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From 26 to 31 May 2025, ALDA carried out a high-level mission to Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan to explore possibilities for long-term collaboration and expand its work promoting local democracy, citizen participation, and civil society empowerment.

This visit followed a successful initial mission in 2024 and aimed to deepen relationships with key stakeholders, assess local needs, and evaluate opportunities for engagement within the framework of ALDA’s Thematic Hubs, including youth, gender equality, disinformation, and local economic development.

A Region Full of Promise – and Challenges

Despite the highly centralised nature of governance in both countries, the mission revealed a surprisingly dynamic and resilient civil society. ALDA was warmly received by a wide array of well-organised NGOs, think tanks, international donors, and institutional representatives, all expressing strong interest in working together.

“We encountered a level of modernisation, professionalism and openness that exceeded our expectations. While civic space is under pressure, particularly in Kyrgyzstan, the commitment to democracy and participation remains strong,” commented Antonella Valmorbida, ALDA Secretary General.

Notably, ALDA is playing a key role in a civil society initiative in Kyrgyzstan and is also contributing as a partner in related activities in Kazakhstan.

Priorities and Opportunities for Action

ALDA identified multiple thematic areas for engagement, adapted to the specific context of each country:

  • In Kazakhstan, decentralisation remains limited, but there is significant space to work on youth engagement, local governance training, gender inclusion, and anti-corruption transparency mechanisms.
  • In Kyrgyzstan, where a “foreign agent” law is narrowing civic space, local organisations are still managing to implement grassroots democracy projects—particularly in rural areas and among vulnerable populations.

From Astana to Bishkek, ALDA’s recent mission laid the foundation for future partnerships and democratic engagement across Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan.

Key opportunities emerged around the EU Global Gateway initiative, particularly in areas such as digitalisation, climate resilience, and regional cooperation. Both EU Delegations (Astana and Bishkek) expressed strong interest in collaborating with ALDA on these fronts.

Partnerships on the Ground

The mission involved meetings with over 20 organisations, including:

  • Wind of Freedom and the Legal Media Centre in Kazakhstan, working on human rights and digital freedom;
  • Civic Engagement Foundation, Development Policy Institute, and the Women’s Democratic Network in Kyrgyzstan, promoting local democracy and women’s leadership;
  • Key institutional partners such as the European Union Delegations, GIZ, and local governance institutes.

These meetings resulted in multiple concrete proposals for membership, joint projects, and expert exchanges within ALDA’s Knowledge and Expertise Hubs.

“Central Asia offers fertile ground for advancing ALDA’s mission. Through determined, culturally sensitive, and well-structured engagement, we can contribute meaningfully to the region’s development,” commented Irakli Jgharkava, Southern Caucasus and Central Asia coordinator.

Working Together for Participatory Governance

By forging relationships and co-designing projects with local actors, ALDA is positioning itself as a trusted partner for democratic resilience in Central Asia. The mission confirmed that despite the challenges—legal restrictions, centralised power structures, and shrinking funding—there is both capacity and appetite for a more inclusive, participatory, and decentralised governance model.

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On Thursday, 5 June 2025, ALDA took part in the launch of the Barometer on Living Together (“le vivre ensemble”), an initiative by Groupe SOS to mark its 40th anniversary, hosted at the Maison de l’Europe in Paris. The event, titled “Standing Together: The European Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) Commits to a More Inclusive and United Europe,” was organised by Pulse, #ALDAMember, based in France.

As the European Commission evaluates its Action Plan on the Social Economy, this event served as both a timely reflection and a strong call to action. With four thematic roundtables, it brought together practitioners, civil society actors, and institutional representatives to explore how the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) can foster social cohesion, democratic resilience, and inclusive growth across Europe.

The Living Together Barometer: Bridging the Gap Between Aspiration and Reality

The newly launched Barometer reveals a striking paradox: while a large majority of French citizens believe that “vivre ensemble”—living together—is essential for quality of life, 80% see it as an unattainable ideal.

One of the keynote speakers, Fatemeh Jailani, Deputy CEO of SINGA, addressed this gap. She suggested that the lack of a shared definition may fuel this disconnect. For SINGA, vivre ensemble is grounded in dignity, solidarity, and equality. The organisation works to build inclusive spaces that encourage social innovation, empowering individuals to forge balanced relationships and feel a sense of belonging.

SSE: From Ideals to Action

Europe’s Social and Solidarity Economy is more than a concept: it is a powerful engine for social transformation. With over 4 million organisations and 11 million workers across Europe, the SSE translates values into action, often with significantly fewer resources than the private sector—yet with remarkable efficiency and impact.

A strong message emerged throughout the discussions: European institutions and donors must not see SSE actors solely as project implementers, but as architects of systemic change. Supporting them means investing in sustainable, inclusive futures.

Transforming Local Economies, Empowering Communities

In a dedicated session on economic transformation, Kelly Robin, Deputy Executive Director of Pulse, highlighted how Pulse fosters impactful entrepreneurship through ecosystem-level support. This approach enables long-term structural change, such as improved job accessibility and economic inclusion.

She underlined the challenge of convincing organisations working on social inclusion to embrace entrepreneurship as a meaningful path for their beneficiaries—often met with scepticism. Pulse’s efforts in the Western Balkans, where youth migration remains alarmingly high (up to 30% in Bosnia), demonstrate the cross-border relevance of SSE.

Robin also called for adapted EU monitoring and evaluation tools, noting that traditional metrics (like the number of businesses created) fail to capture SSE’s true added value—such as supporting labour integration, social cohesion, and inclusive development.

Contributing to the European Social Economy Agenda

The event concluded with an invitation from the European Commission to contribute to the public consultation on the mid-term review of the Social Economy Action Plan. This is a crucial opportunity to ensure that the voices of grassroots SSE actors are heard and that EU strategies reflect the depth and diversity of their impact.

ALDA’s Commitment

As a committed member of Europe’s civic and democratic ecosystem, ALDA stands alongside Pulse, Groupe SOS, and all SSE actors in advocating for a more inclusive, participatory, and solidar Europe. Events like this reinforce our belief that local solutions—rooted in community, equity, and shared responsibility—are key to addressing Europe’s most pressing challenges.

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Domenica 11 maggio 2025 ALDA+, in collaborazione con l’Associazione “Guide Altopiano”, ha organizzato un’uscita guidata sul Monte Zebio per visitare luoghi simbolo della Prima Guerra Mondiale nei pressi dell’Altopiano di Asiago. Il percorso ha seguito l’Alta Via della Grande Guerra (AVGG), un itinerario di 200 chilometri che unisce i quattro sacrari simbolo della provincia di Vicenza (Pasubio, Cimone, Asiago, Grappa).

