On Sunday, 16 February 2025, an exciting snowshoe hike took place along the Sengio Alto Ring, in the heart of the Vicentine Prealps, as part of the Alta Via della Grande Guerra (AVGG) – www.avgg.provincia.vicenza.it

The event was part of the broader efforts to promote and enhance the AVGG, a trail of over 200 km connecting the four Ossuaries of the Province of Vicenza: Pasubio, Cimone, Asiago, and Grappa. ALDA+, partner of the project, is in charge of the communication and promotion activities, with the goal of raising awareness and appreciation for this remarkable historical, cultural, and natural heritage.

Guided by the experienced team of Le Guide, participants followed a spectacular loop route, rich in history and breathtaking landscapes, winding through trenches, pathways, and defensive positions from the First World War. The starting point of the hike was Passo Pian delle Fugazze (1165 m a.s.l.), a historic alpine pass connecting Valli del Pasubio and Rovereto.

The wintry conditions and presence of snow added both charm and depth to the experience, making the hike not only a journey through the past but also an opportunity to reflect on the importance of mountain safety. During the excursion, the guides led a practical session on how to move safely in snowy environments and organised a simulation of a search operation for a person lost under an avalanche, demonstrating the use of safety equipment and rescue techniques.

This event offered a meaningful combination of sport, history, and environmental awareness, along one of the most evocative segments of the AVGG, in the spirit of remembrance and respect for the mountains.

Stay tuned and do not miss the next hikes to discover how nature and history greatly mix in the province of Vicenza!

From February 24 to 26, the ALDA Staff Meeting 2025 brought together over 70 colleagues for three days of strategic discussions, collaboration, and future planning. Hosted in the historic setting of Villa Fabris, Thiene (Italy), this annual gathering served as a key opportunity to align ALDA’s mission and initiatives with its long-term vision.

Shaping ALDA’s Direction

The meeting opened with welcome remarks from ALDA’s Secretary General, Antonella Valmorbida, and Thiene’s Municipal Councillor for European Affairs, Marina Maino. Discussions on the first day focused on ALDA’s strategic priorities for 2024-2028, emphasising key themes such as local democratic resilience and community engagement. Presentations from ALDA’s thematic hubs provided insights into ongoing projects, strengths, and areas for improvement, setting the stage for refining operational strategies. In the afternoon, sessions explored ALDA’s regional positioning, highlighting collaboration with Local Democracy Agencies (LDAs) and addressing challenges in various geographical areas, particularly in Eastern Europe.

Visit from our President & Team Building

The second day was marked by the presence of ALDA President Natasa Vuckovic, offering a valuable opportunity for our recently elected President to engage with the entire team and reaffirm the organisation’s commitment to democratic development. She actively participated in sessions covering ALDA’s geographical departments, membership engagement, and internal cooperation. A dynamic “speed dating” session encouraged cross-departmental collaboration, strengthening internal communication and teamwork. The day concluded with a social gathering at ALDA’s new office in Vicenza, where colleagues had the chance to explore the organisation’s beautiful new premises, located in the heart of the city.

Inclusive Policies, Innovation & Looking Ahead

The final day featured parallel sessions on inclusive communication and non-discrimination policies, reinforcing ALDA’s commitment to diversity and equity. A dedicated session explored ALDA’s services beyond projects, with a spotlight on the International School on Local Democracy. The day continued with an engaging design thinking workshop, where staff collectively brainstormed ALDA’s future growth and impact.

The meeting concluded with a formal evaluation session, gathering feedback for continuous improvement, followed by an institutional visit where ALDA representatives met with the Thiene municipal board, reaffirming ALDA’s strong local partnerships.

A Stronger Commitment in a Challenging World

The ALDA Staff Meeting 2025 underscored the organisation’s dedication to collaboration, strategic development, and innovation. At a time when many regions where ALDA is present are facing crises, conflicts, and political turmoil, democracy itself is increasingly at stake. In this context, ALDA’s mission is more relevant than ever. We remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting local democracy, promoting active citizenship, and standing by communities in need.


A huge thank you to everyone who contributed, participated and made this event a success!

On 17 and 18 February 2025, twenty-three participants from over thirteen countries convened in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, for a two-day event dedicated to youth empowerment in democratic participation across East Africa.

Organised by ALDA and the Kofi Annan Foundation, the event took place under the WYDE Civic Engagement project, a European Commission-funded initiative in partnership with the European Partnership for Democracy. The project aims to strengthen youth involvement in democratic processes at all levels—local, national, regional, and global—while fostering leadership and civic engagement among young changemakers.

The event began with an Outcome Harvesting Meeting, led by Giulia Sostero, Regional Coordinator for Africa, South West Asia, and Türkiye at ALDA. This session provided a space for ALDA sub-grantees to connect, share insights, and discuss the projects they are implementing in their respective countries. The meeting sparked meaningful exchanges and new collaborations, reinforcing the impact of youth-led initiatives. From the outset, participants’ energy and enthusiasm set a vibrant tone, demonstrating their dedication to driving change in their communities.

On 18 February, ALDA’s WYDE Civic Engagement sub-grantees engaged with the WYDE Accountability Hubs, led by the Kofi Annan Foundation. This interactive conference provided a valuable opportunity for participants to present their projects, exchange best practices, and explore collaboration opportunities, ultimately strengthening their efforts in advancing youth participation in governance.

During the conference, some of the first cluster sub-grantees, led by ALDA in collaboration with People in Need and ElBarlament, had the opportunity to present their projects and showcase their impact.

Country-Specific Initiatives: Driving Youth Engagement Across Africa

Youth participation and involvement in Democratic Processes – Tanzania

Young people in Tanzania face significant obstacles to political participation, including limited civic education, weak legal frameworks, mistrust in democracy, and resource constraints. Many feel excluded from decision-making, viewing politics as distant or inaccessible.

A new initiative, led by the subgrantee Action for Democratic Governance, is working to bridge this gap by promoting civic and voter education through community-based activities and digital tools ahead of the 2025 elections. By equipping young Tanzanians with knowledge and skills, the project aims to empower them to take an active role in shaping their country’s democratic future.

Accessible Democracy Initiative – Tanzania

Youth with hearing impairments often face exclusion from political discussions due to limited access to information in sign language and a lack of awareness about their voting rights. The Accessible Democracy Initiative seeks to change this by providing sign language-interpreted civic education, accessible electoral materials, and leadership training. Through policy advocacy, digital tools, and inclusive debates, this initiative, led by the Deaf and Sustenance Development Organisation, is ensuring that deaf youth can fully engage in democratic processes, fostering a more inclusive political landscape.

Enhancing Youth Representation in Governance – Tanzania

Despite their significant demographic presence, Tanzanian youth remain underrepresented in decision-making, with only 23% contesting local council positions in 2020. The lack of youth councils and clear regulatory framework further limits their ability to influence governance. This initiative, led by Mydia Tz, works to strengthen youth councils, promote inclusive governance, and foster collaboration between young leaders, government institutions, and civil society. By increasing awareness, representation, and engagement, the project ensures youth voices contribute to shaping national policies.


