On September 30, 2026, the Harghita County Council organised a workshop in Gheorgheni within the framework of the CIBioGo – Citizen Participation in Biodiversity Governance project. The main objective of the meeting was to assess how satisfied local and regional stakeholders are with the amendments to the master plan for the Hășmaș Mountains area and to what extent they consider them appropriate for local needs.

Emőke Kopacz, CIBioGo project manager, presented the work carried out within the project and the new aspects incorporated into the master plan following international exchanges of experience. The amendments focus, among other things, on coexistence with large wild animals, water retention and nature-based solutions, as well as the adaptation of forests to climate change. The document also places greater emphasis on the conservation of biodiversity and on strengthening the relationship between natural and cultural values and local communities.

Following the presentation, participants were able to evaluate the amendments to the master plan for the Hășmaș Mountains area using a questionnaire. The feedback collection focused on satisfaction with the changes: how useful and justified the new approaches are considered to be, and to what extent they address the needs of the area. The questionnaire also provided an opportunity to indicate priority topics and the willingness to become involved in implementation.

The assessment provided by local stakeholders offers important feedback on the policy change achieved within the CIBioGo project. Analysing the responses will help establish how the amendments have been received and identify areas where further consultation or cooperation is needed.

The CIBioGo project is implemented with the support of the Interreg Europe programme and helps improve policies aimed at biodiversity conservation by involving local and regional stakeholders.

The certificates of the Myrmidone (orange butterfly) certification were awarded in a ceremonial event today, on September 16, at the Park Hotel in Miercurea Ciuc. The certification system is a flagship initiative of the Harghita County – European Region of Gastronomy 2027 program, recognizing conscious hospitality built on local ingredients, producers, and the gastronomic heritage of Harghita County.

A total of 67 hospitality venues applied for the 2026 certification, of which 59 met the conditions set out in the criteria system and the Code of Conduct. The certified venues include restaurants, bistros, and local gastronomic points, among them four establishments from Covasna County. Among the certified venues, eight received one butterfly, eleven received two butterflies, and forty received three butterflies.

Myrmidone is not simply about offering local dishes, but represents a comprehensive hospitality approach that connects stakeholders in the region from local producers and ingredients to the gastronomic experience of the guest. An important element of the certification is the use of ingredients and beverages sourced, where possible, from within a 100-kilometer radius, cooperation with local producers and making them visible, as well as preserving and transmitting the traditional gastronomic values of Harghita County. The system also pays attention to reducing food waste, the Signature Dish list of characteristic local dishes, and multilingual communication.

The certification is named after the strictly protected orange butterfly, Colias myrmidone. This rare species occurs in Europe only in Poland, Slovakia, and Romania, and within Romania it can be found in just two areas, including the Kürücök Valley near Lăzarea and Gheorgheni. The presence of the orange butterfly is a strong indicator of the region’s exceptional natural values, which are closely linked to the quality of local ingredients and the gastronomic heritage of Harghita County.

The Myrmidone certification is closely linked to the Signature Dish list. Within this initiative, which collects the characteristic dishes of Harghita County, a questionnaire survey was used to identify those dishes and desserts that the community considers most representative of the region. The results were evaluated together with twelve local chefs, leading to a selection of fifty highlighted dishes in the Signature Dish collection.

In the future, certified venues will benefit from using the Myrmidone visual identity and the Harghita County – European Region of Gastronomy 2027 logo, as well as enhanced visibility on Visit Harghita platforms, in the program’s communication, and on the region’s gastronomic map. The certification also provides opportunities for participation in various promotional and professional initiatives, including study visits, publications, newsletters, and professional events.

With the certificate award, a community has begun to take shape whose members work together to ensure that the local flavors, producers, gastronomic traditions, and hospitality venues of Harghita County are more prominently represented in the region’s tourism offer. The aim of the Myrmidone certification is that local values should not only appear on the plate, but come together as a comprehensive gastronomic experience that connects the local community, the natural environment, and hospitality.

European Region of Gastronomy

European Regions of Gastronomy (candidates and awardees), selected and managed by IGCAT, aim to contribute to improving the quality of life of their citizens by raising awareness of the importance of cultural and gastronomic uniqueness, while:

• encouraging creativity and gastronomic innovation,
• intellectually nourishing children and adults through culinary education,
• improving the quality of sustainable tourism,
• strengthening circular economies in both urban and rural environments,
• supporting the well-being and health of communities and the environment.

IGCAT provides the award with the support of international and European institutions. Regions also join the global platform of awarded and candidate Gastronomic Regions to promote long-term benefits, increase international visibility, and support knowledge sharing.

The European Region of Gastronomy title recognizes communities (cities, counties, regions, islands, or countries) that, in the spirit of sustainable development and through community cooperation, place strong emphasis on their gastronomic heritage. Preserving and protecting local food, drinks, agricultural products, as well as cultural and natural values, is of particular importance for them.

The title is a recognition that widely promotes the achievements, programs, community cooperation, and responses to future challenges of the given region, but it does not include a monetary prize.

Members of the Harghita County consortium:

• Harghita County Council
• Harghita Community Development Association
• Miercurea Ciuc City Hall
• Odorheiu Secuiesc City Hall
• Gheorgheni City Hall
• Association of Szekler Farmers’ Organizations
• Sapientia Hungarian University of Transylvania, Faculty of Miercurea Ciuc
• Páva KulinarIQum Association
• Boro Info
• Honline Media (Székely Konyha és Kert)
• Association of Ciuc Hospitality Providers
• Pro Economica Foundation

Miercurea Ciuc, 28 August 2026 – A stakeholder meeting was held in Miercurea Ciuc to discuss the state of the social economy in Harghita County, its development in recent years, and the possibilities of applying European experiences at the local level, within the framework of the SECON – Social Economy – Regional Policies for Supporting Social Economy Enterprises project. The event was hosted by the Kettőspont Milk Bar and Café.

The SECON project is implemented through the cooperation of ten organizations from nine European countries and aims to improve policy instruments supporting the social economy through interregional exchange of experience, research, and best practices. Among its objectives are increasing the visibility of social enterprises, improving access to funding and public procurement opportunities, providing professional support to enterprises, and strengthening their role in the green and digital transition.

The venue of the meeting, the Kettőspont Milk Bar and Café, is itself a good example of a social enterprise. The café, opened in February 2026, was established by a couple from Miercurea Ciuc with the aim of creating a family-friendly place in the city where parents with small children can feel comfortable. The business was established with €61,000 in European Union funding and currently provides jobs for four people, including disadvantaged individuals. Kettőspont is not only a hospitality venue but also plays an important role as a community space: it regularly hosts events, lectures, and various community programs, primarily targeting families with young children and mothers. In recent months, the venue has hosted baby–mother programs, craft workshops, and community events, and plans include thematic evenings, discussions, and film screenings. The project funding covers operating costs until October 2026, after which the enterprise must ensure sustainable operation from its own revenues. As part of its operating model, 90 percent of the profit is reinvested in social purposes.

At the meeting, Árpád Csiszer, representative of the Right Association, presented best practices learned at the SECON international meeting in Mannheim. Among these, he highlighted the German initiative Das andere SchulZimmer (“The Other Classroom”) as particularly interesting and potentially applicable for the Right Association. The Mannheim program supports young people who have dropped out of school or are in difficult life situations by providing personalized, out-of-school learning opportunities. The initiative started in 2018 with limited funding and volunteer work, and later built its operations through private donations, corporate and community support, public funding, and foundation resources. Over seven school years, it contributed to 113 successful school qualifications, achieving a 97 percent success rate.