La giornata ha avuto inizio presso il Sacrario Militare di Asiago, ora chiuso al pubblico, ma che ospita decine di migliaia di soldati italiani e austriaci. Da Malga Zebio poi è possibile proseguire a piedi e percorrere i sentieri e le trincee utilizzate dai soldati. 

L’escursione ha attraversato l’Ecomuseo all’aperto di Monte Zebio, un’iniziativa promossa per valorizzare la memoria storica di questi luoghi ripristinando alcune trincee e gallerie militari. Quest’area è stata interessata dai bombardamenti dal primo all’ultimo giorno di guerra, e quindi è assolutamente normale ritrovare lungo il cammino schegge di granata, proiettili e altri tipi di vettovaglie utilizzate dai soldati. 

Per gli appassionati di letteratura, il percorso ha permesso di visitare gli stessi luoghi descritti in importanti opere di autori locali che raccontano la Grande Guerra, da Mario Rigoni Stern a Emilio Lussu.

Quest’ultimo fu un ufficiale della famosa Brigata Sassari, che dalla Sardegna fu mandata sulle montagne vicentine per resistere all’avanzata austriaca. Sul Monte Zebio si trovano infatti due cimiteri che accolgono le spoglie dei soldati sardi caduti sull’Altopiano, che sono ora terra sarda. 

Inoltre, il percorso ha toccato anche il monumento che ricorda la tragedia della “Mina di Scalambron” (ora zona sacra), dove nel 1917 l’intero Reggimento di Fanteria Catania fu spazzato via dall’accidentale scoppio della mina che loro stessi stavano preparando per contrastare un’altra mina austriaca, modificando completamente anche la morfologia dell’area. 

Tutta lo zona infatti fu trasformata dagli imperiali in un eccezionale caposaldo e punto di controllo su Asiago e sulla conca centrale altopianese. Fino al termine della Prima Guerra Mondiale rimase in mano austriaca, nonostante i numerosi e catastrofici tentativi italiani di riconquistare tutto il settore.

Infine, l’ambiente naturale ha riservato anche qualche sorpresa floristica e faunistica, a complemento di una mattinata ricca di storia e natura.Altre escursioni lungo l’AVGG sono in programma il 15 giugno (52 Gallerie del Pasubio) e il 20 luglio (Monte Ortigara). Per informazioni contattare luisa@aldaintranet.org.

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As the Civil Service year draws to a close on 11 June 2025, ALDA proudly celebrates the journeys of nine young volunteers who have spent the past year contributing to the association’s mission across its offices in Strasbourg, Brussels, and Skopje.

Their experience was made possible within the framework of the EU ACT – European Awareness for Civic Transformation project, part of the Italian Universal Civil Service programme. This initiative supports young people in developing civic competences and professional skills while contributing to the promotion of democracy and active citizenship across Europe.

Over the course of twelve months, the volunteers took part in a variety of activities — from event organisation and communication to project development and support — and played a key role in daily operations while discovering the values of European cooperation and democratic engagement.

Here are their reflections on this past year:

Strasbourg Office

“Working for ALDA in Strasbourg has been a challenging and rewarding experience. The atmosphere at work was always enjoyable, thanks to my supportive colleagues and the stimulating projects I worked on. I have learnt a lot over the last few months and I feel that this experience has given me a better idea of the type of job I would like to do in the future.” – Alice

“My time with ALDA in Strasbourg has been inspiring and rewarding. From the moment I arrived, I felt warmly welcomed by my team and colleagues. I am grateful for the lessons I learned and for the truly valuable experience.” – Elisabetta

“The Universal Civil Service at ALDA in Strasbourg has been an enriching experience, offering me the chance to grow both personally and professionally while contributing to meaningful projects. It has helped me develop new skills, connect with people from many different countries, and gain a deeper understanding of the value of active citizenship. I’m thankful for this opportunity and encourage others to stay open, curious, and willing to learn from every moment.” – Simona

Brussels Office

“Volunteering with ALDA in the Brussels Office has been a truly enriching experience! I’ve had the opportunity to meet inspiring people, collaborate closely with EU institutions and civil society organisations, and be part of a dedicated team.” – Martina

“Doing a year of civil service at ALDA has been a truly enriching experience. I’ve grown both professionally and personally, and will carry what I’ve learned with me in all that comes next. I’m glad to have had the opportunity to meet and work with the amazing people at the Brussels office who made this year truly unforgettable.” – Valeria P

“My year of Civil Service for ALDA was a well-rounded growing experience for me; working alongside the Project Design Department I learned the life cycle of a project and I was given the opportunity to take part in the development stages. For me this meant learning how to efficiently work in a team and dedicate myself to a common effort to bring an idea to fruition. I’m thankful for the Brussels office team’s helpfulness and great energy, I’ll cherish it forever!” – Emma

“The Universal Civil Service experience has been formative. As an assistant in the Project Management Department, I had the opportunity to work on projects related to circular economy, energy poverty, and support for marginalised communities, collaborating with organisations, associations, and municipalities from various Member States. It was both stimulating and inspiring.” – Valeria M

Skopje Office

“My experience at ALDA went far beyond any expectations I could have had. It was enriching, educational, and extremely interesting. Over the past year, I have learned a lot and met people who have left a lasting impression on me. I will carry this experience with me for the rest of my life.” – Tea

“My year with ALDA in Skopje allowed me to experience life abroad for the first time and engage in interesting projects in a new professional context.” – Federico

From Strasbourg to Skopje to Brussels, their voices reflect a common feeling of gratitude, personal growth, and lasting memories. ALDA thanks them all for their incredible work and wishes them the very best for the next chapters in their journeys — with the hope that the spirit of local democracy will always remain close to their hearts 💛

📸 Explore the photo gallery capturing some of the highlights from their year!

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📅 17-18 June 2025 📍 Università IUAV – Cotonificio, Venice – Italy

Europe’s rivers, lakes, springs, and wetlands, particularly those in remote and rural areas, are among the continent’s most undervalued yet vital natural and cultural assets. Threatened by urbanisation, depopulation, and lack of integration into mainstream environmental strategies, these waters risk being forgotten.

AQUATIK-EU, a new project led by ALDA – European Association for Local Democracy, aims to change this narrative. Funded by the European Union, the initiative empowers local communities and authorities to rediscover, protect, and revitalise Europe’s inland and lesser-known aquatic heritage.

