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ALDA Moldova organised a roundtable discussion in Chișinău dedicated to strengthening dialogue between local public authorities, civil society organizations, and institutional partners. The event took place within the framework of the EU-funded project INSPIRED Moldova, which aims to empower civil society and enhance participatory governance processes in the Republic of Moldova.

The roundtable brought together representatives from local and national public administrations, civil society, and international partners to exchange views on the role of civic participation in ongoing reforms of local public administration.
Particular attention was given to the importance of public consultations and digital tools as key mechanisms for improving transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement in decision-making processes.

Participants discussed the current legal and institutional framework governing local administration reform, with a focus on voluntary amalgamation processes, decentralization efforts, and the modernization of local governance structures. They also shared views on how local authorities can better engage with young people, improve trust in public institutions, and create meaningful opportunities for youth involvement in shaping local development priorities.
The exchange finally highlighted European practices and digital solutions that can support more efficient, responsive, and citizen-oriented public services.

The event featured the active participation of several mayors from across the Republic of Moldova, who shared their perspectives on the importance of civic engagement at local level. They emphasized the need to strengthen youth participation in local decision-making processes, highlighting youth councils, local initiatives, and participatory mechanisms as essential tools for building more inclusive and future-oriented communities.

A significant part of the roundtable was dedicated to e-governance tools and participatory platforms, including digital consultation mechanisms and open government solutions, as key instruments to strengthen trust between citizens and public institutions and to ensure more inclusive policymaking at local level. In this context, participants highlighted Moldova’s ongoing digital transformation, including the development of the EVO platform – a single point of interaction between citizens and the state aligned with EU requirements, offering integrated digital public services, access to electronic signature services, and consolidated information on service providers, thereby significantly simplifying administrative procedures for citizens.
These developments reflect the country’s accelerated progress in digital governance, with the Republic of Moldova making notable advances in several areas of digitalization, in some cases exceeding practices in certain EU Member States within specific service domains.

The roundtable provided a valuable space for multi-stakeholder dialogue, enabling participants to share experiences, identify challenges, and explore opportunities for cooperation in advancing democratic governance reforms in Moldova.

A special guest of the event, Adrien Licha, Coordinator of the ALDA Secretariat and Eastern Partnership Unit, participated in the panel dedicated to international partnerships. He encouraged civil society organizations in Moldova to become members of ALDA and to join a European network committed to local democracy, civic participation, and cross-border cooperation.

About the Project

INSPIRED Moldova, funded by the European Union, aims to strengthen the role of civil society in influencing public policy and contributing to Moldova’s EU integration process. Through capacity building, dialogue facilitation, and support for participatory mechanisms at national, local, and digital levels, the project seeks to foster a more inclusive, transparent, and democratic governance environment.

ALDA remains committed to supporting local authorities and civil society organizations in building stronger participatory governance systems, promoting democratic values, and enhancing cooperation between citizens and public institutions across Europe and the Eastern Partnership region.

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While European legal frameworks promote equality, the 2024 Fundamental Rights Report reveals a stark “implementation gap” at the local level. Minority groups—specifically migrant people and Roma communities—face systemic exclusion not only in employment and housing but also within the very democratic processes designed to serve them. This exclusion is exacerbated by fragmented participation mechanisms and institutional silos that often leave minority voices insufficiently reflected in governance structures.

The PACT Toolkit is not only a guide. It is a rigorous collection of 9 innovative governance mechanisms designed to bridge the gap between European equality policies and local grassroot realities. This framework is built upon four interlinked pillars that address the core of democratic exclusion:

  • Strengthening Participation to dismantle structural barriers;
  • Transforming Narratives; 
  • Fostering Social Cohesion;
  • Establishing sustainable Collaboration between local authorities and civil society.

These methodologies represent a synthesis of good practices gathered from a diverse transnational consortium of the PACT Project, including the expertise of ADL a Zavidovici, ALDA, Fons Català de Cooperació al Desenvolupament, KMOP – Social Action and Innovation Centre, CID – Center for Intercultural Dialogue, PLACE Network, and Konkáv Foundation.

Some of the tested frameworks that translate abstract concepts of “inclusion” into concrete administrative are: 

  • Italy: Over 1,500 residents participated in the 2023 Participatory Budgeting cycle, directly deciding how public funds are spent.
  • France: Policy Labs and capacity-building sessions saw 85% of participants with migration backgrounds report increased confidence in public speaking, while 90% of local actors gained practical tools for inclusive engagement.
  • Greece: Youth and marginalized groups are transforming lived experiences into structured policy manifestos for direct advocacy.

The toolkit also recognises that inclusive implementation demands a deep reflection for practitioners on the “invisible” considerations that define successful engagement: practitioners must embrace intersectionality to recognize how gender, age, and legal status create unique barriers, while actively addressing power dynamics to ensure marginalized voices lead discussions rather than just attending them

Ready to transform your local governance?
Download the PACT Toolkit and discover how to build a stronger, more cohesive, and truly democratic Europe.
👉 https://shorturl.at/dua6n

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On 3-4 June 2026, ALDA’s Secretary General, Antonella Valmorbida, and ALDA France network & Partnership Expert, Denys Tkachov, participated in the Urban7 (U7) International Mayors Summit in Nancy (France), alongside more than 200 mayors, local elected representatives, and civic leaders from fifteen countries worldwide.

Organised by France urbaine, ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability, the Global Parliament of Mayors, the City of Nancy and the Greater Nancy Metropolitan Authority under the French G7 Presidency, the Summit took place just days before the G7 Leaders’ Summit in Évian-les-Bains. Bringing together representatives from G7 countries as well as delegations from Brazil, India, Kenya, South Korea, and Ukraine, the event focused on strengthening the contribution of cities and local governments to addressing the major challenges facing democratic societies today.

A key outcome of the Summit was the formal recognition of Urban7 as an official engagement group within the G7 process, creating a structured channel through which local governments can contribute to international policymaking and advocate for stronger multilevel governance.

Held under the theme “Resilient Cities, Resilient Democracies”, the Summit highlighted the increasingly strategic role of cities in responding to global challenges. From climate change and social inequalities to geopolitical instability, digital transformation, and democratic backsliding, local governments are often the first institutions called upon to provide concrete solutions and maintain public trust.

As part of the programme, Antonella Valmorbida contributed to a workshop on democratic resilience, highlighting the increasingly important role of local governance in safeguarding democratic societies in an era marked by geopolitical tensions, disinformation, political polarisation, and declining civic participation.

Drawing on ALDA’s more than 25 years of experience promoting local democracy, she emphasised that local governments often represent the most trusted level of governance and remain essential actors in preserving social cohesion, democratic stability, and public trust. Through its network of Local Democracy Agencies, ALDA has witnessed first-hand how strong local institutions and active citizen participation can strengthen communities facing political instability, post-conflict recovery, and external pressures.

