About us
Founded in September 2024 by Raphael Rodes and Matys Kocaj-Grienenberger, the Institute for Central and Eastern European Societies (ICEES) is an independent, non-partisan and non-profit organisation based in France. The Institute's missions are found in it's motto which is:
Our ‘raison d'être’
The Institute for Central and Eastern European Societies is dedicated to addressing what many scholars and political analysts describe as the “East–West Divide” in Europe by promoting cultural awareness about Central and Eastern Europe, education, and youth engagement across Europe. The European Union has prioritized economic and political integration, often overlooking a key pillar of unity: culture. This has deepened internal divisions and weakened cohesion due to a lack of mutual understanding between Eastern Europeans and Western Europeans.
Our mission is to:
Promote cultural understanding – Through reporting on underreported news, providing courses, seminars, and conferences in which we highlight the region’s history, politics, cultures, and languages.
Empower young voices – We provide a platform for young voices from Central and Eastern Europe to discuss a diverse range of issues.
Strengthen European identity – We connect young generations, fostering a pluralistic and inclusive European future.
Encourage participation – ICEES promotes democracy, free speech, and representation for young people in shaping Europe’s future.