From the mythic rivers of Souli, Greece, to the spring-fed hills of Sassinoro, Italy, the project maps and uplifts sites where water has shaped identity, livelihood, and ecosystems for centuries. In doing so, AQUATIK-EU promotes water not only as an environmental concern but as a cornerstone of local memory, governance, and resilience.

Join the first AQUATIK-EU International Conference that will take place on June 17 & 18 in Venice (Italy).

The first AQUATIK-EU International Conference will take place in Venice (Italy), the city of water par excellence, in at Università IUAV – Cotonificio on 17-18 June 2025. The two-day gathering will bring together over 70 participants, including local authorities, civil society actors, researchers, and citizens, from across Europe.

Participants will take part in:

  • A public conference addressing challenges and opportunities in managing inland water heritage followed by a networking aperitif;
  • Hands-on workshops led by environmental and digital innovation experts;
  • A local field visit, offering a first-hand experience of Venice’s digital water heritage trails.

The conference will explore how digital tools, participatory governance, and cultural storytelling can unlock the potential of overlooked water bodies to inspire sustainable development and strengthen territorial cohesion.

The event will open on Tuesday, 17 June at 11:00 with a Training of Trainers aimed primarily at local institutions and civil society organisations, but open to all those interested in community participation, environmental education, and the enhancement of water heritage. The training will run until 17:00 and will resume the following morning, Wednesday, 18 June, from 9:30 to 13:00.

In the late afternoon of 17 June, starting at 17:00, the public session of the conference will take place. Open to all, this session will be followed by a networking aperitif, designed to foster informal exchange among participants, experts, and institutional representatives.

AQUATIK-EU is more than a project, it is a call to action. By reconnecting people with their waterscapes, it strives to bridge the urban-rural divide, enhance community-led water governance, and foster a pan-European recognition of water as a common good and cultural treasure.

Join us in Venice to be part of this shared journey to protect Europe’s hidden blue heritage!

Join us! Register by clicking on this link.

Discover the agenda!

***

The event will be in English 🇬🇧, apart from the public conference on June 17 at 17:00, which will have Italian 🇮🇹 translation.

The project AQUATIK-EU is funded by the CERV programme and includes a consortium led by ALDA, and composed of Paese dell’acqua, Comune di Sassinoro, Global Network of Water Museums (WAMU-NET), Municipality of Souli, Fons Mallorquí de Solidaritat i Cooperació, Ayuntamiento de Alaró, LDA Mostar, Grad Mostar, Geoclube – Associação juvenil de ciência natureza e aventura, Município de Gondomar.

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Focus group in Northern France tackles Europe’s CRM supply and the role of regulation, rights, and community engagement

Introduction

On May 15, 2025, a diverse group of experts convened in Lens, a city in northern France, for a dynamic focus group centered on the future of Critical Raw Materials (CRM). Organised within the framework of the CIRAN project—co-funded by the European Union—the session addressed the environmental, social, and political dimensions of CRM extraction in Europe.

The event was co-organised by ACOM France, in close collaboration with ALDA and some members of the CIRAN consortium. Most participants were specialists in the field of critical raw materials, bringing a wealth of technical insight and practical experience to the discussion. The session, held in French, provided a space for in-depth reflection on Europe’s role in the global CRM landscape.

Main information

The focus group unfolded in an interactive, dialogue-based format built around a series of six key questions. These prompted participants to consider long-term scenarios for CRM production in Europe, as well as the broader implications for society and nature:

  1. What would happen if Europe stopped producing its own critical raw materials over the next 20 years?
  2. Conversely, what would happen if Europe maintained or increased its CRM production?
  3. What should the requirements be regarding environmental protection, workers’ rights, community interests, and public health?
  4. Are citizens sufficiently involved in decision-making processes related to CRM exploration and exploitation?
  5. Do current mining policies, laws, and regulations—especially those concerning protected areas—need to be adjusted? If so, how? To enable mining, or to better protect nature?

Throughout the morning, participants engaged in open conversation, sharing technical, ethical, and policy perspectives. The diversity of viewpoints led to a rich and multi-layered dialogue.

Key takeaways from the dialogue

• A shared recognition emerged that democratic processes are essential to the legitimacy and sustainability of mining initiatives. Mining without democracy, participants agreed, “will not work.”
• Community engagement from the very beginning of CRM exploration and extraction projects was emphasised as non-negotiable. Transparent dialogue and early consultation were seen as essential to building trust.
• Participants stressed the importance of regulatory enforcement. Both European and national authorities were called upon to uphold high standards for environmental and social protection.

Conclusion: local insights for European Policy

The Lens focus group contributes essential expert perspectives to CIRAN’s broader mission: building inclusive, democratic, and sustainable governance models for CRM in Europe. Alongside similar events held in Italy, Portugal, Czechia, Slovakia, and Ireland, the insights gathered in Lens will inform policy recommendations that respect both Europe’s resource needs and its environmental and social values.

A detailed report of the discussions in Lens will be prepared and included in a dedicated CIRAN project deliverable. Based on this and other local dialogues, the project will also produce policy recommendations for the European Commission, aiming to support the development of just, transparent, and effective CRM strategies across the EU.

Follow CIRAN for more ipdates: stay informed about CIRAN’s public dialogues, research findings, and policy developments by following us online

PROJECT WEBSITE
LINKEDIN

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On 13–14 May 2025, ALDA joined partners of the FOCUS project – Fundamentals of EU Charter use in society for its mid-term consortium meeting in Berlin, Germany, hosted at Refugio. The meeting marked a key moment to take stock of progress, deepen collaboration, and look ahead to the second phase of the project — one that will bring the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights closer to local communities across Europe.

A Charter that lives locally

The FOCUS project aims to promote the integration of the EU Charter at local and regional level, ensuring that the rights enshrined in the document become tangible in people’s everyday lives. The Charter, while often perceived as distant or complex, is in fact a tool to anchor democratic values in municipal policies, civil society initiatives, and public discourse.

ALDA plays a central role in bridging the Charter with local authorities and grassroots organisations, ensuring its principles are not just known, but implemented and owned by communities. Over the past year, ALDA has:

  • Identified and built a Community of Interest (CoI) made of associations of local authorities and civil society actors from five countries (Malta, Bulgaria, Italy, Belgium, and Spain)
  • Designed and delivered an International Training of Multipliers in Vicenza, equipping participants with the tools to promote and apply the Charter in their local contexts
  • Provided tailored support for the organisation of follow-up local trainings, which are now being scheduled across partner territories. Stay tuned!