The German example is also close to the vision of the Right Association because it creates opportunities for supporting, developing, and socially integrating disadvantaged target groups through a concrete activity. This approach may also be relevant for the sewing workshop planned by the Right Association.

Another key topic of the meeting was the significant increase in the number of social enterprises in Harghita County. According to data presented by Árpád Cilip and Cristian Gligor, representatives of the Pro Siculi Development Association, there were 16 social enterprises in 2022, 27 in 2023, 27 in 2024, and already 95 in 2025. This growth was largely supported by funding calls launched in recent years to support social enterprises, which encouraged the establishment of new businesses and the development of the sector. Under the most recent call in Harghita County, 11 grant contracts were signed, supporting seven urban and four rural enterprises.

Currently, 106 social enterprises hold valid status in the county. According to data presented in 2026, out of the 95 enterprises, 92 submitted their annual report for 2025. In total, 118 social enterprises had status, of which 11 had their status withdrawn at their own request or due to failure to submit the annual report, while one enterprise’s status expired and was not renewed. This resulted in the current total of 106 social enterprises with valid status.

According to participants, the social economy in Harghita County has undergone significant development in recent years, supported in part by funding calls for social enterprises. However, alongside the growth in the number of enterprises, it is also important to promote a broader understanding of the concept and real social role of the social economy. It is essential that the term “social” does not merely refer to a business model, but that it is understood that these enterprises, in addition to their economic activities, serve social or community purposes and contribute to the employment of disadvantaged people, the strengthening of local communities, and the addressing of social challenges. With the increasing number of enterprises, cooperation and exchange of experience are becoming increasingly important: there is a need for a community and regular meeting opportunities where social enterprises can share their experiences, challenges, and effective solutions.

One of the key conclusions of the stakeholder meeting in Miercurea Ciuc is that, alongside the growth in the number of social enterprises, there is a need for a forum that facilitates cooperation and the sharing of experiences, which is increasingly important. It is essential for social enterprises to maintain connections with each other, share good practices, and jointly seek solutions to emerging challenges. This aligns well with the objectives of SECON, which supports interregional exchange of experience and the sharing of best practices.

A new important milestone on the path of sustainable tourism: Harghita County has been awarded the internationally recognized Green Destinations Silver certification, becoming the first region in Romania to be included on the Green Destinations global map.

This prestigious recognition is the result of a comprehensive sustainability audit, during which Green Destinations experts assessed, among other aspects, destination management, the protection of cultural heritage, nature and landscape conservation, the well-being of local communities, and the sustainability efforts of tourism businesses.

During the audit, Harghita County achieved an average score of 7.5 across the six evaluated areas, meeting the requirements for the Silver Award level. The highest score, 9.2, was achieved in the field of culture and traditions. The expert evaluation highlighted the strong commitment to preserving both tangible and intangible cultural heritage, programs supporting local crafts and traditions, as well as the protection and promotion of gastronomic heritage. The audit also specifically praised the role of traditional culture in tourism. The Myrmidone (orange butterfly) program, which aims to identify and recognize traditional foods and the establishments that prepare them, was also cited as an important example in the evaluation. According to the experts, preserving and bringing local heritage to life is one of Harghita County’s greatest strengths.

An outstanding result was also achieved in the area of social well-being, where the county scored 8.6. The evaluation positively highlighted, among others, respect for residents’ rights, measures aimed at accessibility, and recent steps taken to involve local communities and monitor their satisfaction.

Harghita County also achieved a score of 7.1 in destination management, nature and landscape, as well as in business and communication. Experts emphasized the strategic role of the Harghita Community Development Association (Visit Harghita), the commitment to sustainable tourism, and initiatives supporting the sustainability of tourism enterprises.

Regarding the protection of nature and landscape, the audit specifically mentions the site-specific management of Lake Saint Anne and the Mohos peat bog, the information and behavioral guidelines provided to visitors, as well as initiatives involving schools and local organizations that contribute to forest conservation and tree planting.

Overall, Green Destinations experts gave a positive assessment of Harghita County’s sustainability efforts, highlighting that the destination has consistently worked in recent years to make sustainability a central element of tourism development. According to the audit, the commitment to sustainable tourism is evident among both destination staff and tourism stakeholders.

International recognition and new opportunities

The Green Destinations Award is an internationally recognized benchmark in the field of sustainable destination management. The program evaluates the sustainability performance of destinations based on the Green Destinations Standard and connects recognized regions into an international network where participants can share their experiences and best practices. By obtaining the Silver Award, Harghita County will be featured on Green Destinations’ international platforms, including the organization’s destination collection. The recognition also creates opportunities for Harghita County’s sustainability achievements to become more visible to an international tourism audience.

“The fact that Harghita County is the first in Romania to receive this international certification shows that we are at the forefront of sustainable tourism. In recent years, we have placed strong emphasis on green, slow tourism. It is particularly noteworthy that the expert group awarded the highest score, 9.2 out of 10, in the field of culture and traditions. This demonstrates that in Harghita County, the past is not a burden but can also be a competitive advantage. We are very pleased with this new international recognition and proud of the tourism stakeholders, our academic and business partners with whom we have worked together. I congratulate the Visit Harghita team, as our joint efforts have helped draw attention to Harghita County as the first in the country. I trust that this will also provide momentum for preparations for the 2027 gastronomic year,”

said Barna-Botond Bíró, President of the Harghita County Council.

The certification represents a particularly important milestone ahead of a year when Harghita County will hold the title of European Region of Gastronomy. The Green Destinations recognition also confirms and reinforces the work carried out in recent years by Visit Harghita and the county’s tourism stakeholders. The international recognition of sustainability and local gastronomic heritage are mutually reinforcing values that together create a strong foundation for further increasing Harghita County’s visibility, attractiveness, and competitiveness on both the domestic and international tourism markets.

For Harghita County, the green destination status is not just a title, but a long-term commitment: to develop tourism while preserving everything that makes the region unique.

Harghita County Council has joined the European initiative entitled the Code of Practice on Transparency of AI-Generated Content, thereby reaffirming its commitment to the responsible and transparent use of artificial intelligence.

The Code of Practice, developed by the European Commission’s AI Office, provides a common set of guidelines for the transparent labelling of content generated or manipulated by artificial intelligence, facilitating the consistent implementation of the AI Act across the European Union.

By signing the Code, Harghita County Council publicly commits not only to complying with EU legislation but also to following the good practices developed by the European Commission in the institutional use of artificial intelligence, thereby strengthening the credibility of digital content, the transparency of institutional communication, and public trust.

The transparency obligations set out in the European Union’s Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act) become applicable from 2 August 2026. From that date, in specified cases, images, audio, video, and certain text content of public interest generated or manipulated by artificial intelligence must be clearly labelled. By joining the Code of Practice, Harghita County Council becomes one of the European institutions and organisations that voluntarily commit to following common European practices promoting the transparent, responsible, and ethical use of artificial intelligence.

Further information about the Code of Practice and the AI Act transparency rules is available on the official website of the European Commission.

