• Period:

    -

  • Countries involved:

    Eastern Partnership & Central Asia
    Ukraine

  • Donor:

  • SDG:

  • Lead partner:

  • All partners:

  • Contacts:


    projects@alda-europe.eu

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

In a world where collaboration and participation stand at the forefront of community development, ALDA takes a significant stride forward with its upcoming event – the Membership Days. Tailored exclusively for ALDA members and potential members, this dynamic initiative serves as a gateway to explore the diverse facets of ALDA’s work, network possibilities, and equips participants with the essential tools to venture into the realm of citizens’ participation and inclusion.

Organisational Highlights:

Format: A blend of in-person and online webinars and training sessions.

Eligibility: Exclusive to ALDA members and potential members already in touch with ALDA staff to embark in the adhesion process, ensuring a community of like-minded individuals passionate about local democracy and citizen engagement.

Language: The working language for the event is English, fostering a global dialogue among participants. Working language of the open day in Vicenza will be Italian. 

Online Connection: A link to connect online will be sent a few days before the registered event(s).

Registration: ALDA members and potential members can register by filling out the registration form.

Programme Overview:

Monday, 27 November 2023 – In presence 

Meet ALDA: Vicenza open day!

Location: ALDA Office in Vicenza, Viale Milano 36, Vicenza (IT)

Time: 14:30-17:30 CET

Highlights: Explore ALDA’s Vicenza office, engage with ALDA staff, and delve into the various activities and thematic hubs. The event includes welcoming words by ALDA’s Secretary General, Mrs. Antonella Valmorbida, and the Director of Programmes and Corporate Strategy, Mr. Marco Boaria, followed by a showcase of ALDA’s activities and thematic hubs, concluding with a friendly networking aperitivo.

Tuesday, 28 November 2023 – Online Sessions

Discover the activities related to Thematic Hubs of ALDA!

  • Presentation of ALDA’s “Gender Equality & Anti Discrimination policy”: 14:30-15:30 CET.
  • Dissemination of ALDA’s Gender Equality and Anti-Discrimination Policy among members.
  • Language: English.
  • Training on e-Democracy and online participation: 16:00-17:30 CET.
  • A hands-on session showcasing the potential of e-democracy and e-participation tools.
  • Language: English.

Wednesday 29 November – Online Session

ALDA Members in Action!

Subgrantees of ALDA’s Operating Grant 2023: Their Experiences (14:00-16:00 CET): ALDA members who received subgrants in 2023 share their experiences and the impactful actions facilitated by ALDA’s Operating Grant.

Registration and Further Information:

Join this immersive experience by registering here: https://bit.ly/3QAjUB8 . For additional information, reach out to Veronica Vidotto, ALDA’s Membership Officer, at membership@alda-europe.eu. 

Stay tuned for more opportunities!

In the upcoming weeks, ALDA will conduct a three-day online training on EU project development. Keep an eye out for more information!

  • Period:

    -

  • Countries involved:

    Eastern Partnership & Central Asia
    Ukraine

  • Donor:

  • SDG:

  • Lead partner:

  • All partners:

  • Contacts:


    projects@alda-europe.eu

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

Mentre l’aggressione russa contro l’Ucraina continua a infliggere gravi danni alle nazione ed alla sua popolazione, la necessità di un sostegno decentrato e di sforzi collaborativi da parte dei comuni e delle comunità locali non è mai stata così necessaria. Riconoscendo l’urgenza della situazione, ALDA ha intrapreso un’importante iniziativa nel 2023 per espandere la propria rete di Agenzie della Democrazia Locale (ADL) in Ucraina. Questo sforzo mira a migliorare la resilienza delle comunità e a promuovere la cooperazione decentrata tra più soggetti.

L’iniziativa di ALDA si allinea ai principi della Dichiarazione di Lugano, che sottolinea l’importanza della ripresa inclusiva e della cooperazione decentrata tra gli attori della democrazia locale ucraini e dell’Unione Europea. Questo approccio riconosce il ruolo centrale delle autorità locali e della società civile nel garantire una ricostruzione equa ed inclusiva della nazione.

L’Ucraina è al centro dell’impegno di ALDA dal 2014, con la creazione di due ADL, una a Dnipro nel 2015 e una a Mariupol nel 2017 (ora operante da Kyiv). Nel corso degli anni, ALDA ha sostenuto attivamente queste ADL, coinvolgendole in progetti di cooperazione transnazionale incentrati sulla buona governance, la partecipazione civica, la formazione e il rafforzamento delle capacità delle autorità locali. Le ADL di Dnipro e Mariupol sono state fondamentali per rispondere alle esigenze locali, soprattutto dopo l’inizio dell’invasione su larga scala nel febbraio 2022.

Nel giugno 2022, il Consiglio direttivo di ALDA ha deciso di ampliare questo approccio istituendo nuove ADL in varie città dell’Ucraina, tra cui Odesa, Vinnytsia, Bucha, Rivne, Mykolaiv, Kharkiv e Lviv, nell’ambito dell’ambiziosa iniziativa faro dell’Associazione in Ucraina.

Conferenza internazionale sul sostegno decentrato alle comunità ucraine a Vicenza (Italia) il 23 e 24 novembre 2023

In un impegno continuo per promuovere e sostenere la ricostruzione dell’Ucraina e la ripresa della sua popolazione, ALDA, ALDA Italia APS e il Comune di Vicenza organizzano una prestigiosa Conferenza internazionale sul sostegno decentrato alle comunità ucraine a Vicenza (Italia) il 23 e 24 novembre 2023.

L’evento si svolgerà nella splendida cornice della Sala Bernarda del Comune di Vicenza, il 23 novembre, e dell’Hotel De La Ville, il 24 novembre.

La “Conferenza internazionale sul sostegno decentrato alle comunità ucraine: Il ruolo dei Comuni, delle comunità locali e dell’approccio territoriale“, sarà l’occasione per riflettere sul ruolo assunto dall’Italia e dalle sue autorità locali e regionali nell’affrontare l’emergenza umanitaria causata dall’aggressione russa sul territorio ucraino. Si tratterà di due giorni di incontri e dibattiti di alto livello che coinvolgeranno diversi rappresentanti delle istituzioni locali, europee e internazionali, nonché esponenti della società civile, per proporre la cooperazione tra città e tra comunità locali come strumento efficace di peace building e di ricostruzione sostenibile e duratura dell’Ucraina.

