Europe for Citizen can be a pillar programme for Europe and our citizens

The Secretary General of ALDA, Valmorbida, participated today in Brussels in the Civic Dialogue meeting of the European programme “Europe for Citizens”. The discussion, including more than 40 key stakeholders in the field of active European citizenship, covered the necessity of an action plan for the next programming period, starting in 2020.

***
“In 2017, ALDA promoted the programme with a specific campaign, “500 million voices”, in order to bring citizens closer to Europe – stated Ms Valmorbida in her speech –. We need to be ambitious and improve Europe for Citizens as a pillar programme for the future planning of the EU. Let’s work together to enhance European policies, better responding to the needs of European citizens!”.

Antonella Valmorbida was also representing Civil Society Europe, a partner network of ALDA, which submitted important inputs for the mid-term evaluation of the Europe for Citizens programme.

Link utili:
Europe for Citizens webpage
ALDA’s campaign for Europe for Citizens, supported by ALDE
Civil Society Europe webpage


« L’Europe pour les citoyens » peut être un programme pilier pour l’Europe et nos citoyens

La secrétaire générale d’ALDA, Antonella Valmorbida, a participé à la réunion de Dialogue Civique du programme européen « l’Europe pour les citoyens », à Bruxelles. La discussion, qui a rassemblé plus de quarante acteurs clés dans le domaine de la citoyenneté européenne active, a traité de la nécessité d’un plan d’action pour la prochaine période programmée, commençant en 2020.

***
« En 2017, ALDA a promu le programme avec une campagne spécifique, 500 million voices, afin de rapprocher les citoyens de l’Europe » a déclaré Madame Valmorbida. « Nous avons besoin d’être ambitieux et d’améliorer le programme « l’Europe pour les citoyens » en tant que pilier pour la planification future de l’Union européenne. Travaillons ensemble au renforcement des politiques européennes, pour mieux répondre aux besoins des citoyens européens ! »

Antonella Valmorbida représentait aussi « Civil Society Europe », un partenaire du réseau d’ALDA, qui a présenté des éléments importants pour l’évaluation à mi-parcours du programme « l’Europe pour les citoyens ».

Liens utiles :
Site internet du programme “l’Europe pour les citoyens”
Campagne d’ALDA pour “l’Europe pour les citoyens”, soutenue par ALDE (en anglais)
Site internet de “Civil Society Europe”(en anglais)


Europa per i cittadini: programma pilastro per l’Europa e i nostri cittadini

Il Segretario Generale di ALDA, Antonella Valmorbida, ha partecipato all’incontro del Civic Dialogue del programma europeo “Europa per i cittadini” a Bruxelles, che ha riunito più di 40 attori chiave nel settore della cittadinanza europea attiva, rivelando la necessità di un piano d’azione per il prossimo periodo di programmazione, che partirà nel 2020.

***
“Nel 2017, ALDA ha promosso il programma con una campagna specifica, 500 milioni di voci, per avvicinare i cittadini all’Europa”, ha dichiarato Valmorbida durante il suo discorso. “Dobbiamo essere ambiziosi e migliorare il programma Europa per i cittadini, in quanto programma pilastro per la futura pianificazione dell’Ue. Lavoriamo insieme per migliorare le politiche europee e venire incontro alle esigenze dei cittadini europei!”.

Antonella Valmorbida ha inoltre rappresentato Civil Society Europe, un network partner di ALDA che ha presentato importanti dati per la valutazione intermedia del programma Europa per i cittadini.

Risorse utili:
Sito web Europa per i cittadini
Sito web della campagna ALDA per l’Europa per i cittadini, sostenuta da ALDE
Sito web Civil Society Europe


«Европа для граждан» может стать основой для всей Европы

Генеральный секретарь ALDA Антонелла Валморбида принимала участие в совещании гражданского общества Европейской программы «Европа для граждан» в Брюсселе. Обсуждение привлекло, в том числе, более 40 ключевых заинтересованных сторон в области активного европейского гражданства, касалось необходимости создания плана действий на следующий программный период, начиная с 2020 года.

***
«В 2017 году ALDA продвинула программу с конкретной кампанией, 500 миллионов голосов, чтобы приблизить граждан к Европе», – заявила г-жа Вальморбида в своем выступлении. «Нам нужно быть амбициозными и улучшить Европу для граждан в качестве базовой программы для будущего планирования ЕС. Давайте работать вместе, чтобы улучшить европейскую политику, лучше реагировать на потребности европейских граждан!».

Антонелла Вальморбида также представляла гражданскую сеть Европы, партнерскую сеть ALDA, которая представила важные материалы для среднесрочной оценки программы «Европа для граждан».

Полезные ссылки:
Европа для граждан
ALDA-кампания при поддержке ALDE
Civil Society Europe


Evropa za građane – ključni program za Evropu i njene građane

Generalni sekretar ALDA Antonella Valmorbida učestvovala je na sastanku Građanskog dijaloga evropskog programa “Evropa za građane” u Briselu. Diskusija, koja je uključila više od 40 ključnih aktera u oblasti aktivnog evropskog državljanstva, je istakla neophodnost akcionog plana za naredni programski period, koji počinje 2020. godine.