Miercurea Ciuc, 27 July 2026

On September 30, 2026, the Harghita County Council organised a workshop in Gheorgheni within the framework of the CIBioGo – Citizen Participation in Biodiversity Governance project. The main objective of the meeting was to assess how satisfied local and regional stakeholders are with the amendments to the master plan for the Hășmaș Mountains area and to what extent they consider them appropriate for local needs.

Emőke Kopacz, CIBioGo project manager, presented the work carried out within the project and the new aspects incorporated into the master plan following international exchanges of experience. The amendments focus, among other things, on coexistence with large wild animals, water retention and nature-based solutions, as well as the adaptation of forests to climate change. The document also places greater emphasis on the conservation of biodiversity and on strengthening the relationship between natural and cultural values and local communities.

Following the presentation, participants were able to evaluate the amendments to the master plan for the Hășmaș Mountains area using a questionnaire. The feedback collection focused on satisfaction with the changes: how useful and justified the new approaches are considered to be, and to what extent they address the needs of the area. The questionnaire also provided an opportunity to indicate priority topics and the willingness to become involved in implementation.

The assessment provided by local stakeholders offers important feedback on the policy change achieved within the CIBioGo project. Analysing the responses will help establish how the amendments have been received and identify areas where further consultation or cooperation is needed.

The CIBioGo project is implemented with the support of the Interreg Europe programme and helps improve policies aimed at biodiversity conservation by involving local and regional stakeholders.

The certificates of the Myrmidone (orange butterfly) certification were awarded in a ceremonial event today, on September 16, at the Park Hotel in Miercurea Ciuc. The certification system is a flagship initiative of the Harghita County – European Region of Gastronomy 2027 program, recognizing conscious hospitality built on local ingredients, producers, and the gastronomic heritage of Harghita County.

A total of 67 hospitality venues applied for the 2026 certification, of which 59 met the conditions set out in the criteria system and the Code of Conduct. The certified venues include restaurants, bistros, and local gastronomic points, among them four establishments from Covasna County. Among the certified venues, eight received one butterfly, eleven received two butterflies, and forty received three butterflies.

Myrmidone is not simply about offering local dishes, but represents a comprehensive hospitality approach that connects stakeholders in the region from local producers and ingredients to the gastronomic experience of the guest. An important element of the certification is the use of ingredients and beverages sourced, where possible, from within a 100-kilometer radius, cooperation with local producers and making them visible, as well as preserving and transmitting the traditional gastronomic values of Harghita County. The system also pays attention to reducing food waste, the Signature Dish list of characteristic local dishes, and multilingual communication.

The certification is named after the strictly protected orange butterfly, Colias myrmidone. This rare species occurs in Europe only in Poland, Slovakia, and Romania, and within Romania it can be found in just two areas, including the Kürücök Valley near Lăzarea and Gheorgheni. The presence of the orange butterfly is a strong indicator of the region’s exceptional natural values, which are closely linked to the quality of local ingredients and the gastronomic heritage of Harghita County.

The Myrmidone certification is closely linked to the Signature Dish list. Within this initiative, which collects the characteristic dishes of Harghita County, a questionnaire survey was used to identify those dishes and desserts that the community considers most representative of the region. The results were evaluated together with twelve local chefs, leading to a selection of fifty highlighted dishes in the Signature Dish collection.

In the future, certified venues will benefit from using the Myrmidone visual identity and the Harghita County – European Region of Gastronomy 2027 logo, as well as enhanced visibility on Visit Harghita platforms, in the program’s communication, and on the region’s gastronomic map. The certification also provides opportunities for participation in various promotional and professional initiatives, including study visits, publications, newsletters, and professional events.

With the certificate award, a community has begun to take shape whose members work together to ensure that the local flavors, producers, gastronomic traditions, and hospitality venues of Harghita County are more prominently represented in the region’s tourism offer. The aim of the Myrmidone certification is that local values should not only appear on the plate, but come together as a comprehensive gastronomic experience that connects the local community, the natural environment, and hospitality.

European Region of Gastronomy

European Regions of Gastronomy (candidates and awardees), selected and managed by IGCAT, aim to contribute to improving the quality of life of their citizens by raising awareness of the importance of cultural and gastronomic uniqueness, while:

• encouraging creativity and gastronomic innovation,
• intellectually nourishing children and adults through culinary education,
• improving the quality of sustainable tourism,
• strengthening circular economies in both urban and rural environments,
• supporting the well-being and health of communities and the environment.

IGCAT provides the award with the support of international and European institutions. Regions also join the global platform of awarded and candidate Gastronomic Regions to promote long-term benefits, increase international visibility, and support knowledge sharing.

The European Region of Gastronomy title recognizes communities (cities, counties, regions, islands, or countries) that, in the spirit of sustainable development and through community cooperation, place strong emphasis on their gastronomic heritage. Preserving and protecting local food, drinks, agricultural products, as well as cultural and natural values, is of particular importance for them.

The title is a recognition that widely promotes the achievements, programs, community cooperation, and responses to future challenges of the given region, but it does not include a monetary prize.

Members of the Harghita County consortium:

• Harghita County Council
• Harghita Community Development Association
• Miercurea Ciuc City Hall
• Odorheiu Secuiesc City Hall
• Gheorgheni City Hall
• Association of Szekler Farmers’ Organizations
• Sapientia Hungarian University of Transylvania, Faculty of Miercurea Ciuc
• Páva KulinarIQum Association
• Boro Info
• Honline Media (Székely Konyha és Kert)
• Association of Ciuc Hospitality Providers
• Pro Economica Foundation

Miercurea Ciuc, 28 August 2026 – A stakeholder meeting was held in Miercurea Ciuc to discuss the state of the social economy in Harghita County, its development in recent years, and the possibilities of applying European experiences at the local level, within the framework of the SECON – Social Economy – Regional Policies for Supporting Social Economy Enterprises project. The event was hosted by the Kettőspont Milk Bar and Café.

The SECON project is implemented through the cooperation of ten organizations from nine European countries and aims to improve policy instruments supporting the social economy through interregional exchange of experience, research, and best practices. Among its objectives are increasing the visibility of social enterprises, improving access to funding and public procurement opportunities, providing professional support to enterprises, and strengthening their role in the green and digital transition.

The venue of the meeting, the Kettőspont Milk Bar and Café, is itself a good example of a social enterprise. The café, opened in February 2026, was established by a couple from Miercurea Ciuc with the aim of creating a family-friendly place in the city where parents with small children can feel comfortable. The business was established with €61,000 in European Union funding and currently provides jobs for four people, including disadvantaged individuals. Kettőspont is not only a hospitality venue but also plays an important role as a community space: it regularly hosts events, lectures, and various community programs, primarily targeting families with young children and mothers. In recent months, the venue has hosted baby–mother programs, craft workshops, and community events, and plans include thematic evenings, discussions, and film screenings. The project funding covers operating costs until October 2026, after which the enterprise must ensure sustainable operation from its own revenues. As part of its operating model, 90 percent of the profit is reinvested in social purposes.

At the meeting, Árpád Csiszer, representative of the Right Association, presented best practices learned at the SECON international meeting in Mannheim. Among these, he highlighted the German initiative Das andere SchulZimmer (“The Other Classroom”) as particularly interesting and potentially applicable for the Right Association. The Mannheim program supports young people who have dropped out of school or are in difficult life situations by providing personalized, out-of-school learning opportunities. The initiative started in 2018 with limited funding and volunteer work, and later built its operations through private donations, corporate and community support, public funding, and foundation resources. Over seven school years, it contributed to 113 successful school qualifications, achieving a 97 percent success rate.

