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On 14 October 2025, ALDA President Nataša Vučković took part in the European Heritage Hub Forum in Brussels, contributing to the high-level panel “The Role of Local Authorities – Democracy, Sustainable Tourism and Solidarity.” Organised by Europa Nostra, the event gathered policymakers, cultural experts, and local representatives to explore how cultural heritage and democracy can reinforce one another as pillars of European identity and social cohesion.

In her intervention, Ms Vučković highlighted the fundamental role that local authorities and civil society play in ensuring that cultural heritage remains a living, democratic process—one rooted in citizen participation, inclusiveness, and shared responsibility. Representing the ALDA, she emphasised how democratic governance at the local level is essential for transforming heritage preservation into a collective, community-driven effort.

“Cultural heritage and democracy are deeply intertwined: both are built on participation, dialogue, and the shared values that unite European communities.”

Moderated by Cristina Garzillo Leemhuis, Head of Socio-Cultural Transformations at ICLEI Europe, the panel featured leading voices such as Charalambos Prountzos and Mehmet Harmanci, leaders of the two communities of Nicosia; Jordi Pascual from United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG); Gaianè Casnati from Europa Nostra; and Stefano Pisani, Mayor of Pollica and former President of Cittaslow International. Together, they exchanged insights on how local governance, sustainable tourism, and cultural solidarity can advance Europe’s democratic and environmental transitions.

Ms Vučković drew upon ALDA’s extensive experience in decentralised cooperation and citizen engagement, citing the BOOST project, funded by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD). The initiative strengthens local actors’ capacities to engage in participatory governance and protect shared cultural values, demonstrating how heritage can serve as a bridge between democracy and sustainable development.
She also underlined ALDA’s broader collaboration with European cooperation agencies such as Expertise France, which share a commitment to empowering local stakeholders and supporting inclusive governance across Europe and its neighbourhood.

She noted that cultural heritage does not only belong to the past but also to the future of local democracy. When citizens are actively involved in decision-making about their heritage, the result is stronger trust in institutions, more resilient communities, and a deeper sense of belonging. “Heritage should be seen as a living resource that empowers people,” she remarked, “and local democracy is the framework through which this empowerment takes place.”

The European Heritage Hub Forum itself aimed to position cultural heritage as a catalyst for preserving European values, aligning with the EU’s broader objectives under the New European Bauhaus and the European Green Deal. Through its panels and discussions, the Forum reaffirmed that the protection of cultural heritage goes hand-in-hand with social justice, sustainability, and democratic governance.

ALDA’s participation further reinforced its commitment to fostering dialogue between local authorities, citizens, and European institutions. By engaging in high-level platforms such as the European Heritage Hub Forum, the Association continues to advocate for inclusive, participatory approaches to heritage governance—where every citizen plays an active role in shaping the cultural and democratic future of Europe.

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Between April 2024 and July 2025, ALDA has been leading efforts to promote the local implementation of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights through the FOCUS project, coordinating the activities of Work Package 5. The goal? To bring the Charter closer to the people, starting with local authorities, and extending to civil society organisations and citizens.

In partnership with Democracy Reporting International, ALDA established a Community of Interest and co-organised the International Training of Multipliers, offering participants a deep dive into the Charter’s scope, legal value, and practical application. The training not only provided theoretical tools but also created space for personal reflection on how EU values play out in everyday governance.

Following the international training, members of the Community of Interest brought this knowledge to their own territories, delivering local follow-up trainings in the Municipality of Brescia (Italy), Barcelona Provincial Council (Spain), Human Rights Cities Network (Belgium), RAM Central Stara Planina (Bulgaria), and Local Councils Association (Malta). Using an interactive, case-based approach, and supported by official manuals and practical guides, the sessions aimed to increase awareness of the Charter, encourage reflection on its local relevance, and stimulate transnational dialogue.

In total, 69 participants representing municipalities and local stakeholders took part in these sessions between May and July 2025. While each training was tailored to the local context, one common theme emerged: a stronger, more practical understanding of the Charter is urgently needed at the local level.


The local trainings revealed a range of priorities across the five countries. In Italy, the focus was on fiscal justice and social inclusion, with challenges such as tax evasion and non-inclusive policies prompting calls for stronger monitoring and legislation grounded in equality and solidarity. Belgium’s sessions highlighted the need for clearer communication on data protection and digital rights, alongside improving urban accessibility for people with disabilities. Spain concentrated on building a solid understanding of the Charter among municipalities to support consistent rights-based practices. Bulgaria raised concerns about environmental protection and personal data transparency amid growing public awareness. Meanwhile, Malta tackled the pressing issue of urban overdevelopment in Valletta, proposing measures like heritage impact assessments, affordable housing, and increased civic participation to preserve cultural identity and support residents.

Thanks to the active involvement of Community of Interest members and the technical support provided by ALDA and DRI, the local trainings have not only deepened the understanding of the Charter, but also generated a comparative overview of challenges and solutions across the five countries. A training details table, complete with narrative reports, offers further insight into each session’s outcomes.

By anchoring EU values in local realities, this initiative takes a crucial step toward making the Charter more than just a legal document, but a living framework for inclusive, rights-based policymaking across Europe

It is important to remember that the fundamental rights protected by the EU Charter are part of a universal framework that applies to all individuals, regardless of their location or political context. Just as local communities across Europe work to uphold these rights, many populations in complex situations, such as in Palestine, Congo and Sudan, continue to face significant challenges in accessing and exercising their fundamental freedoms. This shared struggle underlines the global importance of promoting and protecting human rights everywhere.

DISCOVER MORE ON THE PROJECT!

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Photo Copyright: OGP

ALDA’s Secretary General, Antonella Valmorbida, took part in the Open Government Partnership (OGP) Global Summit, held in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain, from 6 to 10 October 2025.

