DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

As part of its General Assembly and Festival 2024, on May 14 ALDA hosted a dynamic workshop titled “Integrated Cities for Migrant Inclusion: Multi-Sectoral Collaboration.” This event focused on how collaboration across diverse sectors can facilitate the inclusion and integration of migrants at the local level. Bringing together various stakeholders, the workshop discussed practical strategies and shared insights on creating inclusive environments for migrants, influencing international policy-making through local actions.

The workshop commenced by highlighting the importance of engaging various sectors to involve migrants within the EU and beyond

Emphasising training and capacity building for local authorities, NGOs, and institutions, the session spotlighted social experimentation as an innovative method to address social needs and bridge the gap between research, policy-making, and practical implementation in migration and social justice. The core theme revolved around how collaborative efforts involving local authorities, NGOs, and community organisations can create a supportive environment for migrants.

Presentations by EPIC-UP project leaders underscored the sectors of intervention within EPIC-UP and how coordination with different sectors ensures migrant participation and inclusion at the local level. Key speakers included:

Mrs. Patricia Martínez with AEIDL, ss the WP6 Leader of the EPIC-UP Project, AEIDL presented lessons learned from previous projects and outlined upcoming work on Migration Narratives. They emphasised the need to change the narrative on migration in the age of polarisation and disinformation, highlighting the importance of effective dissemination, exploitation, communication, and outreach strategies.

Mrs. Laura Barranco and Mrs. Irene Almazán from Fundación Cepaim discussed social experimentation as a policy intervention that provides innovative responses to social needs. They explored effective methods and models to ensure targeted Communities of Practice (CoPs) and Local Authorities (LAs) achieve tangible and systematic changes in integrating migrant populations at the local level.

Mrs. Maddalena Alberti from ADL Zavidovici presented on capacity building, focusing on effective methods and models for integration capacity building and training for Local Authorities (LAs), Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), and institutions working in migration inclusion. They also discussed the role of peer-mentoring sessions in facilitating knowledge sharing and ensuring successful integration.

Following the presentations by EPIC-UP leaders, the workshop featured insights from cities and regions that have adopted similar coordination efforts, sharing their experiences and lessons learned:

Mrs. Aleksandra Semeriak representing Fons Catala De Cooperacio Al Desenvolupament, highlighted legal support and systemised legal channels for migrants. The “Refuge Local World” Campaign addresses the immediate needs of refugees, forcibly displaced individuals, and stateless populations at the local level, contributing to the establishment of safe and legal pathways for individuals in need of international protection within the city.

Mrs. Cristina Serna Vargas from the Municipality of Sant Boi de Llobregat (Spain) shared their comprehensive strategy for local reception based on their experiences. They discussed the importance of a holistic approach in ensuring effective and sustainable migrant integration.

Also, Mrs. Jessica Acquavita with Region Istria (Croatia) presented their approach to addressing migration challenges through initiatives focused on social cohesion and inclusion. They highlighted various successful initiatives supporting migrant integration and promoting cultural diversity, showcasing the region’s commitment to creating inclusive environments.

The workshop concluded with a consensus on the critical role of multi-sectoral collaboration in addressing migration challenges and promoting migrant inclusion. The diverse strategies and successful initiatives discussed underscored the importance of coordinated actions across various sectors. This collaborative approach aims to create supportive environments for migrants, ensuring their rights and facilitating their active participation in the community.

ALDA’s workshop on multi-sectoral collaboration for migrant inclusion provided a comprehensive platform for sharing innovative approaches and practical solutions. The insights and experiences shared during the session offer valuable guidance for future initiatives, promoting a more inclusive and cohesive society.

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

On May 14, a pivotal policy session on migration titled “Changing Communities: The Role of Local Authorities in Addressing the Migration Phenomena” was held as part of the General Assembly and Festival 2024. ALDA convened key stakeholders to unveil its Flagship Migration Strategy for 2024-2028. The session underscored the essential role local authorities play in managing migration challenges, promoting integration, and advocating for migrants’ rights.

The session commenced with a presentation of ALDA’s new migration strategy, which highlighted two primary initiatives: Coordinated Actions for Migrants’ Rights and Community Integration Advocacy.

This strategy calls upon ALDA’s members and networks to unite in enhancing and safeguarding the rights of migrants, shaping EU policies, and fostering inclusive environments

Mr. André Sobczak, Secretary General of Eurocities, shared insights into how cities, at the forefront of EU policy implementation, ensure the inclusion of migrants and coordinate efforts to tackle migration challenges. He emphasised the crucial role cities play in transforming communities through effective migrant inclusion strategies.

Following this, Mr. Vincent Gatel, Deputy Mayor of the Welcoming City, elaborated on strategies and policies adopted by local authorities in alignment with the National Association of Welcoming Cities and Territories. These strategies aim to create inclusive environments for migrants, fostering cohesive communities amidst evolving migration dynamics.

Mrs. Raisa Labaran, Municipal Councillor of the Municipality of Brescia (Italy), discussed specific initiatives and policies implemented to integrate migrants into the community and safeguard their rights. Brescia’s efforts serve as a model for other municipalities aiming to foster inclusive environments, highlighting the importance of local-level initiatives in migration policy.

Ms. Lupe Moreno, Deputy Director General of Migration, Refugee, and Antiracism, emphasised the importance of collaboration between regional and local authorities. She highlighted how these efforts address migration challenges and promote inclusive communities, aligning with Catalonia’s political priorities. Additionally, Mr. Jordi Cuadras, President of Fons Català de Cooperació al Desenvolupament, presented initiatives focusing on social cohesion and inclusion, showcasing successful integration efforts at the local level.

Mrs. Şener Burcuhan, Director of International Affairs for the Marmara Municipalities Union (MMU), shared insights on the Migration Policy Center’s role in providing a collaborative platform for stakeholders in the region. This platform addresses migration challenges and promotes social cohesion and urban belonging in the Marmara Region, underscoring the importance of coordinated networks in migration policy.

Mr. Roberto Venneri, General Secretary of the Region of Puglia (Italy), elaborated on the region’s approach to prioritising social cohesion and inclusion in addressing migration challenges. He highlighted various successful initiatives supporting migrant integration through EU-funded projects, demonstrating Puglia’s proactive stance on migration issues.

The panel concluded with a consensus on the importance of collaborative efforts and the sharing of best practices in addressing migration challenges and promoting migrant integration. The diverse approaches and successful initiatives presented underscored the critical role of coordinated actions at all levels of governance. This collective effort aims to create supportive and inclusive environments for migrants, ensuring their rights and facilitating their active participation in the community.

The launch of ALDA’s Flagship Migration Strategy 2024-2028 represents a significant step towards a more inclusive and cohesive Europe, where local authorities are pivotal in transforming communities and addressing migration phenomena.

  • Period:

    -

  • Countries involved:

    Western Balkans

  • Donor:

  • SDG:

  • Lead partner:

  • All partners:

  • Contacts:


    projects@alda-europe.eu

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

The Western Balkans hold a significant place in ALDA’s history, with the first Local Democracy Agency (LDA) established in Subotica, Serbia in 1993. Today, out of the 15 LDAs worldwide, seven continue to operate effectively in the Western Balkans. Over the past 30 years, ALDA has intensified its efforts to support democracy and citizen engagement in the region, bringing the EU closer to the Western Balkans through various initiatives.