Particular attention was dedicated to Ukraine, where local authorities have demonstrated remarkable resilience since the beginning of the full-scale invasion. As highlighted during the discussion, municipalities played a crucial role in coordinating humanitarian responses, maintaining essential services, and supporting their communities, proving that decentralised governance is not only a matter of administrative efficiency but also a cornerstone of democratic resilience.

ALDA Secretary General also stressed the importance of rebuilding trust through meaningful citizen engagement. Moving beyond traditional consultation mechanisms, she advocated for more structured participatory approaches, including citizens’ assemblies, participatory budgeting, and long-term cooperation between local authorities, civil society organisations, and community actors. According to her, resilient democracies are built when citizens are not merely consulted but actively involved in shaping public decisions.

Looking ahead, she called for a transition from “Smart Cities” to “Wise Cities”, where technological innovation and artificial intelligence are used not only to improve public services but also to strengthen participation, transparency, and democratic accountability. While digital tools can offer new opportunities for engagement, they must be accompanied by safeguards capable of countering disinformation, manipulation, and growing digital polarisation.

Her intervention concluded with a clear message: local governments should be recognised not merely as service providers, but as key partners in building democratic resilience, security, and stability. Investing in local democracy and civil society, she argued, is one of the most effective ways to strengthen democratic societies and prevent democratic backsliding.

The summit featured a dedicated panel, “Supporting Ukrainian Cities: Urban Reconstruction And Resilience Strategies,” where leaders of Ukrainian communities discussed resilience, intermunicipal cooperation, and local democracy. Leveraging its extensive Ukrainian network, ALDA presented flagship projects like the Local Democracy Agencies alongside practical examples from the Bridges of Trust and Shoulder-to-Shoulder initiatives.

The Nancy Declaration

The Summit concluded on 4 June with the signing of the Nancy Declaration – Resilient Cities as the Foundation of Global Resilience, which will be presented to the French G7 Presidency ahead of the G7 Leaders’ Summit in Évian-les-Bains.

The Declaration calls on G7 governments to recognise cities as custodians of peace, democracy, and global solidarity, while strengthening their role in climate action, economic development, urban resilience, and international cooperation. It advocates for stronger multilevel governance, greater support for city diplomacy, and increased investment in local resilience strategies.

Particular attention is dedicated to supporting Ukraine’s recovery, reinforcing local democratic governance, strengthening city-to-city cooperation, and promoting resilient and sustainable urban development. The document also highlights the importance of affordable housing, climate adaptation, digital governance, and citizen-centred approaches to urban transformation.
As stated in the Declaration:

“The resilience of our cities ultimately rests on the human bonds that sustain them — the social cohesion of our communities, the sense of belonging shared across generations, and the universal access to quality public services that bind urban life together.”

The discussions in Nancy reinforced a message that has long been at the heart of ALDA’s mission: democracy is strongest when it is rooted in local communities.

As democratic systems face growing challenges across Europe and beyond, investing in local institutions, strengthening civil society, and creating meaningful opportunities for citizen participation are becoming essential components of resilience, security, and stability.

Through its participation in the Urban7 International Mayors Summit, ALDA reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that local democracy remains at the centre of European and international policymaking, recognising local governments not simply as service providers, but as key actors in safeguarding democratic values and shaping a more resilient future for all.

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ALDA is looking for young people who believe that local communities should have a voice in shaping how technology impacts democracy. If you care about digital rights, civic participation, media literacy, and fostering healthy public debate, this initiative is for you.

The ALDA Youth Democracy Delegates programme brings together young people from across Europe who want to do more than simply follow the conversation.

As a Delegate, you will become part of a growing network of young Europeans working alongside ALDA’s Digital & Innovation Hub on key issues such as media literacy, digital participation, the ethical use of technology, and the future of democratic societies.

Democracy needs young voices

For nearly 30 years, ALDA has worked at the intersection of democracy, participation, and societal change. Through its Digital & Innovation Hub, ALDA connects local communities with wider European discussions on AI, media literacy, civic technology, digital rights, and democratic innovation.

We are looking for young people who share these values and want to actively contribute to this mission. As a Youth Democracy Delegate, you will help bring ALDA’s values into your local community, promote democratic participation, and ensure that young voices are meaningfully represented within broader European debates and initiatives.

What will you do?

As a Delegate, you will bring your own context, networks, ideas, and experiences into the programme. The role is intentionally flexible, allowing each person to contribute in different ways depending on their interests, availability, and local reality. As part of the network, you may:

  • Act as a bridge between your local context and a wider European network working on similar challenges and opportunities 
  • Promote ALDA’s values and activities within your local community
  • Participate in events, discussions, and initiatives related to democracy, participation, and digital issues
  • Share local perspectives and contribute insights on the issues young people care about in your country
  • Create simple content reflecting your experiences, such as social media posts, short articles, or videos
  • Help test and provide feedback on materials, campaigns, and tools developed by the Digital & Innovation Hub

What will you gain?

This is a voluntary role, but the opportunities and experience gained are meaningful and concrete.

As a Youth Democracy Delegate, you will benefit from:

  • Priority access to selected ALDA events, workshops, and policy discussions
  • Visibility through ALDA’s communication channels, including the website, newsletters, and social media
  • Introductions to ALDA’s European network of partners, organisations, and contacts
  • Priority access to trainings, exchanges, and international opportunities
  • Informal mentoring and peer support from the Digital & Innovation Hub team
  • An official ALDA certificate recognising your contribution and involvement
  • The credibility and visibility that come from being part of an established European network working on democracy and participation

Are you the perfect fit for us?

We are looking for young people who:

  • Are between 20 and 35 years old
  • Are based in one of the countries where ALDA has an office presence (soft criterion)
  • Are already connected to local people, groups, organisations, or communities in their country
  • Are proactive and self-driven
  • Have a genuine interest in democracy, civic participation, and/or digital innovation
  • Can communicate in English and their local language sufficiently to participate in calls and produce basic written content
  • Can dedicate a few hours per month on a flexible and self-directed basis

Nice to have, but not required:

  • Experience with youth organisations, civil society, or local initiatives
  • Social media, communication, or content creation skills
  • Connections with universities, media, or local institutions

How it works

  • Mandate: 1 year (June 2026 – June 2027)
  • Time commitment: A few hours a month
  • Meetings: Monthly online check-ins with the Hub coordinator
  • Internal Communication: Run through WhatsApp
  • Annual meeting: possibility of having an in-person gathering per year
  • After mandate: Inclusion in the ALDA’s network, possibility to mentor new delegates
Apply now!

