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AT A GLANCE

The OUT4INGOV project, led by the Autonomous Province of Trento, addresses critical challenges faced by Alpine regions, particularly mountainous areas, which experience significant out-migration of young, highly educated individuals. This trend results in brain drain, depopulation, and a decline in social cohesion, while receiving regions benefit from brain gain, enhanced economic development, and improved care services. These dynamics exacerbate territorial imbalances, widening gaps in development and quality of life across the Alpine area.

The project aims to innovate policies on youth migration and strengthen territorial cohesion through co-creation with stakeholders. It seeks to develop shared governance models, build the capacity of local actors, and empower communities. Central to its approach is the involvement of young people, particularly migrants, through initiatives such as youth councils. By fostering skill transfer, community networks, and collaborative projects, the project envisions long-term positive impacts, including a triple-win scenario benefiting sending areas, receiving regions, and young migrants themselves.With a strong focus on transnational collaboration, OUT4INGOV highlights the necessity of addressing these challenges across borders to ensure cohesive development. Its innovative approach, combining policy rationalization, co-creation, and youth engagement, sets the foundation for sustainable solutions to migration and governance issues in the Alpine region. The project is planned for a duration of 20 months

OBJECTIVES

Overall objective: To develop and test new shared governance mechanisms (i.e. councils, observatories, networks) and to increase the capacity of cooperation and decision-making of the Alpine Space regions’ stakeholders (capacity building, training) on the management of youth migration phenomena in the area, with the aim to promote a triple-win situation (for the regions of origin, for those of arrival and for young migrants), i.e. via common projects and competence circulation. 

Specific objective: Enhancing institutional capacity of public authorities and stakeholders to implement macro-regional strategies and sea-basin strategies, as well as other territorial strategies.

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On February 3-5, Matilde Ferrari from the Youth Empowerment and Education hub in ALDA had the opportunity to take part in the training on “Citizens’ assemblies with children and youth” in Malaga, Spain. The event was organised by four organisations within the Changemakers for Democracy cohort: Coglobal (Spain), Our Ombudsman (Poland), Ministry of Space collective (Serbia), and Platform for Citizens’ Assemblies (Czech), in collaboration with Katie Reid and Lianne Minasian from Child Rights International Network – CRIN. 

Over two days of training, participants gained insight into the benefits of involving younger generations in these discussions, highlighting their potential to contribute meaningfully to decision-making. This context allows the interest in engaging in dialogue and a common goal to be raised from an early age, giving the younger generation the opportunity to make their voices heard by decision-makers. However, analysing the examples of climate assemblies organised in Scotland and Ireland. It is clear that young people have a lot of expertise, creativity and willingness to engage in sharing it with their community and also to shape it through recommendations to decision makers. 

This event provided an opportunity to explore youth engagement through deliberative processes, focusing on the organisation of assemblies for children and young people.

The sessions began by exploring the key elements that define youth assemblies and their significance. They then moved on to a practical overview of the methodologies and procedures necessary for effective implementation, with a particular focus on the democratic lottery, assembly design, and activities that encourage the active participation of children from all ages and backgrounds. A valuable aspect of the training was the exchange of ideas among over 40 practitioners from diverse backgrounds, through group discussions and activities that enriched the understanding of the topics. 

In this context, ALDA also had the opportunity to present The Future We Want Project as a good practice in the field of youth engagement and participation, in particular for its participatory approach and involvement of participants. By empowering young people to advocate for greater regulation of fast fashion and its advertising measures, the FWW project successfully involved young people, NGO, local networks, schools, national and European stakeholders to ensure that the voice of the younger generation is heard. 

This experience has been incredibly enriching, showing new ways to mobilise and involve young people. It highlighted the importance of making them relevant members of their communities, not to be overlooked or silenced. Deliberation techniques can serve as an excellent tool in local communities and future initiatives, empowering young generations to act for both their future and their present.

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On 11 February 2025, in the stunning setting of Villa Fabris in Thiene (Vicenza), the training session “Shaping the Future for More Resilient Communities” took place. Organised by ALDA – European Association for Local Democracy as part of the FOSTER – Future Oriented Solutions Toward Environmental Resilience project, funded by the CERV programme, the event brought together public administrators, municipal technicians, and civil society representatives. The aim was to deepen understanding of strategic foresight, a methodology that helps anticipate future scenarios and develop innovative policies for more sustainable and resilient communities.

A Day of Training and Experimentation

Following the institutional greetings from Pierluigi Brombo (European Economic and Social Committee) and Nadia Di Iulio (ALDA, FOSTER project coordinator), the event delved into an in-depth discussion led by Brombo on the role of foresight in European policymaking. He emphasised that foresight is not a prediction but a discipline that allows us to explore and shape the future, leveraging collective intelligence to anticipate developments and better prepare for changes. He also highlighted the importance of participatory foresight, which enables the early detection of weak signals and integrates diverse perspectives into decision-making processes.

Trainer Nicoletta Boldrini, an expert in Futures & Foresight, introduced participants to key methodologies in the field, stressing the difference between forecasting and foresight: the former relies on predictions and data, while the latter explores various possible scenarios to inform strategic decision-making. She also presented the VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity) framework and the BANI (Brittle, Anxious, Non-linear, Incomprehensible) model to illustrate today’s uncertainty and how foresight can help navigate it.

Participants then engaged in an immersive workshop on the Futurising Process, testing practical tools to analyse emerging trends and construct future scenarios. These exercises provided opportunities to address various local development topics and identify weak signals of ongoing transformations. It was emphasised that the future emerges in the present, often at the micro level, and that having a flexible and adaptable strategy is crucial.

