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.

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.

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

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:

“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.

In 2025, ALDA proudly launches its Thematic Hubs and Regional Hubs, reinforcing its commitment to building resilient democracies by amplifying internal expertise, increasing member engagement, and fostering strategic cooperation. This revitalised framework provides a stronger foundation for knowledge-sharing, cross-regional collaboration, and targeted action to address today’s democratic and societal challenges.

Thematic Hubs: Specialisation, Synergy, and Strategy

Thematic Hubs are vital platforms that bring together ALDA staff, members, and partners around core topics such as active citizenship, human rights, decentralised cooperation, local economic development, and environmental sustainability. Their aim is to:

  • Strengthen ALDA’s strategic action through thematically structured expertise;
  • Involve members more systematically in projects, events, and policy development;
  • Encourage cross-departmental and cross-regional collaboration;
  • Support the implementation of ALDA’s Strategy 2024–2028;
  • Contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Each hub is led by a Chair, Co-chair, and a Hub Coordinator. This leadership ensures a balanced governance structure that combines civil society and local government perspectives. Coordinators are responsible for aligning the hub’s strategy with ALDA’s current and future projects, monitoring progress through biannual reports, and mobilising stakeholders as needed.

What’s New in 2025?

The relaunch introduces a stronger and more operational approach. Key updates include:

  • Clear appointment of Chairs and Co-chairs, with roles approved by ALDA’s Governing Board;
  • Enhanced onboarding process for hub leaders to foster a shared vision and understanding of ALDA’s strategic goals;
  • A checklist-based onboarding toolkit, helping Hub Coordinators communicate effectively and prioritise engagement opportunities;
  • Regular interaction between Chairs/Co-chairs and ALDA staff for strategic alignment, member mobilisation, and external representation;
  • Dedicated communication campaigns and improved digital visibility for each hub.

Each Thematic Hub will engage in activities such as mapping projects and stakeholders, training and knowledge-sharing, supporting project development, and leading advocacy efforts at various levels. These operational activities are designed to create bridges between projects, partners, and policies, and to enhance ALDA’s impact on local and global scales.

Regional Hubs: Local Roots, Global Vision

In parallel, ALDA’s Regional Hubs continue to provide a vital territorial dimension to the association’s work. Covering areas such as the Western Balkans, Eastern Europe, the Mediterranean, and beyond, Regional Hubs:

  • Ensure that ALDA’s actions remain anchored in local contexts;
  • Facilitate peer learning among members and Local Democracy Agencies (LDAs);
  • Build synergies between geographic and thematic priorities;
  • Offer strategic entry points for project development and member involvement.

By promoting ownership at the regional level, these hubs serve as crucial catalysts for transnational cooperation and community empowerment.

Key Dates and Next Steps

  • April 24, 2025: Onboarding meeting held with Hub Coordinators to align strategy and structure;
  • May 2025: Launch of visibility campaign on the appointment of Chairs and Co-chairs;
  • Spring–Summer 2025: Preparatory webinars with members;
  • Autumn 2025: In-person hub events and workshops integrated into relevant projects, offering concrete spaces for member input and collaboration.

In the first year of this renewed format, events will be strategically linked to existing projects due to budget constraints, ensuring efficient resource use while maximising visibility and participation.


By launching the Thematic and Regional Hubs, ALDA empowers its community to shape the future of democracy — grounded in local realities, driven by shared expertise, and connected to global change.


➡️ Stay tuned for updates on hub activities, upcoming events, and ways to get involved. Thematic and Regional Hubs are not just structures — they are spaces where democracy is lived, learned, and led.

Is your organisation interested in circular economy and looking to explore its public engagement strategies and foster greater participation in circular initiatives? 

ALDA is happy to announce its upcoming workshop titled “Enhancing Public Engagement in Circular Transitions”. 

When: Monday, the 19th of May 2025 

Time 10:00 to 12:40 CET 

Where:  Zoom.

Register here.

The engagement of stakeholders in circular governance is essential to secure an effective implementation of circular initiatives as stakeholders can help identify the most relevant circular economy challenges and opportunities in different sectors , especially in the first design phase of the implementation.

Organised within the framework of the project: Circular Cities and Regions Initiative Knowledge Hub (CCRI Knowledge Hub), a Horizon Europe funded by the European Commission, this workshop  is designed to equip participants with both conceptual and practical tools on designing and crafting an effective stakeholder engagement strategy to make circular initiatives more effective and inclusive.