During the ALDA Festival and General Assembly – “Local Democracy for Global Impact” held on May 14-15 in Barcelona, Spain, a panel discussion titled “Local Democracy: Effective Strategies for Enhanced Cooperation Between CSOs and Local Authorities in the Western Balkans” was convened. This panel gathered key stakeholders from civil society organisations (CSOs), local authorities, and international bodies to discuss and enhance cooperation for democratic development in the Western Balkans.

Ivana Velkova, Deputy Head of Unit Western Balkans – ALDA Skopje Office, facilitated the panel, providing an overview of the current situation in the region and highlighting the importance of cooperation among stakeholders in promoting stability and democratisation on the path to EU accession.

The session brought together experts from both the European Union and the Western Balkans, offering a unique perspective on cooperation between CSOs and local authorities.

The discussion focused on two main themes: the role of CSOs in fostering transparency and accountability within local governance structures, and successful partnerships between CSOs, government bodies, and international organisations.

Timčo Mucunski, Mayor of Aerodrom, Skopje, emphasised that success at the local level requires institutionalised dialogue between partners, leveraging the strong project implementation capacities of civil society to compensate for the weaker financial capacities of local authorities. He also highlighted the importance of cooperation with the business sector as a driving force for success.

Laurent Plosceanu, Vice-President of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), noted that the EESC has actively engaged with candidate countries from the beginning. As a representative institution for CSOs and social partners, the EESC supports civil society both within the EU and in candidate countries, having developed a robust network of CSOs.

Nataša Vučković, newly elected President of ALDA and Secretary General of the Center for Democracy Foundation (CDF) in Serbia, stressed that European integration is not only about economic alignment but also involves a significant social dimension. She pointed out that in some countries, institutions often serve as facades for political decisions, making it crucial to work with local assemblies to defend democracy and prioritise citizens’ interests.

Dženana Dedić, delegate of the Local Democracy Agency Mostar in Bosnia-Herzegovina, presented the results of the “Link 4 Cooperation” project, which involved cooperation among 12 municipalities in B&H, enhancing their capacities while working with local grassroots organisations.

In the second round of discussions, speakers emphasised the importance of successful collaborations among CSOs, government bodies, and international organisations.

Thibaut Lespagnol, Deputy Delegate for Local Communities and Civil Society at the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, discussed France’s revised approach to the Balkans since 2017. This strategy underscores France’s commitment to investing in the region, recognising its growth potential. He also noted that while French CSOs have reduced their involvement, the French government has increased financial support to address key challenges and opportunities in the Balkans.

Aljosa Ajanovic Andelic, Member of the Board of Directors of the District 11 City to City Association in Barcelona, highlighted the essential role of city diplomacy in strengthening local policymaking. By engaging in diplomatic relations at the city level, District 11 aims to foster stronger partnerships with other urban centers, facilitating knowledge exchange and collaborative projects.

Maja Varoshlija, project manager at ALDA, presented the new three-year BOOST program, funded by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD). This program aims to optimise opportunities, sustainability, and transformation of civil society in the Western Balkans.

Robert Jankulovski from the Municipality of Karposh in Skopje highlighted the long-standing cooperation with other cities and municipalities, emphasising mutual development and support through partnerships. In 2012, Karposh twinned with Fleury as part of the Normandy-Macedonia ALDA program, fostering a valuable friendship and collaboration, and inspiring similar local projects.

The panel underscored the critical role of CSOs in enhancing accountability, transparency, and civic engagement, essential for the democratic development and EU integration of the Western Balkans. This event was a key part of ongoing efforts to support democratic governance in the region, attended by a wide range of stakeholders committed to fostering positive change.

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

The Territorial Approach for Local Development (TALD) is a comprehensive policy framework that emphasises endogenous, integrated, multi-scalar, and incremental local development. This approach underpins the European Union’s cooperation with partner countries globally, fostering a broad spectrum of decentralised cooperation among cities, civil society organisations, private actors, and other key stakeholders. This multifaceted cooperation reveals both concrete opportunities and challenges that must be navigated to advance within a constructive and resilient framework, especially in light of the new Global Gateway initiative.

The Diputació de Barcelona stands out for its longstanding experience in development cooperation, notably with Latin America. Over the years, it has continuously innovated to achieve greater impact, partly through the leadership of its Observatory for Decentralised Cooperation. However, the rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape and the erosion of the rule of law and democracy in many partner countries present significant hurdles for subnational governments striving for effective cooperation.

In these challenging times, TALD offers a pragmatic and inclusive approach to development that deserves recognition. Its potential to strengthen weak democratic structures through innovative governance and stakeholder engagement is notable. Initiated by the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe, the Local Democracy Agencies have effectively implemented methodologies aligned with TALD, promoting civic engagement and mobilising community and private sector resources for local development.

Despite the clear benefits, there are still unresolved issues that prevent territorial actors from fully leveraging their potential in sustainable development. The vast heritage of decentralised cooperation is often underestimated, its impact not deeply analysed, and its value not easily communicated to citizens. Yet, when integrated and connected with other cooperation programmes, decentralised cooperation can be a powerful modality, involving all actors and fostering inclusive development.

Roundtable Discussion: Key Themes and Speakers

To delve deeper into these issues, a roundtable co-organised by ALDA, DG-INTPA, the TALD Facility, and the Diputació de Barcelona was held on May 15, 2024, in Barcelona, Spain. This event took place within the framework of the ALDA Festival and General Assembly 2024, aiming to explore and contribute to the debate on current key issues. The discussion focused on the construction and maintenance of multi-stakeholder networks, emphasising collaboration between local and global actors. This requires activating “territorial intelligence,” which leverages indigenous knowledge, practices, and experiences, and utilises a variety of territorial resources—human, material, social, economic, natural, and cultural.

The panel was opened by Antonella Valmorbida, ALDA Secretary General, who introduced the topic and presented to the audience the ALDA Flagship on TALD.

Franziska Gehrmann, Seconded Expert at the Directorate-General for International Partnerships (DG-INTPA) G2, opened the panellist session, setting the stage for an in-depth exploration of TALD.

Eugene Zapata Garesché, Team Leader of the TALD Facility, provided an introduction to TALD, outlining its core principles and its significance in contemporary development cooperation.

Jean Bossuyt, Team Leader of the Partnership for Sustainable Cities, presented an upcoming study on “Decentralised Cooperation and Local Democracy,” highlighting how TALD can reinforce democratic governance and sustainable development.

Francisco Sarmento, Responsible for Territorial Development at FAO, discussed the “White Paper on Territorial Approaches for Sustainable Development,” offering insights into how territorial approaches can drive sustainable growth.