Inclusion and gender mainstreaming in strategic foresight were the focus of the final intervention by Camilla Vedovato (ALDA), who stressed the importance of ensuring an equitable and accessible approach for all. The session also explored the need for positive and inclusive communication, fostering community-wide engagement in strategic decision-making and making foresight a truly democratic tool.

The event concluded with a networking aperitif, providing participants with an opportunity to share experiences and build new connections. This training is part of a broader capacity building and community empowerment initiative led by ALDA across nine European countries through the FOSTER project.

📩 For more information, contact nadia@alda-europe.eu 

🔗 Learn more about ALDA and upcoming training sessions: www.alda-europe.eu

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The AMIL Project (Alliance Multi-Stakeholder for Migrants Integration and Labor) aims to promote the sustainable integration of individuals from Third Countries, facilitating access to the labour market through a multidimensional approach. Thanks to pilot initiatives, the project offers practical solutions to improve economic inclusion and expand professional opportunities. ALDA and project partners are committed in achieving this goal and supporting the programme’s broader mission, in Europe and beyond.

The AMIL Project: Opportunities and Innovation

In this context, February marks the beginning of a crucial phase for the initiative, as the first 20 participants embark on a training programme designed to refine their skills and facilitate their entry into the workforce. The Employability Workshop, led by Cies Onlus, the project coordinator, aims to provide practical tools and foster reflection to better prepare participants for the professional environment in Italy.

The first sessions of the workshop will not only provide practical and bureaucratic information but will also focus on soft skill development, essential elements for navigating the labour market in the host country. The implemented approach offers personalised pathways for each participant and is based on two key principles:

  • Consideration of participants’ backgrounds, which allows for the enhancement of individual experiences through cultural interpretation;
  • Cultural sensitivity, essential for fostering social and professional inclusion.

This initiative strengthens participants’ existing skills, aligning them with market demands through alternative methodologies such as non-formal education and social theatre. These tools stimulate participants’ creativity, promoting collaboration and personal growth—key elements for effective integration.

Experiential Training: An Interactive Approach

The planned activities are designed to stimulate interaction and encourage mutual listening among participants. Through theatrical tools and exercises, the workshops explore roles, group dynamics, and processes, contributing to the development of transferable skills. Among the methodologies used is the mirror game, a physical mimesis exercise aimed at strengthening emotional connection and mutual understanding—crucial aspects for building strong professional relationships.

A Concrete Impact for the Future

With this workshop, ALDA, together with the other leading partners, aim to ensure participants are equipped with the tools needed to enter the labour market with greater preparation and confidence. Our practical approach, combined with innovative methodologies, offers a unique growth opportunity. The goal is not only to develop new professional skills but also to build a personalised integration pathway, enhancing each participant’s potential and fostering a positive and lasting impact.

A successful professional future starts here—one step at a time, by promoting individual skills and providing tangible support.

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As part of the Media4EU project, carried out by ALDA, Eurothink, and BIRC, eight thematic forums were organised across North Macedonia’s eight administrative planning regions. These forums served as a collaborative platform for journalists, civil society representatives, and experts from diverse fields to come together and engage in meaningful discussions.

Each forum focused on region-specific topics, such as consumer rights, the free movement of workers, agriculture, ethnic group rights, education policies, transport policies, fisheries, and environmental issues. The events took place in Skopje, Shtip, Strumica, Kumanovo, Bitola, Veles, Ohrid, and Tetovo, all of which are cities in North Macedonia, with renowned experts and trainers facilitating the discussions. These forums offered an excellent opportunity for the exchange of ideas and a more in-depth exploration of local concerns.

Veles Forum: Aligning Transport Policies with European Standards

At the thematic forum in Veles, participants discussed the importance of transport policies in alignment with European standards, as well as the need for improved communication between the media and local authorities. Throughout the event, ideas were exchanged on how to enhance the flow of information between departments responsible for public relations in local institutions, with the aim of fostering more interactions between journalists and the civil sector.

Strumica Forum: Promoting EU Funding and Agricultural Awareness

Likewise, at the thematic forum in Strumica, participants were engaged in debates and discussions. They advocated for stronger collaboration between media outlets, NGOs, and local authorities to promote EU funding opportunities, raise awareness of agricultural policies, and encourage farmers to actively participate in these initiatives.

Ohrid Forum: Tackling Fisheries and Environmental Challenges

The Ohrid forum focused on the challenges confronting fisheries and the environment. Speakers examined the current situation of fisheries in North Macedonia and highlighted the pressing need for effective communication regarding EU funding opportunities. Participants also underscored the importance of cross-border cooperation and the role of the media in raising public awareness of these vital issues.

Shtip Forum: Addressing Labour Law and Workers’ Rights

In Shtip, media representatives and civil society organisations gathered to discuss labour law and workers’ rights. The discussions focused on the challenges of labour shortages caused by youth emigration and broader demographic trends across Europe. While North Macedonia’s labour laws largely align with EU standards, the forum highlighted shortcomings in their implementation and enforcement. The conversations resulted in recommendations for new legislation on labour disputes and collective bargaining, drawing on Austrian examples, as well as calls for stronger non-discrimination policies and the ratification of pertinent international conventions.

Bitola Forum: Advancing Education, Culture, and Youth Development

The forum in Bitola focused on education, culture, and youth development within the framework of North Macedonia’s European integration. Key discussions centred on aligning domestic legislation with EU standards, especially concerning the Erasmus+ programme and cultural initiatives. Participants engaged in meaningful dialogues on educational policies, media communication strategies, and the need for increased investment in the youth and cultural sectors. The forum also acknowledged the changing role of both social and traditional media in public discourse, providing valuable insights for future policy development aimed at aligning the country’s educational and cultural practices with European standards.