The workshop is tailored to the needs of the Poltava Region in Ukraine, ALDA’s member and one of the mentees selected for the Mentoring Programme of the project. The event will include:

  • Conceptual understanding of public engagement in circularity
  • Practical strategies for citizen and stakeholder involvement
  • Insights into digital tools and participatory approaches
  • Real-world examples from across Europe

The workshop can be relevant for regions in early circular transitions phases and novices


Participants will explore how circularity can be embedded in governance, how to foster community-driven solutions and how to use innovation and e-democracy tools to strengthen local action. The workshop will delve into the European Commission’s Circular Cities and Regions Initiative methodology as well as best practices from projects that have successfully engaged public authorities and civil society in circular solutions.

The event will close with an interactive session, allowing participants to apply their newly acquired knowledge and explore the dynamics of circular transitions from multiple perspectives.

Check out our full agenda here.


Attendees will gain invaluable insights into engaging stakeholders in circular governance


Do not miss this opportunity to refine your approach to public engagement and contribute to the future of sustainable circular practices.

Secure your spot now by registering at this link, and join us for this enlightening journey.

Please be informed that the workshop will be recorded for collection and distribution purposes and that it will provide interpretation services translating from English to Ukrainian.

The 20th edition of the Europe autour de l’Europe Film Festival concluded in Paris yesterday evening, marking the end of a 15-day celebration of European cinema, dialogue, and cultural diplomacy. The closing ceremony, held on 29 April 2025 at Cinéma Les Parnassiens, brought together filmmakers, partners, and cultural stakeholders from across the continent to honour the diversity and vitality of European creativity.

ALDA proudly took part in the event as a partner of the Mouvement Européen Paris, reaffirming its commitment to fostering European integration through cultural dialogue and civic engagement.

Representing ALDA at the closing event were Francesco Zarzana, President of the Italian cultural association Progettarte and member of ALDA’s Governing Board, and Manal Snidi, Communication Officer at ALDA. Their presence underlined ALDA’s growing role in supporting cultural initiatives that bridge citizens and institutions through artistic expression and critical reflection.


Cinema is a powerful tool to promote democracy, diversity, and shared European heritage,” stated Francesco Zarzana. “By supporting events like this, ALDA contributes to keeping civic values alive across borders.”


A highlight of the evening was the awarding of the E-motion Prize, jointly presented by the Mouvement Européen Paris and ALDA. The prize – named to evoke Europe, movement, and cinema – was created to honour the documentary that best reflects European values such as democracy, human rights, and freedom.

This year, the prize for Best Documentary was awarded to Nonkonform by Arne Körner, in recognition of both its artistic quality and the enduring civic commitment of its protagonist, Dietrich Kuhlbrodt. A lifelong human rights advocate active at the local level, Kuhlbrodt’s story resonates strongly with the democratic principles at the heart of ALDA’s mission.

The closing night also featured a screening of Fairytale by Alexander Sokurov, a dreamlike and provocative reflection on authoritarianism, history, and memory – echoing the festival’s 2025 theme, Europe and Memory.

Throughout its two-week run, the festival offered a wide-ranging programme of European films, debates, and workshops across iconic venues in Paris, engaging the public in conversations on identity, history, and the future of Europe.

As a partner of the Mouvement Européen Paris, ALDA continues to strengthen its presence in France and across Europe through strategic collaborations that unite civil society, institutions, and the arts. In recent years, ALDA has placed increasing emphasis on culture as a key component within its core themes, recognising the vital role of artistic expression in promoting active citizenship and democratic resilience. Initiatives such as this festival fall perfectly within this scope.

The event also served as a valuable platform for networking, intercultural exchange, and future cooperation among European associations.

For more information on the festival and its programme, visit the EVROPA FILM AKT website.

On February 18th and 19th, SPUR (Social PostCovid19 Urban Revitalisation) project  consortium met in Vodnjan-Dignano, Croatia, to review the outcomes of the co-design processes implemented by partners for their action plans aiming at making cities more resilient and inclusive and to explore innovative crowdfunding models thanks to the trainings provided by Mr. Zoran Rajn and Ms. Sabina Valić.

The first day started with a warm welcome from the Mayor, Mr. Edi Pastrovicchio, who highlighted the importance of projects like SPUR that systematically promote exchanges and discussions between public authorities and citizens, ensuring that cities become concretely more resilient and inclusive for everyone.