This year’s Summit gathered more than 2,000 high-level representatives from governments, civil society, and international institutions from around the world to exchange experiences, best practices, and progress on open government initiatives addressing today’s most pressing governance challenges.

The Open Government Partnership is built on a simple but powerful idea: an open government is more accessible, responsive, and accountable to its citizens. Strengthening the relationship between people and their governments generates long-term and far-reaching benefits for societies as a whole.

OGP is a broad international partnership, bringing together national and local governments alongside thousands of civil society organisations. Through the Partnership, these actors co-create two-year action plans containing concrete commitments across a wide range of policy areas. This model ensures that civil society and citizens have a formal role in shaping, implementing, and monitoring government actions.

Since its creation, more than 4,000 commitments have been made globally, a testament to the transformative potential of open governance.

“Local democracy is where trust and participation begin”

Antonella Valmorbida, ALDA Secretary General, participated as a speaker on 8 October in the panel “Local Open Government to Transform Democracy: Proximity, Accountability and Impact”, moderated by Emilia Saiz, Secretary General of UCLG.

In her speech, she underlined the central role of local democracy in building resilient and inclusive communities:

We represent more than 300 members — local authorities and civil society organisations from Europe, the Neighbourhood, and beyond — all united by one mission: to strengthen local democracy through the empowerment of local governments and citizens alike.

Strong local democracy means strong communities. It means giving local authorities the powers, competences, and resources they need. But it also means enabling citizens to engage, to participate, and to become full counterparts in shaping local policies.

She stressed how local governance serves as a laboratory for innovation, enabling co-creation between citizens and institutions and opening spaces where women, youth, and underrepresented groups can contribute meaningfully to democratic life.

Local democracy is not just a level of governance — it is where trust, participation, and democracy itself begin.

Antonella also presented ALDA’s work worldwide in promoting democratic resilience and citizen participation:

  • In Ukraine, supporting local communities amid war.
  • In Türkiye, strengthening women’s engagement in local elections.
  • In Africa, empowering youth and women through civic participation initiatives.
  • In the Western Balkans, preparing local communities for EU integration.
  • Across regions, combating disinformation and building local democratic capacities.

Through these efforts, ALDA continues to promote transparency, accountability, and cooperation between citizens, local authorities, and institutions.

Looking ahead

The summit also addressed emerging challenges for the OGP, including a reduction in U.S. funding, a legacy of its origins as a Barack Obama initiative. Nevertheless, the event reaffirmed the strong momentum and global relevance of the OGP community, particularly as AI, digitalisation, and innovation increasingly shape the governance landscape.For ALDA, participation in the OGP Global Summit was an important opportunity to amplify the voice of local democracy on the global stage, build new alliances, and explore future avenues for collaboration within the open government movement.

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On October 6th, the Municipality of Wrocław hosted a meeting in its historic City Hall, organised by ALDA – the European Association for Local Democracy, in cooperation with the Wrocław Municipality and with the support of the German Marshall Fund (GMF).
The event provided a platform for dialogue between representatives of Belarusian civil society in exile, municipal officials, and European partners, held within the framework of the project “Towards Local Democracy Agency Belarus in Exile.”

The conference opened with welcoming remarks from Ewa Gołąb-Nowakowska, representing the City of Wrocław, and Marta Sys, ALDA Governing Board Member, who both underlined the city’s longstanding commitment to inclusivity and multicultural dialogue. The speakers emphasised that Wrocław — a city built on diversity and solidarity — continues to extend its support to those seeking a new beginning, while enriching local life through their culture, skills, and civic engagement.

ALDA presented its 25 years of experience in promoting local democracy and participatory governance, introducing the Local Democracy Agency (LDA) Belarus in Exile initiative as a framework to connect local actors and empower exiled communities to engage constructively in democratic life.

Since 2009, ALDA has been working in Belarus alongside European partners and GMF to support civil society, local organisations, and democratic resilience. Through projects such as REACT, TANDEM, SPREAD, and CHOICE, ALDA promoted citizen participation, strengthened local governance, and built the capacity of civil society organisations (CSOs). However, the post-2020 crackdown following Belarus’s disputed presidential elections dismantled much of the civic space. Civil society organisations, activists, and independent media faced unprecedented repression, forcing many democratic actors into exile.

Recognising this new reality, ALDA has adapted its strategy to support Belarusian civic actors abroad. Exiled communities in Poland, Lithuania, and other countries remain deeply committed to democratic change but require structured support to continue their mission — sustaining knowledge, advocacy, and citizen participation beyond Belarus’s borders. In response to this need, ALDA has proposed the creation of a Local Democracy Agency (LDA) Belarus in Exile. Inspired by the successful LDA model launched in the Balkans in the 1990s to rebuild trust between citizens and local authorities, this new initiative will act as a multi-stakeholder platform for Belarusian civil society in exile. Its main objectives include:

  • Supporting the democratic resilience of Belarusian CSOs and activists forced abroad.
  • Fostering local democracy practices by connecting exiled communities with local authorities in host countries.
  • Amplifying Belarusian voices in the European context to keep democracy, human rights, and civic participation high on the international agenda.
  • Building human capital through training and knowledge-sharing on local governance and participatory democracy.

The purpose of the Wrocław meeting was to better understand the experiences and needs of Belarusians currently residing in Wrocław and Lower Silesia, and to gather feedback on the development of the LDA Belarus in Exileinitiative.

Community representatives, researchers, and practitioners discussed key areas for further exploration — including access to public services, social integration, education, language learning, and the creation of safe spaces for cultural and civic initiatives. Participants also reflected on mental health challenges and the importance of fostering trust and connection within local communities. The discussions highlighted the value of sustained dialogue and cooperation with municipal institutions as pathways toward greater participation and resilience.

