On September 16th, 2024, in Berlin, Germany, the final event of the INCLUDATE: Educating for Inclusion project took place, bringing together partners from six European countries (Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, and Hungary). Over two years of collaboration, the project addressed critical issues related to the inclusion of individuals with fewer opportunities, particularly migrants, who often face intersectional marginalisation through ethnic discrimination and socio-economic disadvantage.

Project outcomes and focus

The INCLUDATE project aimed to promote social inclusion through education, with a particular focus on marginalised groups. Throughout the project, a series of events and trainings were held in cities across Europe, including Budapest, Gdynia, Palermo, Copenhagen, and Berlin. These events provided participants with hands-on experience and fostered active engagement in a variety of inclusion initiatives, reinforcing the project’s core goals.

Final event highlights

The concluding event in Berlin focused on reviewing the project’s achievements, facilitating discussions with partners, and engaging local civil society actors. Key sessions included workshops that featured 3 innovative methods for fostering inclusion: the “Walk of Life,” “Moments of Exclusion,” and “Community Reporting.” These approaches have proven effective in addressing social exclusion and can be applied in diverse educational settings to promote inclusivity.


ALDA is committed to fostering social inclusion and empowering marginalised groups through education and collaboration across Europe.


The event culminated in a panel discussion with two German civil society representatives who shared their experiences working with vulnerable communities, particularly African migrants and the LGBTQ+ community in Germany.

Resources for continued impact

The INCLUDATE project produced several key resources that are now available on the project website. These include:

  • Interactive eBook
  • Local Strategies/Action Plans
  • Interactive Curriculum for Community Impact
  • Training Guide

These resources are designed to support educators, community leaders, and organisations in their efforts to promote inclusion and create positive social impact.

Stay tuned for next updates!

The creative industries are dynamic and ever-changing, presenting both opportunities and challenges for artists and cultural professionals. In the modern world market, individuals in these fields need more than just talent to thrive—they need a robust set of entrepreneurial skills. This is where the Create Up project, an Erasmus+ EU funded initiative, comes into play. The project’s primary aim is to equip artists and creative professionals with the necessary competencies to navigate and succeed in today’s competitive market, reducing the risk of unemployment and fostering a culture of innovation.

Identifying crucial competencies

To address the gap in entrepreneurial skills within the artistic sector, the Create Up team conducted extensive research to identify key competencies crucial for success. Drawing insights from the European Commission’s EntreComp, which outlines the competencies needed for entrepreneurial success, the project has distilled these into six essential areas:

  1. Financial & economic literacy;
  2. Working with others;
  3. Spotting opportunities;
  4. Planning & management;
  5. Mobilizing resources;
  6. Coping with ambiguity & uncertainty;

Create Up eLearning Course: a tailored approach to learning

After extensive research and development, the Create Up project has launched its eLearning course, designed to cater to learners from the artistic field and educators alike. This innovative online course is structured around the six key competencies, offering a comprehensive and tailored learning experience.

Understanding that learners come with varying levels of experience and knowledge, the course is structured into three levels for each competency:

  • Foundation: for beginners who are new to entrepreneurial concepts.
  • Intermediate: for those with some experience looking to deepen their understanding.
  • Advanced: for experienced individuals aiming to refine their skills and stay ahead in the market.

Before starting the course, learners can take a self-assessment test that evaluates their current knowledge and skills. Based on the results, they are automatically directed to the appropriate level in each module, ensuring a personalised learning journey that meets their specific needs.

Upcoming Conferences and International Collaboration

The outputs of the Create Up project and especially its eLearning course will be tested and disseminated through a series of official conferences in six countries: Slovenia, Türkiye, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Italy and France. These events will bring together artists, educators, policymakers and industry professionals to discuss the project’s findings, share best practices, and explore the future of entrepreneurship in the arts.

The final conference will take place in France in Winter 2024, serving as a culmination of the project’s efforts and a launchpad for its continued impact. This event will showcase the outstanding results of the project, highlight the contributions of the project’s partners and set the stage for future initiatives aimed at supporting entrepreneurship in the creative sector.


Find more about activities of Create up on our website and for more information about the planned conferences follow our social media platforms: LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook


As the project moves into its next and final phase, with the testing of its eLearning course and the upcoming series of conferences, it promises to make a lasting impact on the creative industries, fostering a new generation of empowered, entrepreneurial artists ready to take on the challenges of the future.

As part of its commitment to promoting local democracy, Human Rights, and citizen engagement, ALDA recently undertook a mission to Central Asia, aimed at expanding its presence and fostering partnerships with civil society organisations (CSOs) across Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. The mission, led by a dedicated team, successfully achieved five strategic objectives, setting the groundwork for long-term cooperation and development in the region.

Mission objectives

ALDA’s mission in Central Asia was built around five key goals:

  1. Exploring the operational environment of CSOs: Gaining insight into the unique challenges and opportunities faced by local organisations.
  2. Identifying potential synergies: Seeking areas of collaboration, particularly in sectors aligned with ALDA’s mission and expertise.
  3. Gathering relevant information: Investigating the fields of activity and strategic priorities of Central Asian CSOs.
  4. Presenting ALDA’s work: Introducing ALDA’s mission, programmes, and community to prospective partners and stakeholders.
  5. Building a dynamic cooperation network: Establishing in-person relationships to facilitate future collaborative projects.

Key findings by country

Kazakhstan

In Almaty, Kazakhstan, ALDA met with prominent organisations, including NGO Echo, the Institute of National and International Development Initiatives, and the Kazakhstan International Bureau for Human Rights and Rule of Law. These groups, known for their significant contributions to civil society, expressed strong interest in ALDA’s activities, particularly in the areas of territorial development and local governance. The discussions revealed promising opportunities for partnership, especially with the Eurasia Foundation of Central Asia (EFCA) and NGO Echo, both of which have a solid focus on local development. The organisations welcomed the opportunity for follow-up collaboration.

Tajikistan

In Tajikistan, ALDA engaged with CSOs working across diverse fields such as social work, gender issues, youth development, and community engagement. Arranged with the kind support of EFCA Tajikistan, these meetings were productive, with the organisations demonstrating both enthusiasm for collaboration and expertise in areas that align with ALDA’s focus. A key highlight of the mission was the discussion with the European Union Delegation in Dushanbe, which outlined regional priorities such as Human Rights, media development, and strengthening civil society. The exchange confirmed a mutual interest in future cooperation between ALDA and Tajik organisations, particularly in the fields of youth and gender empowerment as well as rural development.

Uzbekistan

In Uzbekistan, ALDA engaged with some of the well-established organisations, facilitated by Yuksalish, an initiative focused on socio-economic reforms and civic engagement. Yuksalish’s extensive network and experience offer promising collaboration opportunities, particularly in areas such as environmental sustainability and community development.

In addition to these discussions, ALDA explored opportunities with other CSOs focused on youth, gender equality, and support for people with disabilities. These sectors align well with ALDA’s thematic priorities and present strong potential for future partnerships.

Future steps

This mission represents a significant step in ALDA’s efforts to support CSOs in Central Asia. Moving forward, ALDA intends to explore funding opportunities, particular attention will be paid to EU funding initiatives, with the goal of establishing long-term partnerships.

