulnerable groups supported by the trainees.

Interface- 3Namur

Language: French

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PROJECT 9 THE DIGITAL MOBILE BRIGADE

Speaker(s): (to be confir- med)

The project involves deploying a «mobile digital brigade» on two levels. Firstly, for individual digital support at home and se- condly, for regular stand-by sessions in key locations (Samusocial centres, DoucheFlux, PCSW) where people with specific needs gather. The aim is to provide beneficiaries with individual support and advice on their day-to-day problems in order to help them become more independent, and to act as a link between them and more advanced local training structures. This brigade will be made up of students, who will be trained and supervised by the organization. Particular attention will be paid to their profile (strong social skills, fluency in several languages).

Bibliothèques sans Frontières

Language: English French

11:20-12:00 BREAK OUT SESSION 4: «PROVIDING SPECIFIC ASSISTANCE TO HELP

SEEKERS AND HELP GIVERS ALIKE. »

During this breakout session you will have a choice between 3 presentations, debates, panel

discussions, … from either a Belgian or an European organisation. Since some of the rooms have a

limited seating, participants need to choose which session they will attend beforehand. The brea-

kout sessions will take place in Auditorium, the Studio and the Aquarium.

OPTION 1 CONNECTOO: E-LEARNING TO RECONNECT DIGITAL GOVERNMENT WITH CITIZENS

Speaker(s): Lucie Barthlen

Since 2022, connectoo e-learning has been training public ser- vants to take better account of citizens on the digital fringe. More than a thousand employees from dozens of different public orga- nisations have already been certified. This workshop will look at the main challenges involved in setting up connectoo, as well as the results and lessons learnt after 2 years of operation.

Federal Ministry BOSA

Language: English

Auditorium

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OPTION 2 INCLUSIVE DIGITALIZATION IN AGING EUROPE: SHARING GOOD PRACTICES (FINLAND)

Speaker(s): Viivi Korpela, Laura Pajula

Join us for an engaging fireside chat where we tackle the pres- sing issue of digitalization in an aging Europe. As we navigate the complex digital landscape, it is crucial to understand that digital inclusion should not rest solely on citizens. In this workshop, we will delve into how the responsibility of acquiring and sustaining digital skills extends beyond the individual, emphasizing the need for society-wide support and user-friendly digital services.

Centre of Excellence in Research on Ageing and Care

Language: English

Studio

OPTION 3 USE OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY IN LITERACY PROCESSES Speaker(s): Sébastien Van Neck, Maude Bertrand

Understanding digital inclusion, its characteristics and the is- sues involved, is not always easy. Yet today we are witnessing a process that is increasingly excluding a number of individuals from society. The reason for this? The compulsory nature that digital technology is gradually taking on in administrative proce- dures. This workshop is intended to be interactive and to share European experiences, starting from the perspective of illiterate people: what is digital inclusion? What is at stake? What is the role of each of the players and what synergies can be put in place?

Non profit or- ganisation «Lire & Ecrire Wallo- nie»

Language: French

Aquarium

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12:00-13:00 LUNCH AND POSSIBILITY TO ATTEND PROJECT PITCHES

During the lunch break, you will have the opportunity to stretch your legs and enjoy a lunch. All parti-

cipants can also listen in to several Belgian projects introducing themselves during the break. During

the 15-minute project pitches, they will reflect on the challenges they faced and how they tackled

them. A great time to talk to and network with people from the field. The pitches will take place in

ROOM 1, ROOM 2 and ROOM 3 next to the Riverside where the lunch will be served. (Please note:

there will be no simultaneous interpretation during the project pitches).

PROJECT 10 LAB-N-PLAY

Speaker(s): (to be confir- med)

The project aims to bridge the digital divide for vulnerable groups such as isolated young people, women and people from disad- vantaged and rural areas. LabNPlay, integrated into the partner organisations, is the cornerstone of their approach, offering activities to develop digital skills and spark interest in technology. Participants have the opportunity to become facilitators themsel- ves. The labs encourage creativity and collaboration and strive to empower participants. The aim is to make digital technology accessible and to turn it into a tool for personal development and social inclusion.

CodeNPlay

Language: English French

PROJECT 11 CYBERROGIER AND TRAINING SCHEMES

Speaker(s): (to be confir- med)

The project of the Public Centre for Social Welfare of Schaerbeek consists of the development of a Public Computer Room that of- fers a free accessible reception with a programme of training and workshops aimed at the digital autonomy of PCSW clients. It also includes raising the awareness of front-line PCSW staff about the problems caused by digital exclusion and updating their digital skills through a training programme. Finally, the project aims to improve the digital accessibility of PCSW services.

PCSW of Schaerbeek

Language: French

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PROJECT 12 DIGISCAN

Speaker(s): (to be confir- med)

The Charleroi Public Centre for Social Welfare project consists in the opening of 9 spaces in the territory where individual and collective activities will be offered aimed at using digital tools and preserving fundamental rights through the use of online services. The project also consists of raising awareness and training social workers to generalise new practices of social support.

PCSW of Charleroi

Language: Français

13:00-13:45 BREAK OUT SESSION 5: «DEVELOPING HUMAN CENTRED SERVICES »

During this breakout session you will have a choice between 3 presentations, debates, panel

discussions, … from either a Belgian or an European organisation. Since some of the rooms have a

limited seating, participants need to choose which session they will attend beforehand. The brea-

kout sessions will take place in Auditorium, the Studio and the Aquarium.