***
“ALDA je 2017. godine promovisala program sa specifičnom kampanjom, 500 miliona glasova, kako bi građane približila Evropi”, rekla je gđa Valmorbida u svom govoru: “Moramo biti ambiciozni i unaprediti Evropu za građane kao ključni program za buduće planove razvoja EU. Radimo zajedno kako bismo unapredili evropske politike i bolje odgovarali na potrebe evropskih građana! “.

Antonella Valmorbida je takođe predstavljala Civilno društvo Evropa, partnersku mrežu ALDA, koja je dostavila važne informacije za srednjoročnu evaluaciju programa Evropa za građane.

Korisni linkovi:
Program Evropa za građane vebsajt
ALDA kampnja za Evropu za građane, podržana od strane grupe ALDE
Civilno društvo Evropa vebsajt

يمكن أن تمثل أوروبا من أجل الأوروبيين ركيزة برنامج لأوروبا ومواطنينا

شاركت آنتونلا فالموربيدا, الأمينة العامة لألدا, في لقاء الحوار المدني لبرنامج أوروبا “أوروبا من أجا المواطنين”, الذي احتضنته العاصمة البلجيكية بروكسل. ومكن النقاش, الذي ضم أكثر من 40 طرفا أساسيا في مجال المواطنة النشطة, من التطرق لضرورة اعتماد خطة عمل للفترة القادمة, وذلك انطلاقا من 2020.

***

“في عام 2017, روجت ألدا لبرنامج يؤسس على حملة خاصة, 500 مليون ضوت, وذلك بهدف تقريب المواطن من أوروبا”, كما جاء على لسان السيدة فالموربيدا في مداخلتها بهذه المناسبة. “يجب أن نتحلى بالطموح ونسعى إلى تحسين منظومة أوروبا من أجل المواطنين, كبرنامج أساسي من أجل خطة مستقبلية للإتحاد الأوروبي. لنعمل معا على تحسين أوروبا من أجل المواطنين ودفع السياسات الأوروبية والاستجابة الأفضل لحاجيات المواطنين الأوروبيين”.

مثلت أنتونلا فالموربيدا المجتمع المدني الأوروبي, وهي شبكة شريكة لألدا, قامت بتقديم مساهمات فاعلة للتقييم في منتصف الطريق لبرنامج أوروبا من أجل المواطنين.

روابط مفيدة:

موقع واب أوروبا من أجل المواطنين

حملة ألدا لأوروبا من أجل المواطنين, بدعم من ألدا

موقع واب المجتمع المدني الأوروبي

The Secretary General of ALDA, Valmorbida, participated today in Brussels in the Civic Dialogue meeting of the European programme “Europe for Citizens”. The discussion, including more than 40 key stakeholders in the field of active European citizenship, covered the necessity of an action plan for the next programming period, starting in 2020.

***
“In 2017, ALDA promoted the programme with a specific campaign, “500 million voices”, in order to bring citizens closer to Europe – stated Ms Valmorbida in her speech –. We need to be ambitious and improve Europe for Citizens as a pillar programme for the future planning of the EU. Let’s work together to enhance European policies, better responding to the needs of European citizens!”.

Antonella Valmorbida was also representing Civil Society Europe, a partner network of ALDA, which submitted important inputs for the mid-term evaluation of the Europe for Citizens programme.

Link utili:
Europe for Citizens webpage
ALDA’s campaign for Europe for Citizens, supported by ALDE
Civil Society Europe webpage


« L’Europe pour les citoyens » peut être un programme pilier pour l’Europe et nos citoyens

La secrétaire générale d’ALDA, Antonella Valmorbida, a participé à la réunion de Dialogue Civique du programme européen « l’Europe pour les citoyens », à Bruxelles. La discussion, qui a rassemblé plus de quarante acteurs clés dans le domaine de la citoyenneté européenne active, a traité de la nécessité d’un plan d’action pour la prochaine période programmée, commençant en 2020.

***
« En 2017, ALDA a promu le programme avec une campagne spécifique, 500 million voices, afin de rapprocher les citoyens de l’Europe » a déclaré Madame Valmorbida. « Nous avons besoin d’être ambitieux et d’améliorer le programme « l’Europe pour les citoyens » en tant que pilier pour la planification future de l’Union européenne. Travaillons ensemble au renforcement des politiques européennes, pour mieux répondre aux besoins des citoyens européens ! »

Antonella Valmorbida représentait aussi « Civil Society Europe », un partenaire du réseau d’ALDA, qui a présenté des éléments importants pour l’évaluation à mi-parcours du programme « l’Europe pour les citoyens ».

Liens utiles :
Site internet du programme “l’Europe pour les citoyens”
Campagne d’ALDA pour “l’Europe pour les citoyens”, soutenue par ALDE (en anglais)
Site internet de “Civil Society Europe”(en anglais)


Europa per i cittadini: programma pilastro per l’Europa e i nostri cittadini

Il Segretario Generale di ALDA, Antonella Valmorbida, ha partecipato all’incontro del Civic Dialogue del programma europeo “Europa per i cittadini” a Bruxelles, che ha riunito più di 40 attori chiave nel settore della cittadinanza europea attiva, rivelando la necessità di un piano d’azione per il prossimo periodo di programmazione, che partirà nel 2020.