The goal is to strengthen the connection between EU values and local governance, and support municipalities in translating fundamental rights into concrete action.

The FOCUS project brings together a diverse consortium of European organisations, each contributing unique expertise to the shared goal of promoting the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights at local level.

The project is coordinated by Democracy Reporting International (DRI) and implemented in partnership with:

  • ALDA
  • European Youth Parliament (EYP)
  • Are We Europe
  • Verfassungsblog (VfB)

Together, these organisations combine legal, civic, educational, and communication perspectives to ensure the Charter is understood, promoted, and embedded across European societies and arenas — from youth to media, from policymakers to local neighbourhoods.

Visit the FOCUS project website to stay up to date on news, events, publications and opportunities!

As underlined during the discussions, the implementation of the Charter at local level remains a complex task — but one that is essential to rebuild trust, ensure inclusion, and make the European Union meaningful to its citizens.

DISCOVER MORE IN THE PROJECT WEBSITE!

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The closing event of WE ACT – Women’s Empowerment and Mobilisation in Politics and Media, implemented by ALDA and Daktilo1984 with the support of the EU Delegation to Turkey, was hosted by the Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Istanbul on 15 May 2025.

During the 2.5-year project period, more than 100 women politicians, including active candidates in the 2024 local elections of Turkey, and nearly 100 civil society organisations from all over Turkey participated in the project.

In addition, with the sub-grant support provided to 21 civil society organisations, many local projects in the field of gender equality and empowerment of women and LGBTI+ were also supported.

The event started with the opening speeches of Mr. Arjen Uijterlinde, Consul General of the Netherlands in Istanbul, Mr. Jean Barbe, Head of Fundamental Rights and Civil Society Section of the Delegation of the European Union to Turkey, Ms. Giulia Sostero, ALDA Africa, SouthWest Asia and Türkiye Departments Coordinator, and Prof. İbrahim Enes Özkan, Co-Founder and Vice President of Daktilo1984. The representatives of these institutions that are contributing to the implementation of  the project highlighted their support for advancing gender equality in Turkey and reaffirmed their commitment to fostering inclusive and democratic societies. Both ALDA and Daktilo1984 emphasised their dedication to furthering efforts in this field, building on the lessons learned and experiences gained throughout the project.

Following the presentation of the project results and its success by ALDA Turkey Representative and Project Coordinator Zuhal Önal, 6 locally elected women politicians, who are also WE ACT participants, were on stage in the panel session titled “Women in Politics and Media”. Karşıyaka (Izmir) Municipality Council Member Aysun Kuru, Şehitkamil (Gaziantep) Municipality Council Member Ceren Benli, Yüreğir (Adana) Municipality Council Member Cevahir Yıldız, Seyhan (Adana) Municipality Council Member Duygu Atikaslan Ayçe, Yeşiloba Neighborhood Mukhtar (Seyhan, Adana) Nazife Tuzlar Elaldı, and Şahinbey (Gaziantep) Municipality Council Member Nurgül Doğan shared their experiences as women politicians who act on the local level, the challenges they have faced throughout their election journeys and suggestions for the women who would like to run for local elections in the future. Semin Gümüşel Güner, communication expert and project trainer from Fayn Press moderated the session.

Then, the projects that received sub-grant support under the Financial Support Program for CSOs for the Promotion of Gender Equality in Turkey were shared with the participants by ALDA Project Officer Burcu Genç. The event, which was attended by 91 people, ended with the “Networking and Marketplace” session, which allowed participants to network with each other.

The final publication of the project, We Succeeded Together: WE ACT Project Results and Good Practices, which presents the results of the activities carried out throughout the 30-month project, is planned to be published and disseminated in June. 

The WE ACT project stands out as a powerful initiative to amplify women’s voices in political decision-making and champion an equal future.

By empowering local actors and placing gender equality and participatory governance at its core, the project left a lasting mark on inclusive leadership and democratic transformation.

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On the occasion of the URC2025 preparatory event in Verona, an important in-person meeting was held under the umbrella of the Coalition for Sustainable Municipalities. Initiated and led by ULEAD with Europe, the Coalition brought together representatives of Ukrainian municipalities, international organisations, city networks, and development agencies to confront pressing challenges and accelerate sustainable reconstruction efforts on the ground.

Held alongside the “On the Road to URC2025” event, this coalition meeting became a unique space for direct dialogue with Ukrainian local authorities—many of whom travelled from municipalities deeply impacted by the ongoing war. The aim: to create a coordinated roadmap that puts finance, people, and partnerships at the heart of Ukraine’s local recovery.

Strengthening Local Governance, Together

The participants of the Coalition for Sustainable Municipalities share a joint commitment to good multi-level governance and are united in the belief that the recovery and reconstruction of Ukraine must be localised, inclusive, and resilient. The Coalition aligns around key shared principles:

  • Supporting decentralisation and the empowerment of local self-government in Ukraine;
  • Promoting municipal capacity development, particularly in areas such as damage assessment, urban planning, project management, and fundraising;
  • Enhancing access to finance for Ukrainian municipalities to prepare and implement recovery projects;
  • Expanding municipal partnerships to facilitate peer learning, secondments, and cross-border collaboration;
  • Ensuring no community is left behind, with a focus on smaller and more vulnerable localities.

Tangible Commitments and Coordinated Action

At URC2024, Coalition members announced €1.99 billion in new commitments dedicated to enhancing access to finance, capacity building, and municipal partnerships. This reflects not only the scale of ambition but also a shared recognition that bottom-up, well-coordinated efforts are essential for Ukraine’s successful recovery.

Contributors to the Coalition include a broad alliance of countries and organisations—ranging from the European Union, Germany, and Canada to the Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB), EIB, OECD, UNICEF, UN-Habitat, and ALDA, among many others.

Looking Ahead: From Dialogue to Action

The Verona meeting served as a catalyst for the months ahead. As Ukraine continues to face unprecedented challenges, this Coalition offers a practical, strategic, and inclusive platform for turning solidarity into results. With the final URC2025 conference in Rome on the horizon, the work of the Coalition—and the partnerships it nurtures—will be critical to shaping a recovery that is sustainable, democratic, and locally driven.

In collaboration with Ukrainian partners and international institutions, ALDA reaffirmed its commitment to advancing long-term partnerships that empower municipalities and strengthen their democratic infrastructure.

ALDA remains deeply committed to walking this path together with Ukrainian communities—because resilient municipalities are the backbone of resilient democracies.