Overall, the Media4EU initiative has greatly increased awareness and strengthened capacity within North Macedonia’s media and civil society sectors, offering essential support for the country’s journey towards European integration. Through these thematic forums, the project has effectively facilitated continuous dialogue between civil society, media, and government bodies. The insights and recommendations gathered from these discussions will play a key role in shaping future strategies to promote regional development and encourage collaboration. As the project progresses, it remains dedicated to ensuring that local voices are heard and included in the broader European conversation, working towards a future where regional challenges are addressed through collective action and shared knowledge.

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What is the Italian Universal Civil Service and why to apply?

The Italian Universal Civil Service is a programme that helps young people become active citizens while growing personally and professionally. By working on projects that support communities, participants gain valuable skills and make a positive impact. The programme promotes values like solidarity, inclusion, and civic engagement, helping to build a fairer and more involved society. It offers young volunteers the chance to contribute to community-driven projects and take part in meaningful activities that foster a sense of purpose and responsibility. 

In 2024, young people who volunteered at ALDA had the opportunity to contribute to impactful projects across three key departments: Project Design, Communication, Project Management. Each area offered diverse challenges and learning opportunities, enabling participants to develop professionally while making a meaningful impact on their communities.

To inspire and guide those considering applying, we have gathered their testimonies to share insights into their experiences. The 2024 Universal Civil Service Call for Applications is now open, with the deadline set for February 18, 2025 at 14:00. Below, you will find the volunteers’ reflections on their journeys and the opportunities this programme offers.

DISCOVER THE WEBSITE AND APPLY NOW

Are you between the ages of 18 and 28?
You can participate in civil service if you are an Italian citizen, a citizen of another EU member state, or a non-EU citizen legally residing in Italy.

Our Volunteers’ Experiences

Through the Italian Universal Civil Service abroad, I had the opportunity to train at ALDA in the Programs development and fundraising department. My work consists mainly in researching and monitoring European and international calls for proposals (especially in the Middle East and North Africa) and in designing, developing and writing projects.
So far, I have learnt a lot about project cycle management, the functioning of a large organisation and the relationship between ALDA and its members and project partners. I have also acquired good project-writing, organisational and management skills.
During my experience in Strasbourg, I have had the opportunity to participate in local and international events and projects, which has also given me experience in project management. I believe that this is a good experience of personal and professional growth for young people who want to approach the issues of local development and citizen participation. I recommend embracing both the positive and negative aspects of the experience, and never forgetting to believe in yourself and follow your dreams!

Elisabetta, Project Designer Assistant

I am a Communication Officer Assistant and joined ALDA’s office in Strasbourg in July 2024 through the Universal Civil Service programme. My main tasks include supporting the department in creating social media content, newsletter, updating the website, and providing communication support during events. This experience has helped me improve my digital skills and gradually become more independent in carrying out these activities. Working closely with other departments has been particularly rewarding, as it offers different perspectives and makes the work more dynamic. In September 2024, I had the opportunity to participate in a project and to support its communication activities, which was an incredibly fulfilling experience.
To anyone considering this opportunity, I would say that the beginning might feel a bit challenging, but with the support provided by your supervisors, you’ll find your rhythm and feel more comfortable. This experience is not just about work; it’s also about meeting wonderful people and sharing my journey with them. For me, it has been an opportunity for incredible growth, and I am truly grateful to have taken this step.

Simona, Communication Officer Assistant

My experience as a Civil Service Volunteer with ALDA, especially working in the Project Management Department, has been highly interesting and stimulating so far.
As a Project Manager Assistant, my main role is to help implement various projects, especially for young people, as I work in the Youth Empowerment & Education Hub. One aspect that I really enjoy about this role is that it always varies as it depends a lot on the particular project we are implementing at the moment. Therefore, my tasks are always very different and I can learn new things every time. I can be involved in the logistics and communication of an event, liaising with other partners or even planning a particular activity. In this way, even the daily office routine can be stimulating because I am challenged and can improve my skills in different areas.
One aspect that can be incredibly attractive is that, as a project manager, you also have the opportunity to travel from time to time. As most of the projects we partner on are international, there are often meetings or project activities that take place in other countries. For example, I had the opportunity to help organise and then actively participate in The Future We Want project, which was an unforgettable experience. For two weeks, I travelled with the participants on a bus, stopping in different cities in four European countries and running a street campaign to raise awareness about the harmful effects of fast fashion on the environment. I would recommend this role to someone who is very active and likes to be in contact with a lot of people, someone who is willing to learn new things in different areas and to face new challenges every day.
My advice to future volunteers would be: “Don’t get discouraged if at the beginning you feel like you don’t know anything about how to manage a project and everyone seems to know a lot more than you. Be patient and try to learn as much as you can from the people around you. One day you will look back and realise how much you have grown, both professionally and personally”.

Alice, Project Manager Assistant


The Universal Civil Service empowers young people to grow, learn, and make a difference, giving them the tools to become active citizens and contribute to a more inclusive, engaged, and sustainable society.
Your Impact Starts Now – Apply Here!

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ALDA and the Anna Lindh Foundation keep collaborating to strengthen civil society, promote democratic engagement and support sustainable development through shared initiatives and partnerships.

On January 30, 2025, the second in-person meeting of the Macedonian network of the Anna Lindh Foundation took place at the Public Room in Skopje, North Macedonia. The event commenced with a session moderated by Simona Slavkova, Project assistant at ALDA Balkans and responsible for Anna Lindh’s activities in North Macedonia.

During this session, participants reflected on all the activities and accomplishments of the past months while also discussing the forthcoming opportunities that lie ahead. They discussed organising more joint events, partnerships, and training sessions to build stronger connections among members.

To strengthen the network, they agreed on the importance of increasing mutual support and cooperation, particularly between organisations with similar goals.

