In Wroclaw for the Conference on the role of local governments and civil society in the support to Ukraine

On the 25th November, the Regional Representation of the European Commission in Wroclaw and the College of Eastern Europe are organising a Conference in Wroclaw (Poland), entitled “Development Cooperation for Democracy: the role of local governments and civil society. A multistakeholder tool to support Ukraine”, in partnership with ALDA, Lower Silesia Region and Wroclaw Municipality.

Already at the beginning of the year, the ALDA Member “City of Wroclaw” has been in the first line in providing help to civilians and people in Ukraine: the “emergency campaign” marked a clear example of it. As Wroclaw, ALDA supported a great number of activities, and initiatives to ease and mitigate the effects of this tremendous war.

Thus, since the Russian invasion, democracy and security are at stake in Ukraine and neighbouring countries; and it comes with no surprise that an endless commitment from various stakeholders is required in order to overcome this humanitarian crisis; and end the war.

In Wroclaw to develop a multi-stakeholder approach in support of Ukraine

After the event held in mid-June in Brussels to support Local Democracy Agencies in Mariupol and Dnipro; the choice to hold the conference in Wroclaw carries a similar meaning. Hence, the location is relevant per se, as Poland is at the forefront, representing a critical place to discuss the Ukrainian cause.

Representatives of institutions, civil society organisations and stakeholders will be among the active players at the Conference. The latter will also represent the occasion to stress the role of Local Democracy Agencies as a successful example of decentralised cooperation and key factor in the democracy development process.

In addition, this event will provide the perfect setting to present and together reflect on the “Final Declaration” on the importance of a multi-stakeholder approach to democracy support. Based on the proven experience of ALDA, its members and partners, time has come to further concretise the commitment with a specific and formal document.

Overall, as history has taught, it is only by engaging civil society in close dialogue with Local Authorities and institutions that change can take place. There is the need to always support the bottom-up approach, providing long-lasting help and acting in concert with any relevant player.