ALDA also plans to maintain ongoing communication with the organisations engaged during the mission. A second visit to the region is being planned to solidify these partnerships and initiate collaborative projects, and it will likely coincide with upcoming EU funding opportunities expected in early 2025.

Strengthening democracy through cooperation

ALDA’s mission in Central Asia underscores its dedication to strengthening civil society and promoting democracy through collaboration. By establishing new partnerships and identifying areas of synergy, ALDA is well-positioned to support local initiatives that advance Human Rights, civic engagement, and sustainable development in the region. ALDA looks forward to continuing its work in Central Asia and sharing updates on future developments. To stay informed about our latest projects and initiatives, subscribe to our newsletter or follow us on social media.

Democracy is a system of government in which power is vested in the people, and exercised directly or indirectly by them through a system of representation elected by free elections. Rooted in the ancient Greek principle of “the power of the people,” it has evolved over centuries, adapting to different cultures and historical contexts. More than just an end goal, democracy is an ongoing process that shapes how societies are structured and how they function. Its defining feature is the aim to establish a form of government in which the people hold sovereign authority over themselves and their nations.

The International Day of Democracy, promoted by the United Nations, offers a crucial opportunity to reflect on the current state of democracy worldwide. While democratic values continue to flourish in many regions, they are far from guaranteed everywhere. In recent years, democracy has faced significant challenges, with major political movements and governments threatening free speech, civil liberties, and democratic governance. 

To celebrate this International Day of Democracy, ALDA took to the streets of Vicenza (Italy) to ask citizens directly what democracy meant to them, inviting them to express it in a single sentence or concept. What we discovered, however, defied our expectations.

When asked about their views on democracy, many people emphasised its core principles—freedom, equality, and the sovereignty of the people—expressing appreciation and proximity for the significance of these values. However, we also encountered several critical perspectives. Some expressed the belief that democracy has eroded in recent years, arguing that certain Western societies, despite identifying as democratic, no longer uphold the core values of true democracy. Others expressed skepticism towards democracy as a system of government, arguing that it often leads to corruption and that representative democracy fails to genuinely reflect the will of the people and what they really care about. These opinions resonate on a global scale, as support for more autocratic forms of government has been rising in recent years. According to a study conducted by Pew Research Centre in 2023, an average of 59% of people are dissatisfied with how their democracy is functioning, 74% think elected officials don’t care what people like them think and 42% say that they don’t feel represented by any political party in their country. 

Taking into account people’s disenchantment in democracy, what strategies and actions can be implemented to address this pressing issue that appears to be affecting diverse societies across the globe, and how can we effectively counter its impact on democratic values and governance?

ALDA’s mission is to promote democracy by working at the local level and building a global alliance of associations, civil organisations, and local governments. This network supports local democracy and citizen engagement across Europe, its neighbouring regions, and around the world. ALDA believes that advancing democratic values on a smaller scale—through projects that foster common strategies and collaborative actions—empowers local communities and equips them with the resources and tools they need to thrive. This approach seeks to build societies that are deeply committed to these principles. 

As we reflect on the current state of democracy, it’s evident that while its foundational values are cherished and respected by most, they face substantial challenges. The growing disillusionment and criticism highlight a crucial need for renewed commitment to transparency and genuine representation. By focusing on local initiatives and fostering global collaboration, ALDA strives to promote democratic principles and support communities in building resilient, inclusive societies. Involving citizens in their communities promotes engagement and strengthens their trust in democratic values, as they can see the positive impact of their participation.

On this International Day of Democracy, let’s remember the importance of collaboration—from local communities to a global scale —to overcome challenges and strengthen the democratic ideals that unite us.


The video below captures our journey through the streets of Vicenza (Italy), showcasing the voices and perspectives of those we encountered. While everyone featured granted us permission to share their opinions and appearances, we’ve chosen to obscure some faces, mindful of the power of the internet and social media.

AT A GLANCE

The project involves the creation of 3D mapping, equivalent to Google Maps’ “Street view,” of two trails of great historical and cultural value: the “Road of Heroes” and the “Scarubbi”, both built by Italian soldiers during World War I. Through 3D capture technology, the project will make these trails digitally accessible to a much wider audience, increasing their visibility and offering a new way to explore them. These benefits are not only for people with disabilities and those who cannot visit in person, but also for the tourism industry, which will have a new tool to promote these historical routes. Thus, the project will have benefits for a wide range of target audiences. Tourists will have the opportunity to explore the trails in an innovative way; people with disabilities will have access to a hitherto precluded visiting experience; and cultural and tourism institutions will benefit from a new tool for promoting the Pasubio mountain. Thanks to Alda+’s contribution, it was possible to effectively manage the implementation of the project phases, from partner coordination to accounting supervision of the various activities.

OBJECTIVES

  • To create immersive digital experiences, enriching access and enjoyment of cultural and natural heritage to all in an inclusive way.

HASHTAGS

#Pasubio #StradadegliEroi #3DCapture #Storia #Innovazione

As part of the “Civil Society for European Integration” project, funded by the European Union and co-financed by the Friedrich Ebert FoundationALDA Moldova has released its second Public Budget Monitoring Report. This comprehensive report delves into the tourism sector, a critical economic driver with the potential to significantly impact growth, employment, and social development in the Republic of Moldova.

Key Insights from the Public Budget Monitoring Report on Moldova’s Tourism Sector

The report, titled “Monitoring the State Budget of Central Public Authorities for the Development of the Tourism Sector: Budget Allocations by the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development,” was the focal point of a roundtable discussion held in Chisinau on Thursday, August 29. The event brought together key stakeholders from various sectors to discuss the findings and explore strategies for advancing Moldova’s tourism industry.

Viorica Tudos, Director of ALDA Moldova, provided an overview of the current state of tourism development in Moldova. Her presentation focused on the implementation of state policies, performance programs, and the budget allocations for 2021-2023, with projections extending to 2024-2026. Tudos also offered a series of recommendations aimed at enhancing the sector by adopting international best practices.

Stakeholder Engagement and Collaborative Insights

The roundtable event was attended by representatives from several key organisations, including the National Association for Inbound and Outbound Tourism, the Ministry of Culture, the Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Economic Development and Digitalisation, and the Entrepreneurship Development Organisation, among others. These stakeholders praised the report’s findings and shared their perspectives, emphasising the importance of this analysis in refining state budget planning and aligning resource allocation with Moldova’s strategic tourism development goals.

Detailed Analysis of Budget Allocations for Tourism Development

The report scrutinises state budget allocations for the two primary institutions overseeing tourism in Moldova: the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development. The Ministry of Culture is responsible for developing policies and strategic visions, while the Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development manages regional infrastructure through the National Fund for Regional and Local Development.

Tourism in Moldova is managed by various state entities at both central and local levels, with programs designed to foster a favorable environment for infrastructure development, SME support, regional promotion, and national tourism branding.

Tourism Growth and Budgetary Challenges

Moldova’s tourism sector has seen growth, with over 500,000 tourists recorded annually by 2023. However, a significant portion of this figure comprises Moldovans traveling abroad, with only 9% representing inbound tourists. This disparity underscores a critical challenge that Moldovan authorities must address to strategically develop the sector.