After the meeting, members took part in a training session on local democracy and citizen participation. Ivana Velkova, Director ad interim of ALDA Balkans, led the session, using practical examples from ALDA’s work to introduce key tools and methods for building sustainable democratic processes at the local level. This training provided valuable insights into how local communities can be empowered to actively participate in democratic decision-making.

This meeting was another significant step in the development of the network and in building stronger partnerships. In the coming period, many new meetings, events and initiatives will follow that will enrich the network with even more inspiring stories and good practices.

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From January 20th to 23rd, ALDA had the privilege of connecting with partners and friends in Dakar, Senegal to further our commitment to local democracy. This visit aligns with the expanded mandate adopted at ALDA’s 2024 General Assembly in Barcelona, exploring new opportunities to support local democracy beyond the EU and its neighbourhood.

In Dakar, we collaborated with two outstanding organisations: Enda ECOPOP and Éclaireuses et Éclaireurs du Sénégal. Together, we are driving initiatives to empower youth and women through community engagement, under the framework of the European Commission’s WYDE project, in partnership with the European Partnership for Democracy.

During the mission, ALDA met with Mr. Bachir Kanouté, Secretary General of IODP Africa (International Observatory on Participatory Democracy), and his team to discuss future collaboration in strengthening democratic participation.

Senegal remains a beacon of democracy in Africa, demonstrating extraordinary resilience. In discussions with partners working in Benin, Guinea, and neighbouring countries, we reaffirmed the importance of local-level initiatives in keeping the flame of democracy and dialogue alive.

We are excited to see the progress of our projects and look forward to expanding our network of members and partners. A heartfelt thank you to the ASWAT team of ALDA among which Giulia Sostero, Head of ASWAT: Africa, South West Asia, and Türkiye Department, Abdelaziz Bousleh, Regional Officer the ASWAT Department and Faty Babou, Grant manager WYDE Civic Engagement for organising this inspiring mission. Senegal, we’ll see you again soon!

  • Period:

    -

  • Countries involved:

    Eastern Partnership & Central Asia

  • Donor:

  • SDG:

  • Lead partner:

  • All partners:

  • Contacts:


    projects@alda-europe.eu

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© European Union / Giedrė Daugėlaitė

On 20-21 January, 2025 ALDA was invited to join the 13th Annual Meeting of the Conference of the Regional and Local Authorities for the Eastern Partnership (CORLEAP). 

Placed under the Polish Presidency of the European Union, this meeting was hosted by the Podkarpackie region and aimed at reviewing the perspectives for the Eastern Partnership (EaP) and CORLEAP in the new EU political cycle – strengthening the local and regional dimension of the EaP as well as initiating a collective effort to strengthen capacity building for the local and regional public administration in EaP countries. 

The meeting was co-chaired by two distinguished members of ALDA: Tetiana YEHOROVA-LUTSENKO, Chair of Kharkiv Regional Council, CORLEAP Co-Chair and Aleksandra DULKIEWICZ (PL/EPP), Mayor of Gdańsk, Chair of the CoR Working Group for Ukraine, CORLEAP Bureau Member, who represented the President of the Committee. 

During the sessions, members of the CORLEAP could share strong messages to EU institutions regarding the necessity to further support EaP as an efficient instrument that has delivered on its promises since Ukraine and Moldova have been granted the candidate status. Local and regional leaders called for a stronger attention to the specificity of their competences and responsibilities, remaining that 70% of the New Development Agenda will be implemented at local level and that they represent the closest level of governance to the citizens. 

This meeting also represented a great opportunity to hear from the EU institutions the interest they have for local and regional governments in EaP, and learn about future opportunities of cooperation that would contribute to its new priorities. 

During the 2nd part of the event, together with representatives from the College of Europe, DG NEAR and the Regional School of Public Administration (RePSA, Montenegro), ALDA was represented by its Governing Board Member Marta Sys, from the Mercury Foundation. Ms. Sys shared our upcoming capacity-building activities for local and regional governments in the EaP. Indeed, the very history of ALDA is connected with enlargement since it started some 30 years ago in Western Balkans, with the aim to reconnect citizens with local governments through participatory democracy. ALDA was then involved in the Eastern Partnership process, with the Local Democracy Agency in Georgia established in 2004 and the Local Democracy Agency in Armenia in 2011. We have also been actively involved in capacity building activities in Ukraine for more than 10 years. 

With the support of our institutional partners, including DG NEAR, the program U-LEAD with Europe, the Committee of the Regions with whom we signed a MoU to further cooperate, notably on this aspect of capacity building for local governments, as well as the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe, ALDA and its members will continue working on good governance, participatory democracy, Green Reconstruction, EU project management and will explore other aspects that could help bringing Ukrainian local and regional governments closer to the EU.

© European Union / Giedrė Daugėlaitė

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On January 21 2024, ALDA brought together over 20 participants for an engaging online workshop: “Interactive Online Workshop on the European Institutions”. This event, part of the EU-funded SpeakUP project, provided a platform for young people and youth workers to deepen their knowledge of EU institutions and learn how to engage with the EU decision-making process effectively.

The SpeakUP project aims to empower young people by fostering active citizenship and strengthening their capacity to participate in democratic processes. Through the creation of debate clubs in Romania, Cyprus, and Hungary, the project equips participants with the tools needed to become proactive citizens and engage in meaningful dialogue.

Key highlights of the workshop

The workshop began with an interactive discussion where participants reflected on how the European Union can contribute to improving their communities. This initial engagement encouraged attendees to think critically about the role of the EU in their daily lives and set the stage for deeper exploration.

Following this, participants were introduced to the history and institutions of the European Union, gaining insights into the evolution of the EU and how its institutions function within the decision-making process.

The workshop also focused on how to engage with EU institutions, discussing with the participants ideas and strategies to navigate the EU landscape.