The roundtable featured a diverse panel of speakers who shared their experiences and insights:

  • Octavio de La Varga Mas, International Strategic Projects Advisor for Diputació de Barcelona, highlighted the work of the Observatory of Decentralised Cooperation, showcasing innovative practices from Barcelona’s extensive cooperation with Latin America.
  • Virginie Rouquette, Directrice générale of Cités Unies France, discussed the role of cities in fostering decentralised cooperation and the importance of multi-stakeholder networks.
  • Afaf Zaddem, Director of the Local Democracy Agency in Kairouan, Tunisia, shared experiences from the ground, emphasising the importance of local democracy and civic engagement.
  • Stefano Rossi from the Centro di Cooperazione Internazionale Trento presented the REBUILD project, which focuses on decentralised cooperation between the EU and Libya.
  • Anzhelika Pylypenko, Director of the Local Democracy Agency of Dnipropetrovsk Region, discussed the challenges and successes of local democracy initiatives in Ukraine.

Discussion Highlights

Key questions addressed included:

  • How to ensure the trust and commitment of citizens and stakeholders?
  • What are the essential ingredients for a multi-actor, people-centered approach?
  • How can experiences from the ground inform these approaches?
  • How to address fragile contexts and leverage TALD and local authority cooperation as elements of resilience in democracy support and local development?

This session featured a moderated discussion where speakers and the audience interacted, sharing experiences and contributing to the debate. By examining these questions and sharing practical insights, the roundtable aimed to foster a deeper understanding of TALD’s role in promoting sustainable local development, highlighting innovative practices, and fostering resilient, inclusive governance in diverse contexts.

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

AT A GLANCE

The aim of the project is to strengthen the preventive and reactive measures against hate speech and disinformation online. It aims to empower NGOs/CSOs, fact checkers, public authorities and youngsters as activists to effectively prevent and combat polarisation, the spread of racist, xenophobic and intolerant speech, as well as conspiracy theories.

What we will do

We will raise awareness and improve skills and critical thinking by advancing AI-based technologies that:

1) monitor, detect and record hate speech and disinformation on social media.

2) estimate the ‘HATEDEMICS risk’ as the sum of the ‘hate speech and infodemics risks’, i.e. the online exposure to (potential) hate and misinformative messages

3) create dialogue-based counter-narratives that support professionals and activists and facilitate advanced reporting activities by implementing an effective human-in-the-loop approach, whereby automated suggestions are always validated by human operators, who always have the final say on the posted content.

4) automatically assess behavioural changes determined by the counter-narrative intervention. The combination of these technologies will allow for more focused and timely online interventions (i.e. advanced targeted search followed by relevant textual suggestions), resulting in a more efficient and effective professional and volunteer effort. This approach is based on maintaining fairness and balance and ensuring adherence to legal and ethical standards.

OBJECTIVES

The project’s primary objective is to address online hate and fake news, with a specific emphasis on tackling the often overlooked and interrelated issues that intersect between hate speech and disinformation.

HATEDEMICS In Action

The project will:

  • Develop and validate in 4 Member States the HATEDEMICS Platform, a toolsuite that brings together the partners’ expertise gained in hate and disinformation prevention and countering.
  • Design and deploy interactive training and educational paths, informed by a commitment to EU values and rights
  • Raise awareness and foster the active participation of EU-27 citizens.

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

Local democracy for inclusivity: Exploring gender equality and human rights in urban spaces, time policies and the political sphere. 

On May 14, the Gender, Inclusion, and Human Rights Hub of ALDA held a compelling panel discussion during the “Local Democracy for Global Impact” General Assembly in Barcelona (Spain). The panel aimed to foster dialogue, share insights, and propose actionable solutions to promote gender equality and inclusivity. The panel, moderated by Ms Camilla Vedovato, project manager and director of the Gender, Inclusion and Human rights hub of ALDA, featured an impressive lineup of speakers: Ms Anabel Rodríguez Basanta, Head of Human Rights Department at Barcelona Municipality and Director of the Barcelona Directorate of Citizens’ Rights Services; Ms Azzurra Muzzonigro, Architect and Co-founder of Sex and the City APS; Ms Laura Valdés, Head of Policy at Metropolis; Lia Barrese, Co-Coordinator of the Time Use Initiative; Ms Margarita Spasova, Acting Director of the Human Rights City Network; and Ms Elif Avcı, Şişli Municipality Council Member and ALDA’s Advisory Board Member.

The workshop addressed the intersectionality of gender equality, emphasising urban spaces, time policies, and political participation

Anabel Rodríguez Basanta highlighted the importance of local projects and a human rights-based approach, stressing the need for data equality and intersectionality in policy development.

Azzurra Muzzonigro introduced the “Milan Gender Atlas,” discussing the role of social constructs in gender-based fear and advocating for policies that involve historically marginalised groups in urban planning.

Ms Laura Valdés emphasised the significance of gender equality in improving life quality in metropolitan areas, advocating for city projects and research to challenge biases and support women in leadership and caregiving roles.

Margarita Spasova outlined the vision of the Human Rights City Network, focusing on creating standardised monitoring systems in the cities and the importance of gender-responsive governance.

Elif Avcı discussed the WE ACT project, stressing the role of qualitative data in planning and the necessity of making invisible issues visible through systematic monitoring and stakeholder participation.

Lia Barrese highlighted the political nature of time use, advocating for policies that address time poverty and promote a balanced approach to work, rest, care, and recreation.

The discussions underscored the interconnectedness of gender equality, urban planning ,time use and political participation, with a human rights-based approach. The event concluded with a call for continued collaboration and innovation in these fields to foster more inclusive and equitable societies.

ALDA remains committed to promoting these vital discussions and supporting initiatives that advance gender equality and human rights globally.

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

Not just a General Assembly, but a Festival! On May 13, 2024, ALDA convened its annual General Assembly in the vibrant city of Barcelona, Spain. The following two days were a whirlwind of panels, conferences, workshops, and sessions, featuring keynote speakers who engaged passionately with the audience on critical topics like digitalisation, gender and inclusion, civic participation, enlargement, and much more.

“Local Democracy and Migration: Changing the communities: the role of local authorities in addressing the migration phenomena”, a panel discussion that aimed at enlightening the role of regional and local actors in addressing migration challenges in line with Human Rights principles and dignity of human beings and that saw the presentation of the ALDA Flagship initiative on Migration.

“Local Democracy in the digital age: towards unexploited opportunities and future challenges” offered the unique opportunity to see the participation of key stakeholders from international, European, and local spheres sharing good practices regarding the utilisation of digital tools to foster civic participation, namely AI as well as immersive technologies such as metaverse, virtual reality, and augmented reality. Read more here.

“Tool fair on Intercultural Dialogue in Mediterranean Cities”: A panel discussion, organised in cooperation with the Anna Lindh Foundation, brought together selected members from the French and Spanish networks who have developed methodologies and activities focused on intercultural dialogue. These experts shared their insights and experiences with peers from other Mediterranean organisations.

“Participatory Democracy and Migration Practices: integrated cities for migrants Inclusion Multi-Sectoral collaboration” an event aimed to present the findings of projects on the role of regional and local actors in addressing migration challenges in line with Human Rights principles and the dignity of human beings.

