A new social contract between citizens and political decision makers discussed at the Civicus World Assembly 2012

At the World Assembly, more 600 civil society organisations from all over World are exchanging views on their role and participation at the local and national level. It is here time for networking, exchanging ideas and innovative approach to participative democracy and active citizenship. The topics of the World Assembly this year is the possible new social contract between citizens and the political decision makers.
In the picture, from the left: Antonella Valmorbida, Director of ALDA, David Bonbright, Chair of the Civicus Board, Oriano Otočan, President of ALDA, Katsuji Imata, Acting Secretary General Civicus, at the Civicus World Assembly, 6th of September 2012 Montréal – Canada

Civil Society and human right defenders are still very much in danger in many countries of the world and they are fighting for their place and role in the community.
The Association of the Local Democracy Agencies is participating actively in the World Assembly. The Director of ALDA, Antonella VALMORBIDA, took part in a workshop on local governance, bringing the examples of the LDAs and projects implemented in Europe and neighbouring areas. Mrs. Valmorbida has been recently included in the Board of Civicus in particular for bringing an added value with her experience and the knowledge of ALDA in the European policies and projects but also for bringing the experience of local authorities engagement.
The President of ALDA, Mr. Oriano Otočan, participated also to some of the activities, and a specific meeting with the President of Civicus, David Bonbright, and the Acting Secretary General of Civicus, Katsuji Imata took place. Common grounds of mutual cooperation were identified like a support to Civicus in Europe and in local governance aspect.