Learning through interaction

One of the most engaging parts of the workshop was the virtual role-playing simulation, where participants took on the role of Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) and worked in political groups to debate, negotiate, and vote on a legislative proposal.

This interactive exercise, part of the “Digital Journey to the European Parliament”  and created by the European Parliament, provided participants with a hands-on experience of the EU decision-making process and highlighted the importance of dialogue and compromise in shaping policies.

Empowering youth & fostering participation


The workshop underscored the importance of youth involvement in European decision-making processes. By equipping participants with the necessary knowledge and tools, ALDA and the SpeakUP project continue to empower young people to take an active role in their communities and advocate for their interests at the EU level.

Want to learn more about our work or get involved?
Stay tuned for upcoming events and workshops as we continue to promote active citizenship and strengthen youth participation across Europe.

💻 Visit our website: click here 

📘 Follow us on Facebook: click here 

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ALDA participated at the Steering Committee meeting in Brescia (Italy), hosted by ADL Zavidovici, as part of the EPIC-UP project. This three-day event featured engaging discussions, impactful field visits, and future-oriented planning, all geared toward fostering sustainable and inclusive pathways for migrant integration across Europe.

Setting the Stage for Integration

The opening day focused on the project’s key objectives, emphasising the identification of good practices for migrant integration. Presentations by Community of Practice (CoP) leaders showcased innovative local initiatives, such as ADL Zavidovici’s “Sportelli e Rete” program and its components like the Refugee Desk and Prison Desk. Additionally, impactful projects from partner organisations, including KMOP’s Friendly Safe Space for Women and Girls (Greece) and EUNI’s Urban Agriculture for Sustainable Community Development (Bulgaria), highlighted diverse strategies for promoting integration.

Field Visits and Inspirational Encounters

The second day included exchanges with migrant-background Councillors from Brescia, notably Ms. Raisa Labaran e Mr. Iyas Ashkar, who shared their personal journeys to public office. Participants also explored the art exhibition “La stagione della migrazione a Nord”, which shed light on migration experiences through the lens of a Sudanese refugee artist. Meetings with municipal representatives further emphasised Brescia’s commitment to peace, inclusion, and the fight against hate speech. A key highlight has been the contribution of Mrs. Maddalena Alberti, Director of ADL Zavidovici and a Governing Board Member of ALDA, who shared her insights on fostering inclusive policies and her work in bridging gaps between native and migrant communities. The day included a meeting with Assessor Anna Frattini on projects against hate speech and with the President of Brescia City Council, Mr. Roberto Rossini, who presented the “Festival della Pace” initative”.

CoP Creation and Future Planning

The final day centered on developing CoPs and future planning, focusing on stakeholder engagement and overcoming challenges such as funding gaps and language barriers. Partners also presented a toolkit for migrant participation to support inclusive community-building efforts. The discussions underscored the EPIC-UP project’s commitment to empowering migrants as active citizens while addressing complex realities in integration.

Through this meeting, EPIC-UP reaffirmed its dedication to building adaptable and impactful strategies for migrant inclusion. By fostering dialogue, sharing best practices, and promoting participatory approaches, the project paves the way for stronger, more inclusive communities across Europe.

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This week, ALDA proudly joined the European Capital of Democracy (#ECoD) initiative, visiting Sofia, Bulgaria, one of the candidate cities for the prestigious title of European Capital of Democracy 2026. Together with Mr. Bruno Kaufmann and Mr. Stefan Sindelar from the ECoD team, ALDA Secretary General Antonella Valmorbida explored how Sofia is championing democratic innovation and fostering citizen engagement.

During this inspiring visit, meaningful exchanges took place with local departments and deputy mayors, discussing critical topics such as environmental sustainability, urban development and digitalisation. Sofia showcased its innovative approaches, including participatory budgeting and dynamic startup initiatives, which are making tangible improvements to the lives of its citizens.

Next week, ALDA will participate in another exciting study visit in Rotterdam, in The Netherlands, another strong contender for the ECoD 2026 title. These visits highlight the dedication of European cities to advancing democracy and engaging their citizens in innovative ways.

Five Cities Competing for the Title of European Capital of Democracy 2026

The competition for the title of European Capital of Democracy 2026 is heating up, with five cities demonstrating their commitment to democratic principles and innovation:

  • Cascais (Portugal)
  • İzmir (Türkiye)
  • Krakow (Poland)
  • Rotterdam (The Netherlands)
  • Sofia (Bulgaria)

These cities, spanning diverse geographic and cultural contexts, join a growing network of 24 ECoD member cities from 15 countries. This initiative underscores the importance of cities as powerful actors in safeguarding and advancing democracy, even in the face of global challenges.

Join the Citizens’ Jury

The selection process for the European Capital of Democracy involves two critical steps. First, an Experts’ Jury evaluates city applications based on rigorous criteria. Then, the final decision lies with the Citizens’ Jury, a group of over 4,500 individuals from Council of Europe member states and Kosovo. The Citizens’ Jury is a unique opportunity for engaged citizens to shape the future of democratic innovation in Europe.

Want to make your voice heard and be part of this exciting process? Join the Citizens’ Jury today! For more information on how to participate, visit the European Capital of Democracy website here.

Join the Citizens’ Jury!

Why It Matters

The European Capital of Democracy initiative plays a transformative role in strengthening democracy by empowering cities to lead the way. As Helfried Carl, Founder of ECoD and Advisory Board Member of ALDA, aptly stated:

“Cities are uniquely positioned to safeguard and advance democracy and human rights as they are closest to the needs of their citizens. In these times of crises, cities have proven to be bulwarks of democracy against an authoritarian wave.”

