ALDA at the Heart of the 10th European Summit of Regions and Cities: Fostering Democracy and Celebrating ALDA Members

In the city of Mons, Belgium, from 18th to 19th March 2024, the 10th European Summit of Regions and Cities unfolded as a pivotal gathering, drawing leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders from across Europe. Organised by the European Committee of the Regions (CoR), the summit served as a platform for critical discussions on democracy, governance, and the future of Europe.

Mr. Margritris Schinas, European Commission Vice-President for Promoting our European Way of Life, in his keynote address, emphasised the need to reinforce Europe’s centrality and resilience. Ensuring the integrity of the electoral process emerged as a priority, particularly in the face of ongoing challenges and attacks against EU regions and cities. Schinas highlighted the importance of readiness for upcoming elections, noting Europe’s demonstrated capacity for progress when met with determination and willpower.

Within the program, particular attention was directed towards Ukraine, underscoring the imperative of bolstering democratic values and resilience in the midst of ongoing crises. This resonates with ALDA’s commitment to supporting local democracy in Ukraine, where it collaborates closely with partners through the Flagship Initiative in Ukraine.

ALDA’s stand, a prominent fixture throughout the summit, served as a hub for dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing

Notably, the Italian Delegation of the European Committee of the Regions visited ALDA’s stand. This institutional encounter saw the presence of key figures including Ms. Antonella Valmorbida, ALDA Secretary General; Ms. Nataša Vučković, Vice-President of ALDA, and Mrs. Maddalena Alberti, President of ADL Zavidovići Association, with her delegation. This engagement underscored ALDA’s pivotal role in shaping the local context and advancing social inclusion, reaffirming the organisation’s commitment to fostering dialogue and collaboration at the heart of European governance.

Right at the end of the summit, the Mayor Paweł Adamowicz Award Ceremony emerged as a poignant moment of recognition. The ADL Zavidovići Association, an ALDA member, was honoured with the esteemed award for its exceptional contributions to local and regional governance. Originating amidst the turmoil of the Bosnian War, the association’s evolution into a dynamic force exemplified the transformative power of grassroots initiatives in driving positive change.

ALDA Secretary General, Ms. Antonella Valmorbida, hailed the ADL Zavidovići Association’s achievement as a testament to its unwavering commitment to strengthening local communities. The award ceremony, scheduled on the fifth anniversary of Mayor Paweł Adamowicz’s tragic assassination, served as a solemn tribute to his enduring legacy of inclusivity, solidarity, and diversity in local governance.

As the summit concluded, the resonance of its discussions echoed beyond the confines of Mons, reverberating across Europe and beyond. ALDA, at the forefront of these deliberations, remained steadfast in its mission to promote good governance, citizen participation, and social cohesion at the local level. As Europe navigates the complexities of a rapidly changing world, ALDA stands poised to continue its vital work, fostering local democracy.

As the summit wrapped up, its discussions rippled far beyond Mons, leaving food for thought to the participants, coming from all over Europe and beyond. ALDA’s presence with the stand played a central role throughout, staying true to its core mission of promoting good governance, citizen participation, and social cohesion at the local level. As Europe confronts ongoing changes, ALDA stands ready to continue its crucial work, supporting and strengthening local democracy.