The German example is also close to the vision of the Right Association because it creates opportunities for supporting, developing, and socially integrating disadvantaged target groups through a concrete activity. This approach may also be relevant for the sewing workshop planned by the Right Association.

Another key topic of the meeting was the significant increase in the number of social enterprises in Harghita County. According to data presented by Árpád Cilip and Cristian Gligor, representatives of the Pro Siculi Development Association, there were 16 social enterprises in 2022, 27 in 2023, 27 in 2024, and already 95 in 2025. This growth was largely supported by funding calls launched in recent years to support social enterprises, which encouraged the establishment of new businesses and the development of the sector. Under the most recent call in Harghita County, 11 grant contracts were signed, supporting seven urban and four rural enterprises.

Currently, 106 social enterprises hold valid status in the county. According to data presented in 2026, out of the 95 enterprises, 92 submitted their annual report for 2025. In total, 118 social enterprises had status, of which 11 had their status withdrawn at their own request or due to failure to submit the annual report, while one enterprise’s status expired and was not renewed. This resulted in the current total of 106 social enterprises with valid status.

According to participants, the social economy in Harghita County has undergone significant development in recent years, supported in part by funding calls for social enterprises. However, alongside the growth in the number of enterprises, it is also important to promote a broader understanding of the concept and real social role of the social economy. It is essential that the term “social” does not merely refer to a business model, but that it is understood that these enterprises, in addition to their economic activities, serve social or community purposes and contribute to the employment of disadvantaged people, the strengthening of local communities, and the addressing of social challenges. With the increasing number of enterprises, cooperation and exchange of experience are becoming increasingly important: there is a need for a community and regular meeting opportunities where social enterprises can share their experiences, challenges, and effective solutions.

One of the key conclusions of the stakeholder meeting in Miercurea Ciuc is that, alongside the growth in the number of social enterprises, there is a need for a forum that facilitates cooperation and the sharing of experiences, which is increasingly important. It is essential for social enterprises to maintain connections with each other, share good practices, and jointly seek solutions to emerging challenges. This aligns well with the objectives of SECON, which supports interregional exchange of experience and the sharing of best practices.

A new important milestone on the path of sustainable tourism: Harghita County has been awarded the internationally recognized Green Destinations Silver certification, becoming the first region in Romania to be included on the Green Destinations global map.

This prestigious recognition is the result of a comprehensive sustainability audit, during which Green Destinations experts assessed, among other aspects, destination management, the protection of cultural heritage, nature and landscape conservation, the well-being of local communities, and the sustainability efforts of tourism businesses.

During the audit, Harghita County achieved an average score of 7.5 across the six evaluated areas, meeting the requirements for the Silver Award level. The highest score, 9.2, was achieved in the field of culture and traditions. The expert evaluation highlighted the strong commitment to preserving both tangible and intangible cultural heritage, programs supporting local crafts and traditions, as well as the protection and promotion of gastronomic heritage. The audit also specifically praised the role of traditional culture in tourism. The Myrmidone (orange butterfly) program, which aims to identify and recognize traditional foods and the establishments that prepare them, was also cited as an important example in the evaluation. According to the experts, preserving and bringing local heritage to life is one of Harghita County’s greatest strengths.

An outstanding result was also achieved in the area of social well-being, where the county scored 8.6. The evaluation positively highlighted, among others, respect for residents’ rights, measures aimed at accessibility, and recent steps taken to involve local communities and monitor their satisfaction.

Harghita County also achieved a score of 7.1 in destination management, nature and landscape, as well as in business and communication. Experts emphasized the strategic role of the Harghita Community Development Association (Visit Harghita), the commitment to sustainable tourism, and initiatives supporting the sustainability of tourism enterprises.

Regarding the protection of nature and landscape, the audit specifically mentions the site-specific management of Lake Saint Anne and the Mohos peat bog, the information and behavioral guidelines provided to visitors, as well as initiatives involving schools and local organizations that contribute to forest conservation and tree planting.

Overall, Green Destinations experts gave a positive assessment of Harghita County’s sustainability efforts, highlighting that the destination has consistently worked in recent years to make sustainability a central element of tourism development. According to the audit, the commitment to sustainable tourism is evident among both destination staff and tourism stakeholders.

International recognition and new opportunities

The Green Destinations Award is an internationally recognized benchmark in the field of sustainable destination management. The program evaluates the sustainability performance of destinations based on the Green Destinations Standard and connects recognized regions into an international network where participants can share their experiences and best practices. By obtaining the Silver Award, Harghita County will be featured on Green Destinations’ international platforms, including the organization’s destination collection. The recognition also creates opportunities for Harghita County’s sustainability achievements to become more visible to an international tourism audience.

“The fact that Harghita County is the first in Romania to receive this international certification shows that we are at the forefront of sustainable tourism. In recent years, we have placed strong emphasis on green, slow tourism. It is particularly noteworthy that the expert group awarded the highest score, 9.2 out of 10, in the field of culture and traditions. This demonstrates that in Harghita County, the past is not a burden but can also be a competitive advantage. We are very pleased with this new international recognition and proud of the tourism stakeholders, our academic and business partners with whom we have worked together. I congratulate the Visit Harghita team, as our joint efforts have helped draw attention to Harghita County as the first in the country. I trust that this will also provide momentum for preparations for the 2027 gastronomic year,”

said Barna-Botond Bíró, President of the Harghita County Council.

The certification represents a particularly important milestone ahead of a year when Harghita County will hold the title of European Region of Gastronomy. The Green Destinations recognition also confirms and reinforces the work carried out in recent years by Visit Harghita and the county’s tourism stakeholders. The international recognition of sustainability and local gastronomic heritage are mutually reinforcing values that together create a strong foundation for further increasing Harghita County’s visibility, attractiveness, and competitiveness on both the domestic and international tourism markets.

For Harghita County, the green destination status is not just a title, but a long-term commitment: to develop tourism while preserving everything that makes the region unique.

Harghita County Council has joined the European initiative entitled the Code of Practice on Transparency of AI-Generated Content, thereby reaffirming its commitment to the responsible and transparent use of artificial intelligence.

The Code of Practice, developed by the European Commission’s AI Office, provides a common set of guidelines for the transparent labelling of content generated or manipulated by artificial intelligence, facilitating the consistent implementation of the AI Act across the European Union.

By signing the Code, Harghita County Council publicly commits not only to complying with EU legislation but also to following the good practices developed by the European Commission in the institutional use of artificial intelligence, thereby strengthening the credibility of digital content, the transparency of institutional communication, and public trust.

The transparency obligations set out in the European Union’s Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act) become applicable from 2 August 2026. From that date, in specified cases, images, audio, video, and certain text content of public interest generated or manipulated by artificial intelligence must be clearly labelled. By joining the Code of Practice, Harghita County Council becomes one of the European institutions and organisations that voluntarily commit to following common European practices promoting the transparent, responsible, and ethical use of artificial intelligence.

Further information about the Code of Practice and the AI Act transparency rules is available on the official website of the European Commission.