Zhanna Nogina, representing WroMigrant, showcased ongoing initiatives designed to foster intercultural understanding and inclusion. The city’s programmes — spanning education, youth engagement, intercultural dialogue, and social development — were presented as a strong foundation for developing more tailored support to newly arrived and exiled communities.
Discussions also considered how local authorities can serve as gateways to democratic participation and how partnerships with civil society can enhance mutual understanding between residents and institutions.

The concluding panel explored ways to strengthen cooperation between local authorities, European networks, and exiled communities. Speakers discussed the potential of municipal partnerships in fostering democratic resilience, sharing good practices, and supporting community-driven initiatives. The exchange underscored the importance of creating structured channels for communication and collaboration — both to address immediate integration needs and to contribute to long-term visions for democratic engagement.

Looking ahead, the event concluded with reflections on how this dialogue could evolve into concrete cooperation and future exchanges. Participants reaffirmed the importance of continued engagement between local institutions and Belarusian civil society in exile as part of a broader European effort to reinforce participatory democracy and inclusive governance.

As one of the first meetings held under the LDA Belarus in Exile framework, the conference laid the groundwork for a sustained process of collaboration — one that builds bridges between communities, cities, and democratic values across Europe.

In the coming months, within the framework of “Towards Local Democracy Belarus in Exile,” ALDA will continue to hold meetings in other cities across Poland and Lithuania to better understand the needs of Belarusian communities, collect feedback, and gather recommendations for the new initiative. The ultimate goal is to create a durable bridge between Belarusian civic actors in exile and their host societies — ensuring that the struggle for democracy and citizen participation continues to thrive until it can be fully realised within Belarus itself.

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On 9 December 2025, at the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) in Brussels, Belgium from 10:30 to 17:00, ALDA will organise the event “Shaping the Future of Local Governance in Europe: Fuelling Citizen Visions” under the Citizens Foresight Europe project, funded by the CERV programme of the European Union.

The main aim of this initiative is to bridge the gap between authorities and citizens, promoting an environment where diverse stakeholders collaborate to promote effective and inclusive governance. Through this event, participants will be empowered to contribute to democratic processes and ensure that their preferences are meaningfully represented in future-oriented decision-making.

The event focuses on foresight, a structured and systematic approach to exploring, anticipating, and preparing for possible futures while considering alternative scenarios, emerging trends, and uncertainties.

By engaging in foresight-based discussions, participants will actively co-create visions for the future of local governance in Europe, strengthening democracy from the ground up

Throughout the day, scenario workshops and discussions will encourage participants to explore potential futures for their communities, with a focus on good governance principles within the local context.

To ensure meaningful interaction, the project will employ the Open Space Technology methodology, which facilitates informed and inclusive debates among participants. By bringing together citizens, local authorities, and civil society organisations, the event will promote dialogue, build shared understanding, and encourage the co-creation of innovative solutions to local governance challenges.

Based on the insights gathered during the event, participants will draft policy recommendations addressing key issues linked to citizen engagement and local governance. Co-created by a diverse group of stakeholders, these recommendations will be relevant, practical, and rooted in collective experience. Once finalised, they will be published and shared widely, offering actionable guidance for improving citizen participation and governance practices at the local level.

Beyond policy recommendations, the Citizens Foresight Europe project aims to raise citizens’ awareness of Europe’s future, enhance understanding of foresight and scenario-building methods, and establish a long-term platform for cross-disciplinary dialogue and knowledge exchange.

Attendance is free upon registration at this link.

CHECK THE AGENDA

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ALDA is launching the Community of Interest (CoI) within the framework of the Citizens Foresight Europe project, funded by the CERV programme of the European Union.
The project aims to promote citizens’ engagement and participation in envisioning the future of Europe, empowering participants to actively engage in democratic processes and have their preferences effectively represented in future-oriented decision-making.

The project will utilise a range of methods and tools, such as foresight research, workshops, and co-creation labs, to facilitate informed and inclusive citizen-driven debates. With this in mind, the Community of Interest will be an open space for dialogue and collaboration on the future of democracy in Europe.

The Community of Interest will serve as a collaborative platform where citizens, institutions, and organisations jointly imagine and shape Europe’s democratic future

Since the project focuses on participatory foresight, joining the Community of Interest will enable participants to reimagine the future of the European Union and their local communities, share ideas, and become part of an international network of engaged actors.

It will bring together a wide range of stakeholders — municipalities, policymakers, local authorities, CSOs, and researchers — all committed to strengthening local democracy, civic participation, social inclusion, human rights, innovation, territorial development, and community strategies. Participants will come from all over Europe, starting with Germany, France, Italy, Bulgaria, Austria, and Belgium.

By joining the Community of Interest, participants will gain access to a collaborative environment where municipalities, NGOs, and other stakeholders explore inclusive responses to future democratic challenges. They will benefit from free informative materials such as tools, methodological and policy updates, reports, and policy briefs. Members will also have the opportunity to network with European administrations, research institutes, NGOs, and organisations at both local and international levels.

The Community of Interest will further foster the exchange of knowledge and good practices among a diverse range of stakeholders and project partners, strengthening collective capacity to shape a more participatory and resilient democratic future for Europe.

If you wish to contribute your vision and ideas for the future of the European Union while engaging in an international exchange, we invite you to read our call and complete the Google form by 9 December 2025.

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On 25 September, ALDA joined over 70 changemakers in Paris for the SCEPA Midterm Event, hosted by the Agence Parisienne du Climat at L’Académie du Climat.

The event gathered practitioners, policymakers, and local actors working on energy poverty across North-West Europe, all united by one central question:

How can we create more social impact in tackling energy poverty?

Throughout the day, participants exchanged ideas and experiences through keynotes, interactive workshops, and networking moments.