The title-holding city will work closely with civil society and its citizens to organise a range of engaging activities and events, attracting visitors from across Europe, and fostering collaboration to advance democracy, education, and innovation. The title also will bolster the city’s international reputation as a hub for democratic excellence, promoting civic pride and enhancing its status as a leader in progress. Additionally, the city takes on a leading role in the European City Network and hosts meetings, where representatives from member cities convene to exchange knowledge and best practices in municipal democracy promotion

Stay tuned for more updates as the competition progresses! Together, let’s celebrate the resilience of democracy and the power of local communities.

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As we step into 2025, we reflect on 2024—a year marked by significant achievements—and look ahead to an exciting journey focused on advancing local democracy and promoting good governance, in Europe and beyond. ALDA’s journey within the Citizens, Equality, Rights, and Values (CERV) Programme has been nothing short of impactful. Since 2021, ALDA implemented 15 CERV Projects, together with 117 Partners across 27 Countries, reaching over 3 Million people, for a total of €2,293,297 in EU Funding. The CERV Programme addresses critical issues like equality, rights, and democratic values—the foundation of a thriving European society. ALDA is proud to be a beneficiary, working to support citizens, civil society organisations, and public authorities in creating a more inclusive and cohesive Europe. In 2024, a significant part of our work was made possible thanks to the CERV Operating Grant. The CERV programme recognises ALDA’s activities as vital for defending and advancing EU values across Europe. Through a triennial Framework Agreement, we are among the organisations benefiting from this grant. This support has enabled us, for the second consecutive year, to implement a regranting scheme that finances 11 projects proposed by ALDA members, aimed at promoting civic engagement, the European Parliament Elections, and EU values across Europe.

In 2025, ALDA wants to keep inspiring members and partners to strengthen democracy and will be happy to support them in benefiting from funding opportunities and implement impactful projects in their community.

We encourage interested entities to consult the website at this link: europa.eu/cerv-programme

In 2025, we will further strengthen the ALDA Community, a network of diverse entities—including Local Democracy Agencies (LDAs), ALDA Balkans, ALDA Moldova, ALDA+, ALDA Italia—all working together to foster local democracy, good governance, and citizen engagement across the globe. 

Local Democracy Agencies (LDAs): LDAs are locally registered NGOs, established in partnership with ALDA and committed to the statutes of LDAs as registered at the Congress of Local Authorities of the Council of Europe. While they are independent entities, LDAs maintain strong ties with ALDA through their shared mission of promoting local democracy, citizen participation, and good governance in their respective territories.

ALDA Balkans and ALDA Moldova: These are regional and national branches of ALDA, strategically positioned to address the specific needs and contexts of their regions. ALDA Balkans covers activities in South-East Europe, ensuring a robust presence in the region, while ALDA Moldova focuses on strengthening local governance and democracy within Moldova.

Since 2017, ALDA+ has been ALDA’s Benefit Corporation, specialising in technical assistance, project development, training, and consultancy. As a daughter company of ALDA, ALDA+ provides tailor-made services, supporting local authorities, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders with expertise in project implementation and capacity building. Explore how ALDA+ can support your initiatives with its expertise!

VISIT ALDA+ WEBSITE

ALDA Italia: As a branch of ALDA, ALDA Italia operates at the national level, enhancing ALDA’s ability to address Italian-specific issues while connecting them to broader European and international efforts.

In 2024, we also expanded our outreach to Spanish-speaking regions. The ALDA Newsletter is now available in Spanish, helping us connect more effectively and share updates, insights, and impactful stories with a wider audience. Additionally, ALDA hosted its Annual General Assembly 2024 in Barcelona, where a new network partnership was launched in South America with the support of Diputació de Barcelona (#ALDAMember). Subscribe to our newsletter, now available in 11 languages!

DISCOVER THE HUBS

With 69 active projects, including 9 new, we addressed critical challenges in areas such as youth empowerment, gender equality, climate action, and migration. ALDA’s Thematic Hubs serve as knowledge centers, bringing together expertise, best practices, and targeted initiatives to address pressing challenges. Each hub focuses on a specific theme, enhancing ALDA’s capacity to support local communities, civil society organisations, and public authorities in tackling societal issues.

  • Gender, Inclusion, and Human Rights Hub
    • This hub promotes equity, inclusivity, and diversity in line with ALDA’s Gender Equality and Anti-Discrimination Policy. It supports stakeholders in implementing inclusive communication strategies, addressing gender disparities, and fostering the participation of marginalized groups in local governance.
  • Environment and Climate Action Hub
    • Focused on sustainability and resilience, this hub addresses climate change challenges at the local level. It provides technical support and fosters innovative projects that engage communities in climate action.
  • Migration Hub
    • This hub explores innovative solutions for migrant inclusion and integration, building on projects promoting decentralised approaches to migration, inspired by successful practices in small and medium-sized towns and emphasising local governance’s role in upholding human rights.
  • Civic Engagement Hub
    • ALDA champions active citizenship and participatory democracy through this hub. In 2024 11 ALDA-funded regranting projects focused on the European Parliament Elections and fostering civic engagement across Europe. Workshops and events encouraged local and regional authorities to embrace citizen participation as a core principle of governance while partnerships strengthened advocacy efforts, ensuring citizens’ voices are heard at all levels.
  • Youth Empowerment and Education Hub
    • This hub emphasizes the role of digital tools and e-governance in enhancing transparency, accountability, and civic engagement.
  • Territorial Development Hub
    • The Thematic Hub on territorial and local development serves as a knowledge nucleus, fostering collaboration and innovative solutions for empowered and thriving communities. Territorial and local development are the cornerstones of democracy, as they empower citizens to actively engage in decision-making, foster social cohesion, and ensure equitable opportunities. By decentralising power and promoting community involvement, local development strengthens the foundations of a thriving democratic society.
  • Digital and Innovation Hub
    • This hub emphasises the role of digital tools and e-governance in enhancing transparency, accountability, and civic engagement.