OPTION 1 BRUCE: BRUSSELS EMBRACES YOU!

Speaker(s): Katlijn Perneel, Raf Louis, Joke Doise

During this presentation, we will introduce the City of Brussels’ digital ecosystem, BRUCE (BRUssels embraCEs you!), an inte- grated city platform aimed at managing products and services for all Brussels residents (residents, businesses, visitors and com- muters) in a privacy-compliant way and interacting with them through an ‘omnichannel’ approach.

City of Brussels

Language: English

Auditorium

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OPTION 2 SKILIFY : AN INCLUSIVE SKILLS MATCHING PLATFORM FOR DIGITALLY EXCLUDED INDIVIDUALS

Speaker(s): Varga Lisa, Stil- ler Juliane

DigiCo will present its digital skills assessment platform Skillify. The platform supports skills identification, training matching, and jobs matching, with a specific focus on vulnerable groups.

The platform is suitable for individuals with varying levels of digi- tal skills We will dive into what aspects of inclusion and accessi- bility were considered in the design of the platform.

They will present their rationale, methodology, outcomes, as well as a successful case study in Germany, for which refugees and migrants used the platform. The first part will be a presentation, followed by a demonstration, and a discussion at the end.

to be confirmed

Language: English

Studio

OPTION 3 DIGITAL, IT WORKS !

Speaker(s): Maria Euwema

With “Digital, it Works!” (Digitaal Werkt), the City of Ghent is fo- cusing on digital skills for job coaches and social workers in the context of guidance towards the labour market. The more they put on digital glasses, the better they are able to empower people digitally and create digital practice opportunities in gui- dance. In this workshop, you will learn more about how the project supports and challenges them, and what else the City of Ghent is doing to work towards digitally inclusive workplaces.

City of Ghent

Language: English

Aquarium

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14:00-14:45 BREAK OUT SESSION 6: «USE OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES (INCLUDING AI)

FOR IMPROVING SOCIAL POLICIES’ DELIVERY AND DESIGN.»

During this breakout session you will have a choice between 3 presentations, debates, panel

discussions, … from either a Belgian or an European organisation. Since some of the rooms have a

limited seating, participants need to choose which session they will attend beforehand. The brea-

kout sessions will take place in Auditorium, the Studio and the Aquarium.

OPTION 1 ESTONIAN CONCEPY OF THE PERSONAL STATE AND BÜROKRATT

Speaker(s): Allar Laaneleht, Veiko Aunapuu

Presentation of the Estonian concept of the Personal State and Bürokratt. How over 2,500 different digital services are being made easily accessible to Estonian citizens and residents thanks to the interoperable chatbot, voice assistant and much more.

Ministry of Eco- nomic Affairs and Communi- cations of the Republic of Estonia

Language: English

Auditorium

OPTION 2 AUTOMATIC ADVICE FOR A PROACTIVE AND INCLUSIVE SERVICE Speaker(s): Bart Gijsbers Laurence De- backere

Automatic Advice allows government agencies to advise which individuals within a target group are entitled to a particular benefit based on authentic data. This allows the authorities to reduce the administrative burden for both the government and citizens and to adopt inclusive policies as citizens are automatically awarded the benefit to which they are entitled.

Flemish Go- vernment

Language: English

Studio

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OPTION 3 AN EXPLORATION OF SLOVENIA’S DIGITAL INCLUSION STRATEGY

Speakers(s): (to be confir- med)

This session is currently being devised by the organisers. Further information will follow as soon as possible.

to be confirmed

Language: English

Aquarium

15:00-15:20 ROUND UP CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE

NEW EUROPEAN AGENDA 2024-2029

Auditorium Karine Lalieux Belgian Federal Minister for Pensions and Social Inte- gration, responsible for people with disabilities, poverty reduction and Beliris, will look back on the two days of conference and highlight the recommendations that will be formulated by the Belgian Presidency on the topic of digital inclusion of vulnerable groups.

These recommendations will be put forward during the High-Level Conference on European Pillar of Social Rights at La Hulpe on 15th and 16th of April 2024. The aim of the conference is to reflect with key European stakeholders on the future social agenda of the European Union. Together, we aim to identify what are the remaining challenges in the domains of employment and social affairs and identify policy priorities for a next EU-legislature. The European Pillar of Social Right will be the central framework for this reflection.

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A WORD ABOUT THE CONFERENCE

This conference is organised thanks to funds obtained by the Belgian Federal Govern- ment through the EUROPEAN Recovery and Resilience Facility for the Implementation of the project I-4.08 «e-inclusion for Belgium» which promotes the digital inclusion of vulnerable groups in society. More information on this project can be obtained from

[email protected]

Topic: European conference on building inclusive solutions for better digital services and empowering vulnerable groups, 13-14 March 2024 Dear Minister Riisalo, I am pleased to invite you, in your capacity as Minister of Economic Affairs and Information Technology, to a European conference devoted to building inclusive pathways for better digital services within public and private organisations, and strengthening the (basic) skills of our European citizens. The objective of this conference is to underline the need to achieve digital inclusion for all citizens in order to reduce social and economic inequalities in our society and to ensure that no-one is excluded from the benefits of a digital society. The event will link several European objectives together. First of all, the event focusses on priorities to reduce the number of people living in poverty in the European Union by 2030 as is intended by the objectives of the European Pillar of Social Rights.. It links these priorities to the European Digital Decade, which aims to ensure that at least 80% of adults have basic digital skills and that all key public services are available online by 2030. These two objectives complement each other. Lastly, the European Declaration on Digital Rights and Principles is a common thread running through this conference, as everyone should have access to technology, which needs to be inclusive in order to promote the rights of all citizens. This conference will be an opportunity to share your views on policy priorities for the next European Commission (2024-2029) and the actions to be taken at European level to support Member States in their efforts to achieve digital inclusion and strengthen digital skills. I would therefore like to invite you to take part in this event and in particular in the opening debate of the conference. Following the introductory presentation on the challenges of digital inclusion for vulnerable groups in a digital society 2030-2040, there will be a debate between Belgian regional and national ministers and a number of European ministers, all responsible (in part) for policies relating to digital inclusion and skills. In this debate, it would be interesting if you could share your views on the topics that are highlighted during the opening key note.