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On 21 May 2025, the EPIC-UP project joins people around the globe in recognising the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development. First proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2002, this day highlights the richness of the world’s cultures and the essential role of intercultural dialogue in fostering peace, inclusion, and sustainable development.

At a time when global challenges test the social fabric of communities, this year’s observance is more relevant than ever. As societies grow more diverse, recognising and embracing cultural pluralism is not only a matter of human rights, but also of social resilience and innovation. In 2025, we are reminded that bridging cultural differences is not a utopian idea, but a tangible necessity for democratic, cohesive societies.

Recognising cultural diversity

Cultural diversity is central to who we are as individuals and communities. It shapes our identities, values, and ways of living. But its true power lies in its potential to bring people together, foster understanding, and drive social progress. Yet today, this potential is far from fully realised. Across Europe and beyond, polarisation, cultural misunderstandings, and exclusion continue to marginalise communities and hinder progress towards equality.

UNESCO calls for more concrete action in recognising cultural diversity as a global public good, embedding diversity and dialogue into education, urban planning, media representation, and digital spaces. The goal is to move from symbolic celebration to structural transformation.

Initiatives at EU level

Cultural diversity is a fundamental value of the European Union, embedded in Article 167 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU: ‘The Union shall contribute to the flowering of the cultures of the Member States, while respecting their national and regional diversity and at the same time bringing the common cultural heritage to the fore’. In practice, several EU initiatives actively support the promotion of cultural expression, inclusion, and collaboration across communities.

One of the most prominent is the Creative Europe programme. With a budget of €2.44 billion for 2021–2027, Creative Europe funds thousands of projects in the cultural and audiovisual sectors. Since 2014 the programme has been supporting projects that range from transnational theatre productions to community storytelling in migrant neighbourhoods.

To increase the visibility of Europe’s culture, the EU supports a variety of actions, initiatives, and prizes, such as the European Capitals of Culture, and initiative designed to:

  • Highlight the richness and diversity of cultures in Europe
  • Celebrate the cultural features Europeans share
  • Increase European citizens’ sense of belonging to a common cultural area
  • Foster the contribution of culture to the development of cities

The European Capitals of Culture 2025 –Chemnitz (Germany) and Nova Gorica/Gorizia (shared by Slovenia and Italy)- are hosting special programmes that highlight the power of cross-border arts, cultural participation, and civic engagement in strengthening social cohesion.

Another key instrument is the EU Anti-Racism Action Plan (2020–2025), which includes measures to improve cultural representation and diversity in media, education, and public institutions. It promotes structural change by supporting cultural projects that challenge racism and stereotypes, particularly through civic engagement and capacity-building.

The Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) programme also plays a role in promoting dialogue and inclusion. In 2025, CERV continues to fund grassroots organisations working on migrant inclusion, intercultural understanding, and democratic participation.

Together, these programmes reflect the EU’s recognition that cultural diversity is not a passive heritage, but an active force for building democratic and cohesive societies.

The role of EPIC-UP

In this landscape, the EPIC-UP project wants to play a role. By establishing Communities of Practice (CoPs) in six countries (Bulgaria, Germany, Greece, Italy, Poland, and Spain) EPIC-UP supports local ecosystems of inclusion. These CoPs bring together local authorities, migrants’ associations, civil society, researchers, and businesses to co-design policies and services that reflect real, lived diversity.

Through social innovation and experimentation, EPIC-UP empowers local stakeholders to test and refine new approaches to migrant integration and intercultural dialogue. From inclusive forums in Brescia to refugees’ kitchen in Oberhausen, these initiatives respond to specific local needs while feeding into broader European strategies.

On 21 May 2025, EPIC-UP highlights stories from its CoPs that show how cultural diversity is being translated into practice -how a shared meal, a collaborative theatre workshop, or a co-designed community service can become a building block for solidarity, civic engagement and stronger communities.

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On the occasion of the presentation of the 30th Migration Report 2025, the ISMU Foundation ETS offered a comprehensive overview of the evolution of migratory flows in Italy over the past thirty years. This period has seen the population with a migratory background grow to almost six million people, bringing profound social, cultural, and economic changes.

A Thirty-Year Evolution: From First Arrivals to Second Generations

Starting from the 1990s—marked by epochal events such as the fall of the Berlin Wall—Italy witnessed a progressive increase in the foreign population. Over the years, alongside the first generations, second generations have emerged, now adults, and third generations are beginning to appear. The acquisition of citizenship has accompanied this process: ISMU estimates that there are nearly two million “new Italians,” highlighting a now consolidated integration process, although not without its challenges.

The 2024 Figures

As of January 1, 2024, the number of foreigners present in Italy is estimated at 5.755 million, showing a slight decline compared to 2023 (-0.3%). However, the number of foreign residents has increased to 5.254 million. The irregular component continues to decrease, now at 321,000 people, or 5.6% of the total, continuing a downward trend started in 2019. Entries for work purposes, however, saw a sharp decline in 2023 (-42.2% compared to 2022), while requests for permits for family, study, asylum, and international protection purposes increased. Non-EU citizens holding a long-term residence permit number 2.139 million.

Landings and Asylum Requests: Mixed Figures

In 2024, sea landings stopped at just over 66,000, a sharp decrease compared to 2023 (-57.9%), while land arrivals in the first six months of the year totaled 3,400 (compared to 5,600 in 2023). Despite this drop, asylum requests in the first nine months of 2024 saw a surge: +27.1%, totaling 116,000 applications.

Immigration and Work: A Balance to Strengthen

In the labour market, the presence of foreign workers remains significant. In 2023, there were 2.317 million foreign workers aged 15 to 64. However, the employment rate for this group has declined over time: from 65.8% in 2005 to 61.6% in 2023. Conversely, the employment rate of Italians rose from 57.2% to 61.2%. Foreigners now represent 15.5% of total unemployed people, a figure that highlights the difficulties in fully integrating into the productive system.

School and Citizenship: New Generations at the Forefront

The school system reflects demographic transformations. In the 2022/23 school year, students with non-Italian citizenship (CNI), born in Italy or abroad, numbered 914,860, or 11.2% of the total student population (over 8 million). This data confirms that immigration is now a structural component of Italian society, starting from school desks.

Looking Ahead: Challenges, Opportunities, and Good Practices

The 30th Migration Report does not just present data; it invites reflection on the ongoing changes: from public attitudes towards immigration to the role of public policies and emerging challenges, including those posed by artificial intelligence and digitalisation. Building an inclusive, fair, and resilient society also depends on our ability to address these issues with vision and responsibility.

