This symposium represents the inaugural event of its kind within the RIECS-concept project, as a first in-person event engaging the community. RIECS-concept "Towards a Pan-European Research Infrastructure for Excellent Citizen Science” is funded by Horizon Europe under the Horizon Research Infrastructures main programme, specifically under the topic consolidating and developing research infrastructures of European
interest. The project aims to conceptualize a pan-European infrastructure for citizen science through activities planned until December 31, 2027. During this period, the consortium will organize multiple events designed to understand the challenges, opportunities, and needs of the citizen science community and other stakeholders while developing a comprehensive infrastructure model.