Miercurea Ciuc, 27 July 2026

On September 30, 2026, the Harghita County Council organised a workshop in Gheorgheni within the framework of the CIBioGo – Citizen Participation in Biodiversity Governance project. The main objective of the meeting was to assess how satisfied local and regional stakeholders are with the amendments to the master plan for the Hășmaș Mountains area and to what extent they consider them appropriate for local needs.

Emőke Kopacz, CIBioGo project manager, presented the work carried out within the project and the new aspects incorporated into the master plan following international exchanges of experience. The amendments focus, among other things, on coexistence with large wild animals, water retention and nature-based solutions, as well as the adaptation of forests to climate change. The document also places greater emphasis on the conservation of biodiversity and on strengthening the relationship between natural and cultural values and local communities.

Following the presentation, participants were able to evaluate the amendments to the master plan for the Hășmaș Mountains area using a questionnaire. The feedback collection focused on satisfaction with the changes: how useful and justified the new approaches are considered to be, and to what extent they address the needs of the area. The questionnaire also provided an opportunity to indicate priority topics and the willingness to become involved in implementation.

The assessment provided by local stakeholders offers important feedback on the policy change achieved within the CIBioGo project. Analysing the responses will help establish how the amendments have been received and identify areas where further consultation or cooperation is needed.

The CIBioGo project is implemented with the support of the Interreg Europe programme and helps improve policies aimed at biodiversity conservation by involving local and regional stakeholders.

The certificates of the Myrmidone (orange butterfly) certification were awarded in a ceremonial event today, on September 16, at the Park Hotel in Miercurea Ciuc. The certification system is a flagship initiative of the Harghita County – European Region of Gastronomy 2027 program, recognizing conscious hospitality built on local ingredients, producers, and the gastronomic heritage of Harghita County.

A total of 67 hospitality venues applied for the 2026 certification, of which 59 met the conditions set out in the criteria system and the Code of Conduct. The certified venues include restaurants, bistros, and local gastronomic points, among them four establishments from Covasna County. Among the certified venues, eight received one butterfly, eleven received two butterflies, and forty received three butterflies.

Myrmidone is not simply about offering local dishes, but represents a comprehensive hospitality approach that connects stakeholders in the region from local producers and ingredients to the gastronomic experience of the guest. An important element of the certification is the use of ingredients and beverages sourced, where possible, from within a 100-kilometer radius, cooperation with local producers and making them visible, as well as preserving and transmitting the traditional gastronomic values of Harghita County. The system also pays attention to reducing food waste, the Signature Dish list of characteristic local dishes, and multilingual communication.

The certification is named after the strictly protected orange butterfly, Colias myrmidone. This rare species occurs in Europe only in Poland, Slovakia, and Romania, and within Romania it can be found in just two areas, including the Kürücök Valley near Lăzarea and Gheorgheni. The presence of the orange butterfly is a strong indicator of the region’s exceptional natural values, which are closely linked to the quality of local ingredients and the gastronomic heritage of Harghita County.

The Myrmidone certification is closely linked to the Signature Dish list. Within this initiative, which collects the characteristic dishes of Harghita County, a questionnaire survey was used to identify those dishes and desserts that the community considers most representative of the region. The results were evaluated together with twelve local chefs, leading to a selection of fifty highlighted dishes in the Signature Dish collection.

In the future, certified venues will benefit from using the Myrmidone visual identity and the Harghita County – European Region of Gastronomy 2027 logo, as well as enhanced visibility on Visit Harghita platforms, in the program’s communication, and on the region’s gastronomic map. The certification also provides opportunities for participation in various promotional and professional initiatives, including study visits, publications, newsletters, and professional events.

With the certificate award, a community has begun to take shape whose members work together to ensure that the local flavors, producers, gastronomic traditions, and hospitality venues of Harghita County are more prominently represented in the region’s tourism offer. The aim of the Myrmidone certification is that local values should not only appear on the plate, but come together as a comprehensive gastronomic experience that connects the local community, the natural environment, and hospitality.

European Region of Gastronomy

European Regions of Gastronomy (candidates and awardees), selected and managed by IGCAT, aim to contribute to improving the quality of life of their citizens by raising awareness of the importance of cultural and gastronomic uniqueness, while:

• encouraging creativity and gastronomic innovation,
• intellectually nourishing children and adults through culinary education,
• improving the quality of sustainable tourism,
• strengthening circular economies in both urban and rural environments,
• supporting the well-being and health of communities and the environment.

IGCAT provides the award with the support of international and European institutions. Regions also join the global platform of awarded and candidate Gastronomic Regions to promote long-term benefits, increase international visibility, and support knowledge sharing.

The European Region of Gastronomy title recognizes communities (cities, counties, regions, islands, or countries) that, in the spirit of sustainable development and through community cooperation, place strong emphasis on their gastronomic heritage. Preserving and protecting local food, drinks, agricultural products, as well as cultural and natural values, is of particular importance for them.

The title is a recognition that widely promotes the achievements, programs, community cooperation, and responses to future challenges of the given region, but it does not include a monetary prize.

Members of the Harghita County consortium:

• Harghita County Council
• Harghita Community Development Association
• Miercurea Ciuc City Hall
• Odorheiu Secuiesc City Hall
• Gheorgheni City Hall
• Association of Szekler Farmers’ Organizations
• Sapientia Hungarian University of Transylvania, Faculty of Miercurea Ciuc
• Páva KulinarIQum Association
• Boro Info
• Honline Media (Székely Konyha és Kert)
• Association of Ciuc Hospitality Providers
• Pro Economica Foundation

Miercurea Ciuc, 28 August 2026 – A stakeholder meeting was held in Miercurea Ciuc to discuss the state of the social economy in Harghita County, its development in recent years, and the possibilities of applying European experiences at the local level, within the framework of the SECON – Social Economy – Regional Policies for Supporting Social Economy Enterprises project. The event was hosted by the Kettőspont Milk Bar and Café.

The SECON project is implemented through the cooperation of ten organizations from nine European countries and aims to improve policy instruments supporting the social economy through interregional exchange of experience, research, and best practices. Among its objectives are increasing the visibility of social enterprises, improving access to funding and public procurement opportunities, providing professional support to enterprises, and strengthening their role in the green and digital transition.

The venue of the meeting, the Kettőspont Milk Bar and Café, is itself a good example of a social enterprise. The café, opened in February 2026, was established by a couple from Miercurea Ciuc with the aim of creating a family-friendly place in the city where parents with small children can feel comfortable. The business was established with €61,000 in European Union funding and currently provides jobs for four people, including disadvantaged individuals. Kettőspont is not only a hospitality venue but also plays an important role as a community space: it regularly hosts events, lectures, and various community programs, primarily targeting families with young children and mothers. In recent months, the venue has hosted baby–mother programs, craft workshops, and community events, and plans include thematic evenings, discussions, and film screenings. The project funding covers operating costs until October 2026, after which the enterprise must ensure sustainable operation from its own revenues. As part of its operating model, 90 percent of the profit is reinvested in social purposes.

At the meeting, Árpád Csiszer, representative of the Right Association, presented best practices learned at the SECON international meeting in Mannheim. Among these, he highlighted the German initiative Das andere SchulZimmer (“The Other Classroom”) as particularly interesting and potentially applicable for the Right Association. The Mannheim program supports young people who have dropped out of school or are in difficult life situations by providing personalized, out-of-school learning opportunities. The initiative started in 2018 with limited funding and volunteer work, and later built its operations through private donations, corporate and community support, public funding, and foundation resources. Over seven school years, it contributed to 113 successful school qualifications, achieving a 97 percent success rate.

