Month: April 2022

The project P-CUBE – Playing Public Policy is an educational digital game aimed at teaching students, professionals and public officials how decisions are taken in the public sphere by covering the individual elements of the policy making process. 

The purpose of P-CUBE is to unveil the complexity of public policy making by teaching the players the elements that policy entrepreneurs must take into consideration in their planning, and the ways in which they can try to alter these elements in order to introduce the desired innovation.

The educational digital game includes 30 different missions in 4 domains, namely urban innovation, social inclusion, science & public policy and EU decision making.

The players are confronted with real life situations and by playing they develop the strategic thinking that is needed for accomplishing their mission, which is a successful change in policy. By the end of the game they learn how to shape public policy by successfully navigating the maze of complex decision-making processes. 

So, are you ready to play public policy?!

Then, become one of the pilot communities that will test the digital game!  Contact us at pcube@aldaintranet.org

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Useful links:

• Follow the project on Linkedin and Twitter to get all updates

Subscribe to the P-CUBE newsletter to receive all the latest news on the project and the game!

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🇺🇦 Read the news in Ukrainian

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As mentioned in our previous article, ALDA joined the “The Nature of Cities” (TNOC) Festival as partner of the 2022 edition.

Focusing on several transdisciplinary issues, be they environment or social justice; TNOC animated 3 days of Festival all over the world with countless events. Benefiting from the expertise of the Association, and the achievements reached through its projects, ALDA actively participated to TNOC with four different initiatives, namely: “Life BEWARE”, “Life FALKON”, “CAP-PERI” and “Climate of Change”.

Starting with “Life BEWARE”, the project joined the festival with two sessions dedicated to climate resilience and cities, namely: “Re-shaping cities – how urban areas can tackle climate change” and  “Nature Based Solutions for a more resilient territory”.  The former took place on March 29th from 16 to 17:30 CET.

The session focused on the topic of Cities’ resilience to Climate Change and, thanks to the contribution of four Life Projects  projects, it highlighted various ways and best practices in which urban areas can successfully address this issue, in an innovative way. In addition, the involvement and collaboration of four Life Projects has been particularly relevant considering that this year is the 30th year anniversary of the Life Programme. What an occasion to deepen knowledge on the environment! Among the keynote speakers:

Giulio Pesenti – Life Beware; Valeria Fantini – ALDA – European Association for Local Democracy; Maria Rosaria Scoppettuolo and Valeria Guerrini – Gruppo CAP (LIFE METRO ADAPT project); Daniela Luise and Giovanni Vicentini from LIFE VENETO ADAPT –project and Andrea Paindelli,  LIFE BAETULO project. 

Scheduled on March 30th from 16:00 to 17:30, the second event, entitled  “Nature Based Solutions for a more resilient territory – How can Municipalities better implement them?”, focused on promoting and encouraging the replicability of Nature Based Solutions. The workshop was held by Technicians and Professors of the Department of Territory and Agro-Forestal Systems (TESAF) of the University of Padua and was targeted to EU Municipalities. The goal of the workshop was to teach local administrators how to better implement these measures on their territories, starting from the experience and the best practices of the Life Beware Project. Several professionals joined, especially from the University of Padova Lucia Bortolini, Francesco Bettella, and Francesco Pagliacci were among the key experts at the event.

Moving on to “Life FALKON”, the events related to the projects tackled three main aspects, be thay: light pollution, urban development, human coexistence. Overall, the 2 LIFE FALKON workshop broadcasted within the Nature Cities Festival, aimed to raise awareness on the importance of planning more bird-friendly cities. More in detail, the first “WINGED CITIES 1 –  Birds and the challenges of urban life, started at 11 AM on 30 March 2022. Participants listened to an overview of the challenges birds face in terms of coexistence within the urban environment especially in light of pollution and urbanization. Valuable information were provided thanks to the contributions of LIFE FALKON Coordinator Michelangelo Morganti from CNR-IRSA Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Juan Josè Negro from CSIC-EBD, Davide Dominoni from University of Glasgow, Dan Chamberlain from Turin University.