SPUR project supports cities in becoming resilient and inclusive for everyone


During the first year of the project, the SPUR project supported the pilot cities (Vodnjan-Dignano (HR), Etterbeek (BE), Città Metropolitana di Milano (IT), Agrigento (IT), Vila do Conde (PT), Harghita County (RO)) in organising focus groups and citizen consultations. These activities aimed at identifying the most urgent challenges, which subsequently served as the foundation for collaboratively designed action plans to address these issues.


“SPUR is a local-based way to put democracy into action”


The rest of the morning was dedicated to exploring the city of Vodnjan-Dignano focusing on its rich history, culture and community initiatives that are revitalising the town. The EcoMuseum and the Didactic Farm are successful initiatives designed to address social challenges such as isolation and social reintegration of marginalised individuals while simultaneously equipping individuals with skills and delivering benefits to the wider community.

In the afternoon, SPUR partners presented the results of the action plans that had been co-developed and co-designed with local citizens, addressing needs identified in previous months, such as impoverished relations, social isolation, social anxiety, which we covered more in depth in our social media channels: Facebook and Instagram. Pilot areas’ main challenge was making initial contact with citizens which was overcome in different ways.

Initiatives such as community gardens, musical events, animated readings, church choirs, and sessions with psychologists were introduced as targeted responses to improve socialisation and to alleviate the isolation experienced by marginalised groups, including the elderly, young people, and migrants.

Pilot areas’ main challenge was making initial contact with citizens


The second day focused on exploring new ways to fund their action plans: the training specifically covered crowdfunding as well as opportunities within the European Solidarity Corps and Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs. The session was led by Mr. Zoran Rajn, Founder and President of the Centre for Social Innovation and Sustainable Development (CEDIOR) and Executive Director of the International Crowdfunding Centre (ICFC), alongside Ms. Sabina Valić, Project Manager and President of the Association Informo.

Mr. Rajn’s training covered all aspects of developing a crowdfunding campaign, emphasising the importance of choosing the best model of crowdfunding and the time required to plan, implement and deliver the campaign. Additionally, Mr. Rajn provided some tips and best practices regarding what the presentation of a crowdfunding campaign should have to be successful: a catchy title and slogan, an effective storytelling accompanied by coherent visual materials fostering empathy and listing the rewards for funding the campaign.

Ms. Valić focused on the objectives and characteristics of the European Solidarity Corps and Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs, showcasing the benefit of hosting a young adult as a source for innovation.


Millions of crowdfunding campaigns are launched every year but only a few get funded


To conclude the two-day meeting, the town of Dignano presented its urban and social revitalisation strategy through the “ASTRA” project, an initiative aimed at reimagining the old school by giving it a renewed, sustainable purpose for community benefit.

From 14 to 16 April 2025, partners of the SCEPA project came together at HAN University of Applied Sciences in Nijmegen, the Netherlands, for an intensive three-day meeting dedicated to strengthening cooperation and advancing the fight against energy poverty.

The gathering combined field visits, workshops, and public exchanges, highlighting a shared ambition: building a just energy transition that leaves no one behind.


Empowering Residents: Insights from the Public Symposium

On 15 April, over 70 participants — including municipalities, civil society organisations, and researchers — joined a public symposium hosted by HAN University. The event fostered lively exchanges on resident engagement in energy poverty strategies.

HAN University presented findings from its research on approaches to energy poverty across Northwest Europe, emphasising the crucial role of residents’ perspectives in crafting effective policies.
Speakers Riane Kuzee-Hoogeveen and Jo Bothmer provided inspiring examples of how residents’ experiences can shape more equitable solutions.

Interactive workshops allowed participants to share methodologies and best practices, enriching the collective knowledge on combating energy poverty from the ground up.


Field Visit: Experiencing Energy Transition First-Hand

On Monday 14 April, participants visited the Huis van Compassie, a community centre that supports vulnerable residents with energy coaching initiatives.
A local energy coach guided the group through a home that had recently undergone an energy transition, offering practical insights into the real-life impact of energy-saving measures.

The visit ended with a warm communal meal at the Foodhub, reinforcing the importance of community support networks in addressing energy poverty beyond technical interventions.


Strengthening Collaboration: Partner Updates and Forward Planning

The meeting also included project-specific sessions, with partners reviewing progress on deliverables, exchanging feedback on pilot activities, and discussing the next steps.