***
“Nel 2017, ALDA ha promosso il programma con una campagna specifica, 500 milioni di voci, per avvicinare i cittadini all’Europa”, ha dichiarato Valmorbida durante il suo discorso. “Dobbiamo essere ambiziosi e migliorare il programma Europa per i cittadini, in quanto programma pilastro per la futura pianificazione dell’Ue. Lavoriamo insieme per migliorare le politiche europee e venire incontro alle esigenze dei cittadini europei!”.

Antonella Valmorbida ha inoltre rappresentato Civil Society Europe, un network partner di ALDA che ha presentato importanti dati per la valutazione intermedia del programma Europa per i cittadini.

Risorse utili:
Sito web Europa per i cittadini
Sito web della campagna ALDA per l’Europa per i cittadini, sostenuta da ALDE
Sito web Civil Society Europe


«Европа для граждан» может стать основой для всей Европы

Генеральный секретарь ALDA Антонелла Валморбида принимала участие в совещании гражданского общества Европейской программы «Европа для граждан» в Брюсселе. Обсуждение привлекло, в том числе, более 40 ключевых заинтересованных сторон в области активного европейского гражданства, касалось необходимости создания плана действий на следующий программный период, начиная с 2020 года.

***
«В 2017 году ALDA продвинула программу с конкретной кампанией, 500 миллионов голосов, чтобы приблизить граждан к Европе», – заявила г-жа Вальморбида в своем выступлении. «Нам нужно быть амбициозными и улучшить Европу для граждан в качестве базовой программы для будущего планирования ЕС. Давайте работать вместе, чтобы улучшить европейскую политику, лучше реагировать на потребности европейских граждан!».

Антонелла Вальморбида также представляла гражданскую сеть Европы, партнерскую сеть ALDA, которая представила важные материалы для среднесрочной оценки программы «Европа для граждан».

Полезные ссылки:
Европа для граждан
ALDA-кампания при поддержке ALDE
Civil Society Europe


Evropa za građane – ključni program za Evropu i njene građane

Generalni sekretar ALDA Antonella Valmorbida učestvovala je na sastanku Građanskog dijaloga evropskog programa “Evropa za građane” u Briselu. Diskusija, koja je uključila više od 40 ključnih aktera u oblasti aktivnog evropskog državljanstva, je istakla neophodnost akcionog plana za naredni programski period, koji počinje 2020. godine.

***
“ALDA je 2017. godine promovisala program sa specifičnom kampanjom, 500 miliona glasova, kako bi građane približila Evropi”, rekla je gđa Valmorbida u svom govoru: “Moramo biti ambiciozni i unaprediti Evropu za građane kao ključni program za buduće planove razvoja EU. Radimo zajedno kako bismo unapredili evropske politike i bolje odgovarali na potrebe evropskih građana! “.

Antonella Valmorbida je takođe predstavljala Civilno društvo Evropa, partnersku mrežu ALDA, koja je dostavila važne informacije za srednjoročnu evaluaciju programa Evropa za građane.

Korisni linkovi:
Program Evropa za građane vebsajt
ALDA kampnja za Evropu za građane, podržana od strane grupe ALDE
Civilno društvo Evropa vebsajt

يمكن أن تمثل أوروبا من أجل الأوروبيين ركيزة برنامج لأوروبا ومواطنينا

شاركت آنتونلا فالموربيدا, الأمينة العامة لألدا, في لقاء الحوار المدني لبرنامج أوروبا “أوروبا من أجا المواطنين”, الذي احتضنته العاصمة البلجيكية بروكسل. ومكن النقاش, الذي ضم أكثر من 40 طرفا أساسيا في مجال المواطنة النشطة, من التطرق لضرورة اعتماد خطة عمل للفترة القادمة, وذلك انطلاقا من 2020.

***

“في عام 2017, روجت ألدا لبرنامج يؤسس على حملة خاصة, 500 مليون ضوت, وذلك بهدف تقريب المواطن من أوروبا”, كما جاء على لسان السيدة فالموربيدا في مداخلتها بهذه المناسبة. “يجب أن نتحلى بالطموح ونسعى إلى تحسين منظومة أوروبا من أجل المواطنين, كبرنامج أساسي من أجل خطة مستقبلية للإتحاد الأوروبي. لنعمل معا على تحسين أوروبا من أجل المواطنين ودفع السياسات الأوروبية والاستجابة الأفضل لحاجيات المواطنين الأوروبيين”.

مثلت أنتونلا فالموربيدا المجتمع المدني الأوروبي, وهي شبكة شريكة لألدا, قامت بتقديم مساهمات فاعلة للتقييم في منتصف الطريق لبرنامج أوروبا من أجل المواطنين.

روابط مفيدة:

موقع واب أوروبا من أجل المواطنين

حملة ألدا لأوروبا من أجل المواطنين, بدعم من ألدا

موقع واب المجتمع المدني الأوروبي

di admin

Scenario 6: Sustainable Europe for its Citizens

In April 2017 European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker presented a White Paper on the Future of Europe, including five possible scenarios for discussion at European and Member State levels.

In response, SDG Watch Europe in collaboration with Friends of the Earth Europe has facilitated the development of an alternative ‘6th Scenario’ that has been backed by over 250 civil society organisations. In this ‘6th Scenario’ these organisations present their aims for a Sustainable and Fair Europe in which care for people and planet are key.