“Local Democracy and Participatory Democracy: models and contexts of implementation, innovation and challenges” a workshop discussion that provided an update on the evolution of EU policies and support to projects in the context of the Defense of Democracy Package. It also consisted in an exchange on the concerns and opportunities for civil society and local authorities.

“Local Democracy for inclusivity: exploring gender equality and human rights in urban spaces, time policies and the political sphere” a roundtable discussion which featured diverse perspectives from experts, practitioners, and advocates in the field of gender equality in various fields. The intersection of gender equality and inclusive governance in urban spaces is crucial for empowering women and enhancing their political participation.

Citizens participation as an essential element to face climate challenges” : an event aimed at addressing the importance of citizen engagement in tackling climate-related challenges, particularly in the context of initiatives like the European Green Deal. The escalating impacts of climate change and other global issues highlight the urgency for collective action. This panel discussion saw the participation of ALDA members coming so far as Buthan!

“The value of peer-to-peer approach in cross-borders cooperation in the mediterranean” : This panel, organised with the IEMed and the participation of the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM), served as a reflection about the challenges of the current trends in decentralised cooperation, identifying in what ways it could be reinforced, in particular to the enhanced proactiveness of EU local authorities.

The day concluded with a marketplace, where various organisations, including the European Capital of Democracy, Mundus, and the Human Rights Cities Network, among many others, showcased their activities to the participants.

The third and last day foresaw the following panel discussions:

“Democratisation of Africa Vs the Africanisation of democracy would local democracy find the balance?” A panel discussion was convened to explore the balance between democratisation in Africa and the Africanisation of democracy. The event featured an overview from the European Commission, highlighting the main challenges and their commitment to the continent. Additionally, the European Partnership for Democracy (EPD) and ALDA jointly presented their roles within the WYDE Civic Engagement Programme.

“Local Democracy in a shifting landscape: reassessing EU enlargement agenda in eastern partnership countries and its implications.” The event brought together policymakers, practitioners, and civil society representatives to discuss how the Local Democracy Agencies and their specific way to implement the Territorial Approach for Local Development can bring an added value to the enlargement policies.The panel discussion aimed to foster constructive dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders to address the complex challenges and opportunities associated with EU enlargement. 

Local Democracy and Territorial Development: a great heritage towards new perspectives: Recognising local government’s crucial role in addressing global challenges, there are still unresolved issues limiting their full potential in sustainable development. The benefits of decentralised cooperation often go underestimated and are not effectively communicated to citizens. However, it presents an intriguing collaboration model when inclusive and integrated with other programmes. Co-organised with DG-INTPA, the TALD Facility, and the Provincial Deputation of Barcelona, this round table aimed to contribute to current debates. It emphasised the need for multi-stakeholder networks, rooted in lasting practices, to mobilise “territorial intelligence” and indigenous knowledge. Read more here.

“Local Democracy: Effective strategies and enhanced cooperation between CSOs and Local Authorities in the Western Balkans.” In this session, experts in civil society development, government representation, and European integration discussed effective strategies for local democracy in the Western Balkans. The panelists explored how CSOs advocate for policy changes, mobilise communities, and hold governments accountable. They also examined the role of local governance structures in working with CSOs to empower citizens, promote transparency, and enhance accountability. Read more here.

“Introduction to TALD for CSOs and Local and Regional Authorities.” The workshop featured two key segments. The first provided a methodological framework on the TALD approach, detailing its implications and benefits for participating territories. The second segment offered an analytical update on the current state of decentralization policies in Africa, highlighting recent policies and decisions, challenges faced by local and regional governments, and priority opportunities for EU support. This discussion was framed in the context of the 10-year anniversary of the 2013 EC Communication “Empowering Local Authorities in Partner Countries for Enhanced Governance and More Effective Development Outcomes.” 

“Maximising Resources: fundraising strategies for Local Authorities and Civil Society Organisations”. A ​​dynamic session aimed to equip participants with innovative fundraising strategies to strengthen local democracy and civil society organisation. Read more here.

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

In the European Union, democracy may seem obvious to us today. But this has not always been the case.

Not so long ago, millions of Europeans lived through times when they could not vote or even speak up freely. When their very lives could be in danger simply for being different, for holding different beliefs or for wanting a different life.

Democracy is a precious gift passed on to us from previous generations. They aspired towards it and fought for it. Now it is up to us to maintain it, to make it stronger and pass it on to the generations to come.

The most effective way to do so is by voting — because the more people vote, the stronger democracy becomes.

On June 6-9 2024: Use your vote or others will decide for you.

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

Discover a realm of innovation and collaboration within the Innovation Alliance Circular Design (CiD).

The CID project addresses the gap of the construction sector regarding green, resilience, and digital skills in architecture, urban design, product/service design in a multidisciplinary approach and offers a radically new model on how to link design to circularity and urban transformation. It is run by 11 partners from 8 different European countries (Italy, Spain, Germany, Lituania, Belgium, France, Estonia, UK).  The Alliance develops innovation in Circular Design education by fostering entrepreneurship in academia, with an accelerator and continuous education programmes to upskill in emerging labour market profiles and enabling the creation of green start-ups.

The consortium sets up 6 observatories with varied and relevant stakeholders that will be inspired by social, cultural, ecological and economic sustainability principles to connect education and research with society and enterprises. 

The collaboration among the stakeholders of the observatories will expand the boundaries of CiD and foster the exchange and knowledge transfer among countries

In particular, the project focuses on establishing and managing 3 European Observatories:

  • Urban Transformation Observatory
  • Circular Economy Observatory
  • Bio-based Innovation Observatory.

Additionally, three Local Observatories will be set up in:

  • Hannover (Lower Saxony, Germany)
  • Barcelona (Catalonia, Spain)
  • Genova (Liguria, Italy)

The European Observatory in Urban Transformation, led by ALDA, aims to bring together experts in Circular design  in the sectors of urban design, architectural design, and product and service design to support the outcomes of the project in the short and long-term.

These observatories are envisioned as a dynamic innovation alliance network, steadily expanding with new partners joining our journey. If you’re passionate about advancing learning programs in Circular Design, emphasizing green initiatives, digital advancements, resilience, and entrepreneurial skills, then come aboard and let’s shape the future together. By fostering a continuous exchange of knowledge among all stakeholders involved, we can forge strong networking mechanisms to broaden our stakeholder community and elevate the project outcomes to greater heights.

Your participation can truly make a difference in propelling Circular Design forward. If you would like to receive more information on how to be part of the European Observatory in Urban Transformation, you can contact Lizeth Lopez (lizeth@alda-europe.eu)

These observatories have already helped to identify challenges for the learners, skills mismatches, and will be evaluating the curricula created by the consortium. They will, consequently, support identification of Green-Deal, circular economy, and resilience related market needs and emerging professions at EU level.

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

Highlights from the TALE Project Events in Italy and news from the European Parliament

2024 European Parliament’s elections are approaching and youth plays a key role in valuing the voting process at the EU level. Thus, ALDA is supporting the TALE changemakers to organise their local events in Italy, and May 2024 plays a crucial role in this scenario. 