Key highlights included:

  • Updates on ChatLocal, the AI-driven platform under development to support local energy poverty initiatives;
  • The new onboarding journey for the SCEPA Community of Interest, aiming to engage more municipalities, civil society actors, and local leaders across Europe;
  • An agreement to enhance the visibility of pilots and share best practices more effectively among partners.

Special attention was given to improving monitoring and evaluation tools, ensuring that future results capture not only technical outcomes but also the social and well-being impacts of energy interventions.

Save the Date: Midterm Event in Paris

The partners are now looking ahead to the Midterm Event, scheduled for 25 September 2025 in Paris.
This milestone event will bring together the SCEPA community and external stakeholders to share progress, explore synergies, and further develop strategies for mitigating energy poverty at the local level.

Stay tuned for more updates — and get ready to join us in shaping a fairer energy future for all!


AT A GLANCE

The BRIDGE to the CoE — Building Resilience and Independence for Democratic Governance and Engagement with the Council of Europe — is a European initiative led by ALDA to combat democratic backsliding by strengthening civil society participation. Focused on both Southern and Eastern Europe, the project enhances citizens’ engagement, fosters dialogue, and builds capacities to ensure democratic resilience. It leverages ALDA’s extensive experience and partnership with the Council of Europe to bridge civil society and democratic institutions, fostering trust, participation, and active governance.

OBJECTIVES

  • Increase awareness about the role and standards of the Council of Europe in promoting democratic governance and enhancing civil society representation.
  • Foster dialogue on the evolution of civic space and the challenges to democratic resilience in Southern and Eastern Europe.
  • Enhance civil society capacity to participate in Council of Europe processes and engagement opportunities.
  • Build connections between civil society, public authorities, and institutions to promote citizens’ active participation in governance.

CHALLENGES

Across Europe, democratic governance is facing significant challenges marked by declining civic engagement, the rise of populist movements, increased political polarisation, and a weakening of the rule of law. In Eastern Europe, countries like Moldova and Ukraine are striving to strengthen their democratic institutions amid political tensions, societal divisions, and, in Ukraine’s case, the devastation of war. Civil society in these countries plays a pivotal role, yet it is under pressure from restrictive legal environments, political harassment, and media scrutiny.

Meanwhile, in Southern Europe, long-established democracies such as Italy are experiencing a shrinking civic space, where NGOs, particularly those advocating for human rights and migration issues, face bureaucratic barriers, public delegitimisation, and limited opportunities for engagement with institutions.

These trends reflect a broader pattern of democratic backsliding across the continent. Against this backdrop, there is an urgent need to reinforce civil society’s role in democratic governance, enhance citizen participation, and promote the Council of Europe’s standards for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.

The project “BRIDGE to the CoE” addresses these pressing challenges by fostering awareness, promoting dialogue, and building the capacities of civil society to engage more effectively in democratic processes.

ACTIVITIES

The BRIDGE to the CoE project will implement a series of targeted activities to strengthen democratic resilience and civil society engagement, including:

  • Project management to ensure efficient coordination, quality control, and monitoring throughout the nine months of implementation.
  • Hybrid workshop in Vicenza (Italy) focused on raising awareness about the Council of Europe’s role in promoting democratic governance and empowering civil society to engage through various modalities.
  • Conference in Chisinau (Moldova) bringing together representatives from Moldova and Ukraine to foster dialogue on the evolution of civic space, human rights protection, and civil society participation in decision-making.
  • Communication and dissemination strategy, including:
    • A dedicated ALDA Talk (webinar) on democracy and civil society’s role.
    • A podcast highlighting ALDA’s longstanding collaboration with the Council of Europe.
    • Participation and visibility during ALDA’s General Assembly in Rome (July 2025).
    • A final online event to share results and promote future collaboration.

These activities aim to build bridges between citizens, civil society organisations, and European institutions, strengthening democratic governance in both Eastern and Southern Europe.

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The project is carried out with funding from the Council of Europe.

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Dakar, Senegal — April 15 to 17, 2025

ALDA, in partnership with the International Observatory on Participatory Democracy in Africa (OIDP Africa), hosted a regional networking and reflection workshop in Dakar (Senegal) focused on youth democratic participation. The initiative is part of the WYDE Civic Engagement project, funded by the European Commission, which aims to promote civic engagement across Sub-Saharan Africa.

