A team of researchers from Matej Bel University (UMB) participated in a workshop on “Political Behavior in Central and Eastern Europe” at the European University Institute (EUI) in Florence, Italy, on December 13, 2024. This event brought together experts to discuss the latest research on political engagement, voting behavior, and democratic trends in the region.
Representing UMB, Dr. Tomáš Beňuška, Dr. Vladimír Muller, Dr. Robert Vancel, and Dr. Jozef Michal Mintal contributed to the workshop with insights from their work on Volebný Kompas, a voter advice application (VAA) designed to enhance political awareness and engagement in Slovakia.
Volebný Kompas: A Tool for Informed Democratic Participation
The UMB team has been developing Volebný Kompas as part of their contributions to the BRRIDGE Horizon Europe Project. This VAA helps voters make informed decisions by providing personalized insights into political party platforms, policies, and alignments based on user preferences.
The researchers will present findings on how Volebný Kompas has impacted voter engagement and political literacy, with a particular focus on its role in fostering democratic resilience in Slovakia and other Central and Eastern European countries. By analyzing user data and feedback, the team has identified critical trends in voter behavior that shed light on the challenges and opportunities of political participation in the region.
Collaboration and Knowledge Exchange
The EUI workshop offers an excellent platform for networking and academic exchange. The UMB delegation will engage with researchers and practitioners from across Europe to:
- Share best practices in the design and implementation of voter advice applications.
- Discuss challenges in promoting informed voting in politically polarized environments.
- Explore opportunities for collaborative projects on voter engagement and democratic innovation.
Their participation aligns with the BRRIDGE project’s goals of strengthening governance and democracy through research, education, and technological tools.
Strengthening Democratic Resilience Through Research
The inclusion of Volebný Kompas in the workshop underscores its importance as a tool for empowering voters and enhancing the transparency of democratic processes. By connecting local initiatives with international research networks, the BRRIDGE project continues to play a vital role in fostering democratic resilience in Central and Eastern Europe.