In line with our commitment to inclusivity and evolving perspectives, we are excited to announce a new name for one of our geographical departments. Formerly known as the “Middle East & Africa” (MEA) Department, it will now be called ASWAT: Africa, SouthWest Asia, and Türkiye. Discover more about this change and its significance!

In 2024, ALDA also proudly participated in the 5th Forum de la Démocratie Participative en Afrique (FIDEPA) in Cotonou, Benin. This visit, coinciding with the African Day for Decentralisation and Local Democracy, highlighted the importance of empowering local communities. With Dakar set to host the next edition in 2025, the journey towards advancing participatory democracy across Africa continues.

2024 being the year of elections, most of the countries where ALDA is active also underwent political changes, including at the local level. Through the WE ACT project in Türkiye we could support women candidates running for local elections throughout the whole country: among our beneficiaries, one woman in three was elected as either neighbourhood representative or municipal councillor.

Thanks to our dedicated partners and supporters, 2024 marked a year of significant growth and accomplishments for ALDA.

The expansion of our network in Ukraine was a notable highlight, with more than 30 members from Ukraine now and with the establishment of two new Local Democracy Agencies (LDAs) in Kharkiv and Vinnytsia (opened in 2024) and the signature of the expression of interest to open an LDA in Ovruch. 2025 will be even more crucial for ALDA as we will support the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in its efforts to coordinate the voice of local authorities for the Ukraine Recovery Conference to be held in Rome in July 2025. This event will focus on supporting Ukraine’s recovery and future development towards European integration and the strengthening of democratic values. In addition to this important contribution, we are aiming at opening 5 new LDAs which represent a crucial step forward in fostering local democracy, civic engagement, and resilience in the region, particularly in light of ongoing challenges. 

In 2024 we also celebrated a major milestone: the 20th anniversary of LDA Mostar, a testimony of two decades of impactful work promoting democracy and local development in the Balkans.

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Our pilot ALDA Summer School 2024 on Local Democracy was a great success, fostering collaboration and equipping participants with the tools to enhance local governance. This year, we are excited to announce that the ALDA International School in 2025 will be held from 3 to 5 September, 2025, in Villa Fabris (Thiene, Italy) and it will be an opportunity to focus on research and dialogue on local democracy aimed at educating future local governance leaders. In 2024, ALDA established a Scientific Committee to oversee and guide the activities of this second edition, ensuring its programs reflect cutting-edge research, innovation, and best practices in local democracy, governance, and civic engagement. This initiative marks a significant step in enhancing the school’s impact as a hub for knowledge-sharing and capacity-building.

With 2025 on the horizon, we remain committed to empowering communities and building resilient democracies. Stay tuned for more inspiring projects, success stories, and new opportunities. Does your organisation work in the field of local democracy, good governance and citizen engagement? Become an #ALDAMember and unlock a world of opportunities!

BECOME AN ALDA MEMBER

  • Period:

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  • Countries involved:

    Middle East & Africa

  • Donor:

  • SDG:

  • Lead partner:

  • All partners:

  • Contacts:


    projects@alda-europe.eu

DOCUMENTS

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In the spirit of embracing inclusivity and evolving perspectives, we are excited to announce a transformative change for our geographical department within ALDA. Starting this year, the MEA department, previously known as “Middle East & Africa”, will now be called ASWAT: Africa, SouthWest Asia, and Türkiye.

Let us explain the meaning behind this new name and what it symbolises:

Why ASWAT?

The acronym ASWAT has been thoughtfully chosen to represent:

  • Africa: As a global organisation, we work across the entire African continent, and this change acknowledges our broad scope of action.
  • SouthWest Asia: This term roughly corresponds to what is traditionally referred to as the “Middle East.” However, “SouthWest Asia” is less Eurocentric and more culturally and politically sensitive. By adopting this terminology, we aim to reflect a decolonized perspective and honor the identities of the regions included.
  • Türkiye: Recognising the official preference of the Turkish government to use “Türkiye” internationally, we have chosen to include it as a separate term. This decision acknowledges its geographical and cultural uniqueness, partly in Europe and partly in Asia, and underscores its distinct identity.

Notably, the Arabic word “Aswaat” (أصوات) translates to “voices”, a poetic nod to our mission of amplifying diverse perspectives and fostering dialogue across regions.

A Commitment to Decolonising Language

This name change goes beyond a mere semantic or linguistic shift. It represents a conscious effort within our ALDA community to adopt terminology that respects the regions we serve. As noted by advocates for using “SWANA” (SouthWest Asia and North Africa) instead of “MENA” (Middle East and North Africa), language matters deeply in shaping our understanding and engagement with the world.

By moving away from terms rooted in Eurocentrism, we align ourselves with a broader movement toward decolonizing perspectives and fostering inclusivity. As highlighted in an insightful article on this topic, “it’s more than just a name change: it represents a broader movement towards decolonizing our language and perspectives.”

Supporting a Smooth Transition

We understand that ASWAT may not yet feel familiar, but we are confident that it will soon resonate just as strongly as MEA once did. We hope this change will inspire similar reflections within other organisations, as many in our field are increasingly adopting terms like “SWANA” and “WANA” for the same reasons.

This decision reflects our commitment to a more accurate, respectful, and inclusive representation of the regions where we work. 

What’s Next?

As we shift towards ASWAT, we remain committed to our core mission: supporting local democracy, good governance, and sustainable development across the regions we serve. This new name reflects our values and the respect we hold for the diversity and richness of these areas. 

Stay tuned for more updates and insights from the ASWAT department as we continue working to build bridges and amplify voices worldwide.

For more on the significance of this change, explore our recommended reading here.