A Hub for Civic Engagement

Bringing together 19 representatives from organisations across over 12 African countries, the event took place at Hôtel L’Adresse in Dakar. It brought together key stakeholders in local democracy—mayors, local development agency representatives, and NGO leaders—for panels, workshops, and networking sessions.

Key Moments from the Programme

The opening ceremony featured speeches from Antonella Valmorbida (ALDA Secretary General), Octavi de la Varga Mas, Diamé Signaté (Director of the Local Development Agency in Senegal), and Bachir Kanouté (Secretary General of OIDP Africa). It was followed by a formal signing of cooperation agreements, strengthening partnerships between ALDA and local Senegalese authorities.

Highlights included:

  • A multi-stakeholder meeting between ALDA, Senegalese mayors, local development agencies, and OIDP Africa to explore practical collaboration.
  • A joint workshop on democratic resilience in fragile contexts, including a contest organised by OIDP.
  • The “ideas marketplace”, a dynamic space for exchange among sub-grantees of the project.
  • A roundtable with experienced NGOs, followed by a graduation ceremony attended by the EU Delegation and selected external guests.

A Landmark Event with the Kofi Annan Foundation

On April 17, a special session was held in collaboration with the Kofi Annan Foundation, reinforcing the importance of intergenerational dialogue and historical memory in building democracy.

This high-level event featured several distinguished guests:

This special session facilitated a rich exchange on today’s democratic challenges in Africa, the transmission of civic values, and the importance of ethical leadership among the youth.

A Forward-Looking Initiative

This event not only highlighted local initiatives in support of democratic participation but also laid the groundwork for stronger cooperation between civil society and public institutions across the region. It marks a key milestone in ALDA’s ongoing commitment to empowering young leaders and strengthening democratic institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Transparency of the institutions is required by the Treaties of the EU (article 15 TFEU), while the right of access to documents from the institutions is stated in the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights (article 42).


This begs the question, how do the Permanent Representations of Member States to the EU hold up in this regard?


In 2023, Civil Society Europe carried out a comprehensive assessment on the level of transparency of all Permanent Representations to the EU, using publicly available information from their websites as the information source.


Their updated analysis looks to identify if any improvements have been made since then, or if transparency has worsened across the Permanent Representations. 


The Permanent Representations of Member States to the European Union act as an official link between national governments and EU institutions, playing an important role in shaping EU policies. It can therefore be expected that they showcase a high level of transparency. This includes giving civil society organisations and other concerned parties the opportunity to engage with Ambassadors and civil servants. Access to information is a  necessary condition for participation in public policy-making and maintaining an “open, transparent, and regular dialogue with representative associations and  civil society” (article 11  TEU). Another important aspect is keeping a public record of these exchanges to allow for public awareness of the different entities aiming to influence EU policy-making, and whether balance between different interests is ensured. 

The results show a notable difference in the level of transparency displayed by the Permanent Representations. A handful make all relevant information publicly available, while others barely reveal their organisational structure and which groups Ambassadors are meeting. This difference is similar to what we found in CSE 2023 analysis. While we welcome several Permanent Representations bettering their transparency efforts and some even achieving full transparency, improvements must be made across the board to ensure transparency is consistent.

You can find the spreadsheet ranking here, and the spreadsheet comparing 2023 to 2024/2025 here. 

*The analysis only takes into account the information made publicly available. It does not take into account elements such as the availability to respond to inquiries, accept meetings with stakeholders etc…

Street interviews, local perspectives, and pressing global issues take centre stage in the new season of ALDA’s podcast, Shades of Democracy.

The ALDA podcast Shades of Democracy returns for its fourth season, with a renewed format that brings listeners closer to the voices shaping democracy across Europe and beyond. With short, spontaneous interviews conducted at events, in communities, and on the streets, the podcast captures authentic experiences and reflections on the meaning and challenges of democratic life today.

Launched in 2022, Shades of Democracy has become ALDA’s main audio platform, offering insights into the many ways democracy is lived and interpreted by citizens, civil society actors, and institutions. In this season, the podcast embraces a more agile and responsive structure, recording interviews directly on the ground throughout the year.


This season of the ALDA podcast Shades of Democracy invites listeners to reflect on different visions, practices, and concerns linked to democracy in today’s world


From youth participation and digital transformation to local governance and environmental awareness, the fourth season presents a diverse range of voices and stories from across ALDA’s network. Interviewees include active citizens, local representatives, and civil society partners who reflect on their work, their communities, and their vision for the future.