Organizzata in collaborazione con il Comune di Vicenza e con il sostegno del Central European Initiative e di U-LEAD with Europe, la Conferenza Int. vedrà la presenza di oltre 50 partecipanti internazionali e di altrettanti partecipanti locali e nazionali, tra cui diverse figure di spicco delle istituzioni italiane, ucraine e internazionali, come il sindaco di Vicenza, Giacomo Possamai, l’inviato speciale dell’Italia per la ricostruzione dell’Ucraina, Davide La Cecilia, il vicepresidente della regione Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, il Presidente della Commissione CIVEX del Comitato delle Regioni, Patrick Molinoz, il Vicepresidente della Commissione Difesa della Camera dei Deputati, Onorevole Piero Fassino, il Sindaco di Mykolai (Ucraina), Oleksandr Syenkevych, il sindaco di Zhytomyr (Ucraina), Sergiy Sukhomlyn, il rappresentante della Central European Initiative, Ugo Poli, il direttore dei programmi di U-LEAD with Europe, Andrej Horvat, l’europarlamentare, Alessandra Moretti (online).

Saranno presenti anche rappresentanti delle autorità locali, come il vicesindaco di Trento, e della solidarietà e cooperazione della città e della regione. 

È inoltre previsto un evento pubblico per la sera del 23 novembre in collaborazione con il Centro di Servizio per il Volontariato della provincia di Vicenza (CSV) dalle 20:30 in Contrà Mure San Rocco 37/A (Vicenza) per incontrare storie e protagonisti della solidarietà vicentina e non solo.

In occasione dell’evento e su proposta di ALDA, si inaugura a Vicenza un percorso di valorizzazione e capitalizzazione della cooperazione delle città e delle comunità, un approccio dal basso, per il futuro dell’Ucraina ma che può essere designato come linea guida per altri scenari in fasi di stabilizzazione e sviluppo. Questo programma propone la Dichiarazione di Vicenza, che farà da base a questo modello di collaborazione, e che verrà approvata al termine dei lavori e permetterà di proseguire con il patto di amicizia tra le città di Vicenza e Zhytomyr.

ALDA è orgogliosa di far parte di questa prestigiosa iniziativa e si impegna, insieme ai suoi partner, a garantire la massima fruizione possibile e successo a livello locale ed internazionale.

L’agenda dell’evento sarà pubblicata sul sito web nei prossimi giorni. Restate sintonizzati per ulteriori aggiornamenti!

  • Period:

    -

  • Countries involved:

    Eastern Partnership & Central Asia
    Ukraine

  • Donor:

  • SDG:

  • Lead partner:

  • All partners:

  • Contacts:


    projects@alda-europe.eu

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

As the Russian aggression against Ukraine continues to inflict severe damage on the country’s infrastructure and society, the need for decentralised support and collaborative efforts from municipalities and local communities has never been more critical. Recognising the urgency of the situation, ALDA has embarked on a significant initiative in 2023 to expand its network of Local Democracy Agencies (LDAs) in Ukraine. This endeavour aims to enhance community resilience and promote decentralised multi-stakeholder cooperation.

ALDA’s initiative aligns with the principles of the Lugano Declaration, which emphasises the importance of inclusive recovery and decentralised cooperation between Ukrainian and EU local democracy actors. This approach recognises the pivotal roles that local authorities and civil society play in ensuring fair and inclusive reconstruction.

Ukraine has been the focus of ALDA’s engagement since 2014, with the establishment of two LDAs, one in Dnipro in 2015 and one in Mariupol in 2017 (now operating from Kyiv). Over the years, ALDA has actively supported these LDAs, involving them in transnational cooperation projects that focus on good governance, civic participation, training, and capacity-building for local authorities. The LDAs in Dnipro and Mariupol have been crucial in addressing local needs, especially since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022.

In June 2022, ALDA’s Governing Board made the decision to scale up this approach by establishing new LDAs in various cities across Ukraine, including Odesa, Vinnytsia, Bucha, Rivne, Mykolaiv, Kharkiv, and Lviv as part of the ambitious Flagship Initiative in Ukraine of the Association.

International Conference on Decentralised Support for Ukrainian Communities in Vicenza (Italy) on 23 & 24 November, 2023

In a continuous effort to promote and support the reconstruction of Ukraine and the recovery of its population, ALDA, ALDA Italia APS and the Municipality of Vicenza are organising a prestigious International Conference on Decentralised Support for Ukrainian Communities in Vicenza (Italy) on 23 & 24 November, 2023.

The event will take place in the splendid setting of the Sala Bernarda of the City Council, on 23 November, and the Hotel De La Ville, on 24 November.

The “International Conference on Decentralised Support for Ukrainian Communities: The Role of Municipalities, local communities and the Territorial Approach”, will provide an opportunity to reflect on the role assumed by Italy and its local and regional authorities in addressing the humanitarian emergency caused by Russian aggression on Ukrainian territory. It will consist of two days of high-level meetings and debates involving various representatives of local, European and international institutions, as well as representatives of civil society, to propose cooperation between cities and between local communities as an effective tool for peace building and sustainable and lasting reconstruction of Ukraine.

Organised in collaboration with the Municipality of Vicenza and with the support of the Central European Initiative and U-LEAD with Europe, the Int. Conference will be attended by more than 50 international participants and an equal number of local and national participants, among which several leading figures from Italian, Ukrainian and international institutions, such as the Mayor of Vicenza, Giacomo Possamai, the Special Envoy from Italy for the Reconstruction of Ukraine, Davide La Cecilia, the Vice-President of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, President of the CIVEX Commission of the Committee of the Regions, Patrick Molinoz the Vice-President of the Defence Commission of the Chamber of Deputies, the Honourable Piero Fassino, the Mayor of Mykolai (Ukraine), Oleksandr Syenkevych, the Mayor of Zhytomyr (Ukraine), Sergiy Sukhomlyn, the Representative of the Central European Initiative, Ugo Poli, the Director of Programmes of U-LEAD with Europe, Andrej Horvat, the MEP, Alessandra Moretti (online).