Moreover, the second “WINGED CITIES 2 – Practical issues for bird-friendly cities” revolved round the strategies and actions to actuate in order to foster a  more bird-friendly. Some cases-study and best practices have been shared, starting from the conservation actions implemented by the life falkon project (focus on nesting boxes). As for the previous workshop, LIFE FALKON partners Roula Trigou and Nikos Tsiopelas from HOS/BirdLife – Hellenic Ornithological Society, Andrea Pirovano from Progetto Natura actively joined.

Shifting from fauna and biodiversity to agriculture, the “CAP-PERI” Project, aiming to increase citizens knowledge about the CAP and sustainability, presented 10 different sessions: five sessions with experts and five virtual field trips. The seminar “Theater and urban regeneration: the Silent Play” showed a participatory creative process that engages the local communities and their relationship with the territory; while “Skills and competencies for sustainability in agriculture” provided a reflection on the use of social research methodology to increase competencies and skills in sustainability. In addition, “Learning Bubbles” focused on a methodological system aimed at re-establish the students’ access to teaching. 

Furthermore, EU initiatives and participants’ experiences were discussed at the dedicated session entitled “Tips for a more sustainable student lifestyle”. Finally “Organic farming and the importance of the Mediterranean diet in the prevention of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases” closed the sessions.  All in all, the field trips were an opportunity to discover urban gardens in Palermo, Rome and Mesagne and the participatory activities carried out at the South Milan Agricultural Park and in the periurban area of Carpaneda in Vicenza. 

Finally,  ALDA shared with participants the results of “Climate of Change” project, focusing on  and the commitment to the environmental, and migration issues, while stressing the need of a coherent and unite action, as expressed in the micro-talks and a documentary projected, containing, among others, all the information about the project, the campaign and the petition.

In addition, interactive presentations on the project and two virtual visits to green spaces in Strasbourg and Brussels were presented, highlighting the importance of the connection among human beings and environment, with special emphasis on the importance of small and local actions. 

Overall, this festival was an opportunity to share and deepen some of the central themes of ALDA’s projects, while allowing participants to explore  a more sustainable type of urban planning; protect biodiversity, while fostering a new attitude as far as agriculture concerns. development of urban areas for a better environment!

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🇦🇲 Read the news in Armenian

🇬🇪 Read the news in Georgian

🇷🇴 Read the news in Romanian

🇺🇦 Read the news in Ukrainian

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Everyone all over Europe and beyond is committed to help refugees from Ukraine. This is the case of the “Union of Rural Communes of the Republic of Poland” as well. Thus, the two countries share a border of more than 500 km, and in these days exactly this border has become a destination of many. Among them: the municipalities located in the Bieszczady and Lesko poviats [counties].

Yet, the towns and cities bordering directly with Ukraine are now struggling to provide care to people escaping the war.  At the same time, these spots are the first places where refugees arrive, right after crossing the border, and this is where they expect to receive help.

Therefore, on behalf of these municipalities, the “Union of Rural Communes of the Republic of Poland” has launched an initiative in order to provide help, especially in terms of:

• food products (especially those with an extended shelf life); 
• bottled water, drinks and fruit juices; 
• sleeping bags, duvets, blankets, mats, pillows etc.; 
• personal hygiene products; dressings; 
• drugs and medicinal products (especially painkillers, protective ointments, disinfectants, anti-inflammatory and anti-emetic agents, etc.)