Pubblicazione

In April 2017 European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker presented a White Paper on the Future of Europe, including five possible scenarios for discussion at European and Member State levels.

In response, SDG Watch Europe in collaboration with Friends of the Earth Europe has facilitated the development of an alternative ‘6th Scenario’ that has been backed by over 250 civil society organisations. In this ‘6th Scenario’ these organisations present their aims for a Sustainable and Fair Europe in which care for people and planet are key.

Pubblicazione

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Reflection paper on EU finances sent to Mr Juncker, President of the EC

“Dear President Juncker,

Europe faces multiple challenges, which need to be responded to by means of EU policies and financial rules alike. Unemployment, social inequalities and migration (perceived to be the top three challenges for the EU by its citizens), growing euroscepticism and the erosion of European values, the ecological and climate crises, which undermine human well-being, the challenges of the euro area and the revenue loss caused by Brexit all need to be tackled in an ambitious reform of the European project supported by a transformed EU budget (Multiannual Financial Framework)…”

Pubblicazione

“Dear President Juncker,

Europe faces multiple challenges, which need to be responded to by means of EU policies and financial rules alike. Unemployment, social inequalities and migration (perceived to be the top three challenges for the EU by its citizens), growing euroscepticism and the erosion of European values, the ecological and climate crises, which undermine human well-being, the challenges of the euro area and the revenue loss caused by Brexit all need to be tackled in an ambitious reform of the European project supported by a transformed EU budget (Multiannual Financial Framework)…”

Pubblicazione

di admin

Citizens’ participation in Belarus - 10 years of cooperation and friendship with Lev Sapieha Foundation

On 24 June, the celebration of the 10 years of cooperation between ALDA and Lev Sapieha Foundation, one of the oldest civil society organizations in the country, was held in Minsk, Belarus.

***
ALDA participated in the event with a delegation composed of Antonella Valmorbida, Secretary General; Nino Tvaltvadze, Eastern Partnership Coordinator; and Irene Zanetti, Head of Communication.

Miroslav Kobasa, Chairman of Lev Sapieha Foundation, opened the event by highlighting that during the years of independence of Belarus, citizens realised that they have common needs and interests – first of all, the desire to make their lives better. In Belarus, only 5-7% of citizens are active; at the beginning of the project, Lev Sapieha was unsure about the response they would get from people, but the number of mini projects applications received, together with the quality of activities implemented showed that citizens are eager to improve their community, when they are empowered to.

Thanks to the cooperation with ALDA, Belarusian people realised how creative they are, and should now show their skills and ideas to the whole world. As a sign of the long-time friendship and cooperation, Kobasa gifted ALDA a wooden bull, a symbol of Belarus since it is an independent, freedom loving creature.

Mrs Valmorbida stressed how the cooperation with Lev Sapieha soon turned into friendship, because of the immediate feeling of common values and working methods – the “let’s do it!” attitude. The mini-projects re-granted became a feature of ALDA’s work, as well as a key lobbying point towards European institutions, showcasing the importance and impact of small scale funds. As a weird coincidence, she also highlighted that thanks to these 10-years cooperation, she was able to enter Belarus without a visa on this important occasion.

The event continued with a case study about citizens’ participation in the decision-making process in Georgia, held by Tiko Tkashelashvili from the Caucasus Institute for Peace, Democracy and Development.

Further to this, grantees of six small regranted projects presented their activities and impact. From contests for house renovating in rural communities to equipment of playgrounds for children, from reviving traditional celebrations to promoting remembrance of historical facts impacting the community, from organizing Scandinavian walks to promoting green economy and urban development: with limited resources and initial scepticism within their communities, they managed to improve citizens’ lives, thus proving their peers that common goals can be achieved by working together.

Useful resources:
Read the publication: “The implementation of civic initiatives at the local level – The experience of Belarus” (Russian)

On 24 June, the celebration of the 10 years of cooperation between ALDA and Lev Sapieha Foundation, one of the oldest civil society organizations in the country, was held in Minsk, Belarus.

***
ALDA participated in the event with a delegation composed of Antonella Valmorbida, Secretary General; Nino Tvaltvadze, Eastern Partnership Coordinator; and Irene Zanetti, Head of Communication.

Miroslav Kobasa, Chairman of Lev Sapieha Foundation, opened the event by highlighting that during the years of independence of Belarus, citizens realised that they have common needs and interests – first of all, the desire to make their lives better. In Belarus, only 5-7% of citizens are active; at the beginning of the project, Lev Sapieha was unsure about the response they would get from people, but the number of mini projects applications received, together with the quality of activities implemented showed that citizens are eager to improve their community, when they are empowered to.

Thanks to the cooperation with ALDA, Belarusian people realised how creative they are, and should now show their skills and ideas to the whole world. As a sign of the long-time friendship and cooperation, Kobasa gifted ALDA a wooden bull, a symbol of Belarus since it is an independent, freedom loving creature.

Mrs Valmorbida stressed how the cooperation with Lev Sapieha soon turned into friendship, because of the immediate feeling of common values and working methods – the “let’s do it!” attitude. The mini-projects re-granted became a feature of ALDA’s work, as well as a key lobbying point towards European institutions, showcasing the importance and impact of small scale funds. As a weird coincidence, she also highlighted that thanks to these 10-years cooperation, she was able to enter Belarus without a visa on this important occasion.

