On December 18, 2024, an event took place in Ovruch (Ukraine) that confirmed the international recognition of ALDA’s work. A delegation from France, which included Thibault Guignard, Mayor of Pleuc-l’Hermitage, Vice President of the Saint-Brieuc Armor Agglomeration, and a member of ALDA Governing Board, as well as Edward Mayor, President of the French civic organisation Stand with Ukraine, visited Ovruch to set partnership frameworks.
The key moment of the visit was the signing of two extremely important documents at the Ovruch History Museum: a Letter of Intent for the establishment of a Local Democracy Agency (LDA) in Ovruch, which aims to create a platform for cooperation, dialogue, and the implementation of joint projects to develop civil society and improve local governance. This initiative is supported by the European Association for Local Democracy (ALDA). Additionally, a Memorandum of Cooperation was signed between the Saint-Brieuc Armor Agglomeration and the Ovruch community, laying the foundation for a long-term partnership in critical areas such as culture, education, youth initiatives, and ecology.
This significant event took place with the support of the Zhytomyr Regional Military Administration (RMA). Vitalii Bunechko, head of the Zhytomyr RMA, welcomed the Ovruch community, emphasising the importance of international cooperation for the region and Ukraine as a whole. The event was also personally attended by Natalia Arendarchuk, Deputy Head of the Zhytomyr RMA, who expressed sincere words of support, joy, and pride for the Ovruch municipal territorial community.
These signed documents symbolise not only ALDA aspiration for international partnership but also confirm the community’s readiness to implement European values even in the most challenging times.
Despite the challenges of war, Ovruch continues to develop, finding support among international partners who help us rebuild and move forward.
The selection of Ovruch as the potential site for an ALDA office is not only an honor for our community but also a significant responsibility. It confirms our capacity to work on complex international initiatives, support youth development, promote gender equality, and implement projects that ensure sustainable development.
Thanks to the support of our French partners and the Zhytomyr RMA, the Ovruch community strengthens ties among people, implementing the ideas of democracy, partnership, and solidarity, which form the foundation for our shared European future.