On May 8, 2024, Palazzo delle Esposizioni in Rome (Italy) was the venue for an insightful event focused on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the European Green Deal, and citizen participation. This gathering, organised by ASviS (Alleanza Italiana per lo Sviluppo Sostenibile) in the framework of Festival dello Sviluppo Sostenibile (festivalsvilupposostenibile.it), was centred on inclusivity in decision-making, exploring how to enhance citizen and stakeholder involvement in shaping the future of the European Union. For ALDA, this was the opportunity to talk about the TALE – TAke the Lead in the EU Elections and the great engagement of its changemakers, also presenting the experience of Mr. Andrea Boraccetti, who attended the event.

Innovative approaches to fostering meaningful participation were highlighted, emphasising the importance of ensuring diverse voices are heard and valued in EU governance

Another event in the TALE scope was held on May 9, 2024, at the International European High School “Altiero Spinelli” in Turin (Italy), organised by ALDA with the support of Ms. Alberta Ivaldi, an Italian TALE changemaker. Practical workshops on the relevance of the EU and engaging activities for youngsters were implemented and involved more than 200 students.

In Forlì (Italy), TALE changemakers held a local event on May 18 and 19, 2024 within the local European Youth Event, supported by University of Bologna. This framework provided a platform for young people to engage with European democratic processes and the upcoming elections. Aiming at raising the awareness of all young participants, these TALE local events also focused on discussing practical ways young citizens can get involved in the voting process and beyond just voting.

These events, held as part of the TALE project, have successfully brought critical discussions about European democracy to the future. By engaging young people in Rome, Turin, and Forlì, the project is fostering a deeper understanding of the importance of civic participation and the role of youth in enhancing the democratic engagement of EU citizens.

In order to receive relevant updates and information about the EU elections directly by the European Parliament and to be regularly updated about our TALE action, you can register on the Together.eu platform by clicking here.

As a Communication Partner of the European Parliament, ALDA is also delighted to share with all its network the Use Your Vote video, which is available in 35 languages and stresses the importance of the European Union’s values, opportunities and history. EU citizens are only one month away from the EU elections, and every step, every view and every vote will count. 

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

On May 14, 2024, as part of the General Assembly and Festival of ALDA, the Digitalisation and Innovation Hub hosted the “Local democracy in the digital age: towards unexploited opportunities and future challenges” event at the El Born Sala Castellví, in Barcelona (Spain).

This event brought together key stakeholders from international, European, and local spheres to discuss good practices in utilising digital tools to foster civic participation. The session highlighted the roles of artificial intelligence (AI), immersive technologies and digital platforms in enhancing online civic engagement and community development. 

The session began with welcoming remarks from Ms. Dafne Sgarra, Hub Coordinator and Project Manager at ALDA. Later on, Mr. Ned Howey, Vice President of ACTE and founder of Tectonica, highlighted in the keynote speech concerns about public disengagement from democracy, and argued that: 

“New technologies, if used correctly, could reinvigorate democratic engagement.”

The event continued with a panel discussion focusing on digital innovation at the local and regional level. The first speaker, Mr. Arnau Monterde Mateo – responsible for decidim.barcelona and co-founder of Decidim.org – introduced Decidim, an open-source digital platform designed to facilitate participatory strategic planning, collaboration, and idea collection, that exemplifies how digital participation can complement and expand traditional forms of civic engagement. 

Continuing the panel discussion, Ms. Elisenda Alamany, Vice President of International Relations and Digitalisation at the Barcelona Metropolitan Area (AMB) discussed the Smart AMB app, which addresses various competencies of the metropolitan area, including mobility and sustainability. 

Mr. Oleksandr Bilenkyi, Head of the Poltava Regional Council in Ukraine, finalised the panel, emphasising the role of digital tools in promoting civic engagement and supporting local governance. The SMART region platform allows for interaction and cooperation between local self-government bodies and communities, providing direct access to services and opportunities.

The last contribution to the session was the speech of Mr. Olivier Schulbaum, Strategic Director of Platoniq, who spoke on the vital role of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in the digital transition. Schulbaum emphasised that democracy requires more than just digital tools and it needs easier access for everyone, transparency, and community oversight. 

The event concluded with a Q&A session, where participants discussed the regulation of civic technologies, tools available to tackle disinformation, and strategies to keep people invested in participatory processes.

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

On May 15, 2024, the ALDA Festival and General Assembly hosted an important workshop titled “Maximising Resources: Fundraising Strategies for Local Authorities and Civil Society Organisations.” This dynamic session aimed to equip participants with innovative fundraising strategies to strengthen local democracy and civil society organisation.

The day commenced with a warm welcome to all attendees, setting a collaborative and forward-looking tone for the workshop. The introduction outlined the goals and purpose of fundraising, emphasising its critical role in sustaining and advancing the initiatives of local authorities and civil society organisations. Highlighting the necessity for diverse fundraising strategies, the workshop’s objectives and agenda were clearly laid out, ensuring participants were prepared for an intensive learning experience.

The first session delved into traditional fundraising methods with a focus on grant writing. Anna Ditta, Head of the Development Department at ALDA, provided an overview of how to identify, apply for, and secure grants. She outlined the key steps and considerations, emphasising the importance of a well-structured approach involving dedicated human resources. The process indeed begins with scouting, which involves regularly monitoring key donors’ databases and newsletters to identify relevant funding opportunities from both EU and non-EU donors. Next is pre-selection, where potential grants are filtered based on thematic and geographical relevance, budget size, and feasibility. Strategy-making follows, involving a decision on whether to proceed with specific calls, considering factors such as relevance, resource availability, and timing. Finally, the preparation and submission phase assigns key staff to lead and support proposal development, ensuring quality and compliance with deadlines through teamwork and continuous exchange with project managers. She also gave insights about the post-grant process including (first of all celebrating!), assigning implementation responsibilities, and addressing co-funding needs.

Afterwards, Artur Pinto, Project Manager at the Municipality of Lousada, Portugal (ALDA Member), took the floor and shared his municipality’s success story, how it approaches European projects and fundraising and demonstrating practical applications of these strategies. Starting in 2008, the Municipality aimed to utilise European funds to train its staff, enhancing their skills through cross-border mobility and exposure to best practices in municipal management. Over the years, staff engaged in joint study missions to learn strategies from other municipalities with similar characteristics, fostering a network of partners for idea exchange and project collaboration. Training sessions were conducted to improve municipal management skills, enabling staff to develop local development strategies and attract investment. Initially, the Erasmus+ program played a crucial role, and efforts were later expanded to include local citizens through various European projects aimed at enhancing skills, competences, and active citizenship. The Municipality focused on four main project areas: social inclusion, addressing barriers like social and economic obstacles, discrimination, health issues, and educational gaps; digital literacy, promoting digital transformation among educators, schools, training centers, and civil society organisations; environmental education, aligning citizens with municipal sustainability strategies; and social engagement, encouraging participation in democratic life and civic activities. Mr. Pinto concluded by highlighting the main funding programs that the Municipality he leads is counting on.

The workshop was a cornerstone event of the ALDA Festival and General Assembly 2024, reflecting ALDA’s commitment to empowering local authorities and civil society organisations.