The event continued with a case study about citizens’ participation in the decision-making process in Georgia, held by Tiko Tkashelashvili from the Caucasus Institute for Peace, Democracy and Development.

Further to this, grantees of six small regranted projects presented their activities and impact. From contests for house renovating in rural communities to equipment of playgrounds for children, from reviving traditional celebrations to promoting remembrance of historical facts impacting the community, from organizing Scandinavian walks to promoting green economy and urban development: with limited resources and initial scepticism within their communities, they managed to improve citizens’ lives, thus proving their peers that common goals can be achieved by working together.

Useful resources:
Read the publication: “The implementation of civic initiatives at the local level – The experience of Belarus” (Russian)

di admin

Paving the way to future LDA in Mariupol, the easternmost city in Europe

On 22 June 2017, a joint delegation from ALDA, the City of Gdańsk (Poland), the Local Democracy Agency of the Dnipropetrovsk Region (Ukraine), and ORU Fogar visited Mariupol, in eastern Ukraine.

***
The meeting was an occasion to gather with representatives of the City Council and local civil society organizations to discuss the possibility of establishing a Local Democracy Agency (LDA) in the city of Mariupol.

Stepan Mahsma Grigorievich, Secretary of Mariupol City Council, warmly welcomed the delegation presenting the strategy of the city for the upcoming years, which is axed on three key concepts – strong, smart, inspiring Mariupol. The objective of the city is pretty ambitious: fighting emigration, transforming economy, and making the community a more liveable place for its citizens. In brief, restarting Ukraine’s Renaissance in Mariupol.
Antonella Valmorbida, Secretary General of ALDA, and Anzhelika Pylypenko, Delegate of the LDA of Dnipropetrovsk Region, illustrated the specificities of ALDA and of the LDAs to the representatives of the Council and of active CSOs, as well as the participants from the CSOs had the opportunity to explain their activities.
Following the meeting at the City Council, the delegation visited the National Police headquarter in Mariupol, which has recently implemented a project called “Secure city” installing extremely high resolution cameras, organizing patrols and a call centre for citizens to report incidents, thus increasing the safety of the whole area.
Two particularly active CSOs also invited the delegation to visit their premises, respectively Vezha, an association focused on transparency and active citizenship, headquartered in the symbol of the city – the former water pumping tower, which they are in the process of requalifying to transform it into a multifunctional centre; and the Mariupol Development Fund, created to bridge private companies and their corporate social responsibility initiatives, with communities. The Fund runs a number of initiative, and collaborated to craft the strategy 2021 for the city.
The mission was also the occasion to further strengthen cooperation between the cities of Mariupol and Gdańsk, which have signed a MoU for cooperation. Three representatives of Gdańsk were present – Maciej Buczkowski, Head of Mayor’s Office; Anna Kieturakis, in charge of International Relations; and Marek Bonisławski, Mayor’s Assistant.
The presence of Carles Llorens, Secretary General of ORU Fogar (United Regions Organization), was key to bringing in a regional component, as well as to deepen the cooperation with ALDA in light of the signature of a MoU.
The delegation was impressed with the fantastic organization of the visit, as well as with the strong pro-European feeling of all participants, and of their competences and vision. Shortly, further steps towards the establishment of the LDA will take place: a meeting will be organized in Gdańsk in September, gathering the hosting city of Mariupol, the future lead partner – the city of Gdańsk, and other local and international partners.

On 22 June 2017, a joint delegation from ALDA, the City of Gdańsk (Poland), the Local Democracy Agency of the Dnipropetrovsk Region (Ukraine), and ORU Fogar visited Mariupol, in eastern Ukraine.

***
The meeting was an occasion to gather with representatives of the City Council and local civil society organizations to discuss the possibility of establishing a Local Democracy Agency (LDA) in the city of Mariupol.

Stepan Mahsma Grigorievich, Secretary of Mariupol City Council, warmly welcomed the delegation presenting the strategy of the city for the upcoming years, which is axed on three key concepts – strong, smart, inspiring Mariupol. The objective of the city is pretty ambitious: fighting emigration, transforming economy, and making the community a more liveable place for its citizens. In brief, restarting Ukraine’s Renaissance in Mariupol.
Antonella Valmorbida, Secretary General of ALDA, and Anzhelika Pylypenko, Delegate of the LDA of Dnipropetrovsk Region, illustrated the specificities of ALDA and of the LDAs to the representatives of the Council and of active CSOs, as well as the participants from the CSOs had the opportunity to explain their activities.
Following the meeting at the City Council, the delegation visited the National Police headquarter in Mariupol, which has recently implemented a project called “Secure city” installing extremely high resolution cameras, organizing patrols and a call centre for citizens to report incidents, thus increasing the safety of the whole area.
Two particularly active CSOs also invited the delegation to visit their premises, respectively Vezha, an association focused on transparency and active citizenship, headquartered in the symbol of the city – the former water pumping tower, which they are in the process of requalifying to transform it into a multifunctional centre; and the Mariupol Development Fund, created to bridge private companies and their corporate social responsibility initiatives, with communities. The Fund runs a number of initiative, and collaborated to craft the strategy 2021 for the city.
The mission was also the occasion to further strengthen cooperation between the cities of Mariupol and Gdańsk, which have signed a MoU for cooperation. Three representatives of Gdańsk were present – Maciej Buczkowski, Head of Mayor’s Office; Anna Kieturakis, in charge of International Relations; and Marek Bonisławski, Mayor’s Assistant.
The presence of Carles Llorens, Secretary General of ORU Fogar (United Regions Organization), was key to bringing in a regional component, as well as to deepen the cooperation with ALDA in light of the signature of a MoU.
The delegation was impressed with the fantastic organization of the visit, as well as with the strong pro-European feeling of all participants, and of their competences and vision. Shortly, further steps towards the establishment of the LDA will take place: a meeting will be organized in Gdańsk in September, gathering the hosting city of Mariupol, the future lead partner – the city of Gdańsk, and other local and international partners.