The German example is also close to the vision of the Right Association because it creates opportunities for supporting, developing, and socially integrating disadvantaged target groups through a concrete activity. This approach may also be relevant for the sewing workshop planned by the Right Association.

Another key topic of the meeting was the significant increase in the number of social enterprises in Harghita County. According to data presented by Árpád Cilip and Cristian Gligor, representatives of the Pro Siculi Development Association, there were 16 social enterprises in 2022, 27 in 2023, 27 in 2024, and already 95 in 2025. This growth was largely supported by funding calls launched in recent years to support social enterprises, which encouraged the establishment of new businesses and the development of the sector. Under the most recent call in Harghita County, 11 grant contracts were signed, supporting seven urban and four rural enterprises.

Currently, 106 social enterprises hold valid status in the county. According to data presented in 2026, out of the 95 enterprises, 92 submitted their annual report for 2025. In total, 118 social enterprises had status, of which 11 had their status withdrawn at their own request or due to failure to submit the annual report, while one enterprise’s status expired and was not renewed. This resulted in the current total of 106 social enterprises with valid status.

According to participants, the social economy in Harghita County has undergone significant development in recent years, supported in part by funding calls for social enterprises. However, alongside the growth in the number of enterprises, it is also important to promote a broader understanding of the concept and real social role of the social economy. It is essential that the term “social” does not merely refer to a business model, but that it is understood that these enterprises, in addition to their economic activities, serve social or community purposes and contribute to the employment of disadvantaged people, the strengthening of local communities, and the addressing of social challenges. With the increasing number of enterprises, cooperation and exchange of experience are becoming increasingly important: there is a need for a community and regular meeting opportunities where social enterprises can share their experiences, challenges, and effective solutions.

One of the key conclusions of the stakeholder meeting in Miercurea Ciuc is that, alongside the growth in the number of social enterprises, there is a need for a forum that facilitates cooperation and the sharing of experiences, which is increasingly important. It is essential for social enterprises to maintain connections with each other, share good practices, and jointly seek solutions to emerging challenges. This aligns well with the objectives of SECON, which supports interregional exchange of experience and the sharing of best practices.

A new important milestone on the path of sustainable tourism: Harghita County has been awarded the internationally recognized Green Destinations Silver certification, becoming the first region in Romania to be included on the Green Destinations global map.

This prestigious recognition is the result of a comprehensive sustainability audit, during which Green Destinations experts assessed, among other aspects, destination management, the protection of cultural heritage, nature and landscape conservation, the well-being of local communities, and the sustainability efforts of tourism businesses.

During the audit, Harghita County achieved an average score of 7.5 across the six evaluated areas, meeting the requirements for the Silver Award level. The highest score, 9.2, was achieved in the field of culture and traditions. The expert evaluation highlighted the strong commitment to preserving both tangible and intangible cultural heritage, programs supporting local crafts and traditions, as well as the protection and promotion of gastronomic heritage. The audit also specifically praised the role of traditional culture in tourism. The Myrmidone (orange butterfly) program, which aims to identify and recognize traditional foods and the establishments that prepare them, was also cited as an important example in the evaluation. According to the experts, preserving and bringing local heritage to life is one of Harghita County’s greatest strengths.

An outstanding result was also achieved in the area of social well-being, where the county scored 8.6. The evaluation positively highlighted, among others, respect for residents’ rights, measures aimed at accessibility, and recent steps taken to involve local communities and monitor their satisfaction.

Harghita County also achieved a score of 7.1 in destination management, nature and landscape, as well as in business and communication. Experts emphasized the strategic role of the Harghita Community Development Association (Visit Harghita), the commitment to sustainable tourism, and initiatives supporting the sustainability of tourism enterprises.

Regarding the protection of nature and landscape, the audit specifically mentions the site-specific management of Lake Saint Anne and the Mohos peat bog, the information and behavioral guidelines provided to visitors, as well as initiatives involving schools and local organizations that contribute to forest conservation and tree planting.

Overall, Green Destinations experts gave a positive assessment of Harghita County’s sustainability efforts, highlighting that the destination has consistently worked in recent years to make sustainability a central element of tourism development. According to the audit, the commitment to sustainable tourism is evident among both destination staff and tourism stakeholders.

International recognition and new opportunities

The Green Destinations Award is an internationally recognized benchmark in the field of sustainable destination management. The program evaluates the sustainability performance of destinations based on the Green Destinations Standard and connects recognized regions into an international network where participants can share their experiences and best practices. By obtaining the Silver Award, Harghita County will be featured on Green Destinations’ international platforms, including the organization’s destination collection. The recognition also creates opportunities for Harghita County’s sustainability achievements to become more visible to an international tourism audience.

“The fact that Harghita County is the first in Romania to receive this international certification shows that we are at the forefront of sustainable tourism. In recent years, we have placed strong emphasis on green, slow tourism. It is particularly noteworthy that the expert group awarded the highest score, 9.2 out of 10, in the field of culture and traditions. This demonstrates that in Harghita County, the past is not a burden but can also be a competitive advantage. We are very pleased with this new international recognition and proud of the tourism stakeholders, our academic and business partners with whom we have worked together. I congratulate the Visit Harghita team, as our joint efforts have helped draw attention to Harghita County as the first in the country. I trust that this will also provide momentum for preparations for the 2027 gastronomic year,”

said Barna-Botond Bíró, President of the Harghita County Council.

The certification represents a particularly important milestone ahead of a year when Harghita County will hold the title of European Region of Gastronomy. The Green Destinations recognition also confirms and reinforces the work carried out in recent years by Visit Harghita and the county’s tourism stakeholders. The international recognition of sustainability and local gastronomic heritage are mutually reinforcing values that together create a strong foundation for further increasing Harghita County’s visibility, attractiveness, and competitiveness on both the domestic and international tourism markets.

For Harghita County, the green destination status is not just a title, but a long-term commitment: to develop tourism while preserving everything that makes the region unique.

Harghita County Council has joined the European initiative entitled the Code of Practice on Transparency of AI-Generated Content, thereby reaffirming its commitment to the responsible and transparent use of artificial intelligence.

The Code of Practice, developed by the European Commission’s AI Office, provides a common set of guidelines for the transparent labelling of content generated or manipulated by artificial intelligence, facilitating the consistent implementation of the AI Act across the European Union.

By signing the Code, Harghita County Council publicly commits not only to complying with EU legislation but also to following the good practices developed by the European Commission in the institutional use of artificial intelligence, thereby strengthening the credibility of digital content, the transparency of institutional communication, and public trust.

The transparency obligations set out in the European Union’s Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act) become applicable from 2 August 2026. From that date, in specified cases, images, audio, video, and certain text content of public interest generated or manipulated by artificial intelligence must be clearly labelled. By joining the Code of Practice, Harghita County Council becomes one of the European institutions and organisations that voluntarily commit to following common European practices promoting the transparent, responsible, and ethical use of artificial intelligence.

Further information about the Code of Practice and the AI Act transparency rules is available on the official website of the European Commission.