Key contributions came from Léa Filoche, Deputy Mayor of Paris for Solidarity; Josha van der Beek, Ecologist at Alliander; and Rachel Guyet, Director of the Master in Global Energy Transition and Governance at CIFE — all bringing diverse perspectives on inclusion, social justice, and local innovation.

The workshops explored how to monitor health effects, measure financial stability outcomes, and foster citizen participation in local programmes tackling energy poverty. These sessions provided valuable opportunities for dialogue and reflection among municipalities, research institutions, and community organisations.

During the event, ALDA’s Secretary General Antonella Valmorbida shared her insights on how strong multi-stakeholder cooperation and citizen engagement are key to ensuring that the green and social transitions go hand in hand

ALDA’s contribution: connecting people and strengthening collaboration

As one of SCEPA’s partners, ALDA plays a key role in connecting people and strengthening cooperation among stakeholders addressing energy poverty.

Through its efforts to promote dialogue and citizen engagement, ALDA is developing the SCEPA Community of Interest (CoI) — a growing European network that brings together municipalities, NGOs, and experts committed to an inclusive energy transition.

The SCEPA Midterm Event in Paris was an important moment to present this initiative and invite new participants to join the conversation.

Many stakeholders expressed their interest in becoming part of the Community of Interest, recognising its value as a space for sharing innovative practices, joining thematic events and workshops, and contributing to shaping the European dialogue on social inclusion and energy poverty.

By connecting local initiatives to European discussions, the Community of Interest helps translate on-the-ground experience into broader impact, ensuring that the fight against energy poverty is both socially inclusive and sustainable.

🔗 Find out more and join the Community of Interest here: https://scepa.nweurope.eu/community-of-interest 

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The Politik-her Toolkit and Policy Recommendations are out!


In September, the Politik-Her project came to an end, wrapping up an inspiring journey that empowered young women across Europe to take the lead and make their voices heard loud and clear in policy making.

It was designed as a multi-phase process that involved all participants: the initiative’s aim was to promote female empowerment, inclusive leadership, and active civic engagement, through training, mentoring, co-design, and evaluation with the goal of creating not only social impact, but also personal growth.

What made this project stand out was its unique approach: capacity-building activities were paired with participatory evaluation tools that valued lived experience over abstract indicators. This made Politik-Her more than a project to just join; participants were able to build it together, shaping its direction and outcomes.

Politik-Her turned lived experience into policy action, transforming ideas from the ground into concrete recommendations for change

The journey began with dialogue roundtables at local and international levels, followed by training sessions that developed skills in leadership, communication, and advocacy. The central moment was the Politik-Her Bootcamp in Naples, where participants designed pilot actions later implemented across Italy, Romania, Sweden, and Cyprus, turning learning into real and concrete community impact. The process came full circle with an international webinar that created a space of exchange of practices and visions for gender equality.
From this process, six strategic guidelines were developed as a replicable framework for future action: mainstreaming gender equality in agendas, strengthening skills, promoting visibility of women’s contributions, fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration, ensuring inclusive participation, and supporting peer-based learning.

Based on these experiences, the project produced a Policy Brief structured around three thematic areas: education, health and reproductive rights, and climate change. For each of these themes, the document first highlights gender-related challenges identified at the national level, then it provides concrete recommendations developed by project partners based on their specific local contexts and priorities. These national contributions then came together into a set of cross-cutting recommendations for a broader European framework.

The Politik-Her project reached its end, but we sincerely hope that all the participants’ contributions and all the recommendations developed by our partners will continue to inspire action well beyond the life of the project.

If you want to learn more about it, the Policy Brief and Toolkit are out now! Find out more here.

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On 21 October 2025, ALDA – the European Association for Local Democracy  will host the International Conference “Council of Europe Standards on Civil Society and Tools for Civic Participation” in Chisinau, Republic of Moldova, within the frameworks of the BRIDGE to CoE project, funded by the Council of Europe.

The event will bring together representatives of civil society, local authorities, and international organisations from Moldova and Ukraine, to explore how the Council of Europe’s standards and instruments can support democratic governance and inclusive civic participation.

The conference aims to strengthen dialogue and collaboration between civil society and public institutions, promote resilient and participatory democracies, and share best practices in citizen engagement and public decision-making.

Throughout the day, participants will take part in thematic sessions, including:

  • National perspectives – Civic space in Ukraine and Moldova.
  • Council of Europe standards for civil society development.
  • The principle of good governance. Tools for civil participation in decision-making.

The event will feature the participation of high-level representatives such as Christophe Speckbacher, Head of the Civil Society Unit at the Council of Europe; Ana Calinici, Secretary of State of the Government of Moldova; and Antonella Valmorbida, ALDA Secretary General, among others.

The project “BRIDGE to the CoE” – Building Resilience and Independence for Democratic Governance and Engagement with the Council of Europe — is a European initiative led by ALDA to combat democratic backsliding by strengthening civil society participation. Focused on both Southern and Eastern Europe, the project enhances citizens’ engagement, fosters dialogue, and builds capacities to ensure democratic resilience. It leverages ALDA’s extensive experience and partnership with the Council of Europe to bridge civil society and democratic institutions, fostering trust, participation, and active governance.

More about the project here!

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On 29 September 2025, ALDA’s Environment & Climate Hub held its first online exchange with members, under the title “Exchange with the Environment & Climate Hub: Your Voice in Our Work”. This initiative brought together organisations from across Europe and beyond, strengthening collaboration in the fields of environment and climate and shaping the Hub together.

The event represented a milestone for member participation, in line with ALDA’s Strategy 2024–2028. Its goal was twofold: to inform members about the Hub’s priorities and activities, and to carefully listen to their needs, expectations, and proposals. In doing so, it laid the groundwork for new tools and future activities, ensuring that members’ voices remain central in the process.