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ALDA Treasurer Roger Lawrence visiting LDA Subotica and LDA Osijek

The Councillor Roger Lawrence, Leader of the Wolverhampton City Council and ALDA Treasurer, visited the LDA Subotica and the LDA Osijek during his mission from 19-22 June.

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The LDA Subotica and Wolverhampton City Council have had a long standing cooperation since 2004, with Wolverhampton being the Lead partner and a valuable project associate throughout these years.

This visit was thus an opportunity for enriching the cooperation established. For this purpose, a meeting was held in the City Hall with the Deputy Mayor Timea Horvat, the City Council member Ilija Djukanovic, and Head of Local Economic Development Office Simonida Pavicevic.

The meeting highlighted the previous fruitful experiences of joint cooperation, as well as possible areas for further partnership strengthening. Fields such as public administration reform, social services and transport were identified as potential areas of good practice exchange.

During the three-day mission, the Councillor Lawrence also visited the LDA Osijek team in Croatia. On this occasion a meeting in the Regional Development Agency Slavonija-Baranja was organized with the Project manager Gordana Stojanovic, who presented the work of the Agency and the results achieved.

This mission was an excellent opportunity for sustaining the partnerships and providing the necessary impetus for further successful cooperation through joint projects, networking and continued fruitful communication.

The Councillor Roger Lawrence, Leader of the Wolverhampton City Council and ALDA Treasurer, visited the LDA Subotica and the LDA Osijek during his mission from 19-22 June.

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The LDA Subotica and Wolverhampton City Council have had a long standing cooperation since 2004, with Wolverhampton being the Lead partner and a valuable project associate throughout these years.

This visit was thus an opportunity for enriching the cooperation established. For this purpose, a meeting was held in the City Hall with the Deputy Mayor Timea Horvat, the City Council member Ilija Djukanovic, and Head of Local Economic Development Office Simonida Pavicevic.

The meeting highlighted the previous fruitful experiences of joint cooperation, as well as possible areas for further partnership strengthening. Fields such as public administration reform, social services and transport were identified as potential areas of good practice exchange.

During the three-day mission, the Councillor Lawrence also visited the LDA Osijek team in Croatia. On this occasion a meeting in the Regional Development Agency Slavonija-Baranja was organized with the Project manager Gordana Stojanovic, who presented the work of the Agency and the results achieved.

This mission was an excellent opportunity for sustaining the partnerships and providing the necessary impetus for further successful cooperation through joint projects, networking and continued fruitful communication.

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The LDA of Dnipropetrovsk Region awarded in the 1st Internal Conference for IDPs in Kryvyj Rih

17 years ago the UN decided to establish on the 20th of June a special day for the refugees, the International Refugees Day. This year, on that occasion, the 1st Internal Conference for IDPs (Internally Displaced Persons) in Kryvyj Rih city (Ukraine) has been conducted with the participation of the LDA of Dnipropetrovsk Region, invited as a partner of local IDP NGO and supporter for refugees.

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The Conference ran under the project “Protection in Action”, implemented by local Charity Organization Network and supported by the European Commission: it will last 1 year and a half.

This event plays a significant role in local community life, as well as sets opportunities for the LDA to present its values, find new partners and perform its approach towards development of IDPs supporting activities. The LDA of Dnipropetrovsk Region has been awarded with a gratitude sign as a true supporter of IDPs in Kriviy Rih city.

Informazioni utili:
Leggi di più su LDA of Dnipropetrovsk Region

17 years ago the UN decided to establish on the 20th of June a special day for the refugees, the International Refugees Day. This year, on that occasion, the 1st Internal Conference for IDPs (Internally Displaced Persons) in Kryvyj Rih city (Ukraine) has been conducted with the participation of the LDA of Dnipropetrovsk Region, invited as a partner of local IDP NGO and supporter for refugees.

***
The Conference ran under the project “Protection in Action”, implemented by local Charity Organization Network and supported by the European Commission: it will last 1 year and a half.

This event plays a significant role in local community life, as well as sets opportunities for the LDA to present its values, find new partners and perform its approach towards development of IDPs supporting activities. The LDA of Dnipropetrovsk Region has been awarded with a gratitude sign as a true supporter of IDPs in Kriviy Rih city.