In this context, the AMIL project – Alliance Multi-stakeholders for Migrants Integration and Labour – was launched to contribute to the sustainable integration of third-country nationals into the labour market. The project is based on a collaborative and multi-stakeholder approach, involving institutions, businesses, third-sector entities, and migrant communities. AMIL aims to develop concrete tools to facilitate job placement, the recognition of skills, and the enhancement of migrants’ talents, also through actions aimed at overcoming structural and cultural barriers. Initiatives like this represent a fundamental step in transforming immigration from a challenge into a resource for the country.

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The AMIL project (Alliance of Multi-stakeholders for Migrants’ Integration and Labour) is a comprehensive initiative designed to empower migrants by facilitating their entry into the labour market through targeted interventions. At the heart of the project is the integration of language learning with structured professional orientation, based on the belief that integration begins with communication and is achieved through employment access.

Language and professional skills: a holistic approach to integration

A key component of AMIL is the delivery of A1–A2 level language courses, paired with tailored professional orientation support. These courses are aimed at asylum seekers, recognised refugees, holders of subsidiary protection, and unaccompanied minors, ensuring inclusive and tailored responses to a diverse migrant population across various territories.

The language curriculum goes beyond basic competence, focusing on real-life work-related scenarios. to equip participants with the communication skills needed for interviews, workplace interactions, and career development. The lessons include technical vocabulary and practical simulations, preparing learners both linguistically and in terms of understanding professional dynamics.

Equally important is the professional orientation module, offering guidance on the local labour market, workers’ rights, employment opportunities, and essential soft skills for workplace integration. This holistic approach promotes not only language proficiency, but also self-efficacy and the ability to make informed decisions about one’s professional future.

Small groups and welcoming environments

Courses are held in small, in-person groups to encourage active engagement, peer support, and personalised attention. Lessons take place in accessible and welcoming spaces, reducing logistical barriers and fostering a sense of belonging and community among participants.

A replicable model for migrant integration

The integrated AMIL model, combining language teaching and professional orientation, offers a scalable and replicable framework for migrant integration. By simultaneously addressing communication and professional development needs, the project supports migrants on a journey from survival to social, economic, and professional autonomy.

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Article in 🇮🇹 – 5° quesito del referendum sulla cittadinanza dell’8/9 giugno

Come Hub Migrazione di ALDA, abbiamo individuato la partecipazione civica delle persone migranti come uno dei pilastri fondamentali della nostra azione a sostegno della democrazia.

ALDA promuove la partecipazione attiva di tutte e tutti, consapevoli che una democrazia pienamente inclusiva non può prescindere dal coinvolgimento di chi vive, studia, lavora e contribuisce alla vita delle nostre comunità, anche se non ancora formalmente cittadino.

Per partecipare, tuttavia, è spesso necessario essere cittadini dello Stato in cui si risiede: un diritto a cui moltissime persone migranti non hanno facilmente accesso.

Il referendum indetto per l’8 e 9 giugno, in particolare il 5° quesito, riguarda anche questo: l’accorciamento dei tempi necessari per la richiesta della cittadinanza italiana, da 10 a 5 anni. Questa riforma potrebbe riguardare circa 2,3 milioni di persone in Italia.

Andare a votare – qualsiasi sia il quesito, e qualsiasi sia la propria posizione politica – è un atto di partecipazione importante e necessario per promuovere la salute della nostra democrazia.
Se non esprimiamo un’opinione come cittadini, la scelta verrà fatta al posto nostro, senza tener conto del nostro punto di vista.

Nel caso dell’8/9 giugno, il 5° quesito riguarda direttamente una categoria di persone che non ha ancora il diritto di votare, né alle elezioni né al referendum stesso: le persone in attesa di poter richiedere, o di poter ottenere, la cittadinanza italiana.

Come cittadini italiani, abbiamo il dovere di votare proprio perché loro non possono. In questo caso, i diretti interessati non hanno la possibilità di far sentire la propria voce.

Votare è quindi un gesto importante non solo per noi stessi e per la nostra democrazia, ma anche per tutte quelle persone che condividono con noi scuole, lavoro e spazi, e che vogliono costruire il proprio futuro in Italia.

Votare anche per loro è un passo significativo verso una società più inclusiva e più giusta, a beneficio di tutti.

TUTTO QUEL DA SAPERE PRIMA DI VOTARE

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On Monday 12 May, ALDA – the European Association for Local Democracy – took part in the high-level conference “On the Road to URC 2025 – Local and Regional Dimensions”, held in Verona and jointly organised by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry for Communities and Territorial Development of Ukraine, and the Italian Trade Agency (ICE).

The event, which featured the presence of Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and Ukrainian Minister Oleksii Kuleba, focused on the crucial contribution of local and regional authorities and the private sector in rebuilding Ukraine in a sustainable and inclusive way.

Marking a key milestone in the lead-up to the Ukraine Recovery Conference 2025 (URC 2025), scheduled for July in Rome, the Verona event created space for exchanging good practices, strengthening cooperation, and fostering synergies between institutions, businesses, and civil society actors.

ALDA not only contributed to but also supported the organisation of the conference, reaffirming its strategic role in promoting decentralised cooperation and citizen-driven recovery.

Indeed, Antonella Valmorbida, Secretary General of ALDA, moderated the Panel 2 dedicated to the theme: “How urban innovation and local leadership can shape Ukraine’s reconstruction” – a topic fully aligned with ALDA’s mission to strengthen local democracy and empower municipalities as drivers of long-term resilience.

The panel featured high-level speakers who shared bold strategies and concrete experiences from both Ukraine and across Europe:

▪️ Giacomo Possamai, Mayor of Vicenza (Italy)
▪️ Riccardo Varone, Mayor of Monterotondo (Italy)
▪️ Andriy Sadovyi, Mayor of Lviv (Ukraine)
▪️ Seri Sukhomlyn, Head of the State Agency for Restoration and Development of Infrastructure in Ukraine, SARDI
▪️ Paweł Gancarz, Marshal of the Lower Silesia Voivodeship (Poland)
▪️ Véronique Bertholle, Co-rapporteur on the recovery and reconstruction of Ukraine of the Congress of the Council of Europe and Deputy Mayor of Strasbourg
▪️ Matteo Rivellini, Head of Eastern Neighbourhood Public Sector Division, EIB
▪️ Denis Galovy, Senior Banker, Infrastructure, EBRD
▪️ Fabio Russo, Chief MSME Development and Job Creation Unit, UNIDO

Their contributions highlighted the vital importance of urban innovation, cross-border cooperation, and municipal leadership in advancing Ukraine’s recovery – not only as a response to the destruction of war, but as an opportunity to rethink governance, economy, and social inclusion from the ground up.