Representatives of local authorities such as the Deputy Mayor of Trento, and of solidarity and cooperation from the city and region will also be present. 

A public event is also planned for the evening of 23 November in cooperation with the Centro di Servizio per il Volontariato della provincia di Vicenza (CSV) from 20:30 at Contrà Mure San Rocco 37/A (Vicenza) to meet stories and protagonists of solidarity from Vicenza and beyond.

On the occasion of the event and at the proposal of ALDA, a path will be inaugurated in Vicenza to enhance and capitalise on the cooperation of cities and communities, a bottom up approach, for the future of Ukraine but which can be designated as a guideline for other scenarios in stages of stabilisation and development. This programme proposes the Declaration of Vicenza, which will form the basis of this model of cooperation, and which will be approved at the end of the work and allow the friendship pact between the cities of Vicenza and Zhytomyr to continue.

ALDA is proud to be a part of this prestigious initiative and is committed, together with its partners, to ensuring the widest possible use and success locally and internationally.

The Agenda of the event will be published on the website in the next few days. Stay tuned for updates from this crucial conference!

  • Period:

    -

  • Countries involved:

    Middle East & Africa
    Turkey

  • Donor:

  • SDG:

  • Lead partner:

  • All partners:

  • Contacts:


    projects@alda-europe.eu

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

In a groundbreaking move towards gender equality and inclusive governance, the WE ACT project has kicked off its comprehensive Training programme for Women Politicians and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Türkiye. This initiative, funded by the European Union and spearheaded by ALDA and its local partner Daktilo1984, is dedicated to enhancing political and civic rights for women and the LGBTIQ+ community, particularly at the local level. More specifically, the project aims at increasing the political participation of women in the upcoming 2024 local elections across the seven regions of Türkiye while fostering a democratic debate on gender issues at the local policy level, striving for progress in every corner of the country.

On November 11, the project marked a significant milestone with the commencement of the Training programme. Simultaneous sessions unfolded in Istanbul, focusing on Political and Media training for Women Politicians, and in Ankara, launching the Capacity Building and Coaching program on Participatory Democracy for Women candidates and CSOs representatives.

The impact of the WE ACT Training programme is set to resonate across Türkiye, with both Political and Media training and the Capacity Building and Coaching program on Participatory Democracy running throughout November and December. 18 training sessions will unfold simultaneously in six key cities: Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Van, Gaziantep, and Adana. Around 150 participants – both Women Politicians from all political backgrounds and CSOs representatives – from all over Türkiye will converge to learn, share experiences, and contribute to the project’s overarching objectives.

This dual-pronged approach aims to achieve significant milestones.

Firstly, by preparing women politicians for the upcoming 2024 municipal elections, the program seeks to reinforce their skills and readiness for political campaigns. Simultaneously, the training program will allow the empowerment of CSOs working on gender-related issues. Through participation to the Programme, CSOs will gain insights into the obstacles women face in local governance and enhance their practices in participatory democracy, allowing them to act more efficiently in local decision-making processes and advocate for the voices of women and LGBTIQ+ communities.

The WE ACT project marks a commitment to positive change and an inclusive political landscape. As the training program unfolds across Türkiye, it promises to create a ripple effect, encouraging a more equitable and participatory community environment. The journey towards empowerment has begun, transcending boundaries and ensuring that every voice has a meaningful role in shaping the future of communities. 

Stay tuned for updates as WE ACT paves the way for a more inclusive and empowered society:

SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER OF THE PROJECT

or follow WE ACT channels!
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

In a significant stride towards bolstering local democracy, ALDA and the entire Local Democracy Agency’s family are proud to announce the establishment of the LDA Odesa in Ukraine. Scheduled for November 17, 2023, this milestone event underscores the pivotal role of LDA Odesa in advancing ALDA’s overarching vision of resilient, inclusive, and sustainable communities across Europe and beyond.

LDA Odesa is not just another chapter in the network’s expansion but a beacon of hope for local communities in Odesa. Through the collaborative efforts of local governments in Ukraine and European Union member states, this endeavour aims to support the reconstruction and development of local communities in the city.

This ambitious objective will be brought to fruition through cooperation projects jointly designed by Ukrainian and EU partners. The establishment of LDA Odesa takes on an organisational form as a new non-governmental organisation (NGO) under Ukrainian law, regulated by a Memorandum of Understanding.

The inauguration of LDA Odesa is an extremely important achievement that could not have been possible without the cooperation with key partners

The inauguration of LDA Odesa is an extremely important achievement that could not have been possible without the cooperation with key partners, including the Odesa Rayon Council (UA), Foster Europe Foundation (AT), represented by Mr. Stefan Lutgenau, and Istria Region (HR), represented by Mr. Oriano Otočan, ALDA President. Looking ahead to 2024, the collaboration is set to expand to include additional partners, among which the Autonomous Region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia (IT) represented by Mr. Alessandro Perelli, ALDA Vice President, fostering local democracy and cooperation. Odesa local context is represented by the Centre for Regional Studies and the Odesa Oblast branch of the of the all-Ukrainian community organisation “Committee of Voters of Ukraine”.

Among the expected participants in the event there are Mr. Vitaly Barvinenko, Chairman of the Odesa Rayon Council, Mr. Marc Cools, President of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe, Ms. Yuliia Molodozhen, Regional Office of U-LEAD with Europe in the Odesa Oblast, Mrs. Antonella Valmorbida, ALDA Secretary General, and Ms. Inna Volkova, member of the Odesa Rayon Council and member of the ALDA Advisory Board. 

The launch of LDA Odesa is more than just an event; it is a promise of a brighter future for Odesa and Ukraine as a whole. This initiative is not just a commitment to address immediate needs but a vision for a brighter and more secure future for the people of Ukraine. In these challenging times, LDAs continue to be a beacon of hope and support, emphasising the power of cooperation, community cohesion, and sustainable development, representing instruments of cohesion and peace.