Youth Voice in Spaces Project – Kenya

In Kisumu County, youth are often excluded from policymaking, engaged only at the final stages of implementation. Limited awareness, exclusion of marginalised groups, and funding challenges further restrict their influence. This initiative, led by Youth Lead Africa, aims to bridge this gap by promoting early youth engagement in policy formulation, fostering inclusive representation, and leveraging digital advocacy to strengthen their role in governance.

Amplifying Youth Voices for Good Governance and Social Accountability – Kenya

Women, youth, and persons with disabilities frequently face systemic exclusion from decision-making. The Ugunja Youth Parliament Initiative provides a platform for advocacy and social accountability, empowering young people to influence policy, demand accountability, and improve resource allocation. The initiative works to expand democratic spaces, foster cross-border exchanges, and support youth-led innovations, creating a more inclusive governance system.


Our Space Project – Uganda

This initiative seeks to empower youth in slums across Uganda, Kenya, and Zambia by increasing their participation in public decision-making through regional accountability mechanisms. It addresses key challenges such as limited civic engagement spaces, poor coordination among youth groups, and lack of knowledge on electoral laws. The project, led by Hope 4 Life Uganda, promotes community dialogues, mentorship programs, and online campaigns to drive youth civic participation.

Increasing youth participation in Uganda’s decision-making – Uganda

The project, led by PBC, aims to increase youth participation in Uganda’s decision-making, addressing their exclusion despite making up 75% of the population. Through training, networks, and educational platforms, it seeks to empower young people and challenge negative stereotypes. Key actions include youth engagement platforms, policy involvement, localised information, support for youth-led initiatives, and democracy education in schools.

Youth for Democracy and Civic Engagement – Uganda

The challenge in Luweero and Mpigi is low youth participation in democracy, driven by lack of civic education, political intimidation, and limited awareness. Many young people abstain from voting due to fear, disinterest, or lack of knowledge, weakening their influence on policies affecting their future.

The project, led by the KYSO Organisation, seeks to empower youth through civic education, leadership training, legal support, and digital engagement, fostering greater political inclusion and stronger youth leadership.


Unleashing Youth Voices in Civic Engagement – South Sudan

In South Sudan, where youth make up 70-75% of the population, their exclusion from governance remains a pressing issue. Many face economic hardships, political manipulation, and limited civic education, preventing them from engaging in democratic processes.

The Empowering the Youth of South Sudan project, led by Voice for Change,  provides training in civic engagement, leadership, human rights, and communication. It also promotes public awareness, economic empowerment, and safe spaces for participation, ensuring that youth voices are heard as the country prepares for its first democratic election since separation.


Strengthening Youth Advocacy and Institutional Reform – Ethiopia

The Voices United for Change initiative, led by UNA-ET, tackles limited access to decision-making platforms, weak institutional capacity, and tokenistic youth representation. By enhancing the capacity of youth civil society organisations (CSOs), providing mentorship, and advocating for policy reforms, the project promotes institutional change and more engagement opportunities for young people.


Action 35: Strengthening Democracy in Southern Africa – Zimbabwe

Youth disillusionment with governance in Southern Africa has led to widespread political apathy, fueled by perceptions of corruption and unresponsiveness. The Action 35 project, led by SAYof, aims to counter this disengagement by fostering civic education, mentorship, and advocacy. It provides platforms for dialogue and leadership development, encouraging young people up to 35 years old to take an active role in governance.


As part of the Youth and Women in Democracy Initiative (WYDE) by the European Commission, the WYDE Civic Engagement Project works to enhance youth participation in democratic processes at all levels. By fostering cross-border cooperation, supporting youth-led initiatives, and bridging policy gaps, the project seeks to create a more inclusive, participatory, and representative democracy.

Through initiatives like these, young leaders are not just being included in political processes—they are shaping them.

February 24, 2025, marks three years since the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine, a war that has reshaped Europe’s geopolitical landscape and profoundly impacted millions of lives. As the conflict persists, ALDA reaffirms its unwavering support for Ukraine, its people and the democratic resilience of local communities.

Since the beginning of the war, ALDA has been actively engaged in Ukraine, working alongside members, partners, and civil society to promote local democracy, community resilience, and decentralisation efforts. Through its Local Democracy Agencies (LDAs), ALDA has provided essential support to local communities, fostering cooperation, humanitarian aid, and advocacy efforts.

For almost a decade, ALDA has built strong relations with Ukrainian local authorities, civil society organisations, and international partners, strengthening democratic governance through decentralised cooperation. The LDAs in Ukraine—established with the support of European municipalities—have played a crucial role in supporting local communities, particularly during these challenging times.

Since the onset of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, ALDA has reinforced its commitment to supporting local democracy, citizen engagement, and decentralization efforts. Through its Flagship Initiative in Ukraine, ALDA has mobilised resources, engaged in advocacy, and strengthened its network of LDAs to provide long-term support and reconstruction assistance to war-affected communities.

This morning, on February 24, 2025, a powerful moment of reflection and solidarity took place at Palazzo Trissino, uniting Vicentini and Ukrainians in remembrance of the third anniversary of the war in Ukraine.

Organised by CSV Vicenza (#ALDAMember) in collaboration with the Municipality of Vicenza and ALDA – European Association for Local Democracy, the event underscored the community’s unwavering commitment to peace and support for those affected by the conflict.

🇮🇹🇺🇦🕊️ The ceremony in Sala Stucchi opened with the national anthems of Italy and Ukraine, performed by Anna Maria Di Filippo and Ilaria Ethno, under the direction of Maestro Giuliano Fracasso.

Among the distinguished speakers:
🔹 Deputy Mayor Isabella Sala, representing the Municipality of Vicenza;
🔹 Vice President Maria Grazia Bettale and Director Maria Rita Dal Molin, representing CSV Vicenza;
🔹 ALDA Secretary General Antonella Valmorbida and Anastasia Buslaeva, LDAs coordinator, reaffirming the organisation’s dedication to local democracy and community resilience thanks to the Local Democracy Agencies Network and Flagship;
🔹 Deputy Mayor Svitlana Olshanska, joining remotely from Zhytomyr (#ALDAMember), a city that, in 2023, signed a Cooperation and Partnership Agreement with Mayor Giacomo Possamai to promote friendly relations and a culture of peace.

👉🏻 Deputy Mayor Isabella Sala emphasised the importance of reflection and remembrance:

“Three years have passed since that tragic February 24, 2022, when the first bombs tore through the skies of Ukraine, bringing pain, destruction, and death. Vicenza is a city of peace—not just in words, but in action. It is a principle enshrined in Article 2 of our Statute, inspired by Article 11 of the Italian Constitution, and one that guides our concrete efforts: from welcoming those fleeing the war, to supporting humanitarian projects, standing with the Ukrainian community in our city, and fostering international cooperation through our agreement with Zhytomyr. Today, Vicenza reaffirms its unwavering commitment to peace and solidarity.”

