Between October and December 2024, ALDA organised a series of four workshops across Europe dedicated to the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) programme. These events aimed to both raise awareness about the strategic importance of the CERV programme and to strengthen the capacity of local authorities and civil society organisations to develop and submit high-quality project applications. By bringing the programme closer to local actors, ALDA reaffirmed its commitment to empowering communities and institutions to actively contribute to European democratic life.
The CERV programme is a key EU funding instrument supporting projects that promote citizens’ engagement, equality, fundamental rights, and European values. Yet, for many local stakeholders, accessing this programme can seem complex and distant. ALDA’s series of workshops responded directly to this challenge by combining policy-oriented discussions on the programme’s objectives with practical, hands-on guidance on project development, partnerships, and application processes.
The first event took place on 15 October in Krzyżowa, Poland, hosted by ALDA Governing Board member the Merkury Foundation. Set in a location with strong historical and civic significance, the workshop gathered civil society organisations and local actors interested in democracy, dialogue, and civic participation. Participants explored how CERV priorities can be translated into concrete local projects, particularly in contexts where strengthening democratic culture and citizen engagement is essential. The session also offered space for exchanges between organisations, fostering new connections and potential partnerships at national and European levels.
The second stop was Paris, France, on 6 November, organised in collaboration with the FNADAC (Fédération nationale de Directeurs des Affaires Culturelles). This workshop placed a strong emphasis on the role of culture in promoting European values, civic participation, and inclusion. Cultural professionals and local authorities discussed how CERV can support initiatives that bridge culture and democracy, such as participatory cultural projects, remembrance initiatives, and actions promoting diversity and fundamental rights. The collaboration with FNADAC allowed ALDA to reach a specific and highly relevant audience, highlighting the programme’s potential beyond traditional civic or institutional actors.
On 3 December, the series continued in Brussels, Belgium, with the support of ALDA member ECIT Foundation. Taking place at the heart of the European Union, this workshop offered participants a broader policy perspective on the CERV programme, linking local project ideas to EU-level priorities and strategies. The Brussels event provided valuable insights into how local initiatives can contribute to wider European objectives, while also offering practical advice on navigating calls for proposals, building strong European partnerships, and aligning projects with CERV’s evaluation criteria. The setting encouraged direct dialogue on how EU funding can effectively support grassroots democracy.
The final event was held on 5 December in Valletta, Malta, in collaboration with the country’s Local Councils’ Association. This workshop strongly focused on the role of local authorities as key actors in implementing European values on the ground. Local council representatives discussed concrete challenges faced at municipal level, from citizen participation to social inclusion, and explored how CERV-funded projects can offer innovative responses. The exchange of experiences among local authorities underlined the programme’s relevance for small and medium-sized municipalities across Europe.
Across all four events, a common message emerged: the CERV programme is a powerful tool for strengthening democracy, rights, and values, but its impact depends on the capacity of local actors to access and implement it. By tailoring each workshop to its local context and audience, ALDA successfully contributed to demystifying the programme and encouraging participants to turn ideas into concrete project proposals.
Through this series, ALDA once again demonstrated its role as a bridge between European policies and local realities, fostering knowledge-sharing, capacity-building, and cooperation. The organisation looks forward to continuing its support to members and partners in developing impactful CERV projects that bring European values to life at the local level.
