Economics, Diplomacy and Integrity Croatia: Giving Hope and Encouragement in a Challenging World

The "Economics, Diplomacy, and Integrity" (EDI) forum, held in Tuk Vojni, Croatia, from August 15-23, 2024, brought together 40 students and young professionals from Romania, Serbia, Croatia, North Macedonia, Moldova, the U.S., and Belgium. The attendees, who work in fields such as economics, social work, public government, politics and business, were united by a common interest in ethical leadership and following the principles of Jesus. The event aimed to inspire hope and encourage integrity in leadership, with a particular focus on addressing the social and economic challenges faced by Southeast Europe and the broader Europe. Speakers from diverse backgrounds, such as Dr. Justin Kagin, Mihaela Kovacs, Dr. Noemi Mena Montes, Klariska ten Napel, and Robert Maričak, shared their experiences and insights on leadership, business, and service. 

Throughout the week, the event explored the theme of integrity, drawing on the teachings of Jesus. Dr.Justin Kagin's session on integrity used the story of Zacchaeus to demonstrate how an encounter with Jesus leads to repentance and just action, emphasizing the importance of ethical conduct in business, such as paying taxes and leading with transparency. Mihaela Kovacs shared her testimony on how God's love enables anyone, regardless of status, to be a vessel for positive change. Participants were encouraged to view success not just in terms of wealth or career achievement but in how they can serve others with humility and love, following Jesus's example.

The forum also addressed practical challenges relevant to both Southeast Europe and the EU, such as migration, economic development, and women in leadership. Dr. Noemi Mena Montes focused on debunking myths about migration, pointing out that many negative perceptions are based on stereotypes and inflated figures. Her session highlighted that societal issues often blamed on migration, such as job shortages or housing crises, are usually caused by poor management of migration policies rather than migration itself. She highlighted that when governments mismanage resources and integration systems, it exacerbates tensions and fuels negative perceptions of migrants. Jack Fallow explored the unique strengths women bring to leadership, emphasizing discernment and relationship-building. Klariska ten Napel drew from the life of St. Benedict to discuss the importance of balancing work and rest, illustrating how contemplation and prayer can strengthen leaders' capacity to serve.

EDI also included several fun and relational activities, such as group trips to the Croatian coast, which allowed participants to relax, bond, and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. These informal gatherings were essential for building deeper connections among the attendees, fostering a sense of community, and creating opportunities for networking in a relaxed atmosphere. By sharing meals, exploring the rural area in Tuk Vojni, and engaging in lighthearted events such as a talent show, participants were able to strengthen relationships, which enhanced the collaborative spirit during the Forum and hopefully afterwards as well.

EDI concluded with a powerful message of love as the core of ethical leadership. Participants were urged to let love, inspired by the life and teachings of Jesus, guide their actions in both their professional and personal lives. They presented their ideas and were judged in a fun way, offering some advice on how to carry them forward when they returned home.

Integrity, humility, and service were consistently presented as keys to creating a just society. The EDI program emphasized throughout that success is more than material gain—it involves contributing to the society, strengthening communities through cross-cultural friendships, and living out one’s faith through action. The participants left inspired to apply these principles in their careers and lives, with the goal of bringing about positive change in their respective regions and beyond.