ALDA expands its network: new Local Democracy Agency opens in Edremit (Türkiye)

In an exciting development for local democracy and community empowerment, ALDA is thrilled to announce the inauguration of the new Local Democracy Agency (LDA) in Edremit, Türkiye. The General Assembly to announce the official opening of LDA Edremit took place on October 30, 2023. This event marked a significant milestone in ALDA and the LDA’s commitment to promoting active citizenship and local governance.

For three decades, the core mission of the Local Democracy Agencies, in cooperation with ALDA since 1999, has revolved around bridging and strengthening local communities. These Agencies serve as innovative platforms for cities, municipalities, and communities to engage in citizen participation, create inclusive policies, and work collectively towards sustainable development.

The newest addition to this network, the LDA in Edremit, will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in this transformative journey

The inauguration ceremony was graced by esteemed guests, among which the Mayor of Edremit, Mr. Selman Hasan Arslan and representatives of Région Grand Est, Lushnjë Municipality, LDA Mostar, Elbarlament, MEDAR, and ALDA Secretary General, Mrs. Antonella Valmorbida.

ALDA is committed to ensure that the LDA in Edremit becomes an integral part of the local governance landscape, fostering positive changes and enhanced citizen engagement, as Edremit Municipality has been working unceasingly with ALDA for three years to establish Türkiye’s first Local Democracy Agency in Edremit. This initiative has been supported in the frame of the Fonds Triennal funded by Région Grand Est, Préfécture du Bas Rhin, Collectivité Européenne d’Alsace and Ville et Eurométropole de Strasbourg. The agency’s operations will align with ALDA’s extensive experience in the field, following the principles of local democracy, citizen participation, and the achievement of sustainable development.

LDA Edremit provides an innovative and social space that brings together various NGOs and local government representatives who continue their active work locally, encouraging common solutions, dialogue, and cooperation. Working on issues such as the environment, climate change, active citizenship, democracy, human rights, women’s rights, culture, rights of people with disabilities, good governance, and youth entrepreneurship, LDA Edremit promotes positive and constructive initiatives locally. ALDA invites everyone to follow the journey of this newly opened LDA as it embarks on a mission to empower Edremit’s local democracy and create a brighter future for all its citizens.