Between 2021 and 2023, state budget expenditures for tourism exceeded 234 million lei. However, for the period 2024-2026, planned expenditures for tourism development constitute just 0.04% of the total state budget. Despite this modest allocation, improvements in services, sustainability investments, and marketing efforts have contributed to a 5.6% increase in both domestic and inbound tourism in 2023. Notably, tourism revenue saw a 26.1% rise compared to 2022, driven primarily by outbound tourism earnings.

Looking Ahead: The “Tourism 2028” Program

Globally, tourism contributes up to 10% of GDP in developed countries, while in Moldova, it currently accounts for only 3.3%. To address this gap, the upcoming “Tourism 2028” Program, now in the final stages of consultation, proposes a budget exceeding 752 million lei. This program aims to allocate up to 0.26% of the state budget to tourism, with the goal of increasing the sector’s contribution to GDP to 6.3% by 2028. Key strategies include strengthening the policy framework, stimulating investment in modern infrastructure, adapting to evolving tourism needs, and promoting a diverse tourism product that supports local community development.

About the Report

For more detailed information, you can access the full report here (available in Romanian).

The project is implemented by the Independent Analytical Center Expert-Grup, in partnership with the Institute for European Policy and Reform (IPRE)AO Institutum Virtutes Civilis (IVC), and the Friedrich Ebert Foundation.

The first edition of ALDA Summer School on Local Democracy has just come to its end, after three days of enriching and insightful lectures and discussions regarding the foundations, challenges, and future of local governance, with a special emphasis on Ukraine’s current situation.

This successful first edition took place from August 28th to 30th, in the charming frame of the historical Villa Fabris, in the Municipality of Thiene, in northern Italy.

This edition of such a Summer School, absolutely unprecedented in its kind, was a great success among the participants and experts who took part. The choice of alternating theoretical lectures with workshops and moments dedicated to discussion convinced the participants, who were very satisfied with the experience, which provided them with new knowledge and practical skills on local democracy and citizens participation.

Since the first day, ALDA Summer School was marked by a warm and familiar atmosphere which helped creating the sense of community among participants, making them feel comfortable and free to express their ideas and doubts on such a complex matter.

Indeed, the Summer School started at its full capacity, with some 30 participants from 12 countries across Europe, the Balkans, Africa and America. 

Let’s go through the three days to review the highlights of our Summer School:

Day 1 centered on the “Foundations of Local Democracy,” featuring a welcome from key figures such as Marco Boaria, Director of Programmes and Corporate Strategy of ALDA, Scientific Coordinator of the School, Gianantonio Michelusi, Mayor of Thiene Municipality and Emir Coric, Vice President and Governing Board Member of ALDA and representative of Centar Municipality, North Macedonia. Following, participants enjoyed a keynote on the evolution of local democracy by Patrick Molinoz, President of the citizenship, governance, institutional and external affairs commission (CIVEX) of the European Committee of the Regions. Then,Helfried Carl, Innovation in Politics Institute and Founder of the European Capital of Democracy initiative, gave a speech on the role and consequences of innovation on local democracy and analysed the main current trends, followed by a participated plenary discussion involving all speakers and participants.

The afternoon’s main event was a panel discussion on local governance and social participation during which Michał Zorena, Director, Department of Local Cooperation and Social Innovation, Gdansk Municipality, Poland, and Raisa Labaran, Municipal Councillor, Brescia Municipality, Italy, brought their personal experience as municipal officers.

The day ended with a field visit to the Municipality of Thiene, where participants were welcome by the Mayor and some councillors, who presented the local community and described the main current projects ongoing. 

Day 2 explored “Challenges and Innovations in Local Governance,” with a keynote on active citizenship by Francesca Gelli, Professor of Political Science at IUAV University of Venice (Italy) and a discussion on democratic resilience at European and local level again held by Patrick Molinoz. In the afternoon a workshop on democratic decision-making which delighted the participants, who all put themselves in the shoes of municipal officers and, according to various given scenarios, had to try to find the right tool to stimulate citizens participation.

Day 3 focused on “Ukraine at a Critical Path: looking into the future for sustainable and deep democracy” with keynote addresses on the critical situation Mariupol has been living since the Russian invasion started, from Olha Pikula, Councillor of Mariupol City Council (Ukraine), including Mariupol’s Mayor Vadym Bojčenko, who joined through a video-message. Then, Olha Oliinyk, Deputy Head of the Secretariat – Head of the Center for Сommunications, Еxternal relations and Fundraising of Vinnytsia Regional Association of Local Self-Government Bodies (Ukraine), who gave a speech on local governments and civil society groups from Ukraine. Discussions examined social cohesion, community resilience, and the challenges faced by civic spaces in fragile contexts.

These interventions were followed by a participated debate, since the first-hand experiences presented by our experts aroused curiosity and questions on participants, especially on the peculiar case of Mariupol, a Municipality working from exile. The afternoon saw a panel discussion on “Civic space challenges in fragile contexts: strategies for inclusive governance”, moderated by Abdelaziz Bouslah, ALDA Tunis Office Director and Africa Regional Officer – Middle East and Africa Department. 

The event concluded with reflections, assessments and a closing ceremony.

Thus, the Summer School provided valuable insights into the evolving landscape of local democracy and fostered connections among participants committed to advancing democratic governance in their communities.

All in all, an outstanding success promising for an even greater edition next year: indeed our wish and commitment is to make the Summer School on Local Democracy grow and become a regular appointment and reference point for all practitioners of good local governance all around Europe and beyond!

ALDA Summer School Diary – Day 3

The final day of the ALDA Summer School on Local Democracy centered on Ukraine, addressing the profound challenges faced by local governments and civil society amid ongoing conflict and efforts toward recovery. The agenda for the day brought together key Ukrainian figures such as municipal officers, ALDA representatives, and international experts to discuss resilience, social cohesion, and the future of civic spaces in fragile contexts.

The day began with a series of keynote addresses on the theme of “Mariupol and Resilience.” Vadym Bojčenko, Mayor of Mariupol, delivered a powerful video message, reflecting on the resilience of his city in the face of extraordinary adversity. Following him, Olha Pikula, Councillor from the Mariupol City Council, provided further insights into the ongoing challenges and the determination of local leaders to rebuild and support their communities. “The case of Mariupol can be useful to understand the effort to rebuild democracy despite the difficulties of the war” – said Ms Pikula. She then described two among the several ongoing projects for Mariupol’s reconstruction: “Mariupol housing”  which by the next year will provide more than 2000 houses and “Mariupol reborn”, a project to revive the city by 2040.

The morning continued with a keynote address by Olha Oliinyk, Deputy Head of the Secretariat of the Vinnytsia Regional Association of Local Self-Government Bodies. Ms Oliinyk, who joined the School online, highlighted the crucial role that local governments and civil society groups play in maintaining democratic governance and community support during times of crisis. She emphasised the need for robust communication and external relations strategies to ensure continued support for Ukrainian municipalities.