Miercurea Ciuc, 27 July 2026

On September 30, 2026, the Harghita County Council organised a workshop in Gheorgheni within the framework of the CIBioGo – Citizen Participation in Biodiversity Governance project. The main objective of the meeting was to assess how satisfied local and regional stakeholders are with the amendments to the master plan for the Hășmaș Mountains area and to what extent they consider them appropriate for local needs.

Emőke Kopacz, CIBioGo project manager, presented the work carried out within the project and the new aspects incorporated into the master plan following international exchanges of experience. The amendments focus, among other things, on coexistence with large wild animals, water retention and nature-based solutions, as well as the adaptation of forests to climate change. The document also places greater emphasis on the conservation of biodiversity and on strengthening the relationship between natural and cultural values and local communities.

Following the presentation, participants were able to evaluate the amendments to the master plan for the Hășmaș Mountains area using a questionnaire. The feedback collection focused on satisfaction with the changes: how useful and justified the new approaches are considered to be, and to what extent they address the needs of the area. The questionnaire also provided an opportunity to indicate priority topics and the willingness to become involved in implementation.

The assessment provided by local stakeholders offers important feedback on the policy change achieved within the CIBioGo project. Analysing the responses will help establish how the amendments have been received and identify areas where further consultation or cooperation is needed.

The CIBioGo project is implemented with the support of the Interreg Europe programme and helps improve policies aimed at biodiversity conservation by involving local and regional stakeholders.

The certificates of the Myrmidone (orange butterfly) certification were awarded in a ceremonial event today, on September 16, at the Park Hotel in Miercurea Ciuc. The certification system is a flagship initiative of the Harghita County – European Region of Gastronomy 2027 program, recognizing conscious hospitality built on local ingredients, producers, and the gastronomic heritage of Harghita County.

A total of 67 hospitality venues applied for the 2026 certification, of which 59 met the conditions set out in the criteria system and the Code of Conduct. The certified venues include restaurants, bistros, and local gastronomic points, among them four establishments from Covasna County. Among the certified venues, eight received one butterfly, eleven received two butterflies, and forty received three butterflies.

Myrmidone is not simply about offering local dishes, but represents a comprehensive hospitality approach that connects stakeholders in the region from local producers and ingredients to the gastronomic experience of the guest. An important element of the certification is the use of ingredients and beverages sourced, where possible, from within a 100-kilometer radius, cooperation with local producers and making them visible, as well as preserving and transmitting the traditional gastronomic values of Harghita County. The system also pays attention to reducing food waste, the Signature Dish list of characteristic local dishes, and multilingual communication.

The certification is named after the strictly protected orange butterfly, Colias myrmidone. This rare species occurs in Europe only in Poland, Slovakia, and Romania, and within Romania it can be found in just two areas, including the Kürücök Valley near Lăzarea and Gheorgheni. The presence of the orange butterfly is a strong indicator of the region’s exceptional natural values, which are closely linked to the quality of local ingredients and the gastronomic heritage of Harghita County.

The Myrmidone certification is closely linked to the Signature Dish list. Within this initiative, which collects the characteristic dishes of Harghita County, a questionnaire survey was used to identify those dishes and desserts that the community considers most representative of the region. The results were evaluated together with twelve local chefs, leading to a selection of fifty highlighted dishes in the Signature Dish collection.

In the future, certified venues will benefit from using the Myrmidone visual identity and the Harghita County – European Region of Gastronomy 2027 logo, as well as enhanced visibility on Visit Harghita platforms, in the program’s communication, and on the region’s gastronomic map. The certification also provides opportunities for participation in various promotional and professional initiatives, including study visits, publications, newsletters, and professional events.

With the certificate award, a community has begun to take shape whose members work together to ensure that the local flavors, producers, gastronomic traditions, and hospitality venues of Harghita County are more prominently represented in the region’s tourism offer. The aim of the Myrmidone certification is that local values should not only appear on the plate, but come together as a comprehensive gastronomic experience that connects the local community, the natural environment, and hospitality.

European Region of Gastronomy

European Regions of Gastronomy (candidates and awardees), selected and managed by IGCAT, aim to contribute to improving the quality of life of their citizens by raising awareness of the importance of cultural and gastronomic uniqueness, while:

• encouraging creativity and gastronomic innovation,
• intellectually nourishing children and adults through culinary education,
• improving the quality of sustainable tourism,
• strengthening circular economies in both urban and rural environments,
• supporting the well-being and health of communities and the environment.

IGCAT provides the award with the support of international and European institutions. Regions also join the global platform of awarded and candidate Gastronomic Regions to promote long-term benefits, increase international visibility, and support knowledge sharing.

The European Region of Gastronomy title recognizes communities (cities, counties, regions, islands, or countries) that, in the spirit of sustainable development and through community cooperation, place strong emphasis on their gastronomic heritage. Preserving and protecting local food, drinks, agricultural products, as well as cultural and natural values, is of particular importance for them.

The title is a recognition that widely promotes the achievements, programs, community cooperation, and responses to future challenges of the given region, but it does not include a monetary prize.

Members of the Harghita County consortium:

• Harghita County Council
• Harghita Community Development Association
• Miercurea Ciuc City Hall
• Odorheiu Secuiesc City Hall
• Gheorgheni City Hall
• Association of Szekler Farmers’ Organizations
• Sapientia Hungarian University of Transylvania, Faculty of Miercurea Ciuc
• Páva KulinarIQum Association
• Boro Info
• Honline Media (Székely Konyha és Kert)
• Association of Ciuc Hospitality Providers
• Pro Economica Foundation

Miercurea Ciuc, 28 August 2026 – A stakeholder meeting was held in Miercurea Ciuc to discuss the state of the social economy in Harghita County, its development in recent years, and the possibilities of applying European experiences at the local level, within the framework of the SECON – Social Economy – Regional Policies for Supporting Social Economy Enterprises project. The event was hosted by the Kettőspont Milk Bar and Café.

The SECON project is implemented through the cooperation of ten organizations from nine European countries and aims to improve policy instruments supporting the social economy through interregional exchange of experience, research, and best practices. Among its objectives are increasing the visibility of social enterprises, improving access to funding and public procurement opportunities, providing professional support to enterprises, and strengthening their role in the green and digital transition.

The venue of the meeting, the Kettőspont Milk Bar and Café, is itself a good example of a social enterprise. The café, opened in February 2026, was established by a couple from Miercurea Ciuc with the aim of creating a family-friendly place in the city where parents with small children can feel comfortable. The business was established with €61,000 in European Union funding and currently provides jobs for four people, including disadvantaged individuals. Kettőspont is not only a hospitality venue but also plays an important role as a community space: it regularly hosts events, lectures, and various community programs, primarily targeting families with young children and mothers. In recent months, the venue has hosted baby–mother programs, craft workshops, and community events, and plans include thematic evenings, discussions, and film screenings. The project funding covers operating costs until October 2026, after which the enterprise must ensure sustainable operation from its own revenues. As part of its operating model, 90 percent of the profit is reinvested in social purposes.

At the meeting, Árpád Csiszer, representative of the Right Association, presented best practices learned at the SECON international meeting in Mannheim. Among these, he highlighted the German initiative Das andere SchulZimmer (“The Other Classroom”) as particularly interesting and potentially applicable for the Right Association. The Mannheim program supports young people who have dropped out of school or are in difficult life situations by providing personalized, out-of-school learning opportunities. The initiative started in 2018 with limited funding and volunteer work, and later built its operations through private donations, corporate and community support, public funding, and foundation resources. Over seven school years, it contributed to 113 successful school qualifications, achieving a 97 percent success rate.