The new format also allows the podcast to engage directly with ongoing events and discussions, contributing to ALDA’s broader work in areas such as participatory governance, social inclusion, and civic engagement.

Episodes are hosted by Manal Snidi, part of ALDA’s Communication team, who guides each conversation with curiosity and openness, creating space for real and relatable exchanges.

“This podcast gives a space to hear democracy in action—through the voices of those building it every day,” shares Manal.

Each episode is available in English, designed to be both accessible and thought-provoking. As with previous seasons, Shades of Democracy continues to align with ALDA’s efforts across the European Union, the Western Balkans, the Eastern Partnership, and the Southern Neighbourhood.

💡 What would you like to hear in the next season? ALDA encourages its community to contribute suggestions on topics and challenges they want to hear more about—helping shape the direction of future episodes and keeping the podcast open, participatory, and community-driven.

By highlighting personal stories and grassroots perspectives, the ALDA podcast Shades of Democracy continues to strengthen the link between democratic values and everyday realities.

🎧 Listen to the new season on ALDA’s website: Shades of Democracy – Season 4

Spotify: Season 4 Episode 1 “Shades of Democracy” by ALDA

The journey along the Alta Via della Grande Guerra (AVGG) continues: on Sunday, 11 May, the second guided hike of 2025 will take place — a unique opportunity to explore historic landmarks set in the breathtaking landscapes of the Asiago Plateau.

The AVGG trail stretches over 200 km, linking the four iconic Ossuaries of the First World War in the Province of Vicenza: Pasubio, Cimone, Asiago, and Grappa. Promoted and communicated by ALDA+, the project aims to raise awareness and appreciation of this extraordinary route, making it increasingly accessible to a wide public.


The Route

This medium/easy-level hike will be led by the experienced guides of the Guide Altopiano Association.
The starting point is at 9:00 AM from the Military Memorial of Asiago, and the itinerary includes:

  • the Open-Air Ecomuseum of the Great War,
  • the Cemetery of the Sassari Brigade,
  • the evocative Scalambron Mine (Sacred Zone),
  • and finally, the summit of Monte Zebio, offering unforgettable panoramic views.

How to Register

Participation is free of charge but registration is mandatory by Thursday, 8 May 2025.

Fill in the form at: https://forms.gle/jAGeaACGxc2Thdc57

Or contact: luisa@alda-europe.eu

An opportunity to walk through history, nature, and memory, in one of the most stunning settings of the Vicentine mountains.

Don’t miss it!

Starting 16 May 2025 – Registration open until 5 May

Please note: the course will be held entirely in Italian

Are you looking to gain strategic skills in European project design focused on environmental and territorial development? Don’t miss this unique opportunity to join the Online Course on European Project Design for Environment and Territory, ideal for those eager to contribute to sustainable development in their communities.

The course is part of the H.I.L.L. – Habitat In Living Landscape project, supported by the Habitat Call by Fondazione Cariverona, led by the Municipality of Monte di Malo, in partnership with ALDA Italia APS, Biosphaera, Veneto Speleological Federation, and the Malo Speleology Group.


Details of the Course


The course will be led by Prof. Elena Pisani, Associate Professor at the Department of Land, Environment, Agriculture and Forestry (TESAF) at the University of Padua (Italy).

Course schedule:

  • 16 May
  • 23 May
  • 30 May
  • 6 June
  • 13 June

Time: 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM

Format: Online (access link will be sent after registration)


The course is free of charge and offers professional training credits (CFP) recognised by the Order of Agronomists and Foresters of the Province of Vicenza and the National CONAF Council.


Mandatory registration by 5 May 2025https://forms.gle/xJGhyyK6dXfqtQot9

Infoluisa@alda-europe.eu

A valuable chance to upgrade your knowledge, grow your professional network, and contribute to the sustainable development of your territory!

As part of the Upskilling for Operators of Social and Labour Services training, CGIL Roma e Lazio, a partner of AMIL, provided an in-depth analysis of the challenges and strategies for the socio-labour integration of people from third countries.

The AMIL Project Context and the MEIC Approach

This initiative is part of the AMIL – Alliance Multi-Stakeholders for Migrants Integration and Labour project, which aims to promote the sustainable integration of third-country nationals into the labour market. The project expands and strengthens the MEIC (Migrants Economic Integration Cluster) methodology, an innovative approach based on multi-stakeholder cooperation. This methodology allows migrants to actively participate in the integration process through tailored training and guidance programs, facilitating a more effective and lasting inclusion in both the labour market and the social fabric.