Deadline: 20 June | Questions? aladdin@alda-europe.eu

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AT A GLANCE

The YES-MED project aims to improve the socio-economic integration of young people in the six target countries of the Southern and Northern Mediterranean (France, Italy, Lebanon, Morocco, Spain, Tunisia) by focusing on the social and solidarity economy (SSE) as an opportunity to unlock youth potential and address socio-economic challenges in the Mediterranean region.

OBJECTIVES

  1. Support educational, professional, and personal development of young people while contributing to the creation of quality jobs, social cohesion and active citizenship.
  2. Empower 120 young people by enhancing their abilities and technical skills.

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On May 26th, 2026, ALDA opened a new office in Kyiv with a participating and connecting event, marking a key moment in ALDA’s longstanding presence in Ukraine.

Led by ALDA’s Secretary General, Antonella Valmorbida and Yuriy Stepanets, ALDA representative in Ukraine, the event – organised at the margin of the Summit of Cities and Regions in Kyiv – saw the presence of ALDA’s partners and members, becoming an inspiring moment to confirm and reinforce the shared commitment towards the support of the Ukrainian people and institutions and towards the reconstruction of the country. The event was also an opportunity to reflect on ALDA’s long-standing engagement in Ukraine through a remarkable photo exhibition retracing key moments and achievements over the years.

Among the ALDA’s members, partners and supporters who took part in the event were: Aleksandra Dulkiewicz, Mayor of Gdańsk; Vadym Boichenko, Mayor of Mariupol; Tetiana Yehorova-Lutsenko, in representation of the Kharkiv Regional Council; Halyna Shymanska from the Zhytomyr City Council; Yuriy Fomichev, Slavutych Town Council; Matteo Rossi, Mayor of the Bonate Sopra Municipality; Luis Vanella in representation of the Bergamo Municipality; Francesco Pesce from the Embassy of Italy to Ukraine; Valentyna Smachylo, delegate of LDA Kharkiv; Olha Oliinyk, delegate of LDA Vinnytsia; Tetiana Bondarenko from GIZ (U-Lead); Nos Axelle for the French Development Agency (AFD); Olena Ursu, UNDP; Iryna Pelykh, All-Ukrainian Association of Amalgamated Territorial Communities; Yevhen Sytnyk, Public organisation “Congress of Self-Government of Ukraine“; Sasha Tselishcheva, Open Space Works Ukraine; Patrick Molinoz, Région Bourgogne-Franche-Comté (BFC) and member of the European Committee of the Regions and Christian Debève from the Grand Est Region (France). 

The opening of the new Ukrainian office in Kyiv represents a focal point for ALDA and its work in the country, reinforcing ALDA’s partnership with the on-site Local Democracy Agencies. In particular, it marks a key landmark for the UA Flagship implementation, which entails ALDA’s active involvement in Ukraine with projects and actions implemented by a special Task Force, established in 2024 and based in Kyiv.

Since 2012, in fact, ALDA has focused on Ukraine’s involvement in transnational cooperation projects on good governance, civic participation, training, and capacity building for local authorities. After the full-scale invasion of Ukraine led by russia, ALDA consolidated and reinforced its efforts in the country, focusing on international advocacy, support to on-site LDAs and humanitarian projects.

The opening of the Kyiv office represents far more than a new point on the map. It is a space for connection, exchange, and empowerment, marking a new milestone in the longstanding relationship between ALDA and Ukraine. By fostering closer cooperation and dialogue, the office will contribute to strengthening local democracy, resilience, and partnerships for the future.

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On May 25th, 2026, while attending the 4th International Summit of Cities and Regions in Kyiv, ALDA – represented by Antonella Valmorbida, ALDA’s Secretary General – paid a visit to the locations where the biggest nuclear disaster of Chernobyl took place in 1986.

Only a few weeks after the 40th anniversary of the disaster, happened on April 26th, 1986, ALDA had the opportunity to visit not only Chernobyl, Pripyat and the nuclear plant, but also the town of Borodyanka, sadly known for having been one of the main axis of the russian advance on Kyiv in 2022. The visit involved ALDA as well as the European delegations who were attending the Summit of Cities and Regions in Kyiv: a two-day meeting that brought together over 100 local and regional governments from across Europe sharing the same commitment of standing alongside Ukraine despite the ongoing conflict.

The Summit, organised within the framework of the national project “Shoulder to Shoulder: Cohesive Communities” with ALDA as a leading partner, aimed at offering concrete spaces of solidarity and cooperation, building partnerships between Ukrainian and European municipalities in order to co-design the pillars of Ukraine’s reconstruction. 

The Summit’s intentions and goals emerged even more meaningfully after what happened just the day before its opening: on May 24th, in fact, Kyiv was the target of an overnight attack striking the very city centre, in a residential area. ALDA’s Secretary General Antonella Valmorbida witnessed the offensive: “When we went to see the wreckage, we could still smell the burnt houses”, she said.

The attack not only hit important infrastructures such as residential buildings, transport network buildings and one of the oldest food markets in the city, but also destroyed the Museum of Chernobyl, which was only recently reopened after a large-scale restoration. According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the museum lost about 40% of its collection due to the shelling.

A russian missile was found on the roof of the Museum’s building, demonstrating that these attacks do not operate on strategic and military areas only, but deliberately strike civic areas attacking Ukrainian citizens, culture and memory, in what clearly appears to be a war of terror.

These circumstances made ALDA’s visit to Chernobyl, Prypiat and Borodyanka even more meaningful and essential, physically bringing an agent of democracy to the places where the major disaster took place 40 years ago – the memory of which was severely attacked just the day before the visit – and to the town that suffered the consequences of the war as much as the neighbouring, most known Bucha. 

Now more than ever it is of fundamental importance to show ALDA’s presence and support in the places that bring value to the Ukrainian culture and historical memory, witnessing the effects of the war on the country and bearing messages of peace, reconstruction and international cooperation. ALDA firmly stands by Ukraine through its presence and actions in the country and for the country, continuing its commitment towards a bottom-up approach as a tool of social change, sustainable development and international collaboration.

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On 9 June 2026, an international online conference will take place within the framework of the FOSTER – Future Oriented Solutions Toward Environmental Resilience project. The event brings together stakeholders from across Europe to share experiences, present results, and discuss how local communities can better respond to the long-term impacts of climate change.

The conference is part of a two-year project funded by the European Union’s CERV programme, focusing on strengthening inclusive and forward-looking local governance. By combining strategic foresight with participatory approaches, FOSTER supports communities in anticipating future socio-economic challenges linked to climate change and in co-designing practical, locally grounded solutions.