Informazioni utili:
Leggi di più su LDA of Dnipropetrovsk Region

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The EU as driver for Sustainability in Europe and beyond – ALDA joins the cause

In April 2017, the President of the European Commission Jean-Claude Juncker presented a White Paper on the Future of Europe, including 5 possible scenarios for discussion at European and Member State levels. The CSOs’ alliance SDG Watch Europe in collaboration with Friends of the Earth Europe has developed an alternative “Scenario 6: Sustainable Europe for its citizens“, which focuses on a more Sustainable and Fairer Europe.

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ALDA, together with more than 250 other European Civil Society Organisation, has endorsed this 6th Scenario. The scenario strongly points out the importance of focusing on Europe’s core social values such as democracy and participation, social justice, solidarity and sustainability, respect for the rule of law and human rights, both within Europe and around the globe. Besides, an importance of economic, social and environmental wellbeing was stressed. Particularly, the relevance of achieving a prosperity for all starting with redistribution of wealth, a provision of quality, inclusive and affordable public services, a promotion of cultural diversity and a caring society, a healthy natural environment that sustains all life on Earth and protects our soils, waters and air, provides nutritious, healthy food and where climate change is minimized was also highlighted.

The 6th Scenario focuses also on the opportunities that this new scenario could provide for the future and specifically it states that “By 2025, this means: Delivering the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, including the principles and Sustainable Development Goals: leaving no one behind, living within Europe’s fair share of our planetary boundaries, and putting respect for human rights at the core of EU and national policy-making”. Finally, the Scenario also indicates its impact on policies.

Link utili:

Leggete Scenario 6: Sustainable Europe for its citizens

In April 2017, the President of the European Commission Jean-Claude Juncker presented a White Paper on the Future of Europe, including 5 possible scenarios for discussion at European and Member State levels. The CSOs’ alliance SDG Watch Europe in collaboration with Friends of the Earth Europe has developed an alternative “Scenario 6: Sustainable Europe for its citizens“, which focuses on a more Sustainable and Fairer Europe.

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ALDA, together with more than 250 other European Civil Society Organisation, has endorsed this 6th Scenario. The scenario strongly points out the importance of focusing on Europe’s core social values such as democracy and participation, social justice, solidarity and sustainability, respect for the rule of law and human rights, both within Europe and around the globe. Besides, an importance of economic, social and environmental wellbeing was stressed. Particularly, the relevance of achieving a prosperity for all starting with redistribution of wealth, a provision of quality, inclusive and affordable public services, a promotion of cultural diversity and a caring society, a healthy natural environment that sustains all life on Earth and protects our soils, waters and air, provides nutritious, healthy food and where climate change is minimized was also highlighted.

The 6th Scenario focuses also on the opportunities that this new scenario could provide for the future and specifically it states that “By 2025, this means: Delivering the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, including the principles and Sustainable Development Goals: leaving no one behind, living within Europe’s fair share of our planetary boundaries, and putting respect for human rights at the core of EU and national policy-making”. Finally, the Scenario also indicates its impact on policies.

Link utili:

Leggete Scenario 6: Sustainable Europe for its citizens

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Choose Moldova!

We interviewed Ignazio Bacile di Castiglione, a 19-year-old Italian man, who decided to support the recently established Local Democracy Agency (LDA) Moldova in Cimișlia, thus contributing to a better and more democratic local community. Read more about his experience through his own words.
A. Moldova is not among the top destinations for young professionals. Why did you decide to support the work of the recently established Local Democracy Agency in Cimișlia?
I. Working and living in a country such as Moldova may not be easy since it is still less developed than European countries, and you may encounter many cultural differences. However, my desire to contribute to a better and more democratised world made me accept the offer of ALDA to support the LDA work in Cimișlia without a second thought. If I had chosen a country like France or Italy, I would not have got the same stimulating (and exciting) experience I am living right now here in Moldova.
A. What is the state of play for local authorities and local democracy in the city and in Moldova, in your view? Can you compare it with other European communities you have lived and worked in?
I. In my opinion, there are some positive premises for the process of democratisation here in Moldova. At the same time, several things need to be changed and improved. For instance, having visited many local authorities around Cimișlia , I noticed that they are all well functioning and proactive. On the other side, among local people, there is a general feeling of mistrust towards the corrupted central government. From my point of view, Moldova lacks a central power which can coordinate and channel the local authorities towards democracy. Moreover, in contrast to many European countries, I think that the promotion of democracy in Moldova is limited by many factors, such as a poor economy, the phenomenon of migration, the difficulty which national and local firms have to face every day because of the lack of customers and thus, the low profits. This turns into a vicious circle; that’s the reason why I believe that only an economic boom can boost the democratisation process and I am confident this change will be possible in few years.
A. Where do you see the LDA in three years? And where do you dream you will be by then?
I. At the moment the office of LDA Moldova has been opened for only 3 months and we are still taking the first steps. However, everyone here is putting a lot of effort in our tasks and I am sure that in the long run LDA Moldova will have achieved excellent results. In particular, I expect a higher and stronger connection between our reality and the local authorities and above all with local people, who are the only ones that can truly make democracy happen. In three years, I expect to complete my studies and to start my professional career. Ideally, I would like to work for NGOs (maybe ALDA?) or international organisations. Where? I would like to travel a lot and perhaps move to Asia for a period of my life.
A. Thanks a lot, Ignazio! Your energy is key to developing the work of LDA Moldova, as well as to shape a better, fairer society.
Useful resources:

