ALDA officially launches the 2025 edition of its International School 2025, an ambitious, high-level training programme set to take place from 3 to 5 September 2025 at Villa Fabris in Thiene, Italy.
Building on the success of the 2024 Summer School, this year’s programme is designed as a learning experience that brings together local authorities, civil society leaders, academics, and policymakers from across Europe and beyond.
“Resilient Communities: Strengthening Local Democracy in times of change”
Participants will explore key themes including digital innovation, AI and participatory governance, institutional trust, and the geopolitical dimension of democracy—all within a dynamic, practice-oriented environment.
SUBSCRIPTIONS WILL OPEN ON APRIL 18, 2025.
As the world faces rising pressures on democratic systems, ALDA reaffirms its longstanding mission of promoting participation, inclusion, and strong local governance. The International School aims to equip a new generation of changemakers with the tools and knowledge to tackle global challenges while strengthening democracy from the ground up
This year’s edition is made possible thanks to the generous financial support of the Veneto Region, which has allocated €40,000 through a unanimously approved regional amendment, reaffirming its commitment to democratic values and civic education.
As underlined by Regional Councillor Chiara Luisetto, this investment “will bring prestige to Villa Fabris and to the entire Veneto region as democracy hubs,” while offering a unique space for dialogue and innovation in the field of local governance.
In addition, the ALDA International School 2025 benefits from the valuable support of the European Union and the CERV Programme. The initiative has been granted the Committee of the Regions of the European Union, the Province of Vicenza, the City of Thiene. These endorsements highlight the School’s strategic role in connecting local action and European cooperation, reinforcing a shared vision of resilience and democratic renewal.
The International School is co-designed with the guidance of a prestigious Scientific Committee composed of leading experts in democracy, governance, and digital transformation. Their contribution ensures a rigorous, interdisciplinary approach combining theoretical insight with practical application.
Held in the historic setting of Villa Fabris, the School aspires to become a European hub for training, exchange, and democratic innovation. With its 2025 edition, ALDA takes a bold step forward in reinforcing its commitment to resilient democracy—rooted in strong local leadership and empowered civic engagement.
Do you have more questions? Join our info session on April 18, 2025, at 3.00 pm at this zoom link https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82673167263.