After a brief coffee break, the focus shifted to a panel discussion on “Social Cohesion and Community Resilience.” This session, moderated by Anastasiia Buslaieva, ALDA Ukraine LDA Coordinator, brought together several prominent Ukrainian experts. Inna Volkova, an ALDA Governing Board member, and Khrystyna Kvarstyana, ALDA’s Representative in Ukraine, both joined online, sharing their perspectives on fostering community resilience under challenging circumstances. Tetiana Lomakina, Delegate LDA Mariupol, and Olha Pikula also contributed, discussing how local initiatives can strengthen social cohesion in the face of ongoing disruptions.

Following lunch, the afternoon panel addressed “Civic Space Challenges in Fragile Contexts: Strategies for Inclusive Governance.” Abdelaziz Bouslah, Director of the ALDA Tunis Office and Africa Regional Officer, led the discussion, focusing on the strategies necessary to protect and expand civic spaces in regions affected by conflict and instability. The panel provided valuable lessons from various international contexts, emphasizing the importance of inclusive governance as a foundation for long-term resilience.

The day concluded with a closing ceremony, where participants reflected on the insights gained and discussed the next steps for continuing the work initiated during the summer school. Certificates were awarded to participants, marking the end of a meaningful and impactful event.

The final day of the ALDA Summer School underscored the critical role of local democracy and civil society in sustaining communities through times of crisis, particularly in Ukraine. As the event came to a close, the discussions held throughout the day served as a reminder of the resilience and determination of local leaders and the importance of international support in their efforts to build a more stable and democratic future.

Summer School Diary – Day 2

The second day of our Summer School on Local Democracy saw a lighter agenda in terms of expert interventions, but definitely more specific for what concerns citizens participation and decision-making processes. 

Today, participants were provided with an academic overview on the meaning and concpt of “citizen participation” by Francesca Gelli, Professor of Political Science at IUAV University of Venice (Italy). Prof. Gelli also explained the functioning of participation within the political frame of a municipality as well as the changing perspectives when considering different political cultures, mainly linked to a specific geographical area. 

“Participation is a creative, often unpredictable process. – stated Prof. Gelli Then, we need to keep in mind that participation is for change, so it has to surprise, criticize the existent, allow new partnerships and connections.” 

She also mentioned some examples of innovative participatory methods implemented in the Italian regions of Emilia Romagna, Tuscany and Puglia. One was related to the participatory methods in political parties, the other relates to public debate related to architectural projects.


Participation is for change, so it has to surprise, criticize the existent, allow new partnerships and connections” Prof. Francesca Gelli

Following such a theoretical beginning, the floor was taken by Patrick Molinoz, President of the citizenship, governance, institutional and external affairs commission (CIVEX) of the European Committee of the Regions, who presented examples of “democratic resilience at European and local level”. He mentioned some case studies involving the Committee of the Regions in facing crises such as the covid-19 breakout and the more recent war in Ukraine. 

He then questioned the role and responsibility of politicians regarding promises made to citizens during the election campaign, as this is a focal point when it comes to citizen participation. “City governments and leaders have the greatest responsibility, since city leaders and candidates simply can’t promise the impossible, being them closer to the people. – outlines Mr Molinoz – Otherwise then, the same people vote for candidates from opposite political parties in the same electoral day, at different electoral levels: there’s no more ideological vote. Also, we have lost a common perspective: this perspective is, for me, EU”.

All these inputs of course aroused several reactions in the participants, which then took the floor with several questions and inputs, creating a dynamic plenary debate, moderate by Anna Ditta, Head of Development Department of ALDA.

The afternoon took a different shape with a workshop on “Citizen Participation and Democratic Decision-Making” – using the right instrument at the right place” .

To introduce the workshop and provide even more knowledge and inputs for debate, our colleague Anna Ditta provided an insightful on citizens participation and on the various degree of participation, according to the Council of Europe, being them information, as the basis of participation; consultation; dialogue and partnership”.

On this basis, the activity foresaw that participants, divided into smaller groups and according to various given scenarios, had to try to find the right tool to stimulate citizens participation.

The day thus came to an end, looking forward to the third and conclusive day tomorrow, when Ukraine will be in the spotlight, as a case-study of critical situation, when democracy and participation are in danger since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, in 24th of February 2022.

Dal 22 al 27 luglio 2024, Nocera Umbra, pittoresco borgo in provincia di Perugia, ha ospitato la fase conclusiva del concorso “Diventiamo Cittadini Europei”, un’importante iniziativa promossa dal Movimento Federalista Europeo (MFE) in collaborazione con Europe Direct Venezia Veneto del Comune di Venezia. During this week, the city became the stage for a Europeanist holiday and training, in which the winners of the competition participated. The young people were involved in intense discussions on crucial issues for the future of Europe, debating with experts and deepening issues of great relevance for the continent.

Il programma del soggiorno ha affrontato temi di grande attualità, spaziando dalla crisi della centralità europea nel XX secolo al Federalismo e alla costruzione di uno Stato federale, fino ad approfondire il processo di integrazione europea come risposta alla crisi degli Stati nazionali. Particolare attenzione è stata dedicata ai nuovi equilibri mondiali emersi dopo il conflitto russo-ucraino, con un focus sulle relazioni tra Europa, Stati Uniti, Russia e l’area del Mediterraneo.

Le discussioni si sono inoltre concentrate su temi come l’innovazione tecnologica, la transizione ecologica dell’economia e il ruolo del Next Generation EU (NGEU) nel contesto europeo. La presenza di esperti di alto profilo ha garantito un dibattito ricco e stimolante, favorendo un confronto costruttivo tra i partecipanti.

Tra i relatori, Rita Biconne, Responsabile dell’Unità di implementazione progetti di ALDA, ha dato un contributo significativo illustrando le iniziative dell’Associazione a livello europeo e il ruolo cruciale che ALDA ha svolto come partner del Parlamento Europeo nella sensibilizzazione e promozione delle elezioni parlamentari di giugno 2024, attraverso la campagna “Better Europe Together” (Un’Europa Migliore per Tutti).

Il seminario di Nocera Umbra, ampiamente sostenuto da ALDA, ha rappresentato il culmine del concorso “Diventiamo Cittadini Europei”, un’iniziativa nata a Verona e successivamente estesa a livello regionale, che mira a promuovere una cittadinanza europea attiva e consapevole tra gli studenti delle scuole secondarie di secondo grado del Veneto.

La cerimonia di premiazione del concorso si è svolta il 16 maggio 2024 a Mestre, mentre il 29 giugno 2024 si è celebrato il 40° anniversario del concorso con un evento intitolato “L’Europa dopo il voto”, al quale ha partecipato anche Andrea Rilievo, membro del Consiglio di Amministrazione di ALDA.

L’edizione di quest’anno ha visto la partecipazione di 28 studenti provenienti da sei istituti scolastici delle province di Treviso e Venezia, con 13 di loro riconosciuti tra vincitori e menzionati speciali.


Come ALDA, abbiamo avuto l’onore e il piacere di intervistare quattro studenti che si sono distinti particolarmente durante il seminario di Nocera Umbra: Riccardo Tavella, Matteo Buccella, Alessandro Carbone e Beatrice Ferraro. Le loro testimonianze sono state fonte di ispirazione, dimostrando come queste iniziative possano realmente influenzare la formazione di una cittadinanza europea consapevole e attiva.

