DPC Series 2025–2026 | Session 1: Rethinking Risk – Resilience in Times of Political Instability
As political landscapes across Europe and beyond become increasingly volatile, social enterprise support organisations (SESOs) are navigating a climate of heightened risk and uncertainty. On July 22, Euclid Network hosted the first session of its DPC Series 2025–2026, focused on the theme: “Rethinking Risk: Resilience in Times of Political Instability.”
The session brought together EN members for a peer learning exchange on how SESOs can build organisational resilience and stay mission-focused when facing shifting political and policy contexts.
We were honoured to welcome Zeliha Çürüksulu, Coordinator at Nilüfer Belediyesi Social Entrepreneurship Center (Turkey), who shared her organisation’s real-world experiences in navigating political pressure, building local trust, and adapting leadership strategies in times of uncertainty.
Key Takeaways from the Session
1. Resilience Is Local, But the Challenge Is Shared
Zeliha reminded participants that political risk often manifests differently across national contexts but the underlying need to adapt, protect mission integrity, and safeguard teams is universal. Understanding local political dynamics is essential, but learning from peers across borders is equally valuable.
2. Adaptive Leadership Is Core to Risk Management
Organisations cannot always anticipate instability, but they can prepare to lead through it. Zeliha spoke about the importance of emotionally intelligent leadership, transparent communication, and involving teams in decision-making during difficult moments.
3. Trust and Community Engagement Are Strategic Assets
In politically sensitive environments, building and maintaining strong relationships with local stakeholders and communities can serve as a buffer against external pressure. The session highlighted how authentic community engagement strengthens credibility and social licence.
4. Documentation, Values, and Legal Readiness Matter
Participants discussed the importance of having clear value statements, internal governance protocols, and legal safeguards in place, particularly when facing potential restrictions, censorship, or regulatory shifts.
5. Peer Support and Networks Help Build Collective Resilience
Members shared examples of how being part of trusted European and national networks has helped them exchange strategies, gain visibility, and advocate more effectively in challenging times.
Participant Reflections
Throughout the session, participants reflected on the relevance of political risk in their own contexts and the practical steps they are taking or planning to take to strengthen resilience.
Several participants highlighted the role of community trust as a stabilising force during times of uncertainty, echoing the session’s emphasis on local engagement. Others shared their growing interest in formalising risk management practices, particularly in areas where policy shifts have recently impacted funding, visibility, or operational autonomy.
The session also prompted reflection on internal resilience – how to protect team well-being, maintain mission clarity, and adapt leadership styles when operating in volatile environments. Participants expressed appreciation for the peer learning space, noting that hearing from others facing similar challenges helped validate their own experiences and approaches.
What’s Next
This session marked the beginning of a new Capacity Building Journey within the DPC Series. Upcoming sessions will continue to explore how SESOs can strengthen their internal capacities and scale impact in the face of complex challenges.
If you missed the session and would like access to the materials or recording, please contact ines@euclidnetwork.eu.
Let’s continue building resilience – together.