As the war in Ukraine persists, these efforts remain essential, as they provide a lifeline for local communities and serve as a testament to the strength of collective, cooperative action during times of adversity.

Moreover, this marks the first step towards the establishment of seven new Local Democracy Agencies in the country, in line with the ambitious ALDA Flagship Initiative. The realisation of these LDAs holds the potential to redefine local democracy in Ukraine and contribute to the broader mission of fostering resilient, inclusive, and sustainable communities throughout the nation.

Stay tuned for further updates on this remarkable journey towards a future of greater cooperation, stronger local democracy, and enduring partnerships.

  • Period:

    -

  • Countries involved:

    European Union
    France

  • Donor:

  • SDG:

  • Lead partner:

  • All partners:

  • Contacts:


    projects@alda-europe.eu

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

CALL FOR PARTICIPANTS!

Do you want to be part of creating a European Youth Manifesto for a sustainable future? Then come join The Future We Want project on a Transnational Caravan through Europe!

WHAT TO EXPECT?

17 locations, 7 countries, 45 young people, street campaigning, public consultations, advocacy actions and much, much more..

The Future We Want – Transnational Caravan on climate & sustainability – Campaigning and Advocacy

The Future We Want is a project that aims to increase the level of engagement of young Europeans with sustainability and development issues, to envision & create better ways of living and to provide a meaningful voice to the European youth in setting the EU policy agenda on climate and sustainability through advocacy on the 2030 Agenda at local and European level.

This is a call for 5 participants from or residents in France for a 9 months project!

Selected participants will be involved in the following activities:

  • Online Learning Module;
  • Residential Training Course, in Romania;
  • Preparation work for the Online Campaign and Transnational Caravan;
  • Transnational Caravan that will stop in 17 European cities and end in Brussels for a two-day festival | 27th August to 16th September 2024 (participants will be split in two different groups that will travel on two routes).

Do you want to be one of the Campaigners to take part in this exciting Caravan?

Are you highly motivated for the cause of the project? Do you have a good command of the English language? Are you over 18 years old? Are you from or a resident of France?

If yes, then, you should participate in this call! Read the full announcement here and sign up! 

To apply, fill out this document and send it back to andrea.michelini@aldaintranet.org.

Deadline: December 31, 2023 

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

AT A GLANCE

The knowledge on environment/climate change have incredibly increased in the last decade, becoming one of the most discussed issues. At the same time the environmental challenges such as combating climate change, pollution, loss of biodiversity are  complex, and active participation requires high complex competencies. The project INEQUALITIES MATTER aims at making Environmental citizenship more inclusive by giving voice to those citizens (migrants, ethnic minorities, vulnerable youth, and elderly people) that are often excluded from the public debate.

Objectives:

Include vulnerable and fragile categories in the discussion on environment and climate;

Clarify the environmental challenges and empower citizens on climate topics in becoming environmental citizens;

Increase awareness of citizens and their decision-making capabilities when tackling environmental topics

Strengthen the inclusion and collaboration of all citizens.

The project is expecting to achieve these goals by:

Stimulating peer learning and exchange of good practices among partners to strengthen their environmental competencies and their knowledge on participatory tools, with a focus on the techniques to foster the participation of marginalised group;

Acting as multipliers and transfer knowledge and competencies to targeted groups with the purpose of create a working group to co-design participatory tools/pilot actions;

Develop and test pilot actions aiming at introducing new more inclusive mechanisms where marginalized categories can find their room to be pro-active and protagonists of decisions and actions.

    DOCUMENTS

    • No documents available

    From November 3 to 5, 2023 ALDA+ took part in the 20th edition of the Swiss International Holiday Exhibition in Lugano (Switzerland), an incredible event for the tourism industry where people, cultures and places meet and share their experiences.   

    Over 400 exhibitors, professional operators and buyers from more than 60 countries unveiled amazing tourist destinations, fascinating cultures and breath-taking landscapes through shows, degustations, workshops, networking and professional training.

    During the 3 days of exhibition, together with the mayor of Schio (Italy), Mr. Valter Orsi, ALDA+ promoted the project “Alta Via della Grande Guerra” (AVGG), a high altitude Great War hiking trail through the Vicenza foothills. 

    An historical, culture and environmental programme, with more than 125 miles of paths that joins from west to east four war memorials, symbols of the Province of Vicenza (Italy) and milestones of remembrance and liberty.  

    The project is implemented by the Province of Vicenza (Italy) together with the main donor, the Bim-Bacchiglione organisation (Italy), which tasked ALDA with the project’s dissemination and promotion.

    ALDA firmly believes in local initiatives and supports its implementation and dissemination everywhere

    A project of cohesion and promotion of the Vicenza mountains with the aim of recounting and divulging the dramatic events that occurred on these heights during the First World War.

    As a consequence, the international fair was a unique opportunity to promote the AVGG initiative and its territorial area, spreading the project purposes and the wide collaboration between municipalities and associations that cooperate all together.

    ALDA firmly believes in local initiatives and supports its implementation and dissemination everywhere.
    Visit the project website here.

    DOCUMENTS

    • No documents available

    The European Association for Local Democracy (ALDA) warmly welcomes the momentous decision taken by the European Commission to recommend the opening of negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova, while with the long-anticipated granting of candidate status to Georgia and the initiation of accession negotiations with Bosnia and Herzegovina. This historic step greatly enhances the prospects for these States’ deeper integration into the European community, marking a significant milestone in their journeys towards European integration.  

    ALDA, an organisation committed to advancing good governance and citizen participation at the local level, stands prepared to support the further collaborative efforts of these nations in promoting local democracy and strengthening cooperation between local authorities and civil society. ALDA remains committed to supporting Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia, and other countries in their pursuit of democratic values and European integration.