Ecco cosa ci hanno raccontato quando gli abbiamo chiesto:

Dopo aver partecipato al Seminario, sente di aver rafforzato il suo senso di appartenenza all’Unione Europea?

In seguito alla partecipazione del Seminario di Nocera Umbra 2024, posso affermare di aver effettivamente rafforzato il mio senso di appartenenza all’Unione Europea. Le discussioni trattate sulle sfide e le opportunità che l’Unione è tenuta ad affrontare, così come gli scambi di idee con molti miei coetanei, mi hanno fatto comprendere ancora di più quanto un’Europa federalista sia un progetto unico e necessario, che richiede l’impegno di ogni cittadino per la sua realizzazione.
. – Matteo Buccella.

L’esperienza del Seminario mi ha permesso di conoscere moltissime persone diverse da me per studi, età e, soprattutto, opinioni. Tali differenze, però, mi hanno fatto capire quanto sia importante l’UE come condivisione di principi ritenuti comuni, capaci di superare i diversi punti di vista in favore di temi più ampi e importanti. . – Riccardo Tavella.

La partecipazione al Seminario mi ha indubbiamente permesso di constatare che sentirsi parte dell’UE é imperativo ma non in sé sufficiente se slegato dalla convinzione che non esiste futuro senza Europa, o meglio, senza la certezza di un fronte comune ed efficace dinnanzi alle grandi questioni che sempre di più, a oggi, sono ben oltre le capacità dei singoli paesi europei. Infatti, se è innegabile che ancora l’Europa non è ciò che dovrebbe essere, è d’altra parte vero che la nostra sfiducia è tenace nemica del progresso. . – Beatrice Ferraro.

In che modo pensa di poter applicare concretamente, nella sua vita quotidiana, ciò che ha appreso durante il Seminario?

Durante il seminario abbiamo affrontato degli approfondimenti e delle discussioni sul ruolo che l’UE oggi ricopre in eventi come la guerra in Ucraina, le tensioni in Medio Oriente o lo sviluppo di nuovi equilibri economici mondiali. Ogni giorno, attraverso il confronto con notiziari o con i temi affrontati a scuola, gli argomenti trattati a Nocera si rivelano utili non solo per esprimere le proprie opinioni, ma anche per poter sviluppare una coscienza dei problemi globali e diventare, così, cittadini attivi e consapevoli. – Riccardo Tavella.

Ciò che posso fare di concreto è condividere, sia online che dal vivo, ciò che ho appreso nel corso del seminario nei discorsi con amici o parenti. – Alessandro Carbone.

Quali ritiene siano i principali elementi necessari per costruire un’Unione Europea più forte e coesa?

L’efficacia dell’UE risiede nell’unità dei suoi membri, siano essi singoli abitanti o grandi Paesi. L’Unione dovrebbe attuare politiche più vicine ai cittadini, in maniera tale da creare un popolo europeo consapevole dei diritti e dei benefici che, quotidianamente, può trarre da un modello comunitario più unito. Tale fiducia nei confronti dell’UE può essere raggiunta anche con una maggior presenza di quest’ultima sullo scacchiere mondiale. In un mondo i cui cambiamenti sono così rapidi, l’UE dovrebbe porsi come punto di riferimento politico e morale, capace tanto di seguire questi tempi dinamici quanto di restare un organo stabile e autorevole. – Riccardo Tavella.

Costruire un’Europa più forte e coesa richiede riforme politiche, economiche, sociali e culturali combinate. È essenziale promuovere un’integrazione politica e istituzionale che incoraggi la democrazia partecipativa e che sia volta ad unificare le politiche estere e di sicurezza. Inoltre, serve un sistema di innovazione sostenibile, supportato da politiche sociali rafforzate e coerenti. – Matteo Buccella.

Per costruire un’Unione Europea più forte e coesa c’è bisogno di rendere le persone più consapevoli di tutti i benefici che gli stati, ma soprattutto le persone stesse, hanno tratto dall’UE. Alcuni esempi sono la libertà di movimento, i diritti dei consumatori e i diritti sociali, l’Erasmus. Far vedere quali sono gli enormi progressi compiuti dall’UE è l’unico modo per evitare l’accrescersi di populismi euroscettici che fanno leva su disinformazione e sentimenti nazionalistici distorcendo i benefici dell’Unione Europea per alimentare divisioni tra i cittadini. . – Alessandro Carbone.

Cosa significa per lei, a livello personale, essere cittadino europeo?

Poco dopo il seminario di Nocera Umbra sono stato in viaggio a Stoccolma. Sebbene non avessi mai visitato una capitale baltica, sicuramente diversa per cultura e forma mentis dal nostro Paese mediterraneo, in Svezia non mi sono affatto sentito un estraneo. Questa mia sensazione è frutto sicuramente dell’abbattimento delle barriere linguistiche dovuto all’Inglese ma, sotto aspetti più sottili, mi sono sentito comunque parte di un’unica grande cittadinanza europea. L’attenzione all’impatto ambientale, al rispetto dei diritti e alla cultura del proprio Paese, per quanto condotta in maniera differente tra Italia e Svezia, mi ha comunque permesso di ritrovare dei valori comuni in un luogo lontano da casa, sensazione che, forse, non avrei provato visitando un paese non UE. – Riccardo Tavella.

Essere cittadino europeo, significa far parte di una comunità che valorizza la diversità, i diritti umani e la democrazia: significa avere la libertà di viaggiare, studiare e lavorare in paesi diversi. A livello personale, è un senso di appartenenza a un progetto comune che promuove la pace e la cooperazione, ma anche un impegno a contribuire attivamente alla costruzione di un futuro sostenibile ed inclusivo. – Matteo Buccella.

Andando oltre il concetto formale di cittadinanza, direi che essere cittadini europei significa essere persone aperte ad abbracciare altre culture, aperte a confrontarsi, aperte a scoprire ciò che va oltre il quotidiano e l’usuale. Questo è l’Unione Europea, l’unione di culture millenarie diverse e vicine tra loro, ed i suoi cittadini sono coloro che permettono l’unione di queste culture. – Alessandro Carbone.

Ciascuno di noi é cittadino europeo, nonostante negli ultimi anni sia cresciuta l’indifferenza nei confronti di questa nozione. Eppure è compito primo di qualunque cittadino essere membro attivo della comunità forte in egual misura di buoni propositi e pensiero critico, così da poter cogliere le falle di un sistema europeo non più adatto alla attuale panoramica mondiale e lavorare con ogni mezzo per muovere verso qualcosa di nuovo.
Naturalmente, l’unica arma vincente, nel mezzo di una così predominante disinformazione, è l’incessante e attenta ricerca di conoscenza e consapevolezza.
– Beatrice Ferraro.

It is with profound sadness that we learn of the passing of Alessandro Perelli, a former Vice President and esteemed Governing Board Member of ALDA. For a long time Alessandro represented the Friuli-Venezia Giulia Region in the Governing Board of the Association, where he served in the European integration, international relations and financial management Service.

Alessandro’s contributions to the Organisation and his unwavering commitment to the promotion of local democracy will be remembered by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.