🤝🏻 Also present were representatives of numerous associations from across the region, working tirelessly to provide support, inclusion, and assistance to Ukrainian refugees who continue to live in Italy, awaiting the day when peace will finally return to their homeland.

The Role of LDAs: Instruments of Cooperation and Development

LDAs serve as decentralised cooperation platforms that foster local governance, community resilience, and democratic participation. These agencies provide direct support to displaced populations, strengthen civil society, and enhance local authorities’ capacity to address urgent needs

🔹 LDA Dnipro (Established 2014): Supporting IDP integration, democratic governance, and shelter modernisation.

🔹 LDA Mariupol (Established 2017, currently working from Kyiv): Continuing engagement with displaced citizens and the Mariupol Reborn initiative.

🔹 LDA Odesa (Established 2023): Strengthening international cooperation and supporting local governance in post-war reconstruction.

🔹 Signed the Memorandum of Understanding for LDA Vinnytsia

🔹 LDA Kharkiv (Opened in 2024)

Plans are underway to establish more LDAs, expanding the reach of democratic resilience efforts.

Key Actions Under ALDA’s Flagship Initiative

Beyond its local presence, ALDA has mobilised resources and stakeholders to provide tangible support:

🔹 Humanitarian Aid & Emergency Relief

  • Raised 134,000€ for humanitarian relief and emergency support:
    • Supported to YA Mariupol IDP centres (Provision of food and hygiene kits EUR 19.000) Fons Pitiús de Cooperació and Fons Menorqui;
    • Supported the Project for LDA Dnipro – Equipping Shelters EUR 12.000; Funding Source: Fons Pitiús de Cooperació;
    • Supported the Vinnytsia region. Funding Source: Fons menorquí de cooperació. Expenditure: Acquisition of two ultrasound machines for Bar hospitals (€9,754.00) and electricity generators (10 units at €824.60 each, totalling €8,246.00). Total Expenditure: €18,000.00
    • Supported Dnipro and Odesa. Funding Source: Fons Mallorqui. Dnipro: Renovation of an 80-square-meter communal apartment for temporary IDP social housing; social and psychological adaptation activities for IDPs in Dnipropetrovsk region. 
    • Services: psychological and legal counselling for IDPs, Conducting training for IDPs on self-development, adaptation, leadership potential, and employment opportunities, organising round tables and meetings with stakeholders on IDP integration. 
    • In Odesa, a centre for children and adolescents aged 7-14 years (100 sq. m.) was furnished with furniture, carpeting, and equipment (notebook, TV, multimedia projector, screen, microwave oven, cooker, washing vacuum cleaner, heater), consumables for children’s activities and creativity. 
    • ALDA also provided support for the Early Development Centre for children aged 3-6 years old (120 sq. m.) and a shelter for temporary accommodation of women with IDP children (100 sq. m.). Expenditure: €45,000.00. 
    • Supported LDA Dnipro – Equipment of the Shelter. Funding Source: NRW region Germany. Total Expenditure: €20,000.00 for the refurbishment of the shelter. 
  • Supported the Veteran’s Hub in Poltava (#ALDAMember), a centre for veterans’ initiatives and reintegration. Funding Source: Council of Europe. Total Expenditure: €20,000.00. 

🔹 International Advocacy & Strategic Engagement

  • Brussels Donors’ Conference (July 2022) – Highlighted local needs in Dnipro, Odesa, Vinnytsia, and Mariupol.
  • Wroclaw Conference (November 2022) – Defined 10 key recommendations for local self-governments.
  • Organised a visit in Kyiv between 14-17 of February 2023 to meet local stakeholders, assess their needs and plan future support actions together. 
  • Cooperated with Innovation in Politics on making the Act Now Conference 2023 a success, by bringing the expertise of Local Democracy Agencies as a meaningful tool to rebuild trust in Ukrainian society and support local governance; 
  • Participates in the Committee of the Regions’ ‘European Alliance of Cities and Regions for the reconstruction of Ukraine‘, and several other EU-level bodies such as the CoR’s working group on Ukraine;
  • General Assembly in Kyiv (June 2023) – Strengthened cooperation with Ukrainian local authorities.
  • International Conference in Vicenza (November 2023) – Focused on decentralized support for Ukrainian municipalities.
  • Bridges of Trust Initiative – Strengthened partnerships between European and Ukrainian municipalities. ALDA successfully completed a project in cooperation with U-LEAD with Europe as part of the Bridges of Trust initiative, aimed at strengthening local democracy and fostering partnerships between Ukrainian and European municipalities.
  • Contributed to the ELARD Congress by promoting the sharing of good practices between EU and Ukrainian Local Action Groups as a good tool for rural development and inclusive governance.
  • Congress of French Mayors and Local Authorities in Paris (Nov 25, 2024) – Organised annually by the Association des Maires de France (AMF), this event gathers local leaders, policymakers, and international stakeholders from across France and beyond. ALDA’s presence, alongside the Ukrainian delegation, highlighted the critical importance of local governance in promoting democratic resilience and sustainable development.
  • Committee of the Regions’ ‘European Alliance for the Reconstruction of Ukraine’ – ALDA actively contributes to EU-wide reconstruction efforts.

Looking Ahead: Join ALDA in Supporting Ukraine

ALDA will continue to support the development of LDAs in Ukraine and engage international partners in local governance initiatives, particularly in preparation for the Ukraine Recovery Conference 2025 in Rome, where local democracy will be a key theme in Ukraine’s reconstruction process.

As Ukraine continues to fight for its freedom, ALDA remains steadfast in its mission to support local democracy, active citizenship, and humanitarian relief. But our work is far from over—we invite our network, partners, and supporters to join this commitment in the following ways:

🔹 Support ALDA’s humanitarian and reconstruction efforts.
🔹 Become a partner in establishing new LDAs in Ukraine.
🔹 Engage in advocacy to keep Ukraine at the heart of European democratic development.

Now, more than ever, local democracy and community resilience are crucial in rebuilding Ukraine.

Thank you to ALDA Ukraine Task Force composed by Khrystyna Kvartsiana, Representative of ALDA in Ukraine; Anastasia Buslaeva, LDA coordinator; Viacheslav Yefymenko, Ukraine Project Assistant; and Dario Tolfo, of the Secretariat at ALDA in Brussels – who have tirelessely working for a stronger, democratic and peaceful Ukraine.

#StandWithUkraine 🇺🇦 #LocalDemocracy #ALDAforUkraine

On February 18, 2025, the Shared Horizons Project – Component 2 held a key event in Podgorica, Montenegro, aimed at advancing regional cooperation and community development through cultural heritage. The meeting brought together regional experts on cultural heritage and storytelling as well as representatives from the Podgorica Municipality and the French Embassy in Montenegro. This three-day event marked the launch of the Cultural Component of the Shared Horizons Project, an initiative coordinated by ALDA and funded by Expertise France.