The debate will be moderated by an expert, who will refer to the key issues presented in the previous key note presentation and take questions from the floor. At the end of the debate, everyone will be invited to make a recommendation for the next European agenda. Given your ministerial expertise, I have no doubt that you will be able to contribute important elements to the discussion. It is therefore with great pleasure that I invite you to participate. The conference will take place on Wednesday 13 March and Thursday 14 March 2024 from 9.00 am to 4.30 pm at The Egg, 175 Rue Bara, 1070 Brussels (Anderlecht). Further information will be sent at a later date. The conference will be followed by a cocktail reception, to be held on Wednesday 13 March 2024 at 6.30pm at Brussels City Hall. I would be grateful if you could confirm your attendance at the conference, the debate and the cocktail reception. To this end, I would ask you to appoint an accreditation officer who will be responsible for accrediting each person attending the conference on behalf of your Member State. Please send the name, mobile phone number and e-mail address of the person responsible for accreditation to [email protected] before 23:59 on Thursday 9 February 2024. The accreditation officer will receive a link and access code to the online accreditation platform. Please register as soon as possible via the accreditation platform, which will be open until Sunday 3 March 2024 at 23:59. Please find attached the draft programme. Further information will be provided at a later date via the Presidency's portal for informal events (PPI). I look forward to welcoming you to Brussels. Yours sincerely

The Minister for Pensions and Social Integration, in charge of Persons with Disabilities, Combating Poverty and Beliris

KARINE LALIEUX

Investing in an inclusive and fair future for Europe :

Building inclusive pathways for better digital services

Expert meeting with decision makers from all governmental levels (Meeting code: BE_EU2024_069)

13 – 14 March 2024

Brussels, Belgium

4 January 2024

Practical Information

Note

Practical information note Page 2 of 21

Contents

Checklist and deadlines ............................................................................................................................. 4

1. General information .................................................................................................................................... 5

2. Attendance at the conference, accreditation process and access .................................... 5

Attendance at the conference ................................................................................................................................................... 5

Accreditation ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 5

Specific information for Ministerial delegations, the EU Commission and the EU Parliament only ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 6

Specific information for speaker(s) or panellist(s) ..................................................................................................... 6

Access to The Egg................................................................................................................................................................................. 7

3. Programme ...................................................................................................................................................... 8

Brief programme overview for Wednesday 13th March 2024 (Day programme) ....................... 8

Brief programme overview for Wednesday 13th March 2024 (Evening programme) ............ 8

Brief programme overview for Thursday 14th March 2024 ............................................................................... 8

4. Transportation ................................................................................................................................................ 9

Public transportation to and from the centre of Brussels ................................................................................ 9

Specific information for delegations .................................................................................................................................... 9

Specific information for speaker(s) and panellist(s) from outside of Belgium .............................. 11

5. Accommodation ......................................................................................................................................... 11

Specific information for Member States delegations .......................................................................................... 11

Specific information for speaker(s) and panellist(s) from outside of Belgium .............................. 11

6. Security ........................................................................................................................................................... 12

Specific information for Member States delegations ..........................................................................................12

7. Meeting venues and access .................................................................................................................. 12

13/03/24: The Egg ...............................................................................................................................................................................12

13/03/24: City of Brussels town hall .................................................................................................................................. 13

14/03/24: The Egg .............................................................................................................................................................................. 13

Public health measures at The Egg ................................................................................................................................... 14

8. Interpretation................................................................................................................................................ 14

Delegations ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 14

9. The Presidency Portal for Informal Events .................................................................................... 14

10. Website/ Social media ....................................................................................................................... 14

11. Media Centre ................................................................................................................................................... 15

12. Photographs and video footage ........................................................................................................... 15

Practical information note Page 3 of 21

Annex 1. Points of Contact / Useful contacts ...................................................................................... 16

Annex 2. Accreditation guide for Head of Delegations and delegations ................................ 17

Step 1 - Identification of the accreditation officer ................................................................................................... 17

Step 2 - Access to the platform .............................................................................................................................................. 17

Step 3 - Accreditation of the delegation ........................................................................................................................ 17

Annex 3. Accreditation guide for speaker(s) or panellist(s) ........................................................... 19

Step 1 - Identification ........................................................................................................................................................................ 19

Step 2 - Access to the platform .............................................................................................................................................. 19

Step 3 - Accreditation of the delegation ........................................................................................................................ 19

Annex 4. Accreditation guide for all other participants .................................................................... 21

Step 1 - Identification .........................................................................................................................................................................21

Practical information note Page 4 of 21

Checklist and deadlines

Date What to do How

From January 1st to March 3rd

Appoint your Delegation Accreditation Officer (DAO)

Please send name, cell phone number and e- mail address of your DAO to: [email protected] Please mention the event code BE_EU2024_069

January 22nd Opening of the accreditation platform

Online accreditation platform (the link will be sent to the DAO)

January 22nd Opening of the accreditation platform

Online accreditation platform for individual participants via https://delegates.belgium24.eu/secured/login.

