The course analyzes the complex and delicate phase of the development of contemporary democracies. Special regards are given to the construction of a common European identity, while facing values crisis that jeopardizes the very stability of fundamental rights. In this context, a particular role is played by the dialogue between national constitutional Courts and European Courts.

Thus, the main goal of the course is to offer an opportunity for exploring this problematic framework and to discuss possible perspectives for a democratic "revitalization" in Europe. A particular focus will be on the so-called "dialogue between courts", thanks to the contribution of academic and experts coming from various CIVIS partner universities during the entire programme. For the reasons set out, we intend to invite Master and Phd students to attend virtual classes and to take part in classes and workshops during the physical Summer school on the following main topics:

1. An introductory overview of the common European heritage. In particular, we will focus on how these relevant common roots have influenced the notion of “fundamental right”, the idea of human dignity as well as political institutions and laws. More in detail, their key contribution in shaping the European civilization and, most importantly, the constitutional and cultural evolution of the modern Western world, will be examined.
2. The crisis of democracy in Europe and its relationship with the protection of rights. The topic will be dealt also considering the problem of the ever-deepening distance between citizens and institutions of the European Union. Besides, the participatory tools suitable for stimulating the active involvement of civil society in democratic processes, which may give new life to political participation and to citizens’ rights, will be explored.
3. The most recent trends in the “dialogue” between national constitutional Courts, common jurisdictions, the CJEU and the ECtHR. Nowadays, European Courts and national jurisdictional bodies are part of a well-established transnational judiciary network, which has contributed in building a permanent and mutually influencing dialogue between different constitutional systems and judicial models. In this light, propulsive and homogenizing tendencies coming from supranational Courts will be critically analyzed. It will be payed special attention to the role of the ECtHR and CJEU, by highlighting strengths and weaknesses of the “model” of multilevel protection of rights.
4. The heterogeneous and undefined complex of the so-called “third” or even “fourth” generation of rights. These “new” rights appear to be relatively complex to define and are not contemplated in democratic Constitutions but recognized through the hermeneutical process by constitutional and European Courts, even by a dialogue between Courts. In this context, we can include some rights to self-determination, rights of minority groups or environmental rights, new social rights and those of vulnerable people, as well as the so-called rights of future generations. The aim of this session is to highlight and discuss some of the most controversial aspects that especially characterize some of them.
5. The problematic relationship between constitutional Courts and legislative power. This challenging issue will be notably addressed also in the light of the emergence of the above mentioned “new rights”, which are defined exclusively by case-law. This subject will also be explored from the point of view of the decision-making techniques used by Constitutional Courts, focusing on constitutional systems of the country involved in the project.

The physical mobility part will take place from 9 to 13 June 2025, at the Department of Political Science of Sapienza Università di Roma. All activities will be held both in the mornings and in the afternoons.

Generally the afternoon will be dedicated to workshops where participants will be able to put into practice the notions assimilated during the lectures and work together in groups. In particular, it is planned to organize:

• an initial opening event to illustrate the various initiatives and welcome the participants;
• eight lectures given by professors involved in the project;
• three workshops actively involving the students;
• a round table discussion on the last day;
• a visit to the Italian Parliament.

The lectures and activities planned in person also represent an added value as they will allow students and scholars to exchange research ideas and study experiences, as well as to develop new lines of research for future joint projects.

Moreover, participants will gain the opportunity to be part of the academic community of La Sapienza, which is in fact one of the oldest universities in the world and the largest university in Europe. Its mission is to support the development of a knowledge society through research, excellence, high-quality education as well as international networking. This tradition of research and culture is fully rooted in the humus of a city whose millennial history has helped shape and define Europe's cultural and legal roots.

Virtual classes will take place between 3  February - 30 May 2025 and will be taught by experts and academics, providing insights on the topics, which will be further examined during the physical part.

Students from different universities will be involved in discussions with professors to compare their different backgrounds and share common views and analysis concerning the topics addressed during classes.

Materials for students will be provided and made available in advance through common and shared drives online, in order to provide a common basis for individual work.