Focused on engaging youth, promoting dialogue and enhancing accessibility to cultural heritage, Shared Horizons – Component 2 is designed to foster cooperation, unity and progress throughout the Western Balkans.

Bridges of Reconciliation: Promoting Unity and Cultural Exchange in the Western Balkans

Shared Horizons – Component 2 is an initiative that features historic bridges as symbols of reconciliation and regional unity across six Western Balkan countries. Focusing on Gorica Bridge (Albania), Stari Most (Bosnia and Herzegovina), Stone Bridge (Kosovo and North Macedonia), Adž-Pasha’s Bridge (Montenegro) and White Bridge (Serbia), the project aims to engage young people in activities like storytelling, photography and digital heritage preservation. They also include workshops, exhibitions, open days and a final event in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina). By fostering intercultural dialogue and strengthening community ties, Shared Horizons – Component 2 plays a crucial role in promoting unity and cultural exchange in the region.

Panel Discussion on Cultural Heritage

The launch event featured a panel discussion titled “Shared Cultural Heritage, Reconciliation and Regional Development.” It brought together prominent figures, including H.E. Ms. Anne-Marie Maskay, Ambassador of France in Montenegro; Ms. Nađa Ljiljanić, Deputy Mayor of Podgorica; Mr. Paul-Alexis Berthezene, Project Manager from Expertise France; Mr. Maurizio Camin, Vice President of ALDA; and Mr. Dejan Ubovic from the Museum of the 90s. Moderated by Ms. Antonella Valmorbida, ALDA Secretary General, the panel delved into the role of cultural heritage as a tool for fostering unity within a historically divided region. The speakers examined the challenges of heritage preservation, the impact of digital storytelling on collective memory and the importance of engaging young people in cultural initiatives. They also shared insights on how heritage sites can become platforms for dialogue and education, emphasising that history should not be seen as a source of division, but rather as a foundation for reconciliation and cooperation.

Engaging Experts in Strategies for Preserving Heritage and Empowering Youth

Following the panel, the event continued with a dedicated session presenting regional experts in cultural heritage and storytelling. It provided a platform for exchanging best practices and strategies, focused on preserving shared cultural landmarks and ensuring the engagement of young people in the activities. The experts discussed the importance of digital storytelling, youth engagement and innovative approaches to heritage conservation, while also developing plans for future activities under Component 2. With its ambitious scope and clear vision, the Shared Horizons Project is poised to leave a lasting impact on the region, proving that bridges are more than just physical structures—they are powerful symbols of connection, history and a shared future.

The European Committee of the Regions (CoR) has entered a new era with the election of President Kata Tüttő and Vice President Juanma Moreno, marking the beginning of a critical five-year term for local and regional governance in Europe. ALDA – the European Association for Local Democracy – extends its warmest congratulations to the newly elected leadership, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening cooperation on key priorities such as EU enlargement, deliberative democracy, and citizen participation.

A Strong Partnership with the European Committee of the Regions

ALDA has long maintained a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and an Action Plan with CoR, reflecting a shared vision for strengthening local democracy and supporting regions across Europe and beyond. This collaboration focuses on:

  • EU Enlargement and Neighborhood Countries: Supporting democratic reforms in the Western Balkans and Eastern Partnership countries (Ukraine, Moldova, Armenia, Georgia).
  • Deliberative Democracy & Citizen Participation: Ensuring that citizens have a direct role in decision-making processes and fostering inclusive governance.
  • Local Democracy Agencies (LDAs): Strengthening grassroots governance by supporting the network of Local Democracy Agencies, which act as key facilitators of participatory democracy in their regions.

During the elections and first meetings of the newly formed leadership, ALDA’s Secretary General, Antonella Valmorbida, engaged with key stakeholders, ensuring that ALDA’s priorities align with the broader European agenda on local democracy and governance.

Both the President and Vice President have assured ALDA of their commitment to strong leadership, ensuring local and regional authorities and their communities have a voice at the European level. We are excited to collaborate with them, continuing our work through the CIVEX Commission.

Antonella Valmorbida.

The elections also saw the reappointment of Thibaut Guignard as a full member of the European Committee of the Regions (2025-2029). As a dedicated advocate for rural development and European cooperation, Guignard’s continued presence within CoR ensures a strong voice for small municipalities and rural territories in shaping EU policies.

His first success in the new mandate came with the unanimous adoption of his initiative opinion on rural development during CoR’s first plenary session. This opinion highlights the success of the LEADER approach over the past 30 years in promoting local development.

“I will continue advocating for rural territories, municipalities, and small cities in EU policies, as well as addressing neighborhood challenges, particularly in our cooperation with Ukraine,”.

Thibaut Guignard, reaffirming his dedication to ensuring that local and regional voices remain at the heart of European decision-making.

Looking Ahead: Strengthening Local Democracy in Europe

With a renewed leadership and a shared commitment to democratic resilience, the European Committee of the Regions and ALDA are poised to deepen their collaboration, reinforcing the role of local governance in fostering democracy, resilience, and citizen engagement.

As ALDA continues its mission of empowering local communities, the organisation looks forward to actively working with the new CoR leadership and its CIVEX Commission to ensure that the voices of local authorities and citizens are heard, valued, and integrated into European policies.

Stay tuned for further updates as ALDA continues to engage in high-level European discussions and initiatives to strengthen participatory democracy and regional development across Europe and beyond!

® Picture: European Committee of the Regions

On February 13, 2025, the Governing Board of ALDA convened online to discuss strategic developments, new memberships, and upcoming initiatives. The session, attended by board members and ALDA staff, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to local democracy, civic engagement, and international cooperation.

Key Decisions and Approvals

The Board approved several important documents, including:
Minutes of the previous Governing Board meeting (December 11, 2024)
The first list of co-chairs for ALDA’s Thematic Hubs, with final confirmation to be made in the next Governing Board meeting in Belgrade
New memberships from Zhytomyr Municipality, Cherkasy Province, Chernihiv Municipality (Ukraine), PULSE Groupe SOS (Italy) and Vicenza Calcio Femminile (Italy)
Approval of Local Democracy Agency (LDA) labels

Support for Ukrainian Partners

ALDA reaffirmed its support for Ukrainian members, with a growing number of LDAs in the country. Inna Volkova, ALDA Board Member, emphasised the need for continuous support and integration of new Ukrainian members.

A Collective Effort for Local Democracy

The Governing Board meeting reaffirmed ALDA’s unwavering commitment to democratic governance, civic engagement and global partnerships. With new initiatives on the horizon, ALDA remains dedicated to fostering inclusive, sustainable and resilient local democracies worldwide.