Prof. Francesco Carchedi focused on three essential aspects to better understand and address the challenges faced by migrants in the labour market:

  • Definition of innovative approaches and best practices
  • Placement of foreign nationals in the national and regional (Lazio) labour market
  • Intervention strategies for the most vulnerable groups

Innovative approaches and best practices: a crucial definition

The session emphasised the importance of clearly defining what is meant by “innovative approaches” and “best practices.” Innovation should not be an end in itself but must be contextualized and tailored to the real needs of the territory and the people involved. A best practice is truly effective only if it meets emerging needs and adopts an intersectional, human rights-based approach, ensuring sustainable and replicable solutions across different contexts.

The situation of foreign nationals in the labour market

The analysis highlighted that third-country nationals often have access only to specific segments of the labour market, typically characterized by precarious, unstable, and informal working conditions. In both the national and regional (Lazio) contexts, migrants are frequently employed in labour-intensive sectors with limited contractual guarantees, often at risk of exploitation by illegal and criminal organisations.

Labour market demand and supply dynamics, as well as interactions with public and private services, play a crucial role in shaping their employment and integration pathways.

Intervention strategies for vulnerable groups

A key discussion point was how to effectively intervene in support of the most vulnerable groups, who often rely on the third sector, trade unions, and informal support networks.

Three fundamental indicators were identified:

  • Territorial Context – Understanding the structural characteristics of intervention areas and analyzing the presence and needs of migrant communities.
  • Labour Market Placement – Assessing the socio-economic and demographic conditions of migrant workers, their access to employment, and identifying illegal labour market entry mechanisms.
  • Priority Needs – Identifying urgent needs that shape the socio-economic conditions of migrants. Often, these needs are multiple and interconnected, requiring prioritization of the most critical issue—the one that influences all others.

This approach enables targeted and sustainable interventions. Generally, the most disadvantaged migrants are those who have arrived within the past five years. Therefore, establishing a realistic priority scale for interventions is essential, applying an intersectional perspective guided by the principle:

Assess the need → Provide an appropriate response → Monitor changes → Adjust the response → Verify human rights fulfillment

Migrants in vulnerable situations initially tend to use low-threshold services, gradually transitioning to more structured services related to employment and social inclusion.

A gradual path towards integration

Integration—and stable territorial settlement—is a process that begins with addressing informal and illegal employment, including exploitation, abuse, violence, and systematic violations of labour rights.

The ultimate goal is to move from severe labour exploitation to formal employment through progressive, structured interventions.

Thus, innovative interventions and best practices can only be considered as such when they effectively initiate this complex process, taking into account the specific territorial context (place of residence).

Conclusions

The intervention by CGIL Roma e Lazio reaffirmed that innovative approaches and best practices should not be seen as rigid frameworks, but as dynamic tools capable of adapting to the evolving needs of territories and people.

The Upskilling for Operators of Social and Labour Services training represents a valuable opportunity to enhance the skills of social and labour service operators, fostering effective integration models based on in-depth contextual analysis and the development of concrete and sustainable inclusion pathways.

On 13 and 14 June, ALDA will organise an activity at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, as part of the European Youth Event (EYE 2025). A number of MEPs and participants of The Future We Want Project will take part in the simulation, entitled “Taking Action on Fast Fashion: Lobbying for our Future”.

The activity will be a simulation of a lobbying meeting with MEPs on the issue of fast fashion, where the young participants will have to embody lobby groups and advocate for their interests. Representing environmental associations, fast fashion companies or youth organisations, they will try to influence MEPs and convince them to accept or reject two proposals, taken from the petition created by the participants of The Future We Want project.

The Future We Want is an ended project run by eight organisations (including ALDA), that aims to engage young Europeans in sustainable development issues through advocacy and street actions.

The project has already won three European prizes: the Charlemagne Youth Prize, the European Youth Goals and the Global Education Youth Award (GENE).


Despite its official end in December 2024, the seeds planted by the project continue to grow. In March 2025, some of the young people involved in the project founded an association called The Future We Need, to continue their advocacy work on fast fashion


You can meet and talk to our young ambassadors at EYE 2025, in Strasbourg, on 13 and 14 June.

Within the framework of EYE, ALDA will also be present on 11 June, thanks to the City of Strasbourg and the European Parliament, with an information stand and various workshops on Place Kléber in Strasbourg.