    ALDA remains committed to supporting Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia, and other countries in their pursuit of democratic values and European integration

    This news coincides with the holding of the Act Now Mayors’ Conference in Brussels from November 8 to 10, during which ALDA joins forces with Innovation in Politics, U-LEAD with Europe, the European Committee of the Regions, and other networks to bring together municipalities from Ukraine and the European Union in order to strengthen solidarity and share good practices in local governance and civic engagement. 


    For more information about the ACT Now Mayor’s Conference 2023, visit the Conference website.

    DOCUMENTS

    • No documents available

    In an exciting development for local democracy and community empowerment, ALDA is thrilled to announce the inauguration of the new Local Democracy Agency (LDA) in Edremit, Türkiye. The General Assembly to announce the official opening of LDA Edremit took place on October 30, 2023. This event marked a significant milestone in ALDA and the LDA’s commitment to promoting active citizenship and local governance.

    For three decades, the core mission of the Local Democracy Agencies, in cooperation with ALDA since 1999, has revolved around bridging and strengthening local communities. These Agencies serve as innovative platforms for cities, municipalities, and communities to engage in citizen participation, create inclusive policies, and work collectively towards sustainable development.

    The newest addition to this network, the LDA in Edremit, will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in this transformative journey

    The inauguration ceremony was graced by esteemed guests, among which the Mayor of Edremit, Mr. Selman Hasan Arslan and representatives of Région Grand Est, Lushnjë Municipality, LDA Mostar, Elbarlament, MEDAR, and ALDA Secretary General, Mrs. Antonella Valmorbida.

    ALDA is committed to ensure that the LDA in Edremit becomes an integral part of the local governance landscape, fostering positive changes and enhanced citizen engagement, as Edremit Municipality has been working unceasingly with ALDA for three years to establish Türkiye’s first Local Democracy Agency in Edremit. This initiative has been supported in the frame of the Fonds Triennal funded by Région Grand Est, Préfécture du Bas Rhin, Collectivité Européenne d’Alsace and Ville et Eurométropole de Strasbourg. The agency’s operations will align with ALDA’s extensive experience in the field, following the principles of local democracy, citizen participation, and the achievement of sustainable development.

    LDA Edremit provides an innovative and social space that brings together various NGOs and local government representatives who continue their active work locally, encouraging common solutions, dialogue, and cooperation. Working on issues such as the environment, climate change, active citizenship, democracy, human rights, women’s rights, culture, rights of people with disabilities, good governance, and youth entrepreneurship, LDA Edremit promotes positive and constructive initiatives locally. ALDA invites everyone to follow the journey of this newly opened LDA as it embarks on a mission to empower Edremit’s local democracy and create a brighter future for all its citizens.

    DOCUMENTS

    • No documents available

    The LIFE FALKON Final Conference was conducted in Myrina, Lemnos Island, Greece, spanning from the 12th to the 14th of october. As one of the partners, ALDA participated in the event alongside CNR, ISPRA, UNIVERSITY OF MILAN, and HOS.

    The inaugural day of the conference commenced with a presentation of Lemnos Island as one of the project’s focal areas, where the Lesser Kestrel migrates during the spring and summer months. The selection of this island was deliberate, considering its agricultural landscape and its substantial cultural and ecological value.

    Following this introduction, the LIFE FALKON consortium provided a comprehensive overview of the project, beginning with its background and objectives. They then delved into topics encompassing genomics, population movements across the globe, and the conservation efforts integral to the project. The day concluded with insights into outreach activities targeting students, citizens, stakeholders, and communication initiatives. During the afternoon, a diverse group of researchers and experts had the opportunity to present their work. The first lectio magistralis was delivered by Ms. Ines Catry, a researcher at BIOPOLIS-CIBIO, who has dedicated 24 years to monitoring the Lesser Kestrel population in Portugal. Her research investigates the impact of agricultural practices and climate change on the species, as well as the effectiveness of conservation measures aimed at halting population declines.

    This underscored the necessity for evidence-based conservation to ensure the long-term survival of the Lesser Kestrel. Subsequently, various researchers shared their findings, addressing a range of topics. These included the comparison of traditional and modern buildings for Kestrel falcon conservation, spanning over 30 years of study and experience (Mr. Pepe Antolin of DEMA), efforts to strengthen and stabilize the Lesser Kestrel population in northern Greece and Bulgaria (Mr. Kostas Vlachopulos of Πανεπιστήμιο Θεσσαλίας), and the occupancy rates of artificial nest boxes by Lesser Kestrels in the Sakar SPA, as well as the combined structure for ex-situ breeding, adaptation, and release of Lesser Kestrels in the wildlife rehabilitation and breeding centre of Green Balkans (Ms. Iiyana Yaneva and Ms. Yordanka Vasileva, Green Balkans NGO).

    The second day of the final conference was equally engaging, featuring a multitude of experts who shared their research insights. The morning began with the second lectio magistralis, presented by Mr. Javier Bustamante of CSIC, a seasoned researcher and specialist in Lesser Kestrels in southern Spain since 1990. He discussed his intriguing study on the movement patterns of these birds. Subsequently, other experts discussed their research findings, including Ms. Gaia Bazzi from ISPRA, who outlined the significant population decline and range contraction of the lesser kestrel over the last century, attributing it to sahelian rainfall and intensified agriculture in breeding areas.

    Further presentations covered a wide array of subjects, including the potential threats of onshore wind power to the Lesser Kestrel on an intercontinental scale, the impact of rising temperatures on reproduction, the long-term persistence of this bird in Sicily (Italy), non-breeding movement patterns, and more.