Participants included local authorities, civil society organisations, and staff from ALDA and ALDA+, alongside the Environment & Climate Hub team. They engaged in interactive discussions to share experiences, best practices, challenges, and needs, while also deepening their understanding of the Hub – its priorities, projects, and tools for members.

Members reflected on the Hub’s priorities and shared experiences related to Green Skills and Environmental Education, Circular Economy, the Inclusive and Just Transition, and Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation. Transversal themes such as energy, water, and the gender–climate nexus were also at the centre of the exchange.

Members confirmed that Green Skills and Environmental Education are the top priorities driving the Hub’s future work

The exchange revealed that Green Skills and Environmental Education stand out as top priorities for members. Organisations stressed the importance of accessible, inclusive, and innovative approaches to environmental learning. Circularity and energy transition were also highlighted, particularly in relation to local public buildings and the construction sector.

The event was above all an opportunity for members to meet one another and exchange ideas and initiatives implemented at the local level. What emerged most clearly was the members’ need to connect – not only with ALDA, but also among themselves – and their strong interest in advocacy, especially in bridging grassroots innovation with higher-level policymaking. ALDA and the Hub can respond to these needs by acting as a connector between local initiatives and the European level, helping members to maximise their impact locally while also creating more spaces for exchange and visibility.

Members also expressed their wish for the Hub to strengthen its tools for networking, training, and project co-design. The event confirmed their desire to move from dialogue to action: 90% expressed interest in collaborating on project proposals, while over half were interested in the Hub newsletter (60%), communities of interest (50%), online meetings on specific topics (50%), and a dedicated mailing list for Hub-related opportunities. One particularly innovative proposal was the creation of a platform to connect members, enabling them to better understand each other’s initiatives, expertise, and activities, and to collaborate more effectively.

The insights gathered during this exchange will feed directly into the next steps of the Hub, including the in-person event in Brussels on 23 October 2025, entitled “Beyond Awareness: How Civil Society Shapes the Green and Smart City”. 

Register here to take part in the development of the Environment and Climate Hub!

By listening to its members and providing the tools they need, ALDA’s Environment & Climate Hub is building a strong foundation for collective action towards a just and sustainable future.

By listening to its members and providing the tools they need, ALDA’s Environment & Climate Hub is building a

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On September 22, people in numerous Italian cities participated in the national general strike for Palestine: thousands of people gathered and marched through the squares of Italy shouting “Free Palestine”, in support of the Global Sumud Flotilla, the largest independent initiative involving 42 boats with the aim of delivering food and essential goods to the civilian population in the Gaza Strip.

The strike added to the many voices denouncing that the Palestinian genocide, perpetrated by Israel. For decades, Palestinians have faced systematic dispossession and violence that long predates the current crisis. Following recent escalations, the Israeli government launched a systematic campaign of extermination against the Palestinian population. Today the situation is tragic: sixty thousand are the confirmed victims of the genocide ongoing for almost two years, and thousands of other people have not even had the dignity of a burial. It is estimated that over 15,000 are missing under the rubble, a figure that is widely acknowledged by institutions and experts as an underestimation. Hence, the world can no longer remain a bystander.

The September 22 strike was a collective outcry, a moment of closeness to the Palestinian population and reflection on the importance of civic mobilisation and the commitment of institutions, associations, and citizens to the defense of human rights. It reminded everyone that solidarity is not an isolated symbolic act, but a fundamental component in supporting processes of peace and justice at a global level.

This wave of civic mobilisation resonates with ALDA’s ongoing efforts to promote peace and justice across its network. In August 2025, ALDA issued a statement in support of Palestine, approved by the Governing Board of the Organisation. The statement reaffirmed ALDA’s commitment to peace, justice, and an end to the massacres, emphasising the importance of civil society engagement in defending human rights. The full statement is available here.

In our modest way, we are mobilising to provide concrete support to the situation and the Palestinian population. We established an internal taskforce with the goal of monitoring the situation, evaluating the most effective ways to intervene, and identifying concrete strategies to mobilise the network of our members and partners. The taskforce is responsible for analysing scenarios, proposing practical initiatives, and facilitating coordinated advocacy and support actions, becoming an operational reference point for the entire ALDA network.

As a first operational step, on September 23, 2025, ALDA organised a webinar titled “What Can We Do for Palestine”, attended by humanitarian operators working in Gaza, ALDA members, and external partners. The meeting was an opportunity for discussion and exchange of experiences, during which concrete tools and operational methods to support Palestinian communities were presented. During the webinar, participants discussed how to mobilize resources, involve local and international networks, and translate solidarity into concrete and sustainable actions, promoting the active role of civil society in defending human rights.These initiatives may seem like small drops in the vast ocean of global solidarity, but every step and every action counts. Citizens around the world are coming together to give voice and provide concrete support to the Palestinian population. For ALDA this was only a first step: in the following weeks, we will follow up on all points raised during the webinar and continue doing our part to support Palestine and the Palestinian people.

The legend of the hummingbird

A legend tells that, in a forest, one day, due to the excessive heat, a fire suddenly broke out.

Faced with the advancing flames, all the inhabitants, terrified, ran away. All, except a small hummingbird, who tirelessly collected a drop of water in its beak and carried it to the fire. Then it returned to the pond, collected another drop, and brought it back to the flames.

A lion, who was observing the scene from afar, sarcastically asked the bird:
 “What are you doing, fool? Don’t you see the forest is burning and all the animals are running away? What do you think you can do?”

The hummingbird looked the lion in the eyes and replied:
 “I am doing my part!”

The lion laughed: “You so small expect to stop the flames?” and, together with all the other animals, began to make fun of him. But the little bird, unconcerned by the laughter and criticism, immediately returned to the river to collect another drop of water.

Seeing the courage of the little hummingbird, a young elephant, who until that moment had stayed sheltered between its mother’s legs, immersed its trunk in the river and, after sucking up as much water as possible, sprayed it on a bush that was almost consumed by the fire.