The access code for digital inclusion (13/3 and 14/3) is :

BE_EU2024_069.uviwiP3+N8ch

From January 15th to March 7th

Register your delegation and fill in all required information (personal details, travel dates and hotel)

Via the online accreditation platform

Contact: [email protected] and/or [email protected] Send us your questions

Practical information note Page 5 of 21

1. General information

The Belgian Presidency of the Council of the European Union has the pleasure to welcome you to Brussels for the conference on Digital Inclusion : “Building inclusive pathways for better digital services” and is honoured to convey the following practical information. The meeting will take place at The Egg, Rue Bara 175, 1070 Brussels (Anderlecht).

This Practical Information Note (PIN) contains protocol, logistical and technical information to help you prepare for the meeting. It also includes a list of the information that we kindly ask you to send us before 3rd of March 2024. Any changes to this information will be communicated in due time by the Presidency.

Prior to the event you will further receive access to the Presidency Portal for Informal Events (PPI) where you will find all relevant information for the meeting such as a full programme, a who is who, …

2. Attendance at the conference, accreditation process and access

Attendance at the conference

Attendance at the conference is free but possible only through the registration website and after accreditation of participants by the organisers. within the registration period for the specific meeting or conference.

To access the accreditation platform, you must create an account with your first name, surname and email address, which will be used as your username. You will then receive an account activation email from the accreditation system. Accreditation will halt on the 7th of March (23:59).

You can access the platform via https://delegates.belgium24.eu/secured/login

The access code for the digital inclusion event is :

BE_EU2024_069.uviwiP3+N8ch

Accreditation

Once you have registered and activated your user account, you will be able to log in to the accreditation platform at any time, allowing you to

• Register for the different sessions or workgroups you wish to attend. • Check the status of your applications. • Complete or modify your personal details or those of your organisation.

Accreditation of participants by the organisers is done on the basis on the information that has been provided by the participants through the registration website. Information that is required in order to be able to participate is:

• First Name and Surname (as mentioned on your national ID card).

Practical information note Page 6 of 21

• Email address (through which we can contact you). • Organisation (your employer, advocacy group, …). • A recent photo (One passport-size colour photograph for your accreditation card).

The information mentioned above will be printed on your badge. Without this information we cannot finalize the accreditation process. All participants will receive a confirmation e- mail after the accreditation process has been completed.

Specific information for Ministerial delegations, the EU Commission and the EU Parliament only

Delegations are kindly asked to appoint a Delegation Accreditation Officer (DAO) who will be responsible for the accreditation of every member of their delegation. Please communicate the name, cell phone number and e-mail address of the DAO to [email protected] before Sunday 3rd of March 23:59. Please mention the event code BE_EU2024_069.

The DAO will receive a link and an access code to the accreditation platform to register the members of their delegation.

We kindly ask you to register at your earliest convenience via the accreditation platform. The online accreditation platform will be open until Thursday 7th of March at 23:59.

In case of any difficulties or questions regarding the accreditation, please contact our help centre via [email protected] or +32 2 423 26 24 and/or [email protected]. Please mention the event code BE_EU2024_069.

If you think you are part of a delegation, but don’t know if a Delegation Accreditation Officer has been assigned, please contact [email protected]. Please mention the event code BE_EU2024_069. If no delegation has been created, then you will have to register individually.

Size of the delegation

Delegations of EU Member States Ministers, the European Commissioner and the European Parliament can enrol the Head of delegation plus a maximum of 1 delegate. Requests for a higher number or delegates need to be addressed to [email protected].

For delegations of EU Member States Minsters, one national security officer and one private interpreter accompanying the delegation can be added upon request. Requests need to be addressed to [email protected] before Sunday 3rd March at 23:59. Please mention the event code BE_EU2024_069.

Please note that only accredited delegates will have access to the main venue and other official programme venues.

Specific information for speaker(s) or panellist(s)

Speaker(s) and panellist(s) are kindly asked to send in their information sheet before Sunday 3rd March at 23:59 to [email protected] Please mention the event code BE_EU2024_069.

Practical information note Page 7 of 21

The speaker or panellist will receive a link and an access code to the accreditation platform to register. We kindly ask you to register at your earliest convenience via the accreditation platform. The online accreditation platform will be open until Thursday 7th of March at 23:59.

In case of any difficulties or questions regarding the accreditation, please contact our help centre via [email protected] or +32 2 423 26 24 and/or [email protected]. Please mention the event code BE_EU2024_069

Access to The Egg

Pins The highest level of accreditation, for Heads of Delegation (HoD), grants access to all areas.

Badges Speakers, panellists and all other participants with receive personalized identification cards according to their position and function.

Badges, or access pins in case of HoD, will be distributed when entering the event location (The Egg, Rue Bara 175, 1070 Brussels (Anderlecht).) on Wednesday 13th of March at the start of the conference day (8AM).

Participants who only participate on the 14th of March will be able to receive their badges, or access pins as well at the start of the conference day (8AM) when entering the event location (The Egg, Rue Bara 175, 1070 Brussels (Anderlecht).).

If you lose your badge, please report it immediately to your point of contact (see Annex 1 below) or go to the accreditation desk. The validity of the badge will be immediately terminated, while the organizer will create a new badge upon your request.