    Subsequently, a comprehensive array of research topics were presented:

    1. An intercontinental-scale assessment of the potential threats posed by onshore wind power to the Lesser Kestrel. Notably, 30% of European breeding colonies are located within 10 km of a wind turbine, with the Italian population facing the highest exposure (presented by Mr. Giacomo Assandri, University of Turin).
    2. The impact of rising temperatures on reproduction in the Lesser Kestrel. High nest temperatures were found to have profound effects on hatching failure, nestling survival, and even influence nestling and adult behavior (presented by Mr. Alejandro Corregidor-Castro, CNR/University of Padua).
    3. A study on the long-term persistence of the Lesser Kestrel in Sicily (Italy)over the past 24 years (presented by Mr. Maurizio Sarà, University of Palermo).
    4. Insights into the non-breeding movement patterns of the Lesser Kestrel (presented by Mr. Samuele Ramellini, University of Milan).
    5. An introduction to a project focused on the habitat selection of Italian Lesser Kestrels in the pre-breeding period (presented by Ms. Anna Kyriakopoulou, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki).
    6. An examination of the population of Lesser Kestrels present in Albania prior to their migratory movements. (Presented by Ms. Klea Duro, AOS-Albanian Ornithological Society)
    7. An exploration of the benefits of providing artificial nests in Portugal, considering both the costs and the impact on the Lesser Kestrel population. (Presented by Mr. João Gameiro, BIOPOLIS-CIBIO)
    8. A study of the phenomena characterising the Po Plain, where three species of falcons share similar habitats and diets. (Presented by Mr. Alessandro Berlusconi from the University of Insubria)
    9. An examination of the feeding ecology and conservation efforts for the Lesser Kestrel in intensive agricultural landscapes in Italy. (Presented by Ms. Claudia De Battisti, University of Padua)
    10. A fascinating account of the journey of Ema, a female lesser kestrel equipped with the Microwave Argos tag, as she visited 18 different countries over a span of 5 years. (Presented by Ms. Svetla Dalakchieva, Green Balkans)
    11. The revelation of the first breeding record of the lesser kestrel in Bosnia-Herzegovina. (Presented by Ms. Biljana Rancobic and Mr. Goran Topic)

    The day concluded with Mr. Michelangelo Morganti, the coordinator of the LIFE FALKON project, and Mr. Javier Bustamante sharing their experiences in Senegal, where they followed and studied the lesser kestrel in November 2022.

    The final day began with an excursion to the island of Limnos, specifically the ‘Romanos’ village, an intervention site of LIFE FALKON and one of the largest Lesser Kestrel colonies on the island. The group also explored the Keros – Alyki area (Greece) on the east coast of Lemnos, a part of the Nature 2000 SPA area. The excursion concluded with a shared meal at the MANTRA TIS ATHINAS farm, where attendees savored local dishes and observed various bird species present on the island, thanks to the favourable weather.

    DOCUMENTS

    • No documents available

    On the 21st and 22nd of October 2023, the Teatro Astra in Vicenza served as the prestigious backdrop for the final conference of the V.A.N.G.A. “Re-generations” project. The event was organised by La Piccionaia, the project lead, with contributions from all the participating partners.

    The event commenced at 14:30 at the Basilica Palladiana in Vicenza, where participants had the opportunity to partake in an augmented tour using radio headsets to explore the “Golden Ratio” exhibition. This immersive experience was led by Carlo Presotto, a director at La Piccionaia, in collaboration with Marco Dotti, the editorial director of Relazionésimo. This offered participants a chance to reflect on the significance of nurturing relationships with a scientific and humanistic approach. The exhibition focused on the concept of the golden ratio, tracing its evolution from antiquity to the present day, leading participants through thematic pathways underlining the idea that “everything is in relation.”

    Subsequently, at 16:00, at the Teatro Astra, a conference targeting the general public, families, and educators took place. It entailed discussions related to integral ecology. Drawing from the accomplishments of the V.A.N.G.A. project, the conference explored how to connect and educate the new generations about environmental issues using alternative methods, such as theatre. Eminent experts participated in these discussions, including Daniele Zovi, the author of “Ale e i boschi” (a book upon which a theatrical performance connected to the V.A.N.G.A. project was based), Paola Cesari, a psychologist and psychotherapist, Stefano Coquinati, a pedagogue, Nina Zanotelli, a theatre director, Roberto Cuppone, a professor of theatre history at the University of Genoa, and Carlo Presotto, a director and artistic director at La Piccionaia.

    Following this, two significant tools developed through the involvement of the participating schools during the V.A.N.G.A. project were presented: the educational pack and the reconnaissance and feedback activity, “The City I Wish For,” created by ALDA in collaboration with La Piccionaia.

    The educational pack, presented by Gloria Marini from La Piccionaia, is a resource designed for educators to facilitate environmental education for the new generations through participatory, creative, and experiential methods. It contains various activities and tools developed over the course of the project, presented as repeatable and modular actions.

    The reconnaissance and feedback activity, “The City I Wish For,” presented by Alessia Marzotto and Sofia Trevisan, Junior Project Manager and Project Manager Assistant at ALDA, involved activities conducted in schools during the concluding phase of the V.A.N.G.A. project. Young students were invited to participate in targeted workshops for collecting feedback on the project and the educational outings at locations designated by the project. They expressed their desires for a personal vision of an ecological city through drawings and questionnaires, which were subsequently presented to the public.

    The final report on the feedback activity and the educational pack will soon be available on La Piccionaia’s website on the dedicated V.A.N.G.A. page

    The Teatro Astra also served as the venue for the “Il bosco dei bambini” exhibition, where drawings created by students from the L. Zecchetto Primary School in Vicenza, inspired by Daniele Zovi’s narratives, were displayed.

    On the morning of Sunday, the 22nd, the Teatro Astra commenced with the Assembly “Cascina Carpaneda Bene Comune,” organised by the Vicenza Community for Agroecology. It served as a gathering to collectively envision the future of this place and discuss the next steps to be taken.

    Subsequently, Fabio Girotto, Junior Project Developer at ALDA, together with Alessia Marzotto and Sofia Trevisan, introduced the participants to the HILL (Habitat in Living Landscape) project. Like V.A.N.G.A., this project is also funded by the Cariverona Foundation and addresses environmental issues in the Vicenza region. HILL is a project directed towards the Monte di Malo area (VI) with the aim of expanding the protected area between the Buso della Rana and the Poscole. The presentation of this project sought to acquaint the public with initiatives similar to V.A.N.G.A. in the local territory and to foster opportunities for collaboration among local entities.