Even a young pelican, leaving its parents at the center of the river, filled its large beak with water and, taking flight, let it fall like a cascade onto a tree threatened by the flames.

Soon, all the young animals joined together to fight the fire, forgetting old grudges and millennial divisions. The cub of the lion and the antelope, that of the monkey and the leopard, that of the white-necked eagle and the hare fought side by side to stop the fire’s advance.

Seeing this, the adults stopped mocking them and, full of shame, began to help. With the arrival of fresh forces, organised by the lion king, when evening shadows fell on the savannah, the fire could finally be considered under control.

Dirty and tired, but safe, all the animals gathered to celebrate the victory over the fire.

The lion called the little hummingbird and said:
 “Today we have learned that the most important thing is not to be big and strong, but to be full of courage and generosity. You have shown us that even a single drop of water can be important and that, together, we can put out even a great fire.”

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On 19 September 2025, ALDA President Nataša Vučković carried out a series of high-level meetings in Podgorica, Montenegro, reinforcing ALDA’s commitment to supporting European integration, local democracy, and civil society cooperation in the Western Balkans.

The mission began with Nataša Vučković’s participation as a panelist in the debate “What brings us Europe?” at Europe House Podgorica. The panel gathered key figures including HE Peter Felten, German Ambassador to Montenegro, HE Oleh Herasymenko, Ukrainian Ambassador to Montenegro, and Predrag Zenović, Montenegro’s Chief Negotiator with the European Union.

Discussions focused on Montenegro’s EU path, the importance of citizen participation in the integration process, and the role of civil society in strengthening democratic resilience. On this occasion, ALDA also introduced its activities in the Western Balkans and in Ukraine, highlighting opportunities for closer cooperation with European partners and embassies in the region.

Later in the day, the ALDA President met with Nadja Ljiljanic, Deputy Mayor of Podgorica, to explore potential synergies between the capital city and ALDA’s network. 

The exchange addressed the possibility of Podgorica joining ALDA as a member

A subsequent meeting with Biljana Papović, State Secretary at the Ministry of European Affairs, provided an opportunity to discuss Montenegro’s EU accession priorities and negotiating roadmap. The talks focused on chapters 23 and 24 (rule of law, fundamental rights, justice and security) and the potential for ALDA to support participatory local governance, civil society monitoring, and citizen consultations within the accession framework.

The mission concluded with a meeting with Ivana Vujović, Executive Director of Juventas, one of Montenegro’s most active NGOs. ALDA and Juventas already collaborate within two ongoing projects, and discussions revolved around expanding this partnership, including the potential for Juventas to join ALDA’s network.

Through this full day of exchanges, ALDA’s President ensured strong visibility for the Association’s work in the region, building bridges with Montenegrin institutions, European partners, and civil society actors.

The mission to Podgorica underlined ALDA’s strategic role in supporting Montenegro’s European path, strengthening citizen participation, and consolidating democratic practices at the local level.

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On 28 September 2025, the citizens of the Republic of Moldova went to the polls in what many observers had already declared as historic elections. The outcome has marked a definitive choice: Moldova has chosen Europe. The pro-European Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS) won more than half of the votes, gaining 55 out of 101 seats and gaining a return parliamentary majority. In doing so, PAS was just the second party in the nation’s history to achieve such a result, and it was a turning point in Moldova’s democratic experience.

The vote was held against the backdrop of tense misinformation campaigns, external intervention, and even bomb threats to polling stations. Under these circumstances, 52.2% of the voters showed up to cast their votes, and this is a testament to the resilience of Moldovan society and its will to turn to democracy. The results leave no doubt regarding the need of the people to further deepen their ties with the European Union and leave the heritage of the Soviet period behind.

World leaders have immediately welcomed this democratic outcome. The European Union declared that the election proves that Moldova wants to follow its European path, while the French Foreign Minister highlighted that the choice expressed by citizens is proof of the country’s clear orientation towards Europe. Such an understanding puts into context the significance of these elections, not only for Moldova but also for the wider region, where questions of democracy, sovereignty, and geopolitical orientation remain highly sensitive.

This victory is not only an electoral triumph but a strong message of democratic maturity, showing that Moldovan society is ready to embrace a European future

For ALDA, this moment resonates deeply. Moldova has been a partner and a focus of many of our initiatives, from projects on democratic resilience to local governance and civic engagement. Over the years, ALDA has contributed to strengthening civil society (e.g. INSPIRED Moldova Project), supporting local authorities (e.g. via the LDA Moldova), and promoting participatory democracy within the country (check out ALDA’s projects in Moldova). The recent election results confirm that these efforts are part of a broader societal transformation in which democracy, accountability, and European integration are becoming shared priorities.

In the coming years, ALDA will remain hand-in-hand with Moldova on this path. Building democracy at the local level is essential to ensuring that the parliamentary majority will actually translate into inclusive governance, transparency, and trust in institutions. ALDA will continue to foster capacity building, encourage cooperation between local and European actors, and create opportunities for citizens to participate actively in decision-making.

The Moldovan elections of 2025 will be remembered as a milestone. They demonstrate that despite external pressures and internal challenges, democracy can prevail. They also show that European aspiration is not an abstract idea but a tangible choice made by citizens at the ballot box. For a country at the crossroads of competing geopolitical influences, this choice carries profound meaning.

ALDA congratulates the Moldovans on their strength and perseverance, and restates its solidarity for their European journey. This historic result for these elections is not only a political success, but also a testament to the resilience of democracy that keeps on inspiring.

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The Circular Cities and Regions Initiative (CCRI) is accelerating the transition to circular economy practices across Europe. As part of this Horizon-funded initiative, the CCRI Knowledge Hub will support cities and regions in adopting sustainable and inclusive circular strategies. ALDA plays a key role in the project by strengthening collaboration with EU cities, supporting citizen engagement, and promoting sustainable development—particularly in the dimension of public engagement.

