The Lusatian Transformation Council will serve as ZeStuR’s permanent networking and advisory body. It brings together stakeholders from Lusatia who play key roles in structural change, whether as shapers, administrators or those directly affected. They will meet once a year to discuss current challenges, conflicting objectives and development prospects relating to structural change in a practical and collaborative manner.

Through a constructive dialogue based on trust, the Lusatian Transformation Council aims to provide insights into ZeStuR’s research and to continuously align this with practical experience. This will enable the identification of advisory and research needs within the region. As a multi-year body, the Council is intended to facilitate a continuous and cross-thematic exchange on an equal footing between all stakeholders involved.

The inaugural meeting will take place alongside the official launch of ZeStuR on 10 September 2026 in Cottbus.

Open Call: Members sought for the Lusatian Transformation Council

To form the new Lusatian Transformation Council for the period 2026–2030, the Centre for Structural Change and Regional Development (ZeStuR) at the Brandenburg University of Technology is seeking active representatives from the fields of civil society, business, culture, education, administration/local politics and academia in Lusatia.

Why should you get involved?

• You can discuss the region’s research needs with academics from the Centre
• You will be part of a cross-thematic exchange on an equal footing with other active stakeholders in Lusatia regarding structural change
• You will discuss the Centre’s current state of research and compare it with your own practical experience

Who are we looking for?

• You are a representative or hold a position or office in the following fields: civil society, business, culture, education, administration/local politics or academia
• You have many years’ experience with structural change processes in Lusatia and a good overview of the subject
• You are well connected within the region, your field of work and/or beyond
• You care deeply about the future of Lusatia and are keen to engage in critical discussion with others on this topic
• You are available to attend Council meetings for 3–6 hours at least once a year over the next four years, and to work in small bilateral groups where necessary
• You are in favour of open and respectful dialogue with the members of the Transformation Council and the Centre
   

How much work will I have to do as a member?

Council meetings take place once a year (approx. 3–6 hours) at various locations across Lusatia. Depending on requirements, individual topics are explored in greater depth in working groups. The Council’s term and your membership are currently set to run for the duration of the ZeStuR, from 2026 to 2030.
 

How can you become a member?

Would you like to become a member of the Transformation Council for the next four years? Please email us by 10 August at kontakt(at)zestur.de, stating your name, your organisation and your area of work. We would be delighted if you could include a brief statement outlining the issue you would like to raise within the Transformation Council.
 

How are members selected?

As the number of participants is limited, a selection process will be necessary. The aim is to achieve a balanced composition for the Transformation Council, representing as many sectors of society and sub-regions of Lusatia as possible. All applications will be reviewed promptly. You will then receive a response by email.

Do you have any questions about the open call? If so, please feel free to email us at: kontakt(at)zestur.de