Next, Olivier Schulbaum, Strategic Director of the Platoniq Foundation, introduced the concept of “Crowdvocacy.” This innovative approach combines political participation with digital campaigning platforms, civic crowdfunding, and match-funding to amplify democratic engagement. Schulbaum’s session was a revelation for many, showcasing how modern technology can bridge gaps between citizens and their political systems, making fundraising a more participatory and democratic process.

Oliver Gajda, Executive Director of Eurocrowd, presented the session on new pathways in citizens finance. He explored the possibilities of making loans and investments viable under EU law. Gajda’s expertise provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of how to leverage financial instruments and regulatory frameworks to support their projects.

The workshop then shifted to a case study presentation by Lele Borghetti, President of Luoghi Comuni Social Cooperative. Borghetti shared the inspiring success of the Villa Angaran San Giuseppe initiative in Bassano del Grappa, Italy. This real-world example illustrated the effective application of various fundraising strategies, offering participants a tangible model to emulate.

Each participant had the opportunity to ask questions or share ideas, receiving constructive feedback from both the facilitators and fellow participants, fostering a rich exchange of knowledge and practical advice.

The workshop concluded with closing remarks by Marco Boaria, Director of Programmes and Corporate Strategy at ALDA. He thanked participants for their active involvement and encouraged them to apply the strategies discussed in their local contexts. Participants left equipped with actionable insights and renewed motivation to enhance their fundraising efforts.

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

In a significant move towards reinforcing local democracy across Europe, the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) and ALDA have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Barcelona (Spain) on May 13, 2024 during the ALDA Festival and General Assembly, cementing their partnership.

The European Committee of the Regions, serving as the voice of regions and cities within the European Union, plays an important role in advocating for the interests of local and regional authorities in EU decision-making processes. With its mandate encompassing 70% of all EU legislation, the European Committee of the Regions represents a crucial platform for ensuring that the concerns and needs of local communities are considered. On the other hand, ALDA stands as an international non-governmental organisation dedicated to promoting local good governance and citizen participation. Through its project-based initiatives, ALDA actively engages with local and regional authorities, as well as civil society groups, to foster democratic processes and enhance governance at the grassroots level.

The memorandum between CoR and ALDA underscores their shared commitment, including the promotion of local representative and participatory democracy, multilevel governance, and the core values underpinning the European Union

Under the agreement, ALDA will provide valuable input to European Committee of the Regions opinions relevant to their shared objectives, drawing on its extensive experience and expertise in local governance. Additionally, both parties will collaborate on joint communication activities and campaigns aimed at furthering their common goals.

The memorandum lays out a comprehensive action plan for the next two and a half years, aligning with the duration of half of CoR’s term of office. This plan outlines specific areas of cooperation, including the hosting of meetings and events, as well as the implementation of joint initiatives to advance their shared objectives. But, even beyond cooperation on opinions, the memorandum extends to inviting representatives from each party to attend meetings and events hosted by the other, fostering an environment of mutual exchange and collaboration.

The MoU, effective upon signature, signifies a landmark step towards empowering local and regional authorities across Europe. By leveraging their respective strengths and resources, CoR and ALDA are poised to drive positive change and bolster democracy at the grassroots level.

For further details on this alliance and its implications for local democracy in Europe, stay tuned for updates from both CoR and ALDA.

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

On Monday, May 13 2024, Nataša Vučković was elected as the new President of ALDA during the ALDA General Assembly and Festival 2024, held in the city of Barcelona, Spain.

Nataša’s journey with ALDA began in 2020 when she joined the Governing Board, bringing her wealth of experience and dedication to the forefront of the organisation. Recognising her exceptional leadership qualities, ALDA elevated her to the position of Vice President in 2023, a role in which she demonstrated unwavering commitment and vision.

Nataša’s election as President was a result of a democratic process, reflecting the will of ALDA’s members present at the Elective Assembly. Initially elected as a member of the Governing Board, she garnered trust and support from her peers, leading to her subsequent election as President by the Governing Board members.

ALDA is proud to have Nataša Vučković as President for the next four years of her mandate

Coming from the Center for Democracy Foundation (CDF) in Serbia, Nataša has been instrumental in shaping ALDA’s direction and initiatives. Her illustrious career spanning back to 1994 has been marked by her tireless advocacy for democracy, rule of law, and fundamental rights. As the Founder, Secretary General, and Executive Director of CDF, she has honed her skills in nonprofit management, financial planning, and project implementation.

Moreover, Nataša’s extensive involvement in governmental and regulatory affairs, including her tenure in the National Parliament of Serbia and as a member of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), underscores her deep-seated commitment to advancing European values and integration.

Throughout her career, Nataša has been a vocal advocate for human rights, European integration, and socio-economic rights. Her role as the coordinator of the Working Group for Chapters 2 and 19 in the National Convention of the EU (NCEU) exemplifies her dedication to fostering dialogue and cooperation on critical issues such as migration of workers and employment policies.

Commenting on her election, Nataša expressed her gratitude and enthusiasm for the opportunity to lead ALDA forward. “I am deeply honoured to have been chosen as the President of ALDA,” she remarked. “I look forward to working closely with our members, partners, and stakeholders to advance our mission of promoting local democracy and European values.”

As ALDA embarks on this new chapter under Nataša’s leadership, the organisation stands assured to make significant strides in its mission. This important moment underscores ALDA’s commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and global collaboration in advancing local democracy and European values.

With her proven track record and unwavering dedication, ALDA is proud to have Nataša Vučković as President for the next four years of her mandate.Together, under her guidance, ALDA will continue to serve as a guiding force and inspiration for communities worldwide, championing the principles of democracy, human rights, and social justice.

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

During the ALDA Festival and General Assembly 2024, – Local Democracy will Save Democracy, which took place from May 13 to 15 2024 in the vibrant city of Barcelona, Spain, a significant moment unfolded on the first day, marking an important evolution as the new Governing Board of the Association was elected. 

This annual General Assembly held particular importance as it encompassed the elections for a new Governing Board mandate, which will guide ALDA’s direction until 2028, along with the formulation of a refreshed Strategy for the upcoming four years.

The renewed ALDA approach will pursue the organisation’s ongoing commitment to the promotion of democracy, good governance, and citizen participation, thereby strengthening its global impact.

The new ALDA Governing Board will lead the entire Association from 2024 until 2028

The elective segment of the General Assembly commenced with a concise introduction of each candidate and their respective ALDA-Member Organisation, shedding light on their compelling reasons for seeking a position on the Board. Subsequently, all members present participated in an anonymous voting process, casting twelve preferences in a ballot to elect the new Governing Board of the Association.