We are excited to announce that the ALDA+ website is now available in English, making our services even more accessible to an international audience. Following the successful launch of the Italian version in December, www.aldaplus.com now provides a platform for global users to explore tailored consultancy, training, and technical support for organisations, local authorities, businesses, and institutions navigating European funding and the Project Cycle Management (PCM).


What you will find on the website


The website offers insights into the history and mission of ALDA+, the benefit corporation of ALDA, and introduces the dedicated professionals behind our services. Our multilingual team brings extensive expertise in European funding, project management, and capacity-building, ensuring high-quality support for organisations seeking to develop successful projects and access funding opportunities.

Explore our services!

Project Cycle Management (PCM): ALDA+ supports organisations at every stage of project development, from idea generation to implementation, to reporting by offering:

  • Development of project proposals, budgeting, and preparation of technical-administrative documentation;
  • Assistance in building partnerships and submitting applications to donors;
  • Support in project management, monitoring and evaluation, and reporting and dissemination of results.

Technical Assistance: ALDA+ provides specialised consulting services to help transform ideas into impactful projects. We assist organisations with:

  • Identifying funding opportunities;
  • Applying participatory methodologies for effective engagement;
  • Establishing strong networks and partnerships;

Training & Capacity Building – ALDA+ Academy: Through ALDA+ Academy, we offer high-quality training courses designed to strengthen expertise in:

  • Project Cycle Management;
  • European Union funding programmes;
  • Financial management and auditing of funded projects;
  • European Commission portals;
  • Communication and Dissemination.

Our courses, available in standard or customised formats, are led by experienced trainers and tailored to the needs of: local authorities, civil society organisations, companies, professionals, universities and research institutions and businesses looking to expand their EU project knowledge.

With our extensive experience, our training is designed to be practical and application-driven, equipping participants with real-world skills that can be immediately implemented in their projects and professional activities.

Get to know our projects!

You will find detailed insights into the projects ALDA+ is actively implementing, including the Villa Fabris redevelopment initiative (Villa Fabris Bene Comune), a six-year collaboration between three partners aimed at restoring and revitalising this historic site in the heart of Thiene.

Another notable project is the Alta Via della Grande Guerra (AVGG)—a 200 km hiking trail and open-air museumthat winds through the Vicentine Pre-Alps, preserving and narrating the legacy of World War I. ALDA+ plays a key role in this project, overseeing communication, strategic planning, promotion, and event organisation to enhance its visibility and impact.


The availability of the ALDA+ website in English reinforces our commitment to supporting organisations across Europe and beyond, providing greater access to project management, funding opportunities, and technical expertise.

Visit the English version of our website today: www.aldaplus.it

Stay informed about our training opportunities, consulting services, and project management insights by following ALDA+!

The CLIMentines Project, running from November 2023 to October 2025, is co-funded by the European Union and coordinated by KMOP (Greece), in partnership with leading organisations in climate and youth work, including ALDA (France), ActionAid Italia, Nuorten Akatemia (Finland), Groupe SOS Solidarités (France), PROM (Poland), and ÖJAB (Austria).

Through a series of co-creation workshops, international training sessions, and youth-led initiatives, the project seeks to establish a strong transnational network of over 100 active youth organisations, ensuring that young people have the tools and confidence to participate in climate policy formulation.

The CLIMentines Project has officially released the Youth Worker’s Guide to Climate Action. This comprehensive resource equips youth workers, organisations, and educators with practical tools and methodologies to mobilise young people in participatory climate advocacy and policy making.

The guide, developed by a consortium of seven organisations from six European countries, is a key deliverable of the CLIMentines – Empowered Youth for Climate Action project. It serves as a hands-on manual to foster youth engagement, enhance climate literacy, and provide structured approaches to participatory democracy in environmental decision-making.


A Toolkit for Active Citizenship and Climate Policy Influence


With climate change posing an urgent challenge to modern democracies, the CLIMentines Youth Worker’s Guide aims to bridge the gap between youth activism and policy making. The guide includes:

  • Methods and tools for public participation in climate action, such as civic monitoring, deliberative assemblies, and participatory budgeting.
  • Step-by-step frameworks for youth organisations to design, implement, and sustain climate initiatives.
  • Case studies and best practices from across Europe showcasing successful youth-led climate advocacy.
  • Practical sheets and toolkits to facilitate climate-focused democratic engagement at local, national, and European levels.

In addition to the launch of the guide, we invite youth organisations, activists, and climate advocates to join the CLIMentines Transnational Network. This growing community of over 100 organisations provides a platform for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and action to drive meaningful climate policy change.
By joining the CLIMentines Network, members can take part in exclusive training sessions, webinars, and events, connect with like-minded organisations across Europe, and actively contribute to shaping climate policy at all levels.

For further information, please contact:
📧 info@climentines.eu or visit CLIMentines Website

AT A GLANCE

YOU-DARE (YOUth Debunking the gendered Arguments of far-Right Extremism), funded by the European Commission, is an interdisciplinary project that examines and challenges the gender constructions of far-right youth groups and leaders – and how these ideas are becoming mainstream – across eight countries: Denmark, Spain, the United Kingdom, France, Hungary, Italy, Romania and Sweden.

Adopting an intersectional approach, the project aims to reveal the contradictions within far-right gender narratives, focusing on under-researched far-right youth and studying both formal and online leadership. It explores how these gendered ideas shape identity, politicisation and democratic processes. Methodologically, YOU-DARE uses qualitative research, maps online gender controversies and fosters a transnational network. To drive real-world change, a key outcome is the creation of a Policy Lab, designed to generate and implement solutions at the local level to counter far-right gender narratives among young people – ultimately protecting democratic values. The project is led by the European Science Foundation and is planned to last for three years.

OBJECTIVES

The specific objectives that the project aims to achieve are the following ones:

  1. Challenging oversimplified far-right gender ideas by showing the contradictions between anti-gender messages and pro-equality views in anti-immigration campaigns;
  2. Focusing on youth as a key yet under-studied demographic for identity formation and politicisation;
  3. Examining far-right youth leadership at local levels and among online influencers;
  4. Charting the impact of these ideas on democracy through policy debates and normalisation processes.

#youdare #youth #counteringextremism #policies

RELATED NEWS

A Call for Proposal for Organisations to develop their own projects on EU key values. A Call for ALDA members to fund local actions up to 10.000 Euro!

ALDA, in the context of the Operating Grant of the CERV programme, will support initiatives aimed at strengthening civic participation in the EU, and which align with ALDA Thematic Hubs.

Don’t miss this opportunity to participate: 16 projects will be funded!

🔹Who can be a beneficiary?

The Call is open to legal entities, private non-profit organisations (private bodies), established in an EU Member State, which must be members of ALDA before the signature of the grant contract

🔹What is the main objective of the Call for Proposal?

This call for proposals seeks to support initiatives that are aimed at fostering European Citizenship by improving conditions for civic and democratic participation in Europe, at promoting environmentally sustainable communities – in line with the Green Deal – and at supporting an inclusive and people-oriented economic local development all over Europe. Specifically, the thematic focus of the actions should be on strengthening civic participation in the EU, and align with ALDA Thematic Hubs.