During his tenure at ALDA, Alessandro played a crucial role in contributing to the Organisation’s vision and strategic direction, especially for what concerns the Balkans and the Mediterranean, geographical areas particularly relevant to him.

His work was marked by a deep dedication to empowering local communities, fostering cooperation, and enhancing citizen participation in governance. He was a passionate advocate for democratic values, tirelessly working to strengthen local democracy through innovative programs and initiatives.

The thoughts and condolences of the entire ALDA community are with Alessandro’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. His memory will live on through the many projects and initiatives he helped bring to life, and through the countless people whose lives he touched.

Summer School Diary – Day 1

The first edition of the ALDA Sumer School on Local Democracy kicked off today, on Wednesday 28th of August, when the over 30 participants arrived in Villa Fabris, in Thiene (Italy) ready to start a fruitful day of discussion on the history and development of local democracy over time to the present day. The atmosphere was immediately warm and welcoming: the participants got to know each other and their different backgrounds were an opportunity to share and reflect on the different experiences of citizen participation in Europe.

Indeed, the Summer School is characterised by a distinctly international spirit, with participants and experts from 12 countries in Europe, the Balkans, the neighbourhood and Africa. Moreover, as a matter of fact, participants are mainly people from civil society organisations involved in the promotion of active citizenship and members of municipalities and regions.

The Summer School began with institutional greetings presented by Gianantonio Michelusi, Mayor of the Municipality of Thiene, (Italy); Emir Coric, Vice President and Governing Board Member of ALDA and representative of Centar Municipality (North Macedonia); and Marco Boaria, Director of Programmes and Corporate Strategy of ALDA and Scientific Coordinator of the School.

Then, Patrick Molinoz, President of the citizenship, governance, institutional and external affairs commission (CIVEX) of the European Committee of the Regions; and Carl Helfried, Innovation in Politics Institute and Founder of the European Capital of Democracy initiative, they brought us deep into the discussion

During his intervention on “Innovation on local democracy and current trends”, Mr Molinoz started with a historical overview of the development of local democracy. “If we look at different times of history, we could agree that democracy, real democracy, is what helped people to have a better life: only democracy can help us, through a humanistic approach, to reach to a better life for as many people as possible.”  He then provided insight on the specific situation of France, where, to his view, “the real problem of participation is that people don’t really know how a democratic process worksand this is essential to understand the reality of the decision-making process, essential to prevent people from being disappointed when some promises made by politicians are not kept”.

On another note, during the panel “Innovation on local democracy and current trends”, Mr Helfried outlined the main challenges democracy is currently facing, starting from the very democracy, since “democracy itself is a challengeboth for voters and elected representatives alike. And multi-level democracy is even more challenging! But all in all – continues Mr Helfried – Democracy shows better results than other poliical forms of governance, and this is also testified by the fact that democratic countries are more attractive than non-democratic ones”. On the innovation side, Mr Helfried explained how in 2019 the idea of a new concept was born; a project implying a positive competition among cities in the field of citizens participation processes. This project is reality today, being the European Capital of Democracy (ECoD).

The afternoon featured speeches reporting direct experiences of local governance, by Michał Zorena, Director of the Department of Local Cooperation and Social Innovation of Gdansk Municipality (Poland) and Raisa Labaran, Municipal Councillor of Brescia Municipality (Italy).

The former started with a theoretical background on participation and then moved on to talk about the pillar of participation, which is about “sharing the power: all stakeholders want to have the power to decide, but what comes with the power is responsibility – and he continued– so the question for the various stakeholders should be: are you prepared to share the power and, with this, the responsibility?”

Ms Labaran delved into the concrete challenges that the municipality of Brescia faces every day, namely migrant inclusion. “Our approach is space-based – explained Ms Labaran – and starts from the view that pretty spaces where people can feel safe contribute to the common welfare for all the citizens. We are working on space-shaping processes through which people can feel part of the city”.

Then, after a fruitful speed networking, which helped participants to get to know each other better, the day ended with a field visit to the Municipality of Thiene, where participants were welcomed by the Mayor himself, who guided us through the premises of the municipality and outlined the main projects the city has been working on to improve local governance and citizen participation.

And so the first day came to an end, with participants saying they were very happy with this start and eager to take advantage of all the knowledge and opportunities the summer school will offer them from now until the end!

On Day 3 of the ALDA Summer School, the spotlight was on Ukraine’s path to resilience and democracy, with discussions centred around the immense challenges faced by local governments and civil society. Despite electricity shortages, key Ukrainian figures shared their insights, including Mrs. Olha Pikula, Councillor from the Mariupol City Council, who attended in person.

The Mayor of Mariupol, Mr. Vadym Bojčenko, connected online to present plans to rebuild Mariupol through projects like “Mariupol Housing” and the visionary “Ukrainian Singapore” initiative, envisioning the city’s rebirth by 2040. They also emphasised the importance of rebuilding democratic institutions alongside physical infrastructure.


With local leadership at the forefront, Ukraine’s future is being shaped by innovative strategies and international collaboration


Mrs. Olha Oliinyk, Deputy Head of the Secretariat of the Vinnytsia Regional Association of Local Self-Government Bodies, joining remotely, provided critical insights into the evolving role of civil society organisations (CSOs) in Ukraine. She highlighted how CSOs have become indispensable in supporting governance, providing humanitarian aid and ensuring accountability at the local level during the war. Mrs. Oliinyk also emphasised the importance of international partnerships and capacity-building efforts that sustain Ukraine’s local governments​.

The panel discussion on “Social Cohesion and Community Resilience” featured prominent figures like Mrs. Tetiana Lomakina, LDA Mariupol Delegate, and Mrs. Inna Volkova, ALDA Governing Board member. They discussed how community-led initiatives are essential to maintaining social cohesion in regions directly affected by the conflict. They have stressed the importance of empowering local leaders to drive recovery efforts that are sustainable and contextually relevant​.

The third day of the Summer School showcased Ukraine’s strong commitment to democratic governance and recovery.

With local leadership at the forefront, Ukraine’s future is being shaped by innovative strategies and international collaboration, ensuring that the country not only survives but emerges as a resilient democracy.

On the 19th and 20th of August 2024, ALDA’s Communication Department gathered for its annual retreat in Villa Fabris, Thiene (Italy). Team members from the Communication Department from ALDA’s Vicenza, Strasbourg and Brussels offices came together for two days of learning, collaboration and creative brainstorming.

The retreat began with a welcoming breakfast, setting a relaxed tone for the days ahead. The morning kicked off with an ice-breaking session and internal assessment, offering everyone an opportunity to reflect on the department’s strategies, celebrate successes, and identify areas for growth. This session encouraged open dialogue and helped strengthen the bond between team members.

A major focus of the first day was on creativity and visual communication. The team engaged in a Graphic Design class, which provided them with the tools to create compelling visuals. From foundational design principles to advanced techniques, the training was essential in helping the team elevate ALDA’s outreach materials, ensuring they remain engaging and aligned with the orgàanisation’s mission.

In the afternoon, a brainstorming session opened the floor for new ideas, allowing everyone to contribute to upcoming campaigns and projects. This exchange of ideas was a dynamic moment, filled with creativity and forward-thinking strategies that will inform the department’s work in the future.