To enable the proper selection of aid and its transport, the Union provides the following address details of municipalities in need of support:                         

• Municipalities in Bieszczady poviat [county]: 
  • Czarna Municipality, Mayor – Bogusław Kochanowicz e-mail: uwad@czarna.pl, phone:  (+48)13 461 90 09; 
  • Lutowiska Municipality, Head of the Municipality – Krzysztof Mróz e-mail: gmina@lutowiska.pl, phone: county  (+48)13 461 00 13; 
  • Ustrzyki Dolne Municipality, Mayor – Bartosz Romowicz e-mail: um@ustrzyki-dolne.pl, phone: (+48)13 460 80 00;

• Municipalities in Lesko poviat [county]:  
  • Lesko Municipality, Mayor – Adam Snarski e-mail: gmina@lesko.pl, phone: (+48)13 469 66 15; 
  • Baligród Municipality, Mayor of the Municipality – Robert Stępień e-mail: gmina@baligrod.pl, phone: (+48)13 468 40 64; 
  • Cisna Municipality, Mayor of the Municipality – Renata Szczepańska e-mail: sekretariat@gminacisna.pl, phone: (+48)13 468 63 38;
  • Olszanica Municipality, Mayor of the Municipality – Krzysztof Zapała e-mail: gmina@olszanica.pl, phone: (+48)13 461 70 45; 
  • Municipality of Solina, Mayor – Adam Piątkowski e-mail: uwad@solina.pl, phone: (+48)13 469 21 18.

 ALDA supports the spread of its Members’ actions, such as “Union of Rural Communes of the Republic of Poland”,  and initiatives to alleviate human suffering, in these terrible times of war.

“Bored of Borders”: ACHIEVE (Awareness of Common History for Identifying and Extending the Values of Europe) project final event  took place from the 4th to the 5th of April in Vicenza, Italy. Organised by Istituto Rezzara, the meeting was held in a hybrid mode allowing all the partners, 14 from 13 different countries, to join the event. 

Councillor Francesco Faresin from Breganze Municipality, leader of the project, gave his opening speech, welcoming the partners to the event. The latter, after having discussed the financial reporting on the project, presented the last Local Path done by each organisation, together with the results achieved and the future objectives.  

As stated by the partners, the activities carried out during the project have been an opportunity to increase awareness on the European identity, observe and evaluate people’s behaviour toward Euroscepticism, and provide the tools to fight its wide spread.  

Moreover, in the afternoon a public event was held with the project presentation followed by each partner’s insight into their activities, values, and purposes. Then, Global Citizenship Map, launched by ALDA, collected all the materials (photos, videos, articles) related to the projects, recording all the the activities implemented .

The first day of event ended with the workshop, entitled “Movement of people. Borders crossing in light of the recent crisis”. Specifically, the seminar focused on migration and Euroscepticism, it was coordinated by Professor Giuseppe Franco Pesavento and counted with the presence of Professor Vittorio Pontello and Khrystyna Kvartsiana, Programmes Development Officer of ALDA, that presented their reflections on the current crisis. 

Hence, the workshop was a considerable opportunity to confront and exchange ideas and perspectives on the current Russian attack in Ukraine. It was especially meaningful given the fact that the participants belonged to different countries, some members of Europe and some neighbours. Khrystyna Kvartsiana shared her insights not only from her professional expertise, but also from her personal experience as an Ukranian citizen. 

The second day focused on the project evaluation. The partners shared their points of view on the project’s development and its strongest and weakest aspects. 

The day concluded with a visit to Vicenza city centre, the partners had an excellent guide,Silvia De Mori, from Istituto Rezzara, that shared with enthusiasm her knowledge on art history.

Finally, ALDA would like to thank Istituto Rezzara for the welcoming hospitality

The European Label of Governance Excellence (ELoGE) was introduced in Kosovo during the kick-off event organized on the 6^th of April 2022 in Pristina. From a general perspective, this event has to be understood within a broader context, in which ALDA is operating. Thus, the Association has been awarded accreditation to implement ELoGE not only in Kosovo*, but also in Bosnia Herzegovina and North Macedonia.

Focusing on the launching event in Pristina, the Minister of Local Government Administration of Kosovo, Mr. Elbert Krasniqi opened the ceremony highlighting the importance of democratic principles in the process of local development, emphasizing that “Human rights, democracy and the rule of law are three basic pillars through which we aim to help municipalities in democratic governance. Through this program, municipalities will be assisted in improving their performance in providing high quality services within an improved system of local self-government”.