Throughout the day, participants will gain insights into different national experiences, explore participatory approaches to climate governance, and engage in discussions on how expertise and citizen involvement can be effectively combined. The programme includes keynote inputs, country case presentations, and interactive breakout sessions, allowing for exchange across sectors and countries.

Special attention will be given to local pathways developed within the project, highlighting concrete examples from across Europe. The interactive sessions will also contribute to the development of a practical toolkit aimed at supporting future-oriented and participatory local climate governance.

The conference is open to civil society organisations, local and regional authorities, researchers, and all interested citizens.

The event will be held online. Participation is free of charge, but registration is required.

Please register here to take part in the conference.

The agenda:

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Kyiv, 26 May 2026 – The 4th International Summit of Cities and Regions brought together over 100 local and regional governments from across Europe in Kyiv, reaffirming the commitment of local authorities to stand alongside Ukraine despite the ongoing conflict. The summit represents a key moment for local and regional governance, offering a platform for solidarity, partnership, and concrete cooperation.

The determination of all participants was particularly significant given the circumstances: the day before the summit, a major attack struck the centre of Kyiv, and Russian threats to evacuate the city were in circulation. Despite this, not a single delegation departed.

The Summit

Organised within the framework of the national project Shoulder to Shoulder: Cohesive Communities, the Summit saw ALDA as an active partner in driving the initiative forward. In close coordination with the Ministry for Development of Communities and Territories of Ukraine, ALDA took on a facilitating role, guiding European municipalities through the process of establishing meaningful, lasting ties with Ukrainian counterparts. The occasion served as a concrete expression of how decentralised cooperation and territorial solidarity can become structural pillars of Ukraine’s reconstruction process.

Partnership signatures: building concrete cooperation

Among the most tangible outcomes of ALDA’s involvement was the preparation and signing of two Letters of Intent with the Italian delegation it accompanied. The Municipality of Bergamo formalised a cooperation framework with the cities of Chernivtsi and Zaporizhzhia, while the Municipality of Bonate Sopra entered into partnership with the Zolochiv community in the Kharkiv region and its namesake community in the Lviv region. Both agreements are oriented toward shared work in areas including local governance, community reconstruction, social cohesion, and the mutual exchange of administrative expertise.

These signatures build on groundwork already laid earlier in the year. In April, ALDA had supported a previous round of partnership agreements in Kyiv, bringing together the Municipality of Cubelles from Spain and the Italian municipalities of Thiene and Zugliano with several Ukrainian communities. These efforts represent a growing network of municipal diplomacy in which ALDA serves as a bridge between European and Ukrainian local authorities.

Strengthening institutional ties

The summit also provided an important opportunity to strengthen institutional ties. ALDA was accompanied by two prominent member organisations: Region Grand Est and Christian Debève, member of ALDA and partner of the Local Democracy Agency (LDA) Kharkiv. Patrick Molinoz also attended, representing both the European Committee of the Regions and the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region in connection with the LDA Vinnytsia partnership. On the institutional front, ALDA further deepened its cooperation with the Congress of the Council of Europe through a meeting with Mathieu Mori, building on the recent renewal of the cooperation agreement between the two organisations. The Italian delegations also had the opportunity to meet with Minister Oleksii Kuleba, organiser of the summit.

Finally, the Summit celebrated the outstanding commitment of Aleksandra Dulkiewicz, Mayor of Gdańsk, who received an award from President Volodymyr Zelensky in recognition of her city’s support for Ukraine. The City of Gdańsk is also set to host the Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC) 2026.

ALDA’s engagement at the Summit reflects a broader and long-standing commitment to Ukraine encapsulated in its flagship initiative. As the war continues to damage fundamental structures of Ukrainian society and governance, ALDA firmly believes that lasting reconstruction must be built from the ground up. Common action, a bottom-up approach, and sustained support to local and regional authorities and civil society organisations, those who remain active on the ground to ensure that basic services continue to reach people, will ultimately shape the future of Ukraine. It is this conviction that drives ALDA’s continued presence and action in the country.

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Restorative Outreach For Youth and Territorial Engagement

Montebelluna – Tuesday, 12th of May. Leading experts, educators and stakeholders from Italy, Finland, and Ireland gathered together to present the outcomes of intensive months of transnational work and cooperation.The main objective of this European-funded initiative was to promote innovative frameworks and strengthen the capacities of professionals, supporting them in transforming interpersonal and systemic conflicts into robust opportunities for youth social inclusion. Through training sessions and interactive activities, the project encouraged the exchange of different approaches and promoted constructive dialogue between public institutions and citizens. 

The final event of the ROUTE+ (Restorative Outreach for Youth and Territorial Engagement) project successfully concluded at “Einaudi Scarpa” Higher Education Institute, hosted specifically on the Luigi Einaudi ITS campus in Montebelluna, Italy. The project represented a dynamic partnership between organizations and experts from Italy (Cooperativa Kirkù) Finland (Finland’s Forum for Medling – Finnish Forum for Mediation), Ireland (Wexford Local Development), and France (ALDA).

Partners, in collaboration with one another, carried out field research, strategic workshops, local trainings and collaborative piloting. The goal was to present the milestones achieved in the area of work of Restorative Justice practices across Europe. Since its launch, the ROUTE+ project aimed to significantly strengthen the core competencies of educators, social workers, and public actors, actively promoting an educational culture centred on dialogue, trust, and relationship-building, where school actors are empowered to work with students using a restorative approach.

Each country had its own distinct line of work, where they were able to make the best out of their social framework, specializing in distinct operations.

  • The Finnish Team focused primarily on the educational ecosystem, integrating restorative dialogue into schools.
  • The Irish Team addressed the judicial field directly, exploring how diversionary restorative practices can prevent youth recidivism within the legal system.
  • The Italian Team concentrated on the community level, building strong local support systems and various civic networks to engage vulnerable young people and create a restorative culture, starting with new generations.

The first session of the event concentrated on presenting the main outputs of the ROUTE+ project. Central to these achievements was the creation of specialized training programs tailored to the distinct socio-political and legal contexts of the different national partners.

Additionally, the partnership created an e-Toolkit, both in English and Italian. This digital resource integrates theoretical frameworks with practical, on-the-ground case studies. It was created with the aim of promoting restorative practices more widely and to be shared with participants involved in the trainings and workshops, and more in general for anyone who has an interest in the topic.

The event hosted several distinguished figures, who shared invaluable technical contributions. Opening the formal presentations was Tim Chapman, a globally renowned expert, former president of the European Forum for Restorative Justice (until 2022), and an esteemed lecturer at Ulster University.

“Restorative justice is not a soft option; it is a rigorous process that demands accountability while preserving the human dignity of all parties involved.”