Fund your local actions up to 10.000 Euro!


🔹Which is the thematic focus of the actions?

The re-granted actions should focus on:

Aligning with ALDA Thematic Hubs: projects must align with the priorities set by ALDA’s thematic hubs. Proposals should specify the thematic hub under which their action falls and how it contributes to the overarching goals within that theme.

Strengthening Civic Participation in the EU: projects should strengthen citizens’ engagement and participation in democratic life while empowering individuals and organizations to understand, advocate for, and actively contribute to the respect of EU rights and values at the local level.

🔹How much is the grant?

The contribution from the sub granting scheme will cover 100% of the total eligible costs of the total budget for the activity

The grants awarded will be: 10.000 Eur each, 16 projects in total.

🔹Where can the project be implemented? 

Activities must take place in the EU.

🔹How to apply?

Read the full Call for Proposals to have all the information about the call and how to apply. The Call will be open until April 30th 2025 at 23:59 CET. Here is the link to send your application. In light of the extension, new membership applications will no longer be accepted.

On 10 March ALDA hosted a Q&A Session to present the call and to answer some questions related to it. You can find below the recording of the session.


The applicants will receive support by the ALDA team during the proposal writing process. Any questions can be sent to this email address: regranting@alda-europe.eu

🔹Useful material and links:

[Call published on February 18th 2025]

Find the slides of the Q&A Session here. The recording can be found below.

On February 4, 2025, the city of Strasbourg, France, became the backdrop for the official launch of the YOU-DARE project, an ambitious initiative funded by the European Commission. This collaborative effort brings together a pan-European consortium of leading research institutions and organisations, to confront the pressing challenges posed by far-right extremism through a gendered lens.

The YOU-DARE project (YOUth Debunking the gendered Arguments of far-Right Extremism) sets out to investigate how far-right youth groups construct and mobilise gender identities within their ideologies, and how these narratives threaten democratic values and social cohesion.

Susi Meret of Aalborg University, a key partner in the initiative said,

This project aims to expose the gendered strategies of far-right movements and provide solutions to protect democracy and equality.

Through comparative research spanning eight European countries, YOU-DARE seeks to uncover the nuanced and complex roles that gender plays in the appeal and propagation of extremist ideologies. By analysing these dynamics, the project hopes to contribute not only to academic knowledge but also to the development of practical tools and policies that can counteract divisive and anti-democratic narratives.


Empowering Youth Against Rising Extremism


The launch event in Strasbourg gathered scholars, policy-makers, and civil society representatives, fostering a transnational dialogue on safeguarding democratic principles in an era marked by rising extremism. The YOU-DARE project will run for three years, producing arange of outputs, including policy recommendations, educational materials and community-based interventions designed to empower young people to resist extremist rhetoric.

As Europe faces the challenges of political polarisation and democratic backsliding, initiatives like YOU-DARE offer a beacon of hope, emphasising that understanding and addressing the gendered dimensions of far-right extremism is crucial for building more inclusive and resilient societies. The consortium invites stakeholders across the continent to join in this critical endeavor, reinforcing the shared commitment to democracy, gender equality and human rights.

On February 12, the European Youth Centre in Strasbourg (France) hosted the final conference of the 2030 Youth Vision Project—Shaping the Future Through Youth Participation. The event brought together project partners including Association for Developing Voluntary Work Novo Mesto (Slovenia), Municipality of Catadau (Spain), Municipality of Lousada (Portugal), and Digital World Foundation (Italy), alongside several French and Belgian organisations, including Gescod, FEMYSO, Youth ID, Jeunes Européens Strasbourg, Youth Express Network, and AMSED.

The conference opened with a presentation by Aladdin Alrifai, Project Manager at ALDA, who expressed his pleasure in collaborating on this initiative. This event marked the culmination of an ambitious project designed to encourage young people to engage in local politics within a sustainable development framework.

Following this, Andrea Michelini, Project Manager at ALDA, introduced the organisation’s mission and vision. He highlighted ALDA’s strong collaboration with local associations and showcased three key youth-oriented projects: The Future We Want Project, YouthSocial Act Project, and EYE 2025, which will take place at the European Parliament in Strasbourg this June.

Before the roundtable began, Alexandre Godonaise, President of Jeunes Européens Strasbourg, took the floor. Alexandre introduced the association, outlined its advocacy activities, and presented the flagship programme “Europe par les Jeunes”, a European educational programme in Strasbourg and the surrounding region – a continuous exchange of knowledge among young people, for young people.

The roundtable, titled “Active Youth Participation”, began with Aladdin introducing the topic of the conference, discussing the challenges, best practices, and future projects in youth participation. This was followed by the moderation of Alexandre Météreau, Policy and Campaign Officer at ALDA, who introduced the topic and the different speakers, including Hania Chalal, President at FEMYSO, Ekrem Sahin, Secretary General of Youth Express Network, Charlotte Gong, engaged volunteer at AMSED, Marion Clasquin, International Mobility Coordinator at GESCOD, and Anissa Ben Rahal, International Project Officer at YouthID. The conversation explored the role of young people in shaping a rapidly changing world and how their participation in governance can drive meaningful change.

Marion Clasquin from GESCOD discussed how the international volunteering programmes, such as VSI, have evolved. Previously known as Volunteers for Progress, these programmes have now become professional pathways, signifying a shift towards long-term impact. Alexandre Météreau then steered the conversation towards public policy, asking how governance structures can become more representative of young people. Hania Chalal, speaking on behalf of FEMYSO, emphasised the importance of inclusion, particularly in ensuring that marginalised communities have a voice. She said,

“True democracy must be resilient and inclusive, incorporating diverse perspectives rather than token representation.”

Charlotte Gong, from AMSED, spoke about how her organisation empowers young people by providing opportunities for mobility and digital citizenship projects such as the European Solidarity Corps (ESC). Such programmes enable young participants to gain professional skills, work in diverse fields, and create strong cross-border connections. AMSED also supports young people from disadvantaged backgrounds by equipping them with media literacy skills, encouraging them to become digital journalists within their own communities.

Ekrem Sahin from Youth Express Network explained the organisation’s mission, which has spanned over three decades. YEN fosters youth inclusion and representation through a network of 29 member organisations across 18 European countries. Their work is rooted in the belief that young people should not remain passive spectators but active changemakers. He gave an example of how YEN provides spaces for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to discuss European citizenship, particularly around elections.

Anissa Ben Rahal from Youth ID highlighted how European projects, especially those under Erasmus+ and ESC, have gained prominence due to increased EU funding and social media outreach. However, in France, the impact remains limited, and there is a need to engage young people who are typically excluded from these opportunities. Programmes such as Second Chance Schools aim to bridge this gap, fostering intercultural understanding and combating prejudice.