During the opening remarks, ALDA’s Secretary General, Ms. Antonella Valmorbida presented the experience of the Association implementing ELoGE in different countries and contexts. The Head of office of Council of Europe office in Pristina, Mr. Frank Power put forward the work of the Council of Europe in the country and the advanced environment when it comes to good governance in the past years. Mr. Niall Sheerin from the Centre of Expertise for Good governance concluded that the ELoGE label is awarded to municipalities which have achieved a high level of good governance measured against a Council of Europe benchmark.

More that 20 representatives from municipalities followed the presentation of the phases of ELoGE implementation and expressed their interest in engaging in the self-assessment process.

The implementation of ELoGE in Kosovo relies on a partnership between the Council of Europe, the Ministry of Local Government Administration and ALDA as organisation with substantive know-how, expertise or experience in the field of good governance, especially at the local level.

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More on the commitment of ALDA on  ELoGE:

New accreditation for ALDA bringing the ELoGE to Kosovo
Updates on the “ELoGE” initiative for Croatia and North Macedonia
Launching of ELoGE in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Are we experiencing a turbulent moment of democracy? Is the latter hanging in balance? 

The recent crises, both in terms of health and war, are thus challenging the democratic stability in the global scenario. Complex issues required effective actions. 

Thus, there is a need for coherent and effective responses from governments and institutions, when it comes to the rise of authoritarianism, tragically illustrated by the war in Ukraine, or pandemics such as COVID. These responses will also influence the degree of citizens’ trust towards democracy. 

In light of this, Club de Madrid, European Partnership for Democracy and International IDEA organise the session “Democracy at a tipping point?”.  This event will focus on identifying mechanisms to improve democracy’s ability to address crises, by exploring three basic pillars of action: responsible leadership, resilient institutions and digital democracy. The occasion will also serve as a moment for panelist to address and discuss the recommendations of Club de Madrid’s Annual Policy Dialogue 2021 “Rethinking Democracy” as well as its “GlobalCommission on Democracy and Emergencies”.

María Elena Agüero, Secretary General, Club de Madrid; Sam van der Staak, Head of International IDEA’s Europe Programme,, will open the session, which will have among its keynote speakers:

• Danilo Türk, President of Slovenia (2007-2012) and President of Club de Madrid; 
• Yves Leterme, Prime Minister of Belgium 2008,2009-2011) and Member of Club de Madrid;
• Antonella Valmorbida, President of European Partnership for Democracy and Secretary General of ALDA.

Facilitator: Marilyn Neven, Programme Manager, International IDEA.

Join the event:
April 7 from 09:00 – 10:30 p.m. (CET)
Press Club, Rue Froissart 95, 1000 Brussels
Register here: https://bit.ly/350wlCk

The Mayor of Wrocław, together with the Metropolitan of Wrocław are supporting an emergency campaign to provide help to people in Ukraine. 

From a general perspective, many States, such as Poland, have developed several initiatives since the beginning of this conflict. The “red and white” country, considering also its geographical proximity with Ukraine, has been welcoming a great number of civilians forced to leave their homes.

Luckly, the spontaneous actions of human solidarity are countless, testifying how collaboration, dialogue and mutual help are the key to overcome this surreal situation.

Specifically, “Help for Ukraine” initiative, is mainly based on two strands: 

• Food collection
• Donation

As far as supplies are concerned, the organisers are suggesting to donate, when possible, non-perishable food, which will be donated to citizens of Lviv. Any school in Wrocław has been appointed as a collecting point.

ALDA is very much glad to share this initiative, and would like to thank its Vice President, and Governing Board Member, Mr. Ostrowski, who informed the Association of this great action in Wrocław.