➡️ Discover more about ALDA’s work on Ukraine and read our Flagship Initiative

This conference in Verona sets the stage for the upcoming Ukraine Recovery Conference 2025, taking place this July in Rome — an international gathering that ALDA will also take part in, continuing its commitment to local democracy as a foundation for Ukraine’s sustainable recovery.

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From 2 to 4 May 2025, the city of Mestre, Italy, became a vibrant stage for imagination, activism, and artistic innovation as it hosted the first edition of Stop e-Motion Days (SeM Days) — an international festival entirely dedicated to the magic of stop-motion animation. Organised by the cultural collective Quarta Parete and held at the M9 Museum of the 20th Century, the festival welcomed audiences from across Italy and beyond to celebrate this unique cinematic form that blends handcrafted techniques with boundless creativity.

SeM Days presented a rich and diverse programme that went far beyond film screenings. From claymation and puppet animation to pixilation and cutout styles, the festival showcased the many possibilities of frame-by-frame storytelling, offering space to both emerging and established creators. A series of masterclasses, retrospectives, interactive workshops, and talks fostered learning and dialogue, while exhibitions and educational labs created direct links between students, professionals, and the local community.

A Cultural Space for Civic Engagement

As an organisation committed to strengthening democracy through citizen participation and cultural dialogue, ALDA proudly joined SeM Days as an official partner, supporting the festival both financially and through active involvement in its programme.

Recognising the power of the arts to promote civic awareness and democratic values, ALDA established the “Premio ALDA” (ALDA Award) — a special prize granted to a short stop-motion film that embodies European values and encourages active participation. The award was conceived not only as a recognition of artistic excellence but as an opportunity to highlight works that inspire audiences to reflect, act, and engage.

A dedicated jury of ALDA staff and members, coordinated with the support of ALDA Board Member Francesco Zarzana, reviewed over 70 films submitted to the festival’s international competition. Among the many powerful and moving entries, “Our Uniform” by Iranian director Yegane Moghaddam stood out for its originality, emotional depth, and clear message. Through a delicate and personal lens, the film explores the relationship between identity, gender roles, and memory, using school uniforms as a symbol of social expectations and internalised narratives.

🎬 “Our Uniform” tells a deeply human story with minimalist beauty and profound resonance. It is a moving example of how artistic expression can challenge norms and spark reflection — perfectly aligned with ALDA’s mission.”

ALDA Takes the Stage in Mestre

During the festival’s opening ceremony on 2 May, ALDA’s Secretary General, Antonella Valmorbida, delivered institutional greetings and reaffirmed ALDA’s commitment to culture as a vector of democracy and participation. Speaking to an audience of artists, educators, and citizens, she emphasised the importance of supporting spaces where artistic talent meets civic engagement.

At the closing ceremony on 4 May, Alice Lazzarin, ALDA’s Project Manager, joined Valmorbida in awarding the ALDA Prize and announcing the winning film. The moment marked not only the culmination of the jury’s work but a celebration of the shared values that connect creativity and civic consciousness.

ALDA also engaged internally by encouraging its staff to take part in the jury. Over a dozen colleagues volunteered to watch and assess the competing films, bringing diverse perspectives into the evaluation process. This initiative further exemplified the collaborative spirit and commitment to participation that ALDA promotes across all its activities.

SeM Days: A Festival that Builds Bridges

More than just a film festival, Stop e-Motion Days aims to establish a lasting space for cultural exchange. Rooted in local enthusiasm and driven by the energy of young volunteers, it offered a rare opportunity to merge the world of cinema with democratic reflection. ALDA’s involvement helped reinforce this bridge, demonstrating how European cooperation can thrive in creative, community-based spaces.

The initiative also aligned with ALDA’s participation in OG25 – the 2025 Year of Active European Citizenship, underlining the organisation’s belief that culture is an essential dimension of public engagement.

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In order to promote good governance and citizen participation at the local level in Europe and beyond, ALDA supports citizens and groups of citizens in their initiatives aimed at improving their local context, building bridges with local authorities in order to make the change real. In this framework, ALDA works through a participatory approach and the method of multilateral decentralised cooperation, always focusing on strong partnerships between local authorities and civil society organisations.  

ALDA works with and for local resilient communities, to address the future challenges from a democratic, environmental, social and economic point of view

The call for proposals aims at strengthening a worldwide global alliance of local and regional authorities and civil society actors working together in local communities, in order to make them more resilient, socially and economically successful, more inclusive, sustainable and fair.

This call was addressed to ALDA members based in the EU which presented their own projects focused on improving conditions for civic and democratic participation in Europe, supporting an inclusive and people-oriented economic local development all over Europe and promoting a profound sense of “local ownership” and engagement within communities.

These organisations will implement different strategies at local level targeting different vulnerable groups in areas such as: education, citizens engagement, health, climate action, gender equality among others.

ALDA received many interesting and qualitative applications. After the evaluation was carried out by an appointed Selection Committee (SeC), 16 organisations from 6 different countries were selected.

These 16 beneficiaries of the regranting programme are:

  • ALDA member: Studio Progetto Social Cooperative
  • ALDA member: Agora CE o.p.s
  • ALDA member: Associazione Luciano Lama ODV
  • ALDA member: Replay Network aps
  • ALDA member: The Human Rights Cities Network (HRCN)
  • ALDA member: APS “La Mente Comune”
  • ALDA member: Stand Up for Europe
  • ALDA member: Caracol
  • ALDA member: KASA
  • ALDA member: Biosphaera s.c.s.
  • ALDA member: Peipsi Center for Transboundary Cooperation
  • ALDA member: ICEI – Istituto Cooperazione Economica Internazionale
  • ALDA member: Associazione per l’Ambasciata della Democrazia Locale a Zavidovici – Impresa Sociale
  • ALDA member: A.S.D. VICENZA CALCIO FEMMINILE
  • ALDA member: Comuni Virtuosi 
  • ALDA member: Albansko kulturno društvo Lirija Velenje

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Two intensive days of exchange and collaboration have just concluded in Bucharest, Romania, where partners of the NEVERMORE project gathered for a strategic in-person meeting hosted by SIMAVI.

Held on 7–8 May 2025, the NEVERMORE Partners Meeting brought together the consortium to take stock of progress and reinforce the shared vision of building a climate-neutral and resilient society. With one year left before the project’s conclusion, the gathering provided a crucial opportunity to align on priorities and accelerate coordinated efforts.