We interviewed Ignazio Bacile di Castiglione, a 19-year-old Italian man, who decided to support the recently established Local Democracy Agency (LDA) Moldova in Cimișlia, thus contributing to a better and more democratic local community. Read more about his experience through his own words.
A. Moldova is not among the top destinations for young professionals. Why did you decide to support the work of the recently established Local Democracy Agency in Cimișlia?
I. Working and living in a country such as Moldova may not be easy since it is still less developed than European countries, and you may encounter many cultural differences. However, my desire to contribute to a better and more democratised world made me accept the offer of ALDA to support the LDA work in Cimișlia without a second thought. If I had chosen a country like France or Italy, I would not have got the same stimulating (and exciting) experience I am living right now here in Moldova.
A. What is the state of play for local authorities and local democracy in the city and in Moldova, in your view? Can you compare it with other European communities you have lived and worked in?
I. In my opinion, there are some positive premises for the process of democratisation here in Moldova. At the same time, several things need to be changed and improved. For instance, having visited many local authorities around Cimișlia , I noticed that they are all well functioning and proactive. On the other side, among local people, there is a general feeling of mistrust towards the corrupted central government. From my point of view, Moldova lacks a central power which can coordinate and channel the local authorities towards democracy. Moreover, in contrast to many European countries, I think that the promotion of democracy in Moldova is limited by many factors, such as a poor economy, the phenomenon of migration, the difficulty which national and local firms have to face every day because of the lack of customers and thus, the low profits. This turns into a vicious circle; that’s the reason why I believe that only an economic boom can boost the democratisation process and I am confident this change will be possible in few years.
A. Where do you see the LDA in three years? And where do you dream you will be by then?
I. At the moment the office of LDA Moldova has been opened for only 3 months and we are still taking the first steps. However, everyone here is putting a lot of effort in our tasks and I am sure that in the long run LDA Moldova will have achieved excellent results. In particular, I expect a higher and stronger connection between our reality and the local authorities and above all with local people, who are the only ones that can truly make democracy happen. In three years, I expect to complete my studies and to start my professional career. Ideally, I would like to work for NGOs (maybe ALDA?) or international organisations. Where? I would like to travel a lot and perhaps move to Asia for a period of my life.
A. Thanks a lot, Ignazio! Your energy is key to developing the work of LDA Moldova, as well as to shape a better, fairer society.
Useful resources:

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Municipalities from Libya meets in Trieste: the contribution by Alessandro Perelli, Vice-President of ALDA

On 15 June, Alessandro Perelli, Vice-President of ALDA, participated in the event “Nicosia Initiative” seeing the participation of Libyan municipalities to foster their knowledge about social cooperatives and fisheries sector.
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The event, organised by the Regional Council of Friuli Venezia-Giulia and the European Committee of Regions, was held in Trieste (Italy) and consisted in a 3-day activity.
With his contribution to the event, Mr Perelli renewed the commitment to work with the local authorities and civil society organisations of the Mediterranean area, mentioning the cooperation that for long time has been bridging ALDA and the Northern Africa and Mediterranean area: “ALDA is in the front line in the promotion of the European values and local democracy within the countries of the Mediterranean Africa”, he said. “The opening of our latest Local Democracy Agency in Kairouan, Tunisia, and the enlargement of our network including today many partners and members from Morocco and Algeria, witness the commitment of ALDA and the Council of Europe of keeping our cooperation alive and stronger”.
As for the cooperation with Libya in particular, in a meeting with the Mayors of Tripoli and Tobruk, currently representing the two governments operating in Libya, and other administrators from Libyan towns, Mr. Perelli declared: “We are really interested in cooperating with Libyan country, in accordance with the recovery of safety conditions linked to the ongoing European process of institutional settlement, which is also topic of our meeting today. ALDA will move on with the collaboration in the interest of democratic values’ protection and conservation of civil and political rights, as well as peaceful coexistence”.

On 15 June, Alessandro Perelli, Vice-President of ALDA, participated in the event “Nicosia Initiative” seeing the participation of Libyan municipalities to foster their knowledge about social cooperatives and fisheries sector.
***
The event, organised by the Regional Council of Friuli Venezia-Giulia and the European Committee of Regions, was held in Trieste (Italy) and consisted in a 3-day activity.
With his contribution to the event, Mr Perelli renewed the commitment to work with the local authorities and civil society organisations of the Mediterranean area, mentioning the cooperation that for long time has been bridging ALDA and the Northern Africa and Mediterranean area: “ALDA is in the front line in the promotion of the European values and local democracy within the countries of the Mediterranean Africa”, he said. “The opening of our latest Local Democracy Agency in Kairouan, Tunisia, and the enlargement of our network including today many partners and members from Morocco and Algeria, witness the commitment of ALDA and the Council of Europe of keeping our cooperation alive and stronger”.
As for the cooperation with Libya in particular, in a meeting with the Mayors of Tripoli and Tobruk, currently representing the two governments operating in Libya, and other administrators from Libyan towns, Mr. Perelli declared: “We are really interested in cooperating with Libyan country, in accordance with the recovery of safety conditions linked to the ongoing European process of institutional settlement, which is also topic of our meeting today. ALDA will move on with the collaboration in the interest of democratic values’ protection and conservation of civil and political rights, as well as peaceful coexistence”.

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