Chapman remains a leading figure in the field of restorative justice, as today, due to his role in implementing those mechanisms in Northern Ireland. His work proved that this empathetic approach can support reconciliation and peacebuilding, even in environments historically defined by extreme violence and deep-seated social division. Furthermore, his extensive research heavily contributed to drafting the Council of Europe’s official guidelines on restorative justice in criminal matters.

The event continued focusing on the detailed presentations from the representatives of each pilot nation, showcasing their personal and local success stories, and which approach they decided to use for implementing such practices in their counties. The day concluded with an interactive round table discussion dedicated to local stakeholders, focusing on future legislative developments and exchanging views and questions with the partners. 

The closing event highlighted the long-term impact that restorative practices can have on local communities and social policies, not to mention the commitment to continue this work with great passion. In a joint closing statement, the project partners emphasized the meaning behind their cooperation:

“Today’s event does not just mark the end of a technical journey. Instead, it is the celebration of a vision of justice that is inherently more human and is capable of generating collective growth, healing communities, and fostering genuine solidarity starting directly from the resolution of conflict.“

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From 20-23 April 2026, ALDA took part in the Global Sustainable Islands Summit 2026 in Gran Canaria, Spain, as part of the MED-Hubs consortium, joining a truly global community working towards more sustainable and resilient island and coastal territories.

This year’s Summit gathered participants from 67 countries and territories, making it one of the most geographically and professionally diverse editions to date. Across three days, 110 speakers, including government representatives, private sector leaders, researchers, and civil society organisations, contributed to discussions and exchanges shaping the future of island sustainability. The event confirmed the growing importance of international collaboration and the strength of a network bringing together actors committed to turning ideas into action.

For ALDA, participating in such a global setting represented an important opportunity to connect with stakeholders, policymakers, innovators, and development actors from around the world.

Our participation was mainly linked to the MED-Hubs project and its mission of promoting innovation in the blue economy. Throughout the Summit, ALDA and the consortium maintained a shared presence through the MED-Hubs networking stand, creating space to promote the project, exchange ideas, and build new connections.

One of the key highlights was the Global Blue-Tech Innovation Showcase organised by MALTAccelerate and delivered in partnership with the MED-Hubs Initiative and its network of organisations. The session featured startups presenting innovative solutions addressing challenges and opportunities across marine and coastal ecosystems to an audience of policymakers, investors, and development partners.

A particularly important contribution from MED-Hubs and the consortium was the support provided to the selected startups participating in the showcase, with MALTAccelerate playing a driving role both as a MED-Hubs partner and as a co-sponsor of GSIS 2026. Through this joint effort, ALDA contributed to creating visibility and opportunities for innovators to pitch their ideas, connect with key stakeholders, and engage with an international ecosystem focused on sustainability and blue innovation.

Beyond the showcase itself, the Summit offered several discussions that were particularly relevant to ALDA’s work and mission. Among them, Blue Governance for a Changing Ocean explored themes such as marine spatial planning, fisheries transitions, sustainable aquaculture, maritime innovation, and governance approaches for resilient ocean economies.

Another particularly valuable discussion was Island Governance for 2030: Policy, Collaboration & EU Alignment, which addressed governance challenges, EU frameworks, and opportunities for stronger collaboration across territories.

These conversations strongly resonated with ALDA’s work on local governance, participatory approaches, citizen engagement, and sustainable territorial development. They also reinforced the importance of creating stronger links between policy, innovation, and community-led solutions.

Participating in GSIS 2026 was a valuable opportunity to strengthen partnerships, exchange ideas, and position ALDA and MED-Hubs within an increasingly global conversation on sustainability and innovation. We look forward to building on the connections created during the Summit and continuing to support initiatives that bridge local action and international collaboration.

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[Article in Italian]

L’8 maggio 2026, in occasione della Giornata dell’Europa, Villa Fabris ha ospitato un ricco programma di iniziative promosso da ALDA Italia APS, con il patrocinio e il contributo del Comune di Thiene. La ricorrenza è legata alla Dichiarazione Schuman del 9 maggio 1950, considerata l’atto di nascita del processo di integrazione europea, e rappresenta un momento simbolico dedicato ai valori di pace, cooperazione e solidarietà tra i popoli europei. 

Nel pomeriggio, alunne e alunni di Thiene hanno partecipato a giochi e attività formative sull’Unione europea. Si è iniziato con una caccia al tesoro e con dei quiz sui Paesi membri e sui gruppi politici europei. Dopo una spiegazione sul funzionamento del Parlamento europeo, è stata organizzata una simulazione semplificata di dibattito parlamentare, pensata per avvicinare i più giovani ai meccanismi della democrazia europea in modo partecipativo e coinvolgente. 

La serata si è poi aperta con il talk “Thiene e l’Europa – Prospettive a confronto”, moderato da Marco Scorzato, vice caporedattore del Giornale di Vicenza. Sono intervenuti Paolo Graziano, docente di Scienze politiche presso l’Università di Padova ed esperto di politiche europee, e Marina Maino, assessora ai bandi europei del Comune di Thiene. In apertura, il saluto di Antonella Valmorbida, Segretaria Generale di ALDA. Al centro del confronto il ruolo dell’Unione europea nei territori, le opportunità offerte dai fondi comunitari e le sfide che attendono l’Europa sui temi della pace e della coesione sociale. 

A concludere la serata, un aperitivo a cura di ENGIM Sanga Bar e lo spettacolo teatrale e musicale “Fola de Raisa – Racconti di radice” di Eleonora Fontana e Davide Peron, dedicato alle tradizioni popolari locali del primo Novecento. Un momento culturale che ha evidenziato come la valorizzazione delle proprie radici possa rappresentare un punto di partenza per costruire una cittadinanza europea più consapevole. 

Un evento che ha unito educazione civica, dialogo e cultura locale, rafforzando la relazione tra comunità e valori europei.

DOCUMENTS

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A productive institutional meeting was held at the Odesa Regional Military Administration with representatives of MEAN – Europe Movement for Nonviolent Action, an Italian network bringing together more than 40 associations that have actively supported Ukraine since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion.

The meeting, initiated by LDA Odesa Region in cooperation with ALDA, aimed to strengthen international humanitarian cooperation and reinforce solidarity and local democracy initiatives in the Odesa region.

Discussions focused on the current humanitarian situation and the most urgent needs of vulnerable groups, including internally displaced persons, veterans, people with disabilities, and children affected by the war.

Particular attention was dedicated to several strategic priorities for local communities and institutions, including:

  • preparation for the winter period;
  • ensuring stable water and heat supply;
  • strengthening energy resilience for communities and social institutions;
  • developing sustainable solutions in the field of water management;
  • rehabilitation programmes and mental health support;
  • support for children and families, including opportunities to organise solidarity and rehabilitation stays for Ukrainian children in Italy.