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More information available in Polish, English and German here

We are glad to announce that the Ordinary Annual General Assembly of ALDA will take place on May 6th, 2022, in Strasbourg, within the framework of the Strasbourg Summit.  The event will gather ALDA colleagues, its Governing Board, members and friends, to share the results and achievements of the Association while discussing future steps and strategies..

Considering the recents events, such as the ongoing war in Ukraine, it comes with itself that the commitment of ALDA in supporting the culture of dialogue, empowerment of local communities and fostering of good governance does play an important role in promoting peace and democracy.

The latter, not only is the guiding light of the Association, but is also one of the ten key topics at the centre of the Conference on the Future of Europe (CoFoE) in which ALDA has been deeply involved, through multiple projects, but also as coordinator of the Democracy cluster of the “Civil Society Convention on the Conference on the Future of Europe”. 

Specifically, coming towards the end of the CoFoE, Civil Society Organisations will gather together at the Strasbourg Summit, willing to raise attention to people’s needs, hopes and expectations. The idea behind the summit is, thus, to make citizens’ voice heard, while empowering them.

ALDA General Assembly 2022 will envisage several side events on the topic of awareness raising on democratic governance. More in depth, it will be based on three main pillars: migration, climate and education which will be tackled within the projects EPIC, Climate of Change and GEM-IN respectively. 

Overall, by this annual meeting, ALDA will further develop its actions, stressing its dedication to build a more peaceful and resilient environment, by building bridges and partnerships with other stakeholders and realities.

🔏 Register to the General Assembly

📄 Take a look at the Agenda

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🇦🇲 Read the news in Armenian

🇬🇪 Read the news in Georgian

🇷🇴 Read the news in Romanian

🇺🇦 Read the news in Ukrainian

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A cloudy day did not stop partners of the “CAMELOT Project” to reach the headquarters of the “Metropolitan Area of Barcelona” (AMB), to join the second international meeting on 28 March 2022.

Structured as two-days event, the meeting started with a presentation, by the Deputy Head of the Unit of Communication, DG Regio – European Commission, Mr. Diego Villalba, presenting data from Eurobarometer. Specifically, based on a survey investigating the awareness of people on EU co-funded projects, in terms of cohesion funds, in their own areas/neighborhood/cities, Mr. Villalba showed the positive impact that these funds have on those polled. 

This first presentation opened the floor to further discussion, digging deeper into the core of the project itself: creation and improvement of instruments to increase citizens’ participation in public decisions, also in relation to the European Funds and energy transition. Starting from the “Model Region Green Hydrogen” in the Stuttgart Region (Baden-Württemberg), targeting the usage of hydrogen to connect different sectors, be they industry and mobility; to the action plan on energy sustainability (SECAP) developed by the city of Zagreb; “POCITYF” project presented by the Metropolitan City of Bari; aimed at better manage energy consumption, also when it comes to the impact of cities a global scale.

The meeting then continued with the second roundtable, highlighting, this time, the digital aspects and initiatives in urban areas. As for the first occasion, partners shared initiatives implemented in their own realities. “ESMARTCITY” initiative, targeting the reduction of energy consumption while exchanging best practices with other cities, by Metropolitan City of Milan; or the project implemented by the Municipality of Craiova on means of transportation, also in terms of mobility for highschool students, and pupils. Similarly, “SWITCH TO INNOVATION” project, is meant to digital innovation and accessibility to technology in the city of Valongo. Last but not least, the city of Gavà presented “GAVIUS” boosting the use of artificial intelligence to engage citizens with the services provided by public administrations for example.

In addition, the afternoon was dedicated to an interactive workshop during which participants share, by using colored papers, their opinion and ideas on different topics, such as digital, social, and green

Finally, considering the current situation in Ukraine; the presence of representatives of Gdansk Metropolitan Area, and the commitment of this city in reuniting more than 200 mayor all around Europe to join forces earlier in March, Mr. Michal Glaser presented the joint statement in support of Ukrainian people.

With great engagement from all participants, the meeting ended with the steering committee of the CAMELOT Project.