Following a meticulous scrutiny process conducted in a closed session by a jury approved by the members themselves, the Assembly proceeded to witness the official proclamation of the new Governing Board of ALDA. We take great pride in announcing the esteemed individuals who comprise this board:

Ms. Nataša Vučković, Center for Democracy Foundation (Serbia). Ms. Vučković, President of the Center for Democracy Foundation (CDF) in Belgrade, Serbia, has extensive experience in civil society and politics. As a founding member and Secretary General of CDF since 1994, she focuses on democratic institution support, youth education, and regional cooperation. She served in the Serbian National Assembly for thirteen years, chairing the Committee for European Integration. Since 2020 she has been a member of the ALDA Governing Board and in 2023 she was elected Vice President of the Association. Ms. Vučković will now keep contributing to ALDA’s work under the important role of President. 

Mr. Emir Coric, Municipality of Centar (North Macedonia). Mr. Coric currently works as an advisor and project coordinator at the Ministry of Local-Self Government. With expertise in community development and civic participation, he served as a member of the ALDA Governing Board for the previous mandate and he will continue his journey in the Association as newly elected Vice President.

Mr. Maurizio Camin, Association “Trentino con i Balcani” (Italy). Mr. Camin has over 10 years of experience in international cooperation, primarily in Kosovo, Serbia, Bosnia, and Albania on behalf of the Autonomous Province of Trento. He promotes sustainable development, human rights, and global citizenship, fostering an inclusive Balkan reality. With expertise in participatory democracy, Mr. Camin supports peaceful coexistence between communities and marginalised groups. After serving as a member of the governing board, he will now fill the role of Vice President for the mandate 2024-2028.

Mr. Roger Lawrence, individual member (United Kingdom). Dr. Lawrence, an individual member and former leader of Wolverhampton, UK, holds a doctorate in European Regional Policy from the University of Bristol. He led Wolverhampton City Council from 2002 to 2020 and remains an elected councilor with regional roles. He has been involved with ALDA since the early 2000s and served as Treasurer of the ALDA Governing Board from 2008 to 2024. He will now fill in the role of Vice President.

Mr. Oriano Otočan, Istria Region (Croatia). Mr. Otočan represents the Region of Istria, Croatia. Since 2005, he has served as a Member of the Regional Government and later as Director of the Department for International Cooperation and European Integration. He has extensive experience in minority rights, local development, interregional cooperation, and international organisations. With deep knowledge of the Euro-integration process and Southeast Europe’s political landscape, he worked in the European Parliament from 2014 to 2019 as a Policy Advisor and Head of Office for an MEP. He has been President of ALDA since 2012 and he will now serve as Treasurer.

Mr. Andrea Rilievo, Social Cooperative “Studio Progetto” (Italy). Mr. Rilievo is the President of the social cooperative Studio Progetto in Cornedo Vicentino, Italy, with 35 years of experience in social projects for disadvantaged people, focusing on job placement. His organisation provides various services for young people, the elderly, those with disabilities, migrants, refugees, and the community, including basic health services. Rilievo is an expert in the nonprofit development model and social inclusion. He will now embark in another mandate as member of the Governing Board of ALDA.

Ms. Marta Sys, Merkury Foundation (Poland). Ms. Sys represents the Merkury Foundation in Walbrzych, Poland, and is a lawyer, EU consultant, trainer, and project coordinator. With extensive experience in fundraising from private, national, and European sources, she focuses on supporting non-governmental organisations, building civil society, and promoting EU values. Sys is actively involved in local and regional initiatives in Lower Silesia dedicated to civil society and social economy development, notably as coordinator of the EU-funded Muflon Partnership project. She continues her journey as a member of the Governing Board also for the 2024-2028 mandate.

Ms. Maddalena Alberti, Association Ambasciata della Democrazia Locale a Zavidovici (Italy). With expertise in migration, she has worked for several Italian municipalities, designing services, building relationships with migrant citizens, and promoting inclusion processes. Specialising in housing, legal assistance, and labor integration, Mrs. Alberti has also served on the Advisory Board of ALDA for the Migration Thematic Hub since 2023.

PhD. Inna Volkova, Odesa Rayon Council, Ukraine. PhD Volkova is an active member of Odesa Rayon Council, Ukraine. She contributes to local governance, civic initiatives, and international cooperation. As Head of the Coordination Headquarters for humanitarian aid from 2022 to 2023, she gained practical insights from an internship at the German Federal Foreign Office. Mrs. Volkova was previously a member of ALDA Advisory Board, contributing to the Thematic HUB on Civic Engagement.

Ms. Núria Parlón Gil, Diputación de Barcelona (Spain). Ms. Parlón Gil is the Deputy for the Presidency and Delegate for International Relations of Diputación de Barcelona, Catalunya, Spain. She oversees International Relations, Agenda 2030, New Urban Agenda, and Public Policies Innovation. Mayor of Santa Coloma de Gramenet since 2009, she also coordinates the Network of Trafficking-Free Municipalities. She served as a deputy in the Parliament of Catalonia from 2012 to 2015 where she was in charge of the “Feminism and equality” area, the “Democratic Memory” and Global Observatory on Local Democracy and Decentralisation. Since 2024, she is now a member on ALDA’s Governing Board.

Mr. Thibaut Guignard, Plœuc-L’Hermitage Municipality (France). Mr. Guignard is a staunch advocate for European rural areas. Mayor of Plœuc-L’Hermitage, France, he has spearheaded numerous European cooperation initiatives since 2008, notably as Director of the Leader program of the Pays of South Saint-Brieuc. He believes in bottom-up approaches and Community-Led Local Development to empower rural areas, promoting their participation in EU opportunities. Guignard is an expert in rural promotion and serves as an observer Member of the ALDA Governing Board since 2023.

PhD Mario Žuliček, Association of Cities of the Republic of Croatia (Croatia). Mr. Žuliček, Advisor at the Association of Cities of the Republic of Croatia in Zagreb, holds a PhD in communication elements that encourage citizen cooperation and involvement in decision-making. He coordinates participatory budgeting and youth policy certification for Croatian cities, implements participatory processes at various levels, and mentors the Europe Goes Local project. Additionally, he educates local youth council members. Mr. Žuliček is now a member of ALDA’s Governing Board.

Ms. Irina Sahakyan Vetter, Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe. Ms, Sahakyan Vetter, Head of Partnerships for the Council of Europe Congress of Local and Regional Authorities, builds relationships with EU institutions, European associations, the UN, and non-member states. Formerly, she was Country Director for Ukraine, Moldova, and Belarus at the UN Office for Project Services and Deputy Head of the Council of Europe Office in Belgrade. She has worked in the Canadian public service, WHO, and the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB, and Malaria. With extensive international development experience, she focuses on local democracy, governance, human rights, and health. She holds degrees from the University of Ottawa, University of Massachusetts, and Stanford University.

Mr. Kerim Medjedovic, delegate of the Local Democracy Agency Montenegro and ALDA Governing Board member, became a peace and civil activist in the 1990s. Since 2004, as Executive Director of LDA Montenegro, he has led EU-funded projects on governance, youth empowerment, and local development, promoting citizen participation and social economy initiatives. Born in Podgorica in 1973, he graduated from the University of Podgorica and studied Peace Research at the University of Oslo. He will represent the interests of the Local Democracy Agencies in the Board for 2024.

In addition to the elected members, the Board includes two statutory members: a representative from the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe (Ms. Irina Sahakyan Vetter) and a representative of the LDAs network (Mr. Kerim Medjedovic).