Representatives of the Odesa Regional Military Administration expressed their sincere gratitude to the Italian partners for their continued solidarity with Ukraine, their concrete support to local communities, and their willingness to contribute to humanitarian initiatives in the region during this challenging period.

The meeting also reaffirmed the importance of international partnerships and people-to-people cooperation in supporting Ukrainian communities affected by the war. Through initiatives such as this, ALDA and LDA Odesa Region continue to facilitate dialogue, cooperation, and coordinated action between European civil society organisations and Ukrainian local authorities.

As Ukraine continues to face the consequences of the war, strengthening long-term partnerships, reinforcing local resilience, and supporting democratic local governance remain essential priorities for ensuring sustainable recovery and community wellbeing.

DOCUMENTS

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On 6 May 2026, the city of Luleå, Sweden, hosted the final event of the NEVERMORE project, a moment to reflect on four years of intensive collaboration and activities. The event, co-organised by ALDA, was held in a hybrid format to engage stakeholders across Europe and welcomed more than 300 participants, both online and in person.

Valeria Fantini, ALDA Project Manager, opened the event alongside the host, Lina Widenmo from Energikontor Norr, warmly welcoming participants. Following the opening remarks, Project Coordinator Alessia Torre from Fondazione Bruno Kessler (FBK) and Technical Lead Ivan Ramos from CARTIF Technology Center presented the core vision of NEVERMORE, highlighting how transnational collaboration and technical integration have been essential in translating complex climate science into concrete solutions.

The morning session, titled “Reading the Signs”, was led by Stelios Karozis from the National Center for Scientific Research Demokritos (NCSRD). He emphasised a key project principle: the challenge today is no longer simply collecting climate data, but localising it and transforming it into evidence-based policy decisions capable of generating tangible territorial impact.

This practical approach also guided the presentation of the advanced models developed by the consortium. Gonzalo Parrado from the University of Valladolid demonstrated the WILIAM Integrated Assessment Model and its ability to simulate complex interactions within food systems, while Sara Barilari from CARTIF explored the Local SD (System Dynamics) Model through analyses of crop sensitivity and water demand, showing how technology can support more resilient agricultural resource management.

Alongside physical modelling, the project developed digital solutions to strengthen the dialogue between science and policy. Sara Barilari and Chiara De Notaris from the Centro Euro-Mediterraneo sui Cambiamenti Climatici (CMCC) presented the ICT Toolkit, designed to bridge the gap between academic research and policy-making. Within the toolkit, instruments such as the Catalogue Explorer and the Case Study Tool provide practical support for decision-makers, while the Storylines presented by Chiara offer tailored scenarios to strengthen local adaptive capacity. The session also introduced the innovative Gamification Tool, aimed at raising awareness and fostering public engagement through interactive approaches.

The success of NEVERMORE, however, extends beyond technology and lies strongly in the power of participation. Eleonora Mencarini from FBK chaired a dedicated session on social impact and co-creation, showcasing the vital role of the project’s Local Councils. Throughout the project, these councils actively involved citizens, experts, and local decision-makers across five key European case studies: Sitia (Greece), Trentino (Italy), Norrbotten County (Sweden), Murcia (Spain), and the Danube Delta (Romania).

A powerful testimony to this participatory framework was shared by the Mayor of Aledo, Javier Andreo, who presented concrete examples of how local communities collaborated directly with researchers to shape the project’s outcomes.

The collaborative spirit of NEVERMORE was further highlighted during an afternoon panel featuring sister and mission projects such as DISTENDER, KNOWING, SPONGESCAPES, and PATHWAYS2RESILIENCE, all contributing to the broader EU Mission Adaptation framework and underscoring the importance of European synergies.

The event concluded with final reflections and closing remarks from Alessia Torre, who expressed sincere gratitude to all consortium partners, researchers, and local stakeholders for their dedication and commitment throughout the project.

The event proved highly participatory both online and in person, with several Q&A sessions moderated by Manal Snidi, ALDA Communication officer, promoting exchanges between researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and citizens.

The Luleå meeting does not mark the end of NEVERMORE, but rather the beginning of a new operational phase: from today, the project’s tools and resources are available to all those committed to building a more sustainable and climate-resilient future.

To explore the project’s results and access materials and MOOCs, please visit the official website of the NEVERMORE project.

DOCUMENTS

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Young emerging artists from Germany, Italy and Portugal are invited to apply for the new open call launched by the European cooperation project CLIMART-D – Art for Democracy in Climate Action. The initiative brings together art, democracy and climate action through an international collaborative programme focused on participatory digital artistic creation.

This project invites artists to explore a central question: Why do we need democracy for climate action?

Climate action is not only a scientific or technological issue, but also a democratic one. Participation, dialogue, inclusion and collective decision-making are essential to addressing today’s environmental challenges. Through CLIMART-D, art becomes a space to critically and creatively investigate these connections, opening new possibilities for public engagement and collective reflection.

Co-funded by the European Union under the Creative Europe Programme, CLIMART-D is implemented by Würzburg KUlturS (DE), ALDA Italia APS (IT), Deep Democracy Denmark (DK) and the University of Minho (PT), and it kicked off officially last month in Germany.

Selected artists will join two transnational “Artist Capsules” composed of participants from Germany, Italy and Portugal. Over several months, the groups will collaboratively develop participatory digital artworks exploring democracy, climate action, collective responsibility and social change. The artistic outcomes will then be presented in public exhibitions across Europe, as well as through an international online exhibition platform.

The call is open to artists aged between 18 and 35 who are based in or near Würzburg (Germany), Vicenza (Italy) or Braga (Portugal). Applicants from diverse artistic disciplines (including visual arts, theatre, music, digital media arts and interdisciplinary practices) are encouraged to apply, especially those interested in collaborative creation, civic participation and socially engaged art.

The programme will run from June 2026 to April 2027 and will include online collaboration, mentoring sessions with international experts, and three in-person meetings in Portugal, Italy and Germany. Public exhibitions will take place in Braga, Vicenza, Copenhagen and Würzburg between January and April 2027.

Applications must be submitted by 24 May 2026 through the official application form.

More information on the call can be found at this link.

CLIMART-D also launches a call for international mentors

Alongside the open call for emerging artists, CLIMART-D is also seeking two international mentors with expertise in climate action and democratic participation.

The project invites experienced artists, facilitators, researchers and practitioners working at the intersection of art, democracy and climate action to accompany and support young artists throughout the programme.

Mentors will contribute through:

  • Capacity-building activities on climate action and democracy;
  • Research and concept development support;
  • Guidance during international meetings and online mentoring activities.