Team members from the Communication Department from ALDA’s Vicenza, Strasbourg and Brussels offices came together for two days of learning, collaboration and creative brainstorming


The second day turned to the growing importance of video in communication. The team participated in a Video Making class, where they gained hands-on experience in video production. The workshop covered everything from storyboarding and shooting to editing, ensuring that the team is well-prepared to create content that not only informs but inspires action-critical in supporting ALDA’s ongoing projects.

After lunch, a wrap-up session allowed the team to reflect on the skills and knowledge gained over the past two days. The session reinforced the shared commitment to enhancing ALDA’s communication efforts and promoting local democracy and citizen engagement across Europe.

To close the retreat, participants enjoyed some well-deserved relaxation with outdoor activities. This leisure time provided the perfect balance after two days of intense learning and collaboration.

The retreat was an outstanding success. It brought together team members from three offices, not only strengthening their creative and technical abilities but also deepening their collaboration. With new ideas, enhanced skills, and a renewed sense of purpose, the Communication Department is now even better equipped to amplify ALDA’s message and advance its mission throughout Europe.

What kind of future do we truly want? A future where people are exploited to produce our clothes, and mountains of textile waste grow in landfills? Or a future where we all make responsible choices, and governments take action against Fast Fashion’s harmful impact on the environment?

These are the questions that 50 young participants in this project asked themselves before deciding to take action on Fast Fashion.

The Future We Want is a two-year project led by a consortium of nine European organisations from Romania, Serbia, Slovenia, France, Belgium, Finland, Italy, Germany, and Portugal, with financial support from the European Commission.

The project’s goal is to empower young people to raise awareness about sustainability and climate change, with a focus on fast fashion and consumerism. The aim is to drive change at both local and European levels and promote a more sustainable future.

Participants are currently joining a Transnational Caravan that will visit 17 cities across Europe, implementing street activities and advocacy actions. If you live nearby, join the Transnational Caravan as it passes through 17 cities and become part of this major advocacy initiative for a more sustainable planet.


We are waiting for you in


  • Vicenza, Italy, 31 August (Piazza San Lorenzo, from 18:00 to 20:00 / Belgrade, Serbia, 31 August (in front of shopping mall ‘Ušće’, from 17:00 to 19:00)
  • Koper, Slovenia, 01 September (Taverna Koper, from 16:00 to 18:00) / Novi Sad, Serbia, 01 September (Central Park, from 17:00 to 19:00)
  • Ljubljana, Slovenia, 04 September (Park Zvezda, from 15:00 to 17:00)
  • Ausburg, Germany, 06 September (Königsplatz, from 15:00 to 17:00)
  • Strasbourg, France, 08 September (Place de la Cathédrale, from 12:00 to 14:00)
  • Nancy, France, 09 September (University Campus, from 11:00 to 13:00)
  • Aachen, Germany, 10 September (square at Adalbertstraße/Peterstraße, from 11:00 to 13:00)
  • Liege, Belgium, 11 September (Cathedral Square, from 15:30 to 17:30)
  • Brussels, Belgium, 13 September (Place de La Monnaie, from 14:00 to 18:00) and 14 September (Place du jeu de balles, from 16:00 to 18:00)

The Caravan will conclude with a two-day event in Brussels, where young people will present the Youth Manifesto—a vision for the future developed by gathering ideas from local youth in each city.


Events in each city will feature a variety of activities, including theater performances, interactive quizzes, and sewing workshops. These activities aim to raise awareness about fast fashion and propose sustainable alternatives.

Two groups of the Caravan began their journey in Naples (Italy) and Bucharest (Romania) on August 27th and will unite in Ljubljana on September 2nd to continue together.

Lastly, if you want to help make a difference, read the Policy Brief and sign the petition with young people’s demands to the EU. Our goal is to reach 10,000 signatures, so please share if you can. (Remember to confirm your signature via email; otherwise, it will not be valid).


The future of our planet is in our hands—and in our closets. Sign the petition now and choose sustainable shopping.


Follow the Caravan on Facebook, Instagram or visit the website.

From the 12th to the 14th of June, the historic city of Vienna recently hosted the third GINEVRA Partners Meeting. This three-day event, filled with discussions, interactive sessions and a groundbreaking demonstration, was a resounding success, setting the stage for the future of autonomous vehicle (AV) mobility and multi-level governance.

Day 1: Reviewing Progress and Learning Together
The meeting commenced with a warm welcome from Mr. Takeru Shibayama representing TU Wien and Mrs. Giulia Bubbolini from the lead partner, CISE. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as partners gathered to review the remarkable progress made in the first year of the GINEVRA project.
Mrs. Nikoletta Lupó from HÁRFA led an engaging session on multi-level governance, providing technical insights and training on the six aspects of functional governance. The interactive nature of the training fostered a deep understanding and active participation, preparing partners to implement these principles in their local contexts.


Day 2: Engaging Stakeholders and Kicking Off New Work Packages
The second day focused on stakeholder and citizen engagement, led by EMFIE and ALDA+. Partners participated in an innovative Open Space Technology simulation organized by ALDA+, which centered on AVs and citizen involvement. Additionally, a walkshop, a dynamic blend of workshops and site visits, was organized by EMFIE and practiced by the PM participants. This provided valuable insights, allowing stakeholders to visualize the practical implications of autonomous vehicles on urban infrastructure, traffic patterns, and pedestrian safety. This dynamic session highlighted the importance of participant autonomy and collaboration, generating actionable insights for future strategies.

In the afternoon, Mr. Takeru Shibayama introduced the much-anticipated Work Package 3, outlining steps to set up AV demonstrators and prepare for the tender process. This session marked the transition from planning to action, with partners eagerly contributing with ideas and solutions.


The GINEVRA partner meeting setting the stage for the future of autonomous vehicle (AV) mobility and multi-level governance


Day 3: Experiencing Innovation Firsthand
The final day took place in Pörtschach am Wörthersee (Austria), where we experienced the future of mobility firsthand. Thanks to SURAAA, partners enjoyed a ride on an autonomous shuttle, set against the stunning backdrop of the Wörthersee area. This practical demonstration highlighted the tangible benefits of AV technology and its potential to revolutionise urban mobility.

Key Takeaways and Future Directions:

  • Successful Mid-Term Review: the comprehensive mid-term project review, led by Project Officer Mr. Winfred Ritt, confirmed that GINEVRA is on track, with significant achievements in Work Packages 1 and 2. The constructive feedback and proposed solutions have set a clear path forward.
  • Enhanced Stakeholder Engagement: the Open Space Technology simulation emphasised the importance of stakeholder and citizen engagement in the success of transformative innovations. The session’s insights will inform our strategies in Work Package 2 and beyond.
  • Progress in AV Demonstrations: the initiation of Work Package 3 and the AV demonstrator project represents a significant milestone. Partners are now equipped with the knowledge and tools to move forward with the tender process and local implementations.
  • Collaborative Spirit: the meeting reinforced the strong sense of collaboration and shared purpose among GINEVRA partners. The active participation and exchange of ideas have strengthened our collective resolve to drive innovation in Central European cities.

