The network of EUROPE DIRECT centres (formerly known as the Europe Direct Information Centres (EDIC) network) was established in 2005 and now includes more than 420 centres across the European Union (EU). By organising information and engagement events, EUROPE DIRECT centres enable citizens to make informed choices about the future of the EU, fully participating in the European democratic process. EUROPE DIRECT centres help identify aspects of EU policies that are relevant at local level and organise events that meet local needs.

In Latvia, some of the centers have been performing similar duties for many years and some of them are newcomers. EUROPE DIRECT centers operate throughout Latvia, with branches in Madona, Alūksne, Rēzekne, Ventspils, Kuldīga, Jelgava, Jēkabpils, Daugavpils, Cēsis and Valmiera.

Since May 2021, the Vidzeme Planning Region has become one of the 8 new EUROPE DIRECT centers in Latvia. The main task of EUROPE DIRECT Vidzeme, with branches in Cēsis and Valmiera, is to provide residents of Vidzeme with timely and objective information about the most important current events in Europe, as well as to stimulate discussions among residents about the future of Europe. Its duration of operation is planned until 2025. EUROPE DIRECT Vidzeme operates in the Saulkrasti, Cēsis, Valka, Valmiera, Ogre, Smiltene and Limbaži municipalities.

EUROPE DIRECT Vidzeme uses a wide range of public information opportunities in its work – local and regional media, social media, face-to-face, hybrid or online events, workshops, discussions and other types of activities. Our target audience – municipalities, the public sector, young people, educational institutions, entrepreneurs and society in general, actively engage in various seminars, trainings, fact-finding trips, competitions and other events to jointly promote understanding of the benefits they derive from the EU on a daily basis, while emphasizing its added value.

All our services are provided free of charge.

Please note that we cannot provide legal advice or interpret EU law.

To learn more about centers in EU member states, including Latvia, please click here.