    In the afternoon, the performance “Ale e i boschi,” curated by Carlo Presotto and based on Daniele Zovi’s narratives, made its debut. This performance combines themes such as youth, the environment, and theatre in a captivating manner.

    DOCUMENTS

    • No documents available

    AT A GLANCE

    The VANGA is a tool used in agriculture to loosen the soil: to till it, to make it suitable for receiving seeds.

    Metaphorically, this is an action that well represents what the V.A.N.G.A. project proposes to do with its pedagogical tools and seeds of future: a network project for environmental education and empowerment of the younger generations (3-20 years old) through innovative pedagogical tools – experiential, participatory and creative – differentiated by age group, and the use of arts and performance languages as a privileged mode of involvement and participation. 

    The project is developed along two axes: integration of school education and youth activism, by intervening both in schools, from preschool to high school, and with interactive and experiential activities during summer. 

    Our methodology is based on a pedagogical approach that integrates the 3 dimensions of the human being: cognitive (mind), experiential (body) and creative (emotions). Focus of the project will be the reconnection between city and countryside, in the light of agro ecological thinking, involving, and relating to landscape and biodiversity, food, climate change, energy resources, responsible production and consumption, and quality of life on land and in water.

    Objectives:

    The environmental literacy of children, youth and young people, by improving both their scientific knowledge and that of the practical connections between everyday behaviours and the environment. Encourage their active participation in environmental protection, in a local vision and collective dimension;

    The reduction of the phenomenon of eco-anxiety widespread among the younger generations, by making young people able to interpret environmental problems and imagine possible responses;

    The improvement of schools’ training offerings in environmental education; supporting the training of educators and teachers and providing them with innovative pedagogical tools to be used within the educational curricula.

    DOCUMENTS

    • No documents available

    Mrs. Antonella Valmorbida, ALDA Secretary General, participated in the 45th Session of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe which took place in Strasbourg (France) from 24 to 26 October, by addressing the audience with a speech on “Youth engagement as a factor of peace and reconciliation”.

    In her address, Mrs. Valmorbida emphasised the importance of the long-standing partnership between ALDA, the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities, and the Council of Europe. She acknowledged that ALDA had its origins in the Council of Europe, evolving from the first Local Democracy Agency opened in Subotica in 1993 into a dynamic network with over 300 members, spanning regions from the EU to the Balkans, the Mediterranean, Türkiye, Eastern Partnership countries, and beyond. ALDA’s impressive work includes over 500 implemented projects, engaging more than 25 million people since its inception.

    The core of Mrs. Valmorbida’s address revolved around ALDA’s role in the Balkans over the past three decades and the organisation’s substantial contribution to youth engagement. She outlined several thematic pillars underpinning ALDA’s work, including local democracy, migration and inclusive cities, environment and climate change, digitalisation, gender equality, human rights, anti-discrimination policies, and, significantly, youth engagement.

    She stressed the importance of including youth in decision-making processes at all levels and protecting their human rights. She also highlighted the critical role of young people in peacebuilding, social cohesion, and reconciliation.

    Local democracy, according to Mrs. Valmorbida, provides a fertile ground for youth to drive sustainable change

    Under the framework of its Thematic Hub “Youth Empowerment and Education,” ALDA actively supports the implementation of the UN’s 2030 Agenda, with a particular focus on SDG 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. The Organisation is dedicated to empowering youth, youth workers, young leaders, and educators, adhering to the European Commission’s priorities and the Quality Standards of the Council of Europe.

    To further youth engagement, ALDA is involved in various projects. “PAVE – Peace Awareness through Volunteering and Education” enhances the understanding of peace, conflict management, and international integration among young participants. “PEACE – Peace Education as a Tool for Effective Conflict Management in Secondary School” equips teachers and educators with the necessary skills and knowledge to reduce violence and promote peace education.

    ALDA’s “National Compass Training” initiative, in partnership with the Municipality of Vicenza and the Youth Department of the Council of Europe, focuses on raising awareness about democratic participation and human rights among young people.

    “VALUEBOX” emphasises inclusive and high-quality education, centred on EU common values such as human dignity, human rights, freedom, democracy, equality, and the rule of law.

    The “Youth in Action” also establishes a broad network of civil society groups across Europe and the Balkans to promote local democracy and engage youth in local-level policymaking.

    Mrs. Valmorbida underlined the pivotal role of youth in peace, stability, and development. Youth engagement is a cornerstone of local democracy’s ability to create innovative solutions and foster trust in governance. In line with the 30th-anniversary celebrations, Mrs. Valmorbida highlighted the key role that youth engagement has played in the Balkans, supporting social cohesion and community-building in the face of challenges such as radicalisation and brain drain.

    She concluded her address with an optimistic outlook, emphasising the importance of local democracy in saving democracy itself and reinforcing the commitment of ALDA to local and regional governments, citizens’ participation, and the promotion of peace and reconciliation.

    Antonella Valmorbida’s insights and ALDA’s work exemplify the profound impact of collaborative efforts in empowering youth and building sustainable, resilient communities.

    • Period:

      -

    • Countries involved:

      Middle East & Africa
      Turkey

    • Donor:

    • SDG:

    • Lead partner:

    • All partners:

    • Contacts:


      projects@alda-europe.eu

    DOCUMENTS

    • No documents available

    Between September 18th-22nd and October 9th-13th, two exciting editions of the “School on Participatory Democracy” took place in Türkiye, co-organized by the Council of Europe. These events aimed to empower change makers and equip them with the knowledge and tools needed to foster effective civil participation at the local level.

    A team of international and national experts from the Council of Europe led the training sessions, with the active participation of Anna Ditta, ALDA Head of Programs and Development Unit, representing ALDA as the School’s co-leader.

    The first edition unfolded on the picturesque Büyükada Island (Türkiye) and was co-hosted by the Istanbul Citizens’ Assembly and the Argüden Governance Academy. Twenty-two dedicated participants, representing Civil Society Organizations and Local Authorities from the Istanbul Metropolitan city (Türkiye), joined to enhance their expertise in participatory democracy.