“We sincerely thank every member of the outgoing Governing Board for their dedication and service,” said ALDA Secretary General, Antonella Valmborbida. 

The elections and proclamation of the new ALDA Governing Board for the period 2024-2028 have been a crucial moment for deep discussion and foresight into the future work of the Association.

We wish them all the best for the next four years of work and dedication to the ALDA Governing Board. We would like to extend our particular congratulations and appreciation to Ms. Nataša Vučković, elected as the new President of ALDA, and to Mr. Emir Coric, Mr. Maurizio Camin, and Mr. Roger Lawrence, already members of the Board and newly elected as Vice Presidents of ALDA. ALDA’s outgoing president, Mr. Oriano Otočan, will continue to work within the Governing Board in the role of Treasurer.

It is with immense pride that we, on behalf of the entire Association, express our gratitude for the stewardship and representation offered by this distinguished Governing Board. Comprised of highly qualified and experienced individuals, their collective expertise mirrors the geographical and cultural diversity that lies at the heart of ALDA’s values. We extend our best wishes to them as they embark on their important work.

Stay tuned for further updates on the ALDA pathway and the new dynamic strategy towards more resilient communities and an equal and inclusive society.

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

On May 13, 2024, ALDA’s annual General Assembly convened in the lively city of Barcelona, Spain, marking a significant milestone for the Association. Taking place in the picturesque framework of El Born Cultural Center, this gathering held profound importance as it served as a platform for engaging discussions and crucial decisions. 

The event was not only an opportunity for members, partners and friends to gather and exchange ideas but also a moment of transition as new leadership was elected. As the network of the Association engaged in insightful conversations with keynote speakers, they also participated in the democratic process of electing the new ALDA Governing Board and ALDA’s president.

The Assembly started with the opening words of its outgoing president, Oriano Otočan and ALDA’s Secretary General, Antonella Valmordìbida, who was followed by an amazing speech on the importance of democracy in challenging contexts carried out by the Deputy Mayor of Barcelona, Maria Eugenia Gay. 

The outgoing President proposed to the audience Dzenana Dedic, Director of the Local Democracy Agency Mostar, as President of the Assembly, and the people present accepted. 

Afterwards, the first panel entitled “Local Democracy, engaging globally: the European perspective” took place. We had the pleasure to engage in insightful discussions magistrally moderated by Dorothee Fischer, Senior Communications Expert and CEO Legado Sharpe & Fischer, and held by Tunc Soyer, President of the Chamber of Regions, Congress of the Council of Europe, Patrick Molinoz, Chair of the CIVEX Committee of the European Committee of the Regions, Vice-President of the Region Franche-Comté, Zana Vokopola, Executive Director of the Urban Research Institute of Albania, and Albert Castellanos i Maduell, Secretary for Enterprise and Competitiveness of the Ministry of Business and Labour of the Government of Catalonia, President of the AER. The discussion was soon followed by a second panel, which focused instead on a more international perspective, rather than a European one. 

This second panel saw the participation of Emilia Saiz, Secretary General of United Cities of Local Governments, Vadim Boichenko, Mayor of Mariupol, representative of the Association of Ukrainian Cities, Domènec Ruiz Devesa, Member of the European Parliament, President of the Union of European Federalists and Vice President of the European Movement International, and Senén Florensa i Palau, Executive President, European Institute of the Mediterranean (IEMed). This discussion was also opened by a video message by Jutta Urpilainen, European Commissioner for International Partnerships. 

Following the initial proceedings of the General Assembly, a defining moment emerged for our Association: the official signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between ALDA and the European Committee of the Regions. With ALDA President, Oriano Otočan, and Patrick Molinoz at the forefront, this ceremonial act solidified a profound alliance, marking an important step forward in our shared journey towards unity and progress.

The morning of the General Assembly closed on the words of Maddalena Alberti, ALDA Advisory Board Member and Director of the ADL Zavidovici Association, on the Paweł Adamowicz Award 2023, assigned to the Association in January. This moment was also marked by a heartful video on the importance of this prize and of the story of Mayor Paweł Adamowicz, a dear friend of ALDA.

Amidst the backdrop of Barcelona’s cultural richness, the General Assembly underscored ALDA’s commitment to fostering collaboration, dialogue, and democratic principles

The afternoon session commenced with the approval of several important documents crucial to the Association’s trajectory, including the 4-year Strategy of ALDA 2024-2028, the Programme and Budget document, and the comprehensive Report of activities for 2023, among others.

Following this more procedural phase, the atmosphere intensified as ALDA members present at the event participated in the elections of the Governing Board for the 2024-2028 mandate. This crucial juncture marked a significant transition for the Association, as the newly elected Governing Board will guide ALDA’s path for the next four years, shaping its direction until 2028.

During the counting of votes, Antonella Valmorbida, ALDA Secretary General, took the occasion to thank the outgoing President Oriano Otočan for his hard work during his 12 years of presidency and shared with the audience an emotional video containing very important memories that date back to 2012. 

The General Assembly came to its closure with the election of the new Governing Board for 2024-2028, which will be composed of Nataša Vučković (ALDA President), Emir Coric (ALDA Vice President), Maurizio Camin (ALDA Vice President), Roger Lawrence (ALDA Vice President), Oriano Otočan (ALDA treasurer) and by the following members: Andrea Rilievo, Maddalena Alberti, Inna Volkova, Núria Parlón Gil, Thibaut Guignard, Marta Sys, Mario Žuliček, Kerim Medjedovic (representing the Local Democracy Agencies) and Irina Sahakyan Vetter (representing the Congress of the Council of Europe).

Amidst the backdrop of Barcelona’s cultural richness, the General Assembly underscored ALDA’s commitment to fostering collaboration, dialogue, and democratic principles. With the election of new leadership, the Association embarks on a new chapter, poised to continue its mission of promoting local democracy and active citizenship across Europe and beyond.

As ALDA moves forward under the guidance of its newly elected leadership, the spirit of cooperation and dedication to advancing democratic values remains resolute. 

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

On Wednesday 8 and Thursday 9 May, ALDA welcomed a delegation from the Ukrainian city of Mariupol.

Denis Kochubei (Deputy Mayor of the Municipality of Marioupol) and Yehor Pyvovarov (Director of the Department of Relations with Members of Parliament and Internal Policy at Marioupol Town Hall) met with Deputy Mayor Federico Manzoni, Brescia Town Hall President Roberto Rossini and Agostino Zanotti (Coordination of Local Authorities for Peace and International Cooperation).

The visit was also the occasion for the city of Verona to organise, in collaboration with ALDA, the screening of the documentary “20 Days in Mariupol”, in the context of the city’s European Festival.

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

On Thursday 9 May, Europe Day, ALDA, through the voice of its employees and Secretary-General Antonella Valmorbida, encouraged citizens to vote via a short video message.

There are so many reasons for voting. From exercising a democratic right, to having ideas represented at the European level, it is important that all citizens feel included in the democratic process.

Therefore, on this special occasion, we encourage all citizens to express their voices. On 9 June, use your vote!