In the heart of the European landscape, the city of Strasbourg is poised to host a significant and eagerly awaited event. The 45th Plenary Session of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities, scheduled from 24 to 26 October, 2023, is set to assemble a distinguished congregation of regional and local authority representatives. This pivotal assembly will engage in robust discourse and strategic planning, aimed at navigating the complex dynamics of contemporary governance.
The Congress of Local and Regional Authorities, operating under the auspices of the Council of Europe, has consistently demonstrated its commitment to advancing democratic ideals and promoting effective governance mechanisms at the grassroots level. This year’s 45th Plenary Session acquires exceptional significance as it coincides with a period marked by economic instability and geopolitical flux. In this context, the Congress emerges as a unifying platform, fostering mutual understanding and collaborative problem-solving among diverse stakeholders.
The thematic focal point of the forthcoming session, “Local Democracy and Resilience in Challenging Times“, reflects the intricate tapestry of present-day challenges that transcend geographical boundaries. The chosen theme resonates profoundly as Europe grapples with multifaceted issues, such as climate change, shifting political landscapes, and the evolving nature of global interconnectedness. The capacity of local and regional authorities to navigate these complexities and cultivate resilience within communities remains paramount.
The Plenary Session agenda has been meticulously curated to ensure an intellectually stimulating and strategically insightful engagement. The program features a series of thought-provoking debates, each strategically aligned with the Congress’s overarching mission of empowering communities. Key topics on the agenda include:
- Youth Engagement and Conflict Resolution
- Safeguarding Democratic Principles
- Advancing Urban Governance: Localization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Mrs. Antonella Valmorbida will take the floor during the event and will contribute to the discourse on youth participation’s contribution to conflict resolution and resilient societies
Notably, the 45th Plenary Session of the Congress will witness the esteemed presence of Mrs. Antonella Valmorbida, ALDA Secretary General. Her participation is a testament to the enduring partnership between ALDA and the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe. In recognition of this collaboration, Antonella Valmorbida has been invited to address the session on Wednesday, October 25th. Her insights will contribute to the discourse on youth participation’s contribution to conflict resolution and resilient societies.
Remarkably, the timing of the 45th Plenary Session aligns intriguingly with the 30-year anniversary of ALDA’s activities. This confluence of milestones adds a layer of significance to the event, amplifying the collective commitment to democratic excellence and effective governance.
Amid the gathering of distinguished attendees, the 45th Plenary Session symbolises the collective commitment to informed governance and robust problem-solving. The event serves as an acknowledgment of the intricate challenges ahead, while affirming the unwavering resolve of local and regional authorities to address these challenges.