    The second edition of the School was held in Ankara (Türkiye), co-hosted by STGM – the Association of Civil Society Development Center. It saw the active engagement of 28 representatives from various Civil Society Organizations and Local Authorities across the country. Additionally, experts from the Directorate of EU Affairs, the Presidency of Strategy and Budget, and the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye participated as observers, underlining the significance of this initiative.

    The primary objective of the School was to enable change makers to design and implement effective participatory processes at the local level

    Throughout the training, participants were introduced to a set of invaluable tools developed by the Council of Europe. The curriculum encompassed key principles and standards of the Council of Europe, with a particular focus on its dedicated Democracy pillar. Additionally, participants were acquainted with the Code of Good Practice for Civil Participation in Decision-Making, emphasising essential principles and conditions conducive to healthy civil participation.

    The training also delved into practical tools, including the Civil Participation in Decision-Making Toolkit, an efficient method for community mapping and stakeholder analysis. Participants were equipped with the Civil Lab Toolkit, facilitating effective consultations and reporting. The U-Change board game provided insights into the decision-making process, considering various factors like resources, responsible individuals, and applicable laws or regulations. Lastly, the School Participatory Budgeting toolkit, designed for young people, encouraged civic engagement, starting from a place of great importance to them: indeed, school.

    The concluding day was dedicated to Q&A sessions, particularly on the tools, and facilitated partnership-building among participants. This session provided an opportunity for participants to explore potential collaborations and strategize on how to integrate the acquired tools into their daily work.

    The School adhered to the principles of non-formal education, combining theoretical sessions with group work, simulations, debriefings, and feedback sessions. This 5-day School is envisioned as the first step in a broader process, where trained participants will apply their newfound knowledge and incorporate these tools into their work. A training needs assessment will follow, allowing participants to express their interest in further deepening their knowledge and potentially becoming experts themselves, aligned with the Council of Europe’s values.

    We eagerly await the proactive initiatives of these change makers, as they transform their communities with the knowledge and tools they’ve acquired during this transformative School on Participatory Democracy.

    DOCUMENTS

    AT A GLANCE

    ADD Something Meaningful – strengthening youth engagement through local involvement!

    Youth participation plays a crucial role in upholding democratic principles and values within society. Unfortunately, young people often find themselves underrepresented in decision-making processes across various levels, leading to a lack of attention towards youth-related issues critical for sustainable development and societal well-being. Studies reveal that this disconnect from the political system and disengagement from democratic processes contribute to feelings of apathy, frustration, and disinterest among young individuals towards civic life.

    In response to this pressing need, the project ADD Something Meaningful was created, aiming to establish mechanisms that enable young people to influence all aspects of society and decision-making stages. By providing accessible structures, the project seeks to empower youth and amplify their voices in shaping public policies.

    Objectives:

    1: To introduce IDEATHON in the youth sector to establish a permanent mechanism for active involvement of young people in public affairs at a local level. 

    2: To empower youth organisations and local authorities to implement participatory processes with young people through the use of IDEATHON. 

    3: To raise awareness among young people, youth organisations, representatives of local authorities and the general public about the importance of youth participation at the local level.

    4: Strengthen young people’s social and political participation by addressing local challenges.

    5: Ensure sustainability by achieving systemic funding for IDEATHONs beyond the end of the project.

      ,

      DOCUMENTS

      AT A GLANCE

      Inclusive and Bottom-Up Approach: The project aims to involve rural communities and political actors in a bottom-up participation approach, which fosters long-lasting impact.

      Co-Creation of Educational Content: High-quality educational materials are co-created to meet the specific needs of local communities. Self-analysis workshops play a key role in understanding local contexts.

      Awareness Raising: Active awareness-raising activities are conducted to drive long-term digital transformation in rural areas.

      Teacher and Trainer Training: Educators are equipped with the skills and knowledge to implement co-designed activities with learners.

      Enhancing Competencies: The project focuses on enhancing the competences of both young and adult learners through ICT courses.

      Local and International Promotion: The project aims to promote its impact and results at both local and international levels.

      Objectives:

      1- To initiate a self-analysis process in rural areas through the “Reciprocal Maieutic Approach” in order to identify context-specific needs, increase motivation and raise awareness about the importance and potential of digital and transversal competences necessary for the current and future labour market, education and social life.
      2- To create educational materials through a co-design process, which are adaptable to different educational and geographical contexts aiming to strengthen the digital and transversal skills of teachers, trainers and learners, while developing dedicated tools to evaluate and monitor its quality and transferability.
      3- to test and evaluate the Our Digital Village Activity Kit with teachers and trainers and to implement ICT courses in educational institutions and community locations throughout the rural areas; to foster the digital and transversal skills development of learners
      4- To contribute to a sustainable process of digital transformation in rural areas and to mainstream the project’s approach in order to have a positive impact on educational and training systems in different EU countries on local, national and EU-level.

      DOCUMENTS

      • No documents available

      Within the framework of the International Conference on “A Wider European Community: The Importance of Local Governance” held in Skopje on October 19 and 20, 2023, a compelling panel discussion focused on the European Label for Governance Excellence (EloGE) took place on October 20.

      ALDA unveiled plans for a second round of self-assessment with Macedonian Municipalities

      This event provided a valuable opportunity to glean insights from the Municipality of Aerodrom and the Municipality of Berovo, both of which received the EloGE label the previous year after successfully completing the self-assessment process. The Mayor of Aerodrom, Mr. Timco Mucunski, and the Mayor of Berovo, Mr. Zvonko Pekeski, underscored the significance of self-evaluation for municipalities, as it enables them to recognize their achievements and pinpoint areas in need of improvement.

      The panel discussion was further enriched by the contributions of Mr. Zoran Jankulovski, one of the evaluators of the EloGE program, who emphasised the importance of municipalities conducting their own evaluations of their work.

      Mr. Niall Sheerin from the Centre of Expertise for Good Governance of the Council of Europe reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to supporting EloGE’s implementation. He also announced recent updates in the program, particularly highlighting the 12 Principles of Good Governance.

      It’s noteworthy that in 2022, the first round of the EloGE program was successfully completed by nine Macedonian Municipalities.