At the end of 2024, the first open call for the CCRI Mentoring Programme was launched, resulting in the selection of nine cities and regions to receive tailored support in their initial circular transition. Among them, the Poltava Region in Ukraine has been working closely with ALDA to assess its circularity status and implement four strategic pathways to strengthen its local circular economy.

Mentoring in Public Engagement

The first mentoring pathway focused on public engagement. Olesia Drobotenko, representing Poltava, received one-on-one guidance from Kirsi Verkka, ALDA Advisory Board member and expert in citizen participation and territorial development. Kirsi brought her expertise in participatory democracy, digital engagement, and project management to support the region in designing effective strategies for citizen involvement in circular initiatives.

The mentorship included regular online sessions, practical examples, and best practices tailored to Poltava’s needs

Beyond technical guidance, the sessions provided emotional support, helping the region navigate challenges caused by geopolitical instability, which occasionally affected connectivity and meeting continuity.

Kirsi’s support covered:

  • Civic engagement methodologies, both online and in-person
  • Participatory budgeting and stakeholder involvement
  • Application of digital tools and innovative approaches to the circular economy

These sessions not only strengthened the Poltava Region’s capacity to engage citizens but also aligned perfectly with the objectives of the CCRI Mentoring Programme.

Looking Ahead: Second Call for Cities and Regions

Following the success of the first mentoring round, the CCRI Knowledge Hub is launching a second call for cities and regions interested in receiving support for their circular economy transition. Applications are open to cities and regions from the European Union and Horizon Associated Countries.

Expressions of interest must be submitted by 17 October 2025 via the online form on the CCRI website. For guidance on the programme, eligibility, or the application process, an informative webinar was held on 23 July 2025, providing answers and practical tips for applicants.

The CCRI Mentoring Programme continues to be a unique opportunity for cities and regions to strengthen resilience, foster citizen engagement, and implement effective circular economy practices, paving the way for sustainable, inclusive, and future-ready urban development.

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We are delighted to announce the official launch of the website page of the MICAD – Metropolitan Inclusivity in Climate and Digital Transitions Horizon Europe project.

MICAD supports metropolitan cities and authorities in co-planning inclusive green and digital transitions across Europe and beyond, with the aim of building inclusive, accessible and caring cities.

It creates a space of exchange and contamination among public authorities, citizens, academic and research institutions, and enterprises by providing knowledge, capacity building, and practical tools resulting from applied research and participatory co-creation processes.

Download the project’s brochure to learn more.

To stay up to date with project news, opportunities, and resources, feel free to subscribe to the first MICAD newsletter and become part of the Community of Practitioners shaping sustainable and inclusive metropolitan areas.

The Community of Practitioners is dedicated to professionals, policymakers, researchers and civil society actors engaged in inclusive climate and digital transitions in metropolitan areas and it offers to the members:

  • Access to valuable knowledge and insights
  • Project updates and resources
  • Network with professionals
  • Meaningful discussions and opportunities to contribute
  • Best practices and cross-sectoral collaboration
  • Opportunities to support the project’s success

Link to the Community of Practitioners: MICAD Community of Practitioners | Groups | LinkedIn 

And that’s not all! 

We warmly invite you to join the UTA Café Webinar on September 29th, focused on Digital Maturity and how it can help urban development. With Christian Maitre and Alexandre Fraignac from Caspera Lab and Sonia Sotero Muniz from the Municipality of Santander  we will explore examples of promising technologies to be used in urban contexts and experiences.

This is a unique opportunity to explore digital maturity concepts, learn about measurement models, and exchange ideas with partners, stakeholders, and citizens.

See you there! 

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On 23 September 2025, ALDA’s Governing Board met online, welcoming seven new members to the network and reinforcing the Association’s mission to promote local democracy, citizen participation, and sustainable development across Europe.

Welcoming New Members

The newly approved members bring diversity and expertise from local authorities, civil society organisations, and academic institutions:

  • Local Development Association, Türkiye – An NGO based in Şanlıurfa, Türkiye, focused on reducing regional disparities and promoting citizen participation. Their flagship project trained 410 young people in human rights, gender equality, and active citizenship.
  • Prizma Foundation, Hungary – Promotes civic engagement, innovative education, and democratic participation, with projects including the AI-driven “Alternative Referendum” platform.
  • Calvados Province, France – Coordinates Erasmus+ initiatives and the “Way of Freedom” project, supporting citizenship and cultural education among youth.
  • Stryi Municipality, Ukraine – Manages a city of 110,000 residents, including 9,000 IDPs, and supports local entrepreneurs through innovative development projects.
  • IPAK, Slovenia – R&D organisation specialising in IT, social responsibility, and community development, previously serving as a regional NGO hub and contributing to sustainable energy transitions.

Their inclusion strengthens ALDA’s multi-stakeholder network, ensuring continued collaboration and impact across the Association’s thematic hubs

The Importance of Membership

Membership in ALDA provides access to a dynamic network of local authorities, NGOs, and academic institutions committed to supporting and improving democracy at the local level. Members benefit from:

  • Engagement in thematic hubs and projects
  • Support for project development and partnerships
  • Training, capacity building, and networking opportunities
  • Visibility through ALDA’s communications and advocacy initiatives

Membership is open to municipalities, civil society organisations, and more public and private entities, with fees adapted to ensure accessibility. Interested organisations can apply via ALDA’s membership page, submitting a short presentation and their last approved budget.

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Final Conference & Toolkit Launch of the Politik-Her Project

On 10 September 2025, Brussels, Belgium hosted Voices of a Generation: Young Women for Change – the Final Conference and Toolkit Launch of the Politik-Her project, at the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC). The event brought together young women leaders, civil society organisations, institutional representatives, and local authorities for a day filled with inspiration, reflection, and concrete tools to advance inclusive leadership and strengthen gender equality and human rights across Europe.