From simulation tools to policy development, every session was aimed at turning research into impact

During the meeting, the NEVERMORE project partners presented their actions for the next 4 years and the The meeting opened with a general project update and a round of Work Package presentations, offering a comprehensive overview of activities across the modelling, technical development, and policy engagement strands. The first day then delved into key modelling tools, including the WILIAM model and its application at both EU/global and local scales. A key objective was to ensure coherence between simulation outcomes at different levels, enhancing the quality and usability of the results.

A central focus of the discussions was the status of the ICT Toolkit—a cornerstone of the NEVERMORE project. Partners examined its current development, evaluated user needs, and defined a clear roadmap for testing and demonstration. Conversations also explored the integration of the Toolkit with policy simulations and its potential value for external stakeholders.

The second day shifted attention to the co-creation of policy recommendations, stakeholder involvement strategies, and the next rounds of local consultations at case study level. Partners identified the different alignment needs between scales and defined simulation responsibilities to support strong, evidence-based policy outputs. The meeting also marked a moment to consolidate planning for training activities, including MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) and Train-the-Trainers programmes.

Midway through the second day, the spotlight was on communication and dissemination. The session, led by ALDA, addressed how to keep stakeholders engaged, build momentum around the ICT Toolkit, and amplify the project’s outcomes across policy, scientific, and public arenas. Planning of social media campaigns, upcoming publications, and long-term collaborations—including with the IPCC, Covenant of Mayors, and EU Missions—featured prominently in the discussion.

Two productive days left the NEVERMORE consortium energised, focused, and strategically aligned for the final year of the project.

The meeting closed with a workshop on the exploitation and replicability of NEVERMORE results, including reflections on business models and IPR management. A shared commitment emerged: to turn the project’s insights into actionable tools and strategies for local and regional climate resilience.

NEVERMORE is funded by the Horizon Europe programme under grant agreement No 101056858.

Learn more: https://nevermore-horizon.eu

Stay tuned and follow NEVERMORE’s social pages: TWITTER| INSTAGRAM| YOUTUBE|

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NEVERMORE Horizon Eu project includes the following partners:

Consortium in the meeting room
Consortium in the meeting room during WPs presentations
Consortium in the meeting room during interactive workshops
Consortium exploring the city of Bucharest in the evening

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“Europe will not be made all at once, or according to a single plan. It will be built through concrete achievements which first create a de facto solidarity.”
Robert Schuman, 9 May 1950

Seventy-five years after Robert Schuman spoke these words, they continue to resonate with clarity and urgency. His vision was not only one of economic cooperation, but of political courage, reconciliation and peace. His was a vision rooted in a simple yet radical idea: a united Europe, built on solidarity, democracy and shared destiny.

On 9 May 2025, ALDA marked this anniversary with a European Breakfast at its office in Vicenza, gathering colleagues, partners, and public representatives to honour that legacy and reaffirm its meaning today.

The event welcomed MEP Alessandra Moretti (Partito Democratico), Giacomo Bez (Councillor of the Veneto Regional Council’s Third Commission) and Enrico Peroni (representative of the European Federalist Movement Vicenza), who joined ALDA staff and guests for a moment of conviviality and shared reflection.

Alessandra Moretti delivered a compelling speech, highlighting the importance of ALDA’s mission in today’s geopolitical and democratic context. She recalled her visits to countries such as Serbia, where ALDA and its network work tirelessly to promote local democracy and citizen participation, even in challenging political environments.

In her words, ALDA embodies the spirit of the European project: bringing Europe closer to its people and ensuring that democracy is not a distant ideal, but a lived reality — especially in regions where it is most fragile.

Her message was clear: in an age of disinformation, democratic backsliding and armed conflict on our borders, Europe needs actors like ALDA more than ever. Because it is in towns, villages, and communities — not only in capitals — that Europe is built.

Europe Day is not just a commemoration. It is a moment to take stock of where we stand and where we are heading. As Europe grapples with war on its doorstep, rising extremism, and environmental urgency, ALDA stands firm in its commitment to local democracy, civic engagement, and solidarity across borders.

In the spirit of the Schuman Declaration, ALDA works through concrete achievements:

  • empowering young people to engage in public life,
  • supporting municipalities in crisis zones,
  • and defending civil society where it is under threat.

From Ukraine to the Western Balkans, from the Caucasus to the Mediterranean, ALDA acts where European values are most at stake — and most needed.

The celebration continued

On Saturday 10th, 2025, under the arches of the Loggia del Capitaniato in Piazza dei Signori, the city of Vicenza honoured Europe Day 2025 and the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration with an open-air ceremony blending music, civic reflection, and citizen participation.

The event, co-organised by the Municipality of Vicenza, ALDA – the European Association for Local Democracy, and the Movimento Federalista Europeo (MFE), brought together local institutions, European networks, and civil society in a heartfelt celebration of the values that underpin the European Union: peace, democracy, and solidarity.

Giacomo Bez, City Councillor and moderator of the event, led a vibrant programme that featured opening renditions of the Italian national anthem and Ode to Joy, performed by Enrico Poletto (piano), Chiara Ambrosini (violin), and Caterina Marchesini (vocals).

The speakers – Enrico Peroni (MFE Vicenza), Marco Ghiotto (writer), Antonella Valmorbida (Secretary General of ALDA), Marco Scorzato (journalist, Giornale di Vicenza), and Giacomo Possamai (Mayor of Vicenza) – offered powerful insights into the meaning of Europe today. They highlighted both the legacy of those who fought for a united continent and the need to preserve and advance the rights and freedoms we often take for granted.

As emphasised throughout the ceremony, Europe is not only a political project — it is a civic and cultural bond that lives in its people. Events like this are a testament to that spirit, and to the shared responsibility to keep it alive for generations to come.

At Vicenza, Europe is alive — and its future is in good hands.

A Living Legacy

When Robert Schuman laid the foundation for what would become the European Union, he was not guided by ambition, but by a deep moral obligation: to prevent war, to promote reconciliation, and to give citizens control over their shared future.

Today, ALDA carries forward that legacy. Through our work on the ground, we turn the words of Europe’s founding fathers into reality — ensuring that the European project remains not only alive, but thriving.

As we mark Europe Day 2025, we do so with conviction:
That Europe is not complete.
That its values must be defended.
And that each of us — from civil society to institutions — has a role to play in shaping its next chapter.

Let us celebrate Europe. But above all, let us build it — together.