Within The Egg, an accreditation desk will be set up at the entrance for delegations (175 Rue Bara, 1070 Brussels (Anderlecht) in case a new badge needs to be issued.

Badges and or pins need to be worn at all time during the event.

All personal information provided during accreditation will be processed only in accordance with EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) obligations. More information about the privacy policy during the Belgian Presidency of the Council of the European Union is available via www.belgium24.eu.

Practical information note Page 8 of 21

3. Programme

The final programme and documents will be shared as soon as possible via the Presidency Platform for Informal Events (PPI). Once accredited, you will receive a code to access the documents on the platform.

Brief programme overview for Wednesday 13th March 2024 (Day programme)

Time What 8:00 – 9:00 Arrival of participants and collection of badges

Welcome coffee 9:00 – 9:45 Welcome by the Host of the Event and opening Speech by the Minister(s) 9:45 – 10:30 Opening Keynote Speech 10:30 – 11:30 Opening political debate

11:30-12:15 Coffee Break and project pitches 1 Press conference

12:15 – 13:00 Breakout session 1 : “Providing assistance to people in need” 13:00 – 14:00 Lunch and project pitches 2 14:00 – 15:00 Debate 15:15-16:00 Breakout session 2 : “National and local Strategies on digital inclusion” 16:00 – 16:45 Breakout session 3 : “Providing inclusive digital services” 17:00 End of Day 1

Brief programme overview for Wednesday 13th March 2024 (Evening programme)

Heads of Delegation (HoD), speakers and panellists and a number of delegates are invited to join the Minister for a private reception at the City Hall of Brussels van 18:30 ‘till 21:00. Participation is invitation only. (Check for more information on the accreditation platform or via [email protected]).

Brief programme overview for Thursday 14th March 2024

Time What 8:00 – 9:00 Arrival of participants and collection of badges

Welcome coffee 9:00 – 9:05 Welcome by the Host of the Event and opening Speech by the Minister(s) 9:05 - 9:50 Opening Keynote Speech 9:50 - 10:50 Debate 10:50 - 11:20 Coffee Break and project pitches 3

11:20 - 12:00 Breakout session 4: “Providing specific assistance to help seekers and help givers alike”

12:00 - 13:00 Lunch and project pitches 4 13:00 - 13:45 Breakout session 5 : 14:00 - 14:45 Breakout session 6 : 15:00-15:30 Round up conclusions and recommendations 15:30 End of conference

If you are late or something unexpected happens, inform your point of contact as soon as possible.

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4. Transportation

Public transportation to and from the centre of Brussels

By Plane

From Brussels Airport there is a fast, direct connection to the main Brussels railway stations: Brussels North, Brussels Central and Brussels South. (The event venue is located at a 10 minute walk from the Brussels South Station).

There is a direct train every 15 minutes in both directions to and from Brussels Airport. You arrive in the centre of Brussels in just 17 minutes. The second class ticket price for travel between the airport and the Brussels Zone is €10,60 per trip and €21,20 for a return trip.

From elsewhere in Belgium you can download following applications to check schedules and book tickets:

• Train: https://www.belgiantrain.be/en • Bus: MIVB Airport Line | Brussels Airport

The links above are also useful if you are travelling from elsewhere in Belgium.

The Brussels South Airport (Charleroi), is situated 55km south of Brussels and is served by most low-cost airlines. There are several ways to get to Brussels and back.

Shuttle bus services such as Flibco connect the airport with the capital every 30 minutes. The journey takes one hour and the bus stops at the Brussels South Railway station.

A combined bus and train journey from the airport to the Brussels South Railway Station is another possibility. From the station, take the bus (Line A) to Charleroi Train Station and from there take a train to Brussels South Railway Station. The bus connects the airport and the station every 30 minutes.

By Train

Brussels South Railway Station (Bruxelles-Midi) serves as the International Railway station for the capital and has direct links with the Eurostar trains to and from London, Paris, Lille, Amsterdam and Köln or with the ICE trains to and from Köln, Frankfurt, Berlin and more.

For more information on these trains, please check following websites:

• Eurostar trains : https://www.eurostar.com/ • ICE Trains : https://www.bahn.com/

Specific information for delegations

Regarding transportation, the Belgian Presidency will apply the same practice as for the formal Council meetings taking place in Brussels. As such, for the arrival and transportation of delegations on Belgian soil, the Presidency will resort to the existing fleet of the diplomatic missions and European institutions in Brussels1. All diplomatic missions in Brussels have been briefed by the Presidency. This decision favours a sustainable approach

1 Exceptionally, escorted motorcades will be provided, depending on the threat analysis of the Belgian National Crisis Center. Delegations will be informed upfront.

Practical information note Page 10 of 21

and limits the mobilization of a superfluous fleet of vehicles. See “Meeting venue and access” regarding your arrival at the meeting.

For any query regarding transport, we invite you to call +32 2 423 26 24 or send an e-mail to [email protected]. Please always mention the meeting code BE_EU2024_069.

Arrival and departure All delegations are kindly asked to provide their arrival and departure details on the accreditation platform as soon as possible.

The following information is essential; nevertheless, detailed instructions are provided on the accreditation platform during the registration process:

• for delegations arriving by car: date and time of arrival in Brussels • for delegations arriving by plane in Belgium:

o commercial flight – flight number and airline, date and time of arrival and airport; or

o special flight - airline and aircraft registration number; date and time of arrival and airport (Abelag / ExecuJet, Aviapartner, Melsbroek)

• for delegations arriving by train: date and time of arrival in Brussels and railway station.

