On November 19, 2024 ALDA’s Secretary General and the Ukraine Taskforce, participated in the prestigious Congress of French Mayors and Local Authorities in Paris. Organised annually by the Association des Maires de France (AMF), this event gathers local leaders, policymakers, and international stakeholders from across France and beyond. It serves as a high-level platform for dialogue, training, and exchange on the responsibilities and challenges of local governance, with a special emphasis on solidarity, resilience, and peacebuilding in uncertain times. This year’s Congress was particularly focused on fostering international cooperation and strengthening partnerships in response to global crises.
ALDA’s presence, alongside the Ukrainian delegation, highlighted the critical importance of local governance in promoting democratic resilience and sustainable development.
During the Congress, ALDA’s representatives engaged in meaningful exchanges with members of the Ukrainian delegation, including Vitaliy Boychenko, Mayor of Mariupol, and Yurii Fomichev, Mayor of Slavutych. These discussions were enriched by the presence of key French stakeholders such as Pierre Heilbronn, Patrick Molinoz, Thibaut Guignard, and Edward Mayor.
The dialogues emphasised the need for robust international collaboration to support Ukraine’s local authorities as they navigate the challenges of war and reconstruction. ALDA underscored the key role of local governance in rebuilding communities, fostering peace, and sustaining democratic processes, calling for enhanced partnerships between European municipalities and their Ukrainian counterparts.
Advocating for grassroots democracy
ALDA’s participation at the Congress reflected its unwavering commitment to advocating for sustainable development and grassroots democracy. The organisation continues to highlight the essential contributions of local governments in addressing global challenges, promoting inclusive governance, and advancing community resilience.
By connecting with local leaders from diverse contexts, ALDA reinforced its role as a bridge-builder between European and Ukrainian municipalities. The Congress also provided an opportunity to strengthen alliances and share innovative solutions to support local governance in times of crisis.
The AMF Congress: a global collaboration
The French Mayors’ Congress once again proved to be a vital forum for fostering dialogue and collaboration among local leaders worldwide. As ALDA continues its vital work in supporting Ukraine and other regions facing complex challenges, the event underscored the power of collective action in addressing shared concerns and building a more resilient future.
ALDA’s engagement at this significant gathering reaffirmed its dedication to empowering local authorities, promoting democratic values, and fostering international solidarity—a testament to the organization’s role in shaping a more inclusive and sustainable world.