The discussion also explored the barriers preventing young people from engaging in civic participation, including the lack of accessible information about opportunities, the marginalisation of certain communities, and institutional reluctance to give young people a seat at the table. As the discussion drew to a close, Alexandre Météreau asked how organisations could better support youth engagement. The speakers emphasised the need to diversify volunteer roles beyond project management, incorporating technical fields such as craftsmanship, and highlighting that youth engagement is not merely about future potential, but about present impact.


Young people are already shaping the world. The challenge is to ensure that all young voices, not just those with access to resources, are heard.


The second part of the conference featured representatives from partner organisations and a participant who shared their experiences and perspectives on local transformation through youth-led initiatives. Marc Caballero Císcar, who works on local development strategies for the Municipality of Catadau (Spain), explained that the project focuses on co-producing local policies to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and actively involving young people from small villages. While engaging youth in smaller communities may seem easier, there are several challenges to overcome. Many young people in the village lacked awareness of these topics and were unfamiliar with how to write policies or engage in decision-making. As a result, raising awareness became an essential step.

Next, Beatriz Veiga, a student and participant from Lousada Municipality (Portugal), shared her perspective. Beatriz discussed how youth participation empowered her to help shape the future of her community. In her role in the local labs, she took part in activities such as research, information gathering, brainstorming, and identifying the strengths and opportunities within each local context. She highlighted the importance of teamwork and collaboration. Through her involvement, she felt that her voice was heard—something that is often missing in government decision-making, where young people are typically not listened to. For Beatriz, this project represented a significant shift, which gave her a renewed sense of hope.

To conclude this section, Sean Currie from the Advisory Council on Youth took the floor to highlight the role of young people in shaping the policies that affect them. He emphasised the importance of institutional support for youth participation and encouraged young participants to continue engaging beyond the project.

The conference concluded with a marketplace where different organisations had stands, and there were presentations of initiatives and opportunities led by young people, as well as innovative projects and inspiring practices. It also provided networking opportunities and the chance for collaborations between participants.

AT A GLANCE

The OUT4INGOV project, led by the Autonomous Province of Trento, addresses critical challenges faced by Alpine regions, particularly mountainous areas, which experience significant out-migration of young, highly educated individuals. This trend results in brain drain, depopulation, and a decline in social cohesion, while receiving regions benefit from brain gain, enhanced economic development, and improved care services. These dynamics exacerbate territorial imbalances, widening gaps in development and quality of life across the Alpine area.

The project aims to innovate policies on youth migration and strengthen territorial cohesion through co-creation with stakeholders. It seeks to develop shared governance models, build the capacity of local actors, and empower communities. Central to its approach is the involvement of young people, particularly migrants, through initiatives such as youth councils. By fostering skill transfer, community networks, and collaborative projects, the project envisions long-term positive impacts, including a triple-win scenario benefiting sending areas, receiving regions, and young migrants themselves. With a strong focus on transnational collaboration, OUT4INGOV highlights the necessity of addressing these challenges across borders to ensure cohesive development. Its innovative approach, combining policy rationalisation, co-creation, and youth engagement, sets the foundation for sustainable solutions to migration and governance issues in the Alpine region. The project is planned for a duration of 20 months.

OBJECTIVES

Overall objective: To develop and test new shared governance mechanisms (i.e. councils, observatories, networks) and to increase the capacity of cooperation and decision-making of the Alpine Space regions’ stakeholders (capacity building, training) on the management of youth migration phenomena in the area, with the aim to promote a triple-win situation (for the regions of origin, for those of arrival and for young migrants), i.e. via common projects and competence circulation. 

Specific objective: Enhancing institutional capacity of public authorities and stakeholders to implement macro-regional strategies and sea-basin strategies, as well as other territorial strategies.

RELATED NEWS

On February 3-5, Matilde Ferrari from the Youth Empowerment and Education hub in ALDA had the opportunity to take part in the training on “Citizens’ assemblies with children and youth” in Malaga, Spain. The event was organised by four organisations within the Changemakers for Democracy cohort: Coglobal (Spain), Our Ombudsman (Poland), Ministry of Space collective (Serbia), and Platform for Citizens’ Assemblies (Czech), in collaboration with Katie Reid and Lianne Minasian from Child Rights International Network – CRIN

Over two days of training, participants gained insight into the benefits of involving younger generations in these discussions, highlighting their potential to contribute meaningfully to decision-making. This context allows the interest in engaging in dialogue and a common goal to be raised from an early age, giving the younger generation the opportunity to make their voices heard by decision-makers. However, analysing the examples of climate assemblies organised in Scotland and Ireland. It is clear that young people have a lot of expertise, creativity and willingness to engage in sharing it with their community and also to shape it through recommendations to decision makers. 


This event provided an opportunity to explore youth engagement through deliberative processes, focusing on the organisation of assemblies for children and young people.


The sessions began by exploring the key elements that define youth assemblies and their significance. They then moved on to a practical overview of the methodologies and procedures necessary for effective implementation, with a particular focus on the democratic lottery, assembly design, and activities that encourage the active participation of children from all ages and backgrounds. A valuable aspect of the training was the exchange of ideas among over 40 practitioners from diverse backgrounds, through group discussions and activities that enriched the understanding of the topics. 

In this context, ALDA also had the opportunity to present The Future We Want Project as a good practice in the field of youth engagement and participation, in particular for its participatory approach and involvement of participants. By empowering young people to advocate for greater regulation of fast fashion and its advertising measures, the FWW project successfully involved young people, NGO, local networks, schools, national and European stakeholders to ensure that the voice of the younger generation is heard. 

This experience has been incredibly enriching, showing new ways to mobilise and involve young people. It highlighted the importance of making them relevant members of their communities, not to be overlooked or silenced. Deliberation techniques can serve as an excellent tool in local communities and future initiatives, empowering young generations to act for both their future and their present.

On 11 February 2025, in the stunning setting of Villa Fabris in Thiene (Vicenza), the training session “Shaping the Future for More Resilient Communities” took place. Organised by ALDA – European Association for Local Democracy as part of the FOSTER – Future Oriented Solutions Toward Environmental Resilience project, funded by the CERV programme, the event brought together public administrators, municipal technicians, and civil society representatives. The aim was to deepen understanding of strategic foresight, a methodology that helps anticipate future scenarios and develop innovative policies for more sustainable and resilient communities.


A Day of Training and Experimentation


Following the institutional greetings from Pierluigi Brombo (European Economic and Social Committee) and Nadia Di Iulio (ALDA, FOSTER project coordinator), the event delved into an in-depth discussion led by Brombo on the role of foresight in European policymaking. He emphasised that foresight is not a prediction but a discipline that allows us to explore and shape the future, leveraging collective intelligence to anticipate developments and better prepare for changes. He also highlighted the importance of participatory foresight, which enables the early detection of weak signals and integrates diverse perspectives into decision-making processes.