Activities will take place both online and in person across Portugal, Italy and Germany between June 2026 and April 2027.

The mentorship programme represents a key component of CLIMART-D’s collaborative methodology, fostering intercultural exchange, participatory learning and creative experimentation across Europe. For more information and to apply, please send your CV in English and contact details to: silvia.pasetto@aldaintranet.org

A retribution will be provided to mentors, and travel, accommodation and food expenses for the three international meetings will be covered by the project.

Applications for mentors are open until 26 May 2026.

DOCUMENTS

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Malta – 14 May 2026

The third and final day of the ALDA Assembly and Festival 2026 “Local Democracy that Delivers” brought together local authorities, civil society organisations, researchers, practitioners, and international experts for a dynamic programme of discussions, workshops, and collaborative sessions focused on the future of democracy at local level.

The final day explored some of the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing democratic governance today — from artificial intelligence and youth participation to EU enlargement, water governance, and partnership-building.

AI, Democracy and Participation: Challenges and Opportunities for Local Governance

The day opened with a high-level discussion on the relationship between artificial intelligence and democracy, building on ALDA’s growing work within the Digital & Innovation Hub and recent initiatives such as the March 2026 workshop “Ethical AI in Local Governance”. Moderated by Denys Tkachov, Member of the ALDA Scientific Committee, the session explored how AI is already transforming local governance, citizen participation, and public services, while also raising critical concerns around bias, disinformation, polarisation, and democratic accountability.

Opening remarks by Nataša Vučković, President of ALDA, highlighted the importance of ensuring that technological innovation remains human-centred and aligned with democratic values. Participants discussed the implications of the EU AI Act, the role of initiatives such as the Democracy Shield, and practical experiences from ALDA projects including Hatedemics and Media4EU. Experts including Patrick Molinoz, Alexis Prokopiev, Marco Guerini, Nino Tvaltvadze, Eszter Hartay, and Ivana Velkova contributed to discussions on democratic safeguards, ethical digital transformation, and the need for inclusive AI governance frameworks.

The session concluded with reflections on the creation of an ALDA AI Task Force and future international cooperation opportunities linked to global discussions on AI and democracy.

Designing ALDA’s Youth Political Agenda 2026–2028

At the same time, ALDA’s Youth Empowerment & Education Hub led a participatory session dedicated to shaping ALDA’s Youth Political Agenda for 2026–2028. Facilitated by Alexandre Météreau, ALDA’s Coordinator of the Youth Hub & Policy Officer,the session focused on strengthening the political voice of ALDA’s network on youth participation, civic engagement, and education at European level. The discussion featured contributions from Ana Maria Rodrigues, Deputy Mayor of Valongo and ALDA Youth Hub Co-Chair; Rareș Voicu; and Miriam Teuma, CEO of Malta’s Youth Agency.

Participants worked collectively to identify advocacy priorities, map strategic alliances, and establish the foundations for a structured Youth Hub Advocacy Committee, reinforcing ALDA’s commitment to youth participation in democratic processes.

Local Democracy Shaping Europe’s Next Enlargement

Another key session of the day focused on the future of EU enlargement and the role of local authorities in supporting democratic transformation and European integration. Moderated by Katica Janeva, Head of Unit Western Balkans, the panel brought together speakers from the Western Balkans, Ukraine, Moldova, and European institutions to discuss how local governance reforms, decentralisation, and multilevel cooperation can strengthen democratic resilience across candidate countries.

The session highlighted the importance of cooperation between local authorities, civil society, and European institutions in supporting democratic reforms and strengthening local governance capacities throughout the enlargement process.

Building Partnerships and Networking – Meet, Connect, Collaborate

The afternoon continued with an interactive networking and project design session led by ALDA’s Fundraising and Project Design Department. Facilitated by Marco Boaria, Executive Director and Deputy Secretary General of ALDA, Anna Ditta, Head of the Fundraising & Project Design Department and ALDA project designers Deborah Anzile, Silvia Anselmi, Alma Bustamante, and Linda Rombolà, the workshop encouraged participants to transform shared territorial challenges into collaborative project ideas.

Through participatory exercises, matchmaking activities, and project pitches, participants explored opportunities for future partnerships, funding, and cross-sector cooperation.

From Blue Economy to Local Democracy: Engaging Communities in Water Governance

The Environment & Climate Hub hosted a session dedicated to participatory approaches to water governance and sustainable blue economy development. Introduced by ALDA Project Manager, Valeria Fantini and moderated by Alice Fantin, the discussion explored how local communities can play a central role in shaping environmental governance and sustainable resource management. Speakers included Alessandro Silvestri, Elisa Volpin, and Dženana Dedić, who shared experiences related to innovation ecosystems, community-led water governance, and the preservation of water heritage.

AI in Local Governance Training: From Smart Cities to Wise Cities

The final workshop of the day returned to the topic of artificial intelligence with a practical training session entitled “Wise Cities, Not Just Smart Cities: Turning AI Challenges into Local Opportunities.”

Led by Denys Tkachov and Kirsi Verkka, ALDA Advisory Board member, the interactive training encouraged participants to reflect on how AI can strengthen democratic participation, transparency, inclusion, and trust at local level. Through simulations, debates, and thematic workshops connected to ALDA’s thematic hubs, participants worked on concrete democratic challenges linked to civic engagement, migration, youth participation, gender equality, climate transition, and territorial development. The session also contributed to the drafting of ALDA’s emerging Local Democracy AI Manifesto.

Strengthening International Cooperation

Another important milestone of the final day was the official signature of two Memorandums of Understanding between ALDA and ICLEI Europe, as well as with ACTE, Association Civic Tech Europe.

These agreements mark an important step in reinforcing strategic cooperation and building new synergies around sustainable local development, democratic innovation, citizen participation, and territorial cooperation. By strengthening partnerships with key European networks, ALDA further expands its collaborative ecosystem and its capacity to support local authorities and civil society actors across Europe and beyond.

Closing Remarks

The third day, and the ALDA General Assembly and Festival 2026 as a whole, concluded with closing remarks by ALDA Secretary General, Antonella Valmorbida, who thanked participants, speakers, partners, and members for their active engagement throughout the event.

She highlighted how the discussions, ideas, and collaborations developed over the three days demonstrated the strength and diversity of the ALDA network, reaffirming the organisation’s collective commitment to democracy, participation, cooperation, and local governance.

As the Festival came to a close, one message clearly emerged: local democracy continues to be one of the strongest spaces for resilience, innovation, and hope in Europe and beyond.

DOCUMENTS

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Day 2 – May 13

The evening of 13 May 2026 marked a particularly significant moment for ALDA. In the prestigious setting of the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta, and within the framework of the ALDA General Assembly and Festival 2026 “Local Democracy that Delivers”, ALDA officially launched its new Centre of Expertise on Participative Local Democracy. 