Check-in for both the inbound and outbound journey must be carried out by the delegation itself or someone appointed by the delegation, in accordance with the time frame indicated by the airline/railway company.

Important: In addition to enrolment in the Presidency accreditation platform (see “Accreditation”), it is important to inform the Belgian authorities of any high-level visit through the usual channels. This procedure is well known to the embassies and representations based in Brussels, and has been recently reiterated by the Presidency. An official visit needs to be announced via a Verbal Note to [email protected].

Beyond the arrival and departure details (place, date, time, flight/train number, place and address of the stay), please contact your representation regarding the following information:

• Composition of the delegation • Weapon permit request (if applicable) • Radio frequency request (if applicable) • Overflight authorization (if needed) • Use of VIP lounge at Brussels National Airport, to be requested by the representation

(if needed)

As standard practice during working visits to Belgium, please note that Protocol Foreign Affairs will not be present upon arrival or departure.

All the information on visits (procedures, forms, …) can be found on the following website : Protocol guide Visits and Airport Access | FPS Foreign Affairs - Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation (belgium.be).

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Specific information for speaker(s) and panellist(s) from outside of Belgium

See “Meeting venue and access” regarding your arrival at the meeting.

Arrival and departure All speakers and panellists are kindly asked to provide their arrival and departure details on the accreditation platform as soon as possible.

The following information is essential; nevertheless, detailed instructions are provided on the accreditation platform during the registration process:

• for speakers and panellists arriving by car: date and time of arrival in Brussels • for speakers and panellists arriving by plane in Belgium:

o commercial flight – flight number and airline, date and time of arrival and airport; or

o special flight - airline and aircraft registration number; date and time of arrival and airport (Abelag / ExecuJet, Aviapartner, Melsbroek)

• for speakers and panellists arriving by train: date and time of arrival in Brussels and railway station.

Check-in for both the inbound and outbound journey must be carried out by the speaker or panellist itself or someone appointed by them, in accordance with the time frame indicated by the airline/railway company.

5. Accommodation

Specific information for Member States delegations

Rooms will be pre-reserved by the Presidency for each Head of delegation and 1 person (1+1) for one night (from Tuesday 12 March to Wednesday 13 March 2024), or two nights (from Tuesday 12 March to Thursday 14 March 2024). Delegations need to confirm the dates on the accreditation platform.

To confirm their reservations, delegations must fill in the designated fields in the Presidency accreditation platform before Sunday 11th February 2024 (23:59). (Information regarding the hotel will be provided after this date).

Breakfast is included but any additional expenses (beverages, minibar, lunches, laundry service etc.) must be borne by the delegation.

Delegations are responsible for covering the cost of additional nights that extend beyond the official meeting (period mentioned above) as well as any extra hotel rooms.

Specific information for speaker(s) and panellist(s) from outside of Belgium

Rooms will be pre-reserved by the Presidency for each speakers or panellists approved by the organization for one night (from Tuesday 12 March to Wednesday 13 March 2024), or two nights (from Tuesday 12 March to Thursday 14 March 2024). Speakers or panellists need to confirm the dates on the accreditation platform.

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To confirm their reservations, speakers and panellists must fill in the designated fields in the Presidency accreditation platform before Sunday 11th February 2024 (23:59). (Information regarding the hotel will be provided after this date).

Breakfast is included but any additional expenses (beverages, minibar, lunches, laundry service etc.) must be borne by the speakers and panellists.

Speakers and panellists are responsible for covering the cost of additional nights that extend beyond the official meeting (period mentioned above) as well as any extra hotel rooms.

6. Security

For security reasons, pins and badges must be worn visibly at all times. Access to the meeting venue will be denied in the absence of a visibly worn badge (or pin).

If you lose your pin or badge, please contact your point of contact without any delay or go to the accreditation desk located at the entrance for delegations at The Egg (175 Rue Bara, 1070 Anderlecht).

All participants may be asked to undergo a formal security check (x-ray or other check) when entering the meeting venue.

Specific information for Member States delegations

Pins must be worn visibly and the badges will be scanned by Belgian security officers at the gate, before entering the venue.

All delegation members may be asked to undergo a formal security check (x-ray or other check) when entering the meeting venue. In case the HoD is accompanied by a national security officer, the latter must also be properly registered via the online accreditation platform. Only 1 national security officer will be allowed access to the meeting venue. Requests need to be sent upfront to [email protected]. Please always mention the meeting code: BE_EU2024_069.

Important: Weapon permit and/or Radio frequency (if applicable) must be requested by Verbal Note sent to [email protected] (see also “Transportation”).

7. Meeting venues and access

13/03/24: The Egg

The first day of the Digital Inclusion conference will be held at The Egg: 175 Rue Bara, 1070 Brussels (Anderlecht) (https://www.theeggbrussels.com/). The Egg will be entirely dedicated to the meeting.

The Conference will be chaired on behalf of Belgium by the Minister for Pensions and Social Integration, in charge of Persons with Disabilities, Combating Poverty and Beliris, Mrs Karine Lalieux.

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Arrival by car Delegations may be dropped off in front of the entrance of the event location. There are no parking spaces for participants within the organization perimeter. There are parking spaces around the meeting venue. Paid parking spaces are also available in the surrounding area.

Other means of transportation The venue is easily accessible by public transport or on foot.