Trainer Nicoletta Boldrini, an expert in Futures & Foresight, introduced participants to key methodologies in the field, stressing the difference between forecasting and foresight: the former relies on predictions and data, while the latter explores various possible scenarios to inform strategic decision-making. She also presented the VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity) framework and the BANI (Brittle, Anxious, Non-linear, Incomprehensible) model to illustrate today’s uncertainty and how foresight can help navigate it.

Participants then engaged in an immersive workshop on the Futurising Process, testing practical tools to analyse emerging trends and construct future scenarios. These exercises provided opportunities to address various local development topics and identify weak signals of ongoing transformations. It was emphasised that the future emerges in the present, often at the micro level, and that having a flexible and adaptable strategy is crucial.

Inclusion and gender mainstreaming in strategic foresight were the focus of the final intervention by Camilla Vedovato (ALDA), who stressed the importance of ensuring an equitable and accessible approach for all. The session also explored the need for positive and inclusive communication, fostering community-wide engagement in strategic decision-making and making foresight a truly democratic tool.

The event concluded with a networking aperitif, providing participants with an opportunity to share experiences and build new connections. This training is part of a broader capacity building and community empowerment initiative led by ALDA across nine European countries through the FOSTER project.

📩 For more information, contact nadia@alda-europe.eu 

🔗 Learn more about ALDA and upcoming training sessions: www.alda-europe.eu

The AMIL Project (Alliance Multi-Stakeholder for Migrants Integration and Labor) aims to promote the sustainable integration of individuals from Third Countries, facilitating access to the labour market through a multidimensional approach. Thanks to pilot initiatives, the project offers practical solutions to improve economic inclusion and expand professional opportunities. ALDA and project partners are committed in achieving this goal and supporting the programme’s broader mission, in Europe and beyond.


The AMIL Project: Opportunities and Innovation


In this context, February marks the beginning of a crucial phase for the initiative, as the first 20 participants embark on a training programme designed to refine their skills and facilitate their entry into the workforce. The Employability Workshop, led by Cies Onlus, the project coordinator, aims to provide practical tools and foster reflection to better prepare participants for the professional environment in Italy.

The first sessions of the workshop will not only provide practical and bureaucratic information but will also focus on soft skill development, essential elements for navigating the labour market in the host country. The implemented approach offers personalised pathways for each participant and is based on two key principles:

  • Consideration of participants’ backgrounds, which allows for the enhancement of individual experiences through cultural interpretation;
  • Cultural sensitivity, essential for fostering social and professional inclusion.

This initiative strengthens participants’ existing skills, aligning them with market demands through alternative methodologies such as non-formal education and social theatre. These tools stimulate participants’ creativity, promoting collaboration and personal growth—key elements for effective integration.


Experiential Training: An Interactive Approach


The planned activities are designed to stimulate interaction and encourage mutual listening among participants. Through theatrical tools and exercises, the workshops explore roles, group dynamics, and processes, contributing to the development of transferable skills. Among the methodologies used is the mirror game, a physical mimesis exercise aimed at strengthening emotional connection and mutual understanding—crucial aspects for building strong professional relationships.


A Concrete Impact for the Future


With this workshop, ALDA, together with the other leading partners, aim to ensure participants are equipped with the tools needed to enter the labour market with greater preparation and confidence. Our practical approach, combined with innovative methodologies, offers a unique growth opportunity. The goal is not only to develop new professional skills but also to build a personalised integration pathway, enhancing each participant’s potential and fostering a positive and lasting impact.

A successful professional future starts here—one step at a time, by promoting individual skills and providing tangible support.

As part of the Media4EU project, carried out by ALDA, Eurothink, and BIRC, eight thematic forums were organised across North Macedonia’s eight administrative planning regions. These forums served as a collaborative platform for journalists, civil society representatives, and experts from diverse fields to come together and engage in meaningful discussions.

Each forum focused on region-specific topics, such as consumer rights, the free movement of workers, agriculture, ethnic group rights, education policies, transport policies, fisheries, and environmental issues. The events took place in Skopje, Shtip, Strumica, Kumanovo, Bitola, Veles, Ohrid, and Tetovo, all of which are cities in North Macedonia, with renowned experts and trainers facilitating the discussions. These forums offered an excellent opportunity for the exchange of ideas and a more in-depth exploration of local concerns.

Veles Forum: Aligning Transport Policies with European Standards

At the thematic forum in Veles, participants discussed the importance of transport policies in alignment with European standards, as well as the need for improved communication between the media and local authorities. Throughout the event, ideas were exchanged on how to enhance the flow of information between departments responsible for public relations in local institutions, with the aim of fostering more interactions between journalists and the civil sector.

Strumica Forum: Promoting EU Funding and Agricultural Awareness

Likewise, at the thematic forum in Strumica, participants were engaged in debates and discussions. They advocated for stronger collaboration between media outlets, NGOs, and local authorities to promote EU funding opportunities, raise awareness of agricultural policies, and encourage farmers to actively participate in these initiatives.

Ohrid Forum: Tackling Fisheries and Environmental Challenges

The Ohrid forum focused on the challenges confronting fisheries and the environment. Speakers examined the current situation of fisheries in North Macedonia and highlighted the pressing need for effective communication regarding EU funding opportunities. Participants also underscored the importance of cross-border cooperation and the role of the media in raising public awareness of these vital issues.

Shtip Forum: Addressing Labour Law and Workers’ Rights

In Shtip, media representatives and civil society organisations gathered to discuss labour law and workers’ rights. The discussions focused on the challenges of labour shortages caused by youth emigration and broader demographic trends across Europe. While North Macedonia’s labour laws largely align with EU standards, the forum highlighted shortcomings in their implementation and enforcement. The conversations resulted in recommendations for new legislation on labour disputes and collective bargaining, drawing on Austrian examples, as well as calls for stronger non-discrimination policies and the ratification of pertinent international conventions.

Bitola Forum: Advancing Education, Culture, and Youth Development

The forum in Bitola focused on education, culture, and youth development within the framework of North Macedonia’s European integration. Key discussions centred on aligning domestic legislation with EU standards, especially concerning the Erasmus+ programme and cultural initiatives. Participants engaged in meaningful dialogues on educational policies, media communication strategies, and the need for increased investment in the youth and cultural sectors. The forum also acknowledged the changing role of both social and traditional media in public discourse, providing valuable insights for future policy development aimed at aligning the country’s educational and cultural practices with European standards.

Overall, the Media4EU initiative has greatly increased awareness and strengthened capacity within North Macedonia’s media and civil society sectors, offering essential support for the country’s journey towards European integration. Through these thematic forums, the project has effectively facilitated continuous dialogue between civil society, media, and government bodies. The insights and recommendations gathered from these discussions will play a key role in shaping future strategies to promote regional development and encourage collaboration. As the project progresses, it remains dedicated to ensuring that local voices are heard and included in the broader European conversation, working towards a future where regional challenges are addressed through collective action and shared knowledge.