The German example is also close to the vision of the Right Association because it creates opportunities for supporting, developing, and socially integrating disadvantaged target groups through a concrete activity. This approach may also be relevant for the sewing workshop planned by the Right Association.

Another key topic of the meeting was the significant increase in the number of social enterprises in Harghita County. According to data presented by Árpád Cilip and Cristian Gligor, representatives of the Pro Siculi Development Association, there were 16 social enterprises in 2022, 27 in 2023, 27 in 2024, and already 95 in 2025. This growth was largely supported by funding calls launched in recent years to support social enterprises, which encouraged the establishment of new businesses and the development of the sector. Under the most recent call in Harghita County, 11 grant contracts were signed, supporting seven urban and four rural enterprises.

Currently, 106 social enterprises hold valid status in the county. According to data presented in 2026, out of the 95 enterprises, 92 submitted their annual report for 2025. In total, 118 social enterprises had status, of which 11 had their status withdrawn at their own request or due to failure to submit the annual report, while one enterprise’s status expired and was not renewed. This resulted in the current total of 106 social enterprises with valid status.

According to participants, the social economy in Harghita County has undergone significant development in recent years, supported in part by funding calls for social enterprises. However, alongside the growth in the number of enterprises, it is also important to promote a broader understanding of the concept and real social role of the social economy. It is essential that the term “social” does not merely refer to a business model, but that it is understood that these enterprises, in addition to their economic activities, serve social or community purposes and contribute to the employment of disadvantaged people, the strengthening of local communities, and the addressing of social challenges. With the increasing number of enterprises, cooperation and exchange of experience are becoming increasingly important: there is a need for a community and regular meeting opportunities where social enterprises can share their experiences, challenges, and effective solutions.

One of the key conclusions of the stakeholder meeting in Miercurea Ciuc is that, alongside the growth in the number of social enterprises, there is a need for a forum that facilitates cooperation and the sharing of experiences, which is increasingly important. It is essential for social enterprises to maintain connections with each other, share good practices, and jointly seek solutions to emerging challenges. This aligns well with the objectives of SECON, which supports interregional exchange of experience and the sharing of best practices.

A new important milestone on the path of sustainable tourism: Harghita County has been awarded the internationally recognized Green Destinations Silver certification, becoming the first region in Romania to be included on the Green Destinations global map.

This prestigious recognition is the result of a comprehensive sustainability audit, during which Green Destinations experts assessed, among other aspects, destination management, the protection of cultural heritage, nature and landscape conservation, the well-being of local communities, and the sustainability efforts of tourism businesses.

During the audit, Harghita County achieved an average score of 7.5 across the six evaluated areas, meeting the requirements for the Silver Award level. The highest score, 9.2, was achieved in the field of culture and traditions. The expert evaluation highlighted the strong commitment to preserving both tangible and intangible cultural heritage, programs supporting local crafts and traditions, as well as the protection and promotion of gastronomic heritage. The audit also specifically praised the role of traditional culture in tourism. The Myrmidone (orange butterfly) program, which aims to identify and recognize traditional foods and the establishments that prepare them, was also cited as an important example in the evaluation. According to the experts, preserving and bringing local heritage to life is one of Harghita County’s greatest strengths.

An outstanding result was also achieved in the area of social well-being, where the county scored 8.6. The evaluation positively highlighted, among others, respect for residents’ rights, measures aimed at accessibility, and recent steps taken to involve local communities and monitor their satisfaction.

Harghita County also achieved a score of 7.1 in destination management, nature and landscape, as well as in business and communication. Experts emphasized the strategic role of the Harghita Community Development Association (Visit Harghita), the commitment to sustainable tourism, and initiatives supporting the sustainability of tourism enterprises.

Regarding the protection of nature and landscape, the audit specifically mentions the site-specific management of Lake Saint Anne and the Mohos peat bog, the information and behavioral guidelines provided to visitors, as well as initiatives involving schools and local organizations that contribute to forest conservation and tree planting.

Overall, Green Destinations experts gave a positive assessment of Harghita County’s sustainability efforts, highlighting that the destination has consistently worked in recent years to make sustainability a central element of tourism development. According to the audit, the commitment to sustainable tourism is evident among both destination staff and tourism stakeholders.

International recognition and new opportunities

The Green Destinations Award is an internationally recognized benchmark in the field of sustainable destination management. The program evaluates the sustainability performance of destinations based on the Green Destinations Standard and connects recognized regions into an international network where participants can share their experiences and best practices. By obtaining the Silver Award, Harghita County will be featured on Green Destinations’ international platforms, including the organization’s destination collection. The recognition also creates opportunities for Harghita County’s sustainability achievements to become more visible to an international tourism audience.

“The fact that Harghita County is the first in Romania to receive this international certification shows that we are at the forefront of sustainable tourism. In recent years, we have placed strong emphasis on green, slow tourism. It is particularly noteworthy that the expert group awarded the highest score, 9.2 out of 10, in the field of culture and traditions. This demonstrates that in Harghita County, the past is not a burden but can also be a competitive advantage. We are very pleased with this new international recognition and proud of the tourism stakeholders, our academic and business partners with whom we have worked together. I congratulate the Visit Harghita team, as our joint efforts have helped draw attention to Harghita County as the first in the country. I trust that this will also provide momentum for preparations for the 2027 gastronomic year,”

said Barna-Botond Bíró, President of the Harghita County Council.

The certification represents a particularly important milestone ahead of a year when Harghita County will hold the title of European Region of Gastronomy. The Green Destinations recognition also confirms and reinforces the work carried out in recent years by Visit Harghita and the county’s tourism stakeholders. The international recognition of sustainability and local gastronomic heritage are mutually reinforcing values that together create a strong foundation for further increasing Harghita County’s visibility, attractiveness, and competitiveness on both the domestic and international tourism markets.

For Harghita County, the green destination status is not just a title, but a long-term commitment: to develop tourism while preserving everything that makes the region unique.

Harghita County Council has joined the European initiative entitled the Code of Practice on Transparency of AI-Generated Content, thereby reaffirming its commitment to the responsible and transparent use of artificial intelligence.

The Code of Practice, developed by the European Commission’s AI Office, provides a common set of guidelines for the transparent labelling of content generated or manipulated by artificial intelligence, facilitating the consistent implementation of the AI Act across the European Union.

By signing the Code, Harghita County Council publicly commits not only to complying with EU legislation but also to following the good practices developed by the European Commission in the institutional use of artificial intelligence, thereby strengthening the credibility of digital content, the transparency of institutional communication, and public trust.

The transparency obligations set out in the European Union’s Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act) become applicable from 2 August 2026. From that date, in specified cases, images, audio, video, and certain text content of public interest generated or manipulated by artificial intelligence must be clearly labelled. By joining the Code of Practice, Harghita County Council becomes one of the European institutions and organisations that voluntarily commit to following common European practices promoting the transparent, responsible, and ethical use of artificial intelligence.

Further information about the Code of Practice and the AI Act transparency rules is available on the official website of the European Commission.

Miercurea Ciuc, 27 July 2026