Facilities at The Egg The Belgian Presidency will provide all necessary services, such as a cloakroom, internet connection, etc. The Wi-Fi password will be provided at the location.

Please note that the storage capacity is limited and we therefore ask to leave any luggage at the hotel and not to bring luggage into the meeting venue.

13/03/24: City of Brussels town hall

A cocktail reception for Heads of Delegation (HoD), speakers and panellists and a number of invitees will be held on the evening of Wednesday 13 March at the City of Brussels town hall located at the Grand-Place of Brussels. Entrance will only be possible via Rue de l'Amigo, 1000 Brussels.

Please note that this is an invitation only event. (Check for more information on the accreditation platform or via [email protected]).

Arrival by car Delegations may be dropped off in front of the entrance of the event location. There are no parking spaces for participants within the organization perimeter. There are parking spaces around the meeting venue. Paid parking spaces are also available in the surrounding area.

Other means of transportation The venue is easily accessible by public transport or on foot.

Facilities at The City of Brussels Town Hall The Belgian Presidency will provide all necessary services, such as a cloakroom. Please note that it is not allowed to bring luggage into the meeting venue.

14/03/24: The Egg

The second day of the Digital Inclusion conference will be held at The Egg: 175 Rue Bara, 1070 Brussels.(Anderlecht) (https://www.theeggbrussels.com/). The Egg will be entirely dedicated to the meeting.

Arrival by car Delegations may be dropped off in front of the entrance of the event location. There are no parking spaces for participants within the organization perimeter. There are parking spaces around the meeting venue. Paid parking spaces are also available in the surrounding area.

Other means of transportation The venue is easily accessible by public transport or on foot.

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Facilities at The Egg The Belgian Presidency will provide all necessary services, such as a cloakroom, internet connection, …. etc. The Wi-Fi password will be provided at the location.

Please note that the storage capacity is limited and we therefore ask to leave any luggage at the hotel and not to bring luggage into the meeting venue.

Public health measures at The Egg

The meeting will take place on site.

In case of worsening of the epidemiological situation, changes in preventive measures will be notified in advance. Current information on measures within the Kingdom of Belgium can be found on the following website: https://www.info-coronavirus.be/en/news/. We would be grateful if you could inform us of any medical condition requiring special vigilance at the time of accreditation.

Medical assistance will be available at the venue. We would be grateful if you could inform us of any medical condition requiring special

vigilance at the time of accreditation.

Smoking is prohibited in all indoor public spaces.

8. Interpretation

Simultaneous interpretation will be provided in 3/3 regime. The following languages will be available during the meeting: EN, FR, NL.

Please note that no interpretation will be provided during the coffee break, press meeting , the lunch, the breaks between sessions or the project pitches for which the main language will be English or otherwise indicated.

Delegations

Please kindly indicate in the Accreditation platform if your Head of delegation will be accompanied by a personal interpreter.

9. The Presidency Portal for Informal Events

The Presidency Portal for Informal Events (PPI) is a platform that contains all necessary documents related to the meeting, such as the agenda, and other information, practical arrangements, and logistics. In line with our sustainability goals, no hard-copy versions of the documents will be distributed.

10. Website/ Social media

Belgian EU Presidency: The Belgian EU Presidency website contains information on all topics regarding the Belgian Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

Practical information note Page 15 of 21

Website www.belgium24.eu

WhatsApp https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaFqS8T4yltFsR0mvU2m

X https://www.x.com/EU2024BE

Threads https://www.threads.net/EU2024BE

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/EU2024BE

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/EU2024BE

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/eu2024be/

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@EU2024BE

Flickr https://www.flickr.com/photos/EU2024BE/albums

Hashtag #EU2024BE

11. Media Centre

Media representatives are welcome to attend various events during the Belgian Presidency.

All media representatives need to obtain both a Verified Badge and register on the accreditation platform for each event they want to attend. This accreditation allows them to get access to the Media Center and cover events open to the media. At The Egg the press entrance will be via the Main entrance of the event hall).

175 Rue Bara, 1070 Brussels (Anderlecht) (https://www.theeggbrussels.com/).

The Belgian Presidency provides a specific platform for the accreditation of media representatives who wish to participate in the informal councils. The link to the platform is available under the 'media' section of the Presidency's website or via the following direct link (https://media.belgium24.eu). For security reasons, media representatives must create their profile on the accreditation platform three weeks prior to the event. Once their profile is verified they will be granted a Verified Badge which will enable them to indicate for each event whether he/she will be present. The registration for each meeting individually closes 24hours prior to the event.

The email address for all media questions is: [email protected].

12. Photographs and video footage

Photographs and video footage from events organized by the Belgian Presidency will be available on its official channels and the channels of the EU institutions.

Participants will have access to the photos a few days after the event.

Videos will be available on the official YouTube channel.

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Annex 1. Points of Contact / Useful contacts

General email address of contact for all information: [email protected] (please indicate the event code BE_EU2024_069 in the subject of the email)

Lora Hasenbroekx (+32 472 40 25 07), event manager

Céline Caytan (+32 4 9625 97 10), for information on security and logistics aspects

Jan De Coninck (+32 475 824 160), for information on the programme’s content

112 : European emergency number for fire brigade or ambulance

101 : Urgent police assistance

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Annex 2. Accreditation guide for Head of Delegations and delegations

Step 1 - Identification of the accreditation officer

Each delegation must inform the organizer of the identity of its delegation accreditation officer (DAO). The details of the person in charge of accreditation of the delegation (surname, first name, mobile phone number and email address) must be sent to [email protected] before 3rd March 2024 at 23:59, indicating “BE_EU2024_069” in the subject of the email.

