Romania is not immune to extremism and intolerance, dangers that often target those who defend the truth, demand transparency and raise alarm bells, President Nicusor Dan said in a message sent on the occasion of the 23rd edition of the Civil Society Gala.

In this context, the head of state emphasizes, support for civil society must remain firm and constant.

Nicusor Dan showed that civil society representatives manage, with limited resources, to make major contributions where the state is not sufficiently involved.

'I know how much effort everything you do involves and I thank you for not giving up on defending the vulnerable causes in our society. I also convey to you my full gratitude for the support you have given me during this period, for all your encouragement and actions!', said the president.

The head of state mentioned that, over time, all those who work in civil society have the merit of having set the tone for public mobilization for the defense of the rule of law and for the respect of civil rights and freedoms.

'You are the first to report injustices, sanction slippages and make your experience available to contribute to change and reform. As the voice of civil society has become stronger and more mature, democracy in Romania has become more stable and consolidated. When some want to divide us, we must remain lucid. Let us listen, seek understanding, build bridges, not walls. Romania can develop through solidarity, dialogue and involvement. Only together - decision-makers, politicians and civil society - will we bring the state closer to the citizen and thus restore trust in institutions. We need each other to succeed', declared Nicusor Dan.

He stressed that civil society plays an essential role in the life of the city, providing 'expertise, solutions where public institutions are blocked and keeping the collective conscience awake, ensuring citizens a way to participate in the democratic process, not just by voting, but by getting directly involved'.

According to the president, 'recent crises have clearly shown us that civil society has defended fundamental values and demanded responsibility where indifference and carelessness of political actors or authorities had taken root'.

'Democracy is not complete without the voice of citizens, and this gains strength through organizations and initiatives that give meaning and direction to the community. Major institutional reforms are not enough, we need an active, vigilant and courageous civil society. The civic gestures of those who choose collective interest over personal interest are moral landmarks that must be encouraged, supported and promoted', stated Nicusor Dan.

The president added he unhesitatingly supports the collaboration between authorities and civil society, so that the cause of citizens is always heard and listened to.

'I believe in a Romania in which citizen participation is not only allowed, but encouraged and respected', emphasized Nicusor Dan.

The message was presented by State Councilor Catalina Galer. AGERPRES (RO - editor: Florentina Peia; EN - writing by: Bogdan Gabaroi)