This milestone represents a new chapter in ALDA’s journey, building on nearly 30 years of experience in promoting local democracy, citizen participation, and civil society empowerment across Europe and beyond. Since its establishment, ALDA has implemented more than 600 projects in over 45 countries, becoming one of the leading international networks working to strengthen participatory governance and build more inclusive, transparent, and resilient local democracies.

The new Centre aims to become a transversal platform connecting ALDA’s thematic and regional hubs, while reinforcing the organisation’s advocacy, training, project implementation, and knowledge-sharing capacities. The initiative will also strengthen links with the Local Democracy School and support the launch of a dedicated alumni network, further expanding ALDA’s democratic community.

The event was opened by Antonella Valmorbida, Secretary General of ALDA and Mario Fava, President of the Local Councils’ Association Malta, who highlighted the importance of strengthening democratic participation at local level in a time marked by growing social and political challenges.

During her intervention, Antonella Valmorbida underlined how local democracy today represents one of the strongest spaces of democratic resilience:

At a time when democracy is facing increasing pressure both from within and outside Europe, local democracy remains one of the strongest spaces of resilience. Through this Centre, ALDA aims to bring together experiences, practices, and people committed to strengthening participatory democracy and inclusive governance.

The event also featured video messages from Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, and Anu Juvonen, Executive Director of Demo Finland and President of the European Partnership for Democracy, both reaffirming the importance of civic participation, democratic innovation, and multilevel cooperation in safeguarding democratic values across Europe and globally.

The event gathered a distinguished panel of high-level speakers from international institutions, local authorities, academia, and civil society organisations worldwide. Among them were Nataša Vučković, President of ALDA and Director of the Center for Democracy Foundation; Enrique Bravo-Escobar, Senior Programme Officer for Core Strategy and Engagement and Democratic Governance and Participation Lead at the National Endowment for Democracy; Maddalena Alberti, Director of ADL a Zavidovići; Liao Da-Chi, President of the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy; Roger Tafam, Mayor of Bafoussam and President of IOPD Africa; Nazlı Akyüz, Chairperson of the EU and Foreign Relations Commission of the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipal Assembly; Tetiana Yehorova-Lutsenko, President of the Kharkiv Regional Council and President of UAROR – Association of Regional Councils and Districts of Ukraine; Kirsi Verkka, Citizens Engagement Officer of the City of Helsinki; and Paolo Graziano, Professor at the University of Padova, Faculty of Political Science.

Through the launch of the Centre of Expertise on Participative Local Democracy, ALDA strengthens its long-standing commitment to democratic innovation, citizen participation, and inclusive governance. More than a new initiative, the Centre represents a collective space for knowledge, exchange, and action, designed to connect experiences, empower local actors, and reinforce democratic resilience across Europe and beyond.

DOCUMENTS

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Day 2 – May 13

The second day of the ALDA General Assembly and Festival 2026, “Local Democracy that Delivers”, officially opened with the Ordinary General Assembly of ALDA. The Assembly represents a key moment for the Association and an important opportunity to collectively reflect on the future of local democracy in Europe and beyond.

The session kicked-off with welcoming remarks from Nataša Vučković, President of ALDA, Antonella Valmorbida, ALDA Secretary General, and Mario Fava, President of the Local Councils’ Association Malta and co-organiser of the event. ALDA President introduced the Manifesto for a Local Democracy that Delivers, a strategic and political document reaffirming the importance of local governance, citizen participation, and democratic resilience in an increasingly complex global context.

The opening session also featured high-level institutional contributions, including a video message from Glenn Micallef, Maltese Commissioner responsible for intergenerational fairness, youth, culture and sport alongside speeches by Patrick Molinoz, Vice-President of the Region of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté – Member of the European Committee of the Regions and Konstantinos Koukas, Vice-President of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities and Rapporteur on the New Democratic Pact for Europe at the Council of Europe. Their interventions highlighted the essential role played by local authorities and civil society organisations in safeguarding democratic values, fostering participation, and responding to today’s societal challenges.

As highlighted by Konstantinos Koukas:

The link between the Congress and ALDA is both historic and strong. The Congress supported the creation of the first Local Democracy Agency in 1993, laying the foundations for a network dedicated to rebuilding trust and fostering democratic governance at local level. This founding vision remains highly relevant today.

He further stressed the importance of democratic innovation in strengthening citizens’ trust in institutions:

Democratic innovation is not an abstract concept. It is needed to bring governance closer to citizens, make it more responsive, and build trust. This is exactly what ALDA has been promoting for years. Through its network of Local Democracy Agencies, ALDA has supported participatory governance, civic engagement, and cooperation between local authorities and civil society.

Throughout the morning, ALDA members reviewed and approved the organisation’s institutional and financial documents, including the Minutes of the 2025 General Assembly, the 2025 Activity Report, the Treasurer’s Report, and the Programme and Budget for 2026. A video presentation showcased key achievements and activities carried out throughout 2025 across ALDA’s network, regional hubs, and thematic hubs, reflecting the association’s continued growth and impact in promoting local democracy and citizen participation across Europe and neighbouring regions.

Particular attention was devoted to the implementation of ALDA’s 2024–2028 Strategy, presented by Antonella Valmorbida, Secretary General of ALDA. The presentation outlined the organisation’s strategic priorities for the coming years, with a focus on democratic resilience, youth engagement, inclusive governance, civic participation, and strengthening cooperation between local authorities and civil society ecosystems.

The Extraordinary General Assembly followed the Ordinary one, and addressed amendments to ALDA’s Statute, reinforcing the Association’s governance framework and supporting its continued evolution as a growing international network.

One of the most significant moments of the Assembly was the approval of the Manifesto for a Local Democracy that Delivers, reaffirming ALDA’s collective commitment to democracy, participation, inclusiveness, and multilevel cooperation. The document emphasises that democracy must deliver tangible results for citizens and that local governance remains one of the most effective levels for rebuilding trust between institutions and communities.

The event also marked the official signature of membership with UAROR – Association of Regional Councils and Districts of Ukraine, represented by its President Tetiana Yehorova-Lutsenko. This important step further strengthens ALDA’s longstanding commitment to supporting democratic resilience, decentralisation, and local governance in Ukraine.

The Assembly concluded with the delivery of membership certificates to new members joining the ALDA network, further expanding a community that today counts more than 300 members across over 45 countries.

Through this General Assembly, ALDA once again reaffirmed its role as a key actor promoting local democracy, citizen participation, and cooperation between local authorities and civil society, at a time when democratic values require renewed commitment and collective action.