As the project partners move into the next phase of the GINEVRA project, they are energized by the success of the meeting and the clear roadmap ahead. The insights gained and the strengthened partnerships in Vienna will be instrumental in their continued efforts to foster responsible, multi-level governance and transformative innovation.

Stay tuned for more updates on the future of urban mobility and governance in Central Europe!

Check the official LinkedIn page of GINEVRA here and the project’s page here.

The concepts of social economy and solidarity economy, while distinct, have closely evolved over time. The social economy focuses on entrepreneurial aspects, while the solidarity economy emphasises social justice. Recently, these concepts have been integrated, particularly within the United Nations framework. Since 2014, the UN has combined these under the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE), recognising their crucial role in advancing the 2030 Agenda and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In April 2023, the UN General Assembly reinforced this by passing a resolution promoting SSE for sustainable development, acknowledging its role in localising the SDGs.

At the European level, significant progress has been made in supporting SSE. The EU Commission approved an Action Plan for the social economy in December 2021, followed by the European Council’s recommendation in November 2023, urging the adoption of national strategies for SSE development. As part of the European Pillar of Social Rights, the EU’s strategy views the social economy as essential for a just transition, fostering digital and green transitions, providing sustainable goods and services, and addressing social gaps within the single market.


Territorial and Institutional Contexts


Despite progress in regional convergence, Central Europe still exhibits economic and social disparities, particularly between Eastern and Western regions. Life expectancy and living conditions vary significantly, reflecting deep-rooted inequalities. Addressing these disparities requires strong community engagement and bridging the gap between public and private sectors.

The 3P4SSE project conceptualizes SSE as encompassing diverse entities prioritizing societal purpose over profit. This approach has led to the creation of quality jobs, social integration initiatives, and environmentally sustainable practices. However, Central European regions show varying degrees of maturity in institutionalising SSE, ranging from established social economy frameworks to emerging economies still developing public-private partnerships.


The 3P4SSE project developed a Joint Strategy on 3Ps 


The Joint Strategy on 3Ps to Support Social and Solidarity Economy marks a significant initiative developed by project partners within the Interreg 3P4SSE project. This strategy aims to advance Local Action Plans through a strategic, three-pronged approach: divided into three sections, it outlines the foundational principles of the social economy, a detailed policy agenda, and an actionable framework—all designed to drive the regional social economy forward.

The Joint Strategy on 3Ps recognises SSE’s pivotal role in achieving sustainable development and promoting local development through robust social economy ecosystems and clusters. The strategy broadens the focus from social inclusion to social innovation, fully integrating disadvantaged groups, introducing new services driven by digitisation and technological transformation, and fostering proactive social dynamics.

The strategy’s policy objectives include raising collective awareness, creating supportive social economy clusters through public-private partnerships, ensuring economic sustainability and resilience, and fostering innovation in development paradigms. These objectives are designed to maximize SSE’s impact in Central European regions.


Structure and Implementation


The Joint Strategy is structured around four key policy areas: joint investments, social business models, capacity building, and advocacy and impact. Joint investments aim to create supportive environments and innovate social economy ecosystems. Social business models focus on enhancing competitiveness and maximising social impact. Capacity building equips social economy organisations with the skills to navigate challenges and transformations. Advocacy and impact increase the visibility and influence of social economy organisations in policy decision-making.

To facilitate social innovation and collaboration with public authorities, the strategy includes policy tools such as social procurement, fiscal policies, labeling, General Block Exemption Regulation, and services of general economic interest. These tools are designed to foster market access and support SSE entities.


Sustainability and future prospects


Starting in March 2024, project partners will formalise their collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding, ensuring the sustainability and continuation of the strategy beyond the project’s end. This protocol will define roles, responsibilities, and procedures, ensuring that collaborative efforts continue to thrive.

The strategy exemplifies the power of collective action and strategic planning. By fostering robust SSE ecosystems, it aims to create a more equitable, sustainable future for Central Europe, bridging gaps and driving regional development through innovative and inclusive approaches.

Cities are growing in central Europe, often turning green areas into grey concrete places. This urban sprawl accelerates negative effects of climate change such as urban heat islands: the GreenScape-CE project works on reversing this trend by making urban areas greener again.

In Central Europe, an innovative initiative is helping to transform urban landscapes into greener, more sustainable spaces. The Visual Mapping Platform (GVMP), developed as part of the Interreg GreenScape CE project, is a cutting-edge tool designed to support urban climate-proofing through renaturing efforts. It is an interactive map-based platform designed to visualise and enhance the planning of green and blue infrastructure, think parks, greenways, rivers, and lakes, in urban areas. It provides three main tools:

  1. Accessibility Tool: analyses how easily citizens can access green spaces.
  2. Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) Tool: evaluates the effectiveness of sustainable infrastructure solutions.
  3. Connectivity Tool: assesses how well these green spaces are connected to form a cohesive network.

By integrating these tools, GVMP helps cities plan and implement effective green infrastructure, enhancing urban resilience to climate change


The platform’s visual maps and simulation tools facilitate better planning and communication: city planners, local governments and residents can see the current state of green and blue infrastructure and identify opportunities for improvement. This transparency fosters community engagement and supports informed decision-making for sustainable urban development.

Key highlights from participating cities in Central Europe:

  • Zagreb, Croatia: Zagreb is driving sustainable development with a focus on reducing air pollution and creating an eco-friendly transport system. The city’s collaboration with REGEA and the introduction of user-friendly web GIS tools are key highlights.
  • Ptuj, Slovenia: Known for its rich history and vibrant community, Ptuj is enhancing its urban climate resilience by integrating green infrastructure. Through GVMP, Ptuj is improving its well-being and urban regeneration efforts, collaborating closely with ZRS Bistra Ptuj and the Urban Planning Institute of Slovenia.
  • Warsaw, Poland: As Poland’s bustling capital, Warsaw is prioritising sustainable urban spaces. The city’s Public Roads Authority uses GVMP to promote smart urban logistics, clean air policies and zero emission transport solutions.
  • Metropolitan City of Milan, Italy: One of Europe’s most densely populated areas, Milan faces significant pollution and climate change challenges. The city’s participation in GreenScape CE, alongside the Metro Adapt After LIFE project, aims to enhance green infrastructure and foster knowledge exchange across governance levels.
  • Szeged, Hungary: Positioned near the Serbian-Romanian-Hungarian border, Szeged faces frequent heatwaves. The city’s administration is leveraging GVMP to implement green infrastructures, particularly focusing on greening bus stations with Energiaklub’s support.


The GVMP, as a collaborative effort, was developed under the leadership of the Urban Planning Institute of the Republic of Slovenia, with invaluable support from various partners across Central Europe, involved in the GreenScape CE project. These collaborations have been instrumental in ensuring the platform’s success and scalability to other cities in the region.


Curious to see the impact? Explore the GVMP and its tools here.



The GreenScape CE Visual Mapping Platform is a testament to what can be achieved when cities unite for a common goal — creating greener, healthier, and more resilient urban environments for all.

Further information are to be found on the project website.

Check out the GreenScape project on LinkedIn and Facebook