From October 24-26, 2023, Osijek, Croatia, hosted the inaugural CICERO Project event, titled “The Contribution of Food Markets to Public Health and Local Food Production Development”. Organized under the European Union’s Citizens, Equality, Rights, and Values (CERV) Program, this gathering marked the first step in a multi-country initiative to promote local, sustainable food markets and improve public health through conscious food choices.
Bringing local food markets to the forefront in Europe
The association Udruga hrvatskih tržnica, part of the World Farmers Markets Coalition, welcomed delegations from Denmark, Italy, Poland, and the Netherlands, highlighting Osijek’s rich market traditions and unique approaches to direct food sales. The CICERO Project is led by Italy’s Fondazione Campagna Amica in collaboration with partners Stichting Rotterdamse Oogst (Netherlands), Fundacja Targ Pietruszkowy (Poland), Association of Croatian Markets, and Grønt Marked (Denmark). Together, these organizations are working to foster a fairer, more sustainable food market that strengthens food security and supports local, eco-conscious farmers.
Encouraging conscious food consumption and strengthening local economies
The project promotes European citizens’ active engagement as consumers while supporting the CERV Program’s objectives. By emphasizing local and sustainable food choices, CICERO aims to foster food democracy and ensure fair treatment for farmers who prioritize environmentally friendly practices.
Event highlights: market tours, workshops, and discussions on sustainable agriculture
The three-day event kicked off with a market tour in Osijek, where delegates sampled healthy smoothies made from local produce and gained insight into Croatian food culture. On October 25, the University of Osijek’s Faculty of Economics hosted a plenary session featuring Croatian and international speakers. Topics included the evolution and value of Croatian markets, Osijek’s unique marketplace, and the health benefits of locally sourced foods. Representatives from each country shared best practices in sustainable agriculture and market development, exploring strategies for enhancing local food systems and short supply chains.
On October 26, participants visited the Osijek Nature Park and toured a sheep farm, where they observed artisanal cheesemaking, offering an inspiring example of agroecology in action.
Next stop: Rome, February 15, 2025
Following a successful start in Croatia, the CICERO Project continues with its next event in Rome on February 15, 2025, focusing on agro-biodiversity and the vital role of local food markets in fostering sustainable, resilient food systems across Europe.