The conference opened with welcoming words from Irina Socrescu (CPE) and Sif Holst (EESC), who reminded participants of the urgency of amplifying young women’s voices in political and social life. This was followed by a reflection on two years of the Politik-Her journey, with Eve Pet presenting the achievements and milestones that shaped the project.

One of the most powerful moments of the day came from the young women who had taken part in the pilot projects.

Their presentations highlighted the creativity, courage, and commitment that have been at the heart of Politik-Her, turning ideas into real actions for change in their communities.

The roundtable Her Path to Leadership, moderated by Camilla Vedovato (ALDA), provided an opportunity for speakers such as Vanessa Bocchi, Elif Avcı, Ana De Alos De Llanza (Diputació de Barcelona) and others to explore systemic barriers, cultural diversity, and the ways in which younger generations are redefining leadership models in more inclusive and collective terms.

Another key milestone of the day was the launch of the Politik-Her Toolkit by Roberta Bonacossa (Project School), offering concrete methodologies, resources, and guidance to replicate the project’s practices across Europe. The conference also featured a presentation of ALDA’s Gender, Inclusion and Human Rights Hub by Sara Afendi, sparking a lively exchange of experiences and good practices among participants.

The closing session invited everyone to engage in self-reflection through the Identity Wheel exercise and to share final feedback, creating a powerful sense of connection and solidarity among participants. As one participant said:

“Listening to women should not be optional.”

Another added:

“You’re not too young – you are exactly what democracy needs.”

The day concluded with gratitude to all those who made this journey possible – the young women participants, the speakers, the partners, and the many colleagues behind the scenes. More than a conclusion, the event marked a new beginning: a renewed commitment to building inclusive, participatory democracies where young women can continue to lead change.

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From September 17 to 20, 2025, the European Dialogues in Bosnia and Herzegovina brought together prominent figures from civil society, youth activism, and research to explore the role of trust in promoting lasting peace and social cohesion. Among the many voices contributing to the dialogues, Maddalena Alberti, ALDA Governing Board member  and director of the Ambasciata della Democrazia Locale in Zavidovici, provided a unique perspective on how trust can be rebuilt in post-conflict societies, both within the Balkans and beyond. She was joined by Dženana Dedić, delegate of LDA Mostar, who also participated in the panel discussions, adding valuable insights on the local context of trust-building in Mostar and the broader region.

The dialogues, held in Sarajevo and Banja Luka, delved into the aspirations of societies in the Balkans since the end of the war, examining the fundamental role of trust in fostering social cohesion, supporting peace processes, and strengthening democratic resilience.

Maddalena Alberti participated in the panel on September 18 and addressed a crucial question: How can we restore trust in our communities and institutions in Europe? Maddalena’s contribution highlighted the significant challenge of rebuilding trust in Bosnia and Herzegovina, a country that, three decades after the Dayton-Paris Accords, still grapples with the legacy of conflict and a sense of detachment between citizens and their political leaders.

In her intervention, Maddalena discussed the similar trends she observes in Zavidovici, where many citizens feel that decisions are made far away and are rarely explained. 

“The trend is the same here as it is in Bosnia and in Italy… People don’t trust institutions because they feel excluded from the decision-making process.”

However, Maddalena emphasised that trust can be rebuilt through community-driven initiatives. 

Drawing on her work with ALDA, she pointed out how local projects, especially those engaging youth, help bridge the gap between citizens and institutions. 

“When people start out skeptical, but are involved in projects, they often end up supporting each other and creating strong bonds.”

Maddalena explained.

A central theme in Maddalena’s speech was the importance of participatory governance in restoring trust. She pointed to ALDA’s initiatives, such as the Regional Youth Compact for Europe and BOOST (Balkans for Optimising Opportunities, Sustainability, and Transformation of Civil Society), which empower citizens, particularly youth, to play a meaningful role in shaping policies that affect their futures. These initiatives go beyond symbolic consultations, as they provide real opportunities for citizens to influence governance and feel that their voices are heard.

Maddalena’s approach also underlines the importance of transparency and accountability in rebuilding trust. She recalled how the introduction of public hearings in municipalities in Kosovo increased citizens’ confidence in local governance, illustrating how transparency can restore credibility.

“When leaders are accountable and consistent, trust grows.”

she said.

As ALDA works on the ground in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, and other Western Balkan countries, Maddalena shared how local democracy plays a fundamental role in EU integration. 

“Trust is built when democracy is experienced daily at the local level. Europe is not a distant promise; it becomes real through citizens’ engagement in their communities.” 

she emphasised. ALDA’s mission to act as a bridge between local authorities and EU institutions is critical in ensuring that democratic practices are not just implemented but lived.

Maddalena concluded with a powerful call to action: “To restore trust, Europe must be experienced locally.” She highlighted the importance of youth engagement, cross-border cooperation, and the inclusion of local actors in the EU accession process. Her belief in democratic ownership as the key to successful integration and long-lasting trust is a reminder of the foundational role local governance plays in building a united Europe.

Looking ahead, Maddalena’s reflections pointed to the need for sustained efforts in promoting trust between individuals, communities, and institutions. She said that trust must be renewed daily, with perseverance and coherence, reminding us that trust-building requires both political will and human connection. 

In the end, the message is clear: the future of Europe depends on creating societies where trust is rebuilt from the ground up, through genuine citizen participation and inclusive governance. As the Western Balkans work towards EU integration, the region’s success will not just be measured by political agreements, but by the extent to which citizens feel they have a meaningful role in shaping their future. Trust in Europe will grow when citizens experience the European idea locally, in their neighborhoods and communities, every single day.