Once the information mentioned above has been transmitted, the person responsible for accrediting the delegation will receive an email with the web address and connection details for registering the members of their delegation.

Step 2 - Access to the platform

When you access the platform, you must first confirm the personal information you have entered. Please note that this is a preliminary step that does not count as an accreditation.

Once the personal information has been confirmed, you will be taken to a page where you can enter the personal details of your Head of Delegation and the delegates.

Step 3 - Accreditation of the delegation

In order to accredit your delegation, it is imperative to fill in the different tabs (Profile - Transport – Hotel - Programme) for each member of the delegation.

 The Profile tab - You are asked to provide :

• Full name, position, date of birth, nationality of the delegates. • A photo in official format. • Number, type and expiration date of their identity document.

Similarly, we would be grateful if you could provide us with any information that you feel the Presidency needs to know regarding food preferences, health concerns and special needs. If you feel that no particular information needs to be shared with the Presidency in these two sections, please fill in the section by a comment to that effect.

 The Transport tab (for Member States delegations) - The Presidency will rely on your diplomatic mission in Belgium to welcome your Head of Delegation and the members of their delegation upon their arrival and until their departure. We would be grateful however to obtain information on the arrival and departure of your delegation in the “Transport” tab.

 The Hotel tab (for Member States delegations) - Please select the “hotel” option, to confirm that your Head of Delegation/the delegate will be staying in one of the pre- booked rooms for either 1 night (12th March to 13th March 2024) or 2 nights (12th to 14th March 2024). This confirmation is essential to guarantee the rooms.

Additional costs (drinks, mini bar, lunches, dinners, etc.) will be borne by the delegation.

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Similarly, the accommodation of the other members of the delegation and their additional costs will be borne by the delegation.

 The Programme tab - Please confirm your attendance to the ministerial meeting for one or two days, and to the cocktail reception at the end of the first day by registering for the respective programmes in this tab.

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Annex 3. Accreditation guide for speaker(s) or panellist(s)

Step 1 - Identification

Each speaker or panellist must fill in their information sheet and send it to [email protected] before 3rd March 2024 at 23:59, indicating “BE_EU2024_069” in the subject of the email.

Once the information mentioned above has been transmitted, the speaker(s) or panellist(s) will receive an email with the web address and connection details for registering.

Step 2 - Access to the platform

When you access the platform, you must first confirm the personal information you have entered. Please note that this is a preliminary step that does not count as an accreditation.

Step 3 - Accreditation of the delegation

In order to accredit your delegation, it is imperative to fill in the different tabs: Profile - Programme).

 The Profile tab - You are asked to provide :

• Full name, position, date of birth, nationality of the delegates. • A photo in official format. • Number, type and expiration date of their identity document.

Similarly, we would be grateful if you could provide us with any information that you feel the Presidency needs to know regarding food preferences, health concerns and special needs. If you feel that no particular information needs to be shared with the Presidency in these two sections, please fill in the section by a comment to that effect.

 The Programme tab - Please confirm your attendance to the ministerial meeting for one or two days, and to the cocktail reception at the end of the first day by registering for the respective programmes in this tab.

For speaker(s) and panellist(s) from outside of Belgium Speaker(s) or panellist(s) who are invited by the organisation to take an active part in the conference will be provided accommodations for a maximum of the duration of the conference. Therefore it is imperative to fill in the following tabs:

 The Transport tab - The organisation will rely on you to organize your transport to and from Belgium. We would be grateful however to obtain information on your arrival and departure in the “Transport” tab.

 The Hotel tab - Please select the “hotel” option, to confirm that will be staying in one of the pre-booked rooms for either 1 night (12th March to 13th March 2024) or 2 nights (12th to 14th March 2024). This confirmation is essential to guarantee the rooms.

Additional costs (drinks, mini bar, lunches, dinners, etc.) will be borne by the speaker(s) or panellist(s).

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Similarly, the accommodation of other participants, not approved by the organization as a panellist or speaker, and their additional costs will be borne by the speaker(s) or panellist(s).

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Annex 4. Accreditation guide for all other participants

Step 1 - Identification

To access the accreditation platform, you must create an account with your first name, surname and email address, which will be used as your username. You will then receive an account activation email from the accreditation system. Once you have registered and activated your user account, you will be able to log in to the accreditation platform at any time, allowing you to

• Register for the different sessions or workgroups you wish to attend. • Check the status of your applications. • Complete or modify your personal details or those of your organisation.

Step 2 - Access to the platform

When you access the platform, you must first fill the personal information. Please note that this is a preliminary step that does not count as an accreditation.

Once the personal information has been confirmed, you will be taken to a page where you can enter the personal details of your Head of Delegation and the delegates.

Step 3 - Accreditation of the delegation

In order to accredit your delegation, it is imperative to fill in the different tabs: Profile - Programme).

 The Profile tab - You are asked to provide :

• Full name, position, date of birth, nationality of the delegates. • A photo in official format. • Number, type and expiration date of their identity document.

Similarly, we would be grateful if you could provide us with any information that you feel the Presidency needs to know regarding food preferences, health concerns and special needs. If you feel that no particular information needs to be shared with the Presidency in these two sections, please fill in the section by a comment to that effect.

 The Programme tab - Please confirm your attendance to the ministerial meeting for one or two days, and to the cocktail reception at the end of the first day by registering for the respective programmes in this tab.