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We are thrilled to announce that, due to our growing network in Spanish-speaking countries, the ALDA Newsletter will now be available in Spanish as well! This new addition will help us connect more effectively with our Spanish-speaking community and ensure our valuable content, updates, and insights are accessible to a wider audience.

Our commitment to strengthening ties with Spanish-speaking regions has been further solidified through recent events, such as the IX Conference of the Observatory on Decentralized Cooperation EU-South America, held on November 18-19, 2024, in Bogotá, Colombia and organised by the Diputació de Barcelona, #ALDAMEMBER. The event brought together key stakeholders from both continents to discuss collaborative initiatives, democracy, and social inclusion. It was a remarkable opportunity for ALDA to engage with local and international partners, further expanding our network in South America and highlighting the importance of regional cooperation.

As we continue to expand our reach, the decision to offer our newsletter in Spanish is a natural step toward better serving this growing community. We believe this will allow us to share more updates, insights, and stories of impact with all of you in a language that resonates most.

We are excited to continue building connections, fostering collaboration, and amplifying voices from both Europe and South America. The Spanish-language edition of the newsletter will feature the same important content, but now in a way that ensures inclusivity and accessibility for our Spanish-speaking friends and partners.

Stay tuned for our upcoming Spanish-language editions of the newsletter and thank you for being part of our expanding network!

This addition makes our monthly newsletter available in 11 languages: Spanish, English, French, Italian, Serbo-Croatian, Ukrainian, Russian, Arabic, Moldovan, Georgian, and Armenian. We’re proud to offer such a wide range of languages, ensuring that our content is accessible to a truly global audience!

If you haven’t signed up yet, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter to receive all the latest updates in your preferred language!

SUBSCRIBE

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As the new year begins, the UP2YOU Erasmus+ Project continues to move forward, with new important steps.

UP2YOU is an Erasmus+ funded project aiming at bridging the gap between academic knowledge and on-field expertise, for the purpose of fostering broader local collaborations and cooperating more effectively on the common challenges of our times.

The hackathon represented a milestone in the progress of the project, bringing together students, educators, CSO professionals, and stakeholders from five different countries to embark on a collaborative journey in Cyprus. From November 26–28, 2024, the participants co-designed the Community Balance Scorecard (CBS), a tool for measuring and enhancing community welfare and development. They also co-created key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure progress across various dimensions, such as environmental health, social inclusion, and education accessibility.

A new video is now out, showing the key points of the Hackathon in Cyprus. Watch it to discover the highlights of this inspiring journey and see how cooperation fuels change!

As ALDA, during the Hackathon, we held a webinar about the Living Community Labs (LCL) – a nexus of learning, networking and experimentation that fosters the cooperation between high-level education institutions, CSOs, local authorities and territorial stakeholders on the localisation of the SDGs. A Living Community Lab can at the same time be a virtual platform for training and sharing views, and a real-life community, working on pilot actions at local level.

This first in-presence webinar was meant for the stakeholders to identify the needs of their local communities and the challenges they face. Since the LCL will be implemented in the 5 selected countries, they need to reflect the local context, therefore this first step is of great importance.

What are the next steps for the creation of the LCLs?

  • Local co-design of the concrete functions and priorities of the LCLs, also through the sustain of the Community Balance Scorecard, the tool that was co-created during the Hackathon in Cyprus;
  • Implementation of the LCLs through a pilot action collaboratively decided by the participants to the co-design phase;
  • Re-discussion of the LCLs idea on the basis of the pilot experiments, and adjustments in order to become a sustainable and replicable model.

The future of the project is UP2YOU!

Follow the project’s social media and help promote sustainable and inclusive community development:

VISIT UP2YOU FACEBOOK PAGE
VISIT UP2YOU INSTAGRAM PAGE

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ALDA is happy to invite you to an important event hosted as part of the Innovation Alliance Circular Design (CiD) project! Mark your calendars for February 25-26, 2025, and join us in Barcelona, Spain, for the Responsive Cities Symposium: Design Matter(s) for Decarbonization.

This symposium aligns with the overarching goals of the CiD project, which aims to revolutionise the construction sector by addressing the gaps in green, resilience, and digital skills through a multidisciplinary approach.
By focusing on Circular Design education, entrepreneurship, and the development of green start-ups, the CiD project connects diverse stakeholders across Europe to propel urban transformation, circular economy, and bio-based innovation.

Join Us in Barcelona in February!

The Responsive Cities Symposium 2025 explores the challenges and solutions for creating climate-neutral cities. It will cover topics such as using circular design to improve urban spaces, carbon-negative materials for sustainable construction, and digital tools like building metabolism and digital twins to make cities more resilient. Ethical and sustainable design will also be highlighted, giving attendees practical ideas and different perspectives.

The event offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with international experts, researchers, and practitioners from the fields of architecture, urban design, and product/service design.

By fostering discussions around social, cultural, ecological, and economic sustainability, the symposium underscores the importance of collaboration in designing cities of the future.

In the context of the CiD project, Barcelona hosts one of three Local Observatories, alongside Hannover and Genova. These observatories, in conjunction with three European counterparts, including the European Observatory in Urban Transformation led by ALDA, are at the heart of the project’s mission. Together, they aim to bridge education and research with enterprises and society, while also expanding the network of Circular Design stakeholders and addressing skills mismatches in emerging markets.

The Responsive Cities Symposium 2025 is your chance to contribute to this dynamic and impactful initiative. By participating, you can share your insights and ideas with a global audience, build connections within an active innovation network, and play an important role in shaping sustainable and resilient urban environments.

Together, let’s design the sustainable, resilient cities of tomorrow!

DOCUMENTS

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AT A GLANCE

The project aims at building a better understanding of Restorative Justice in Europe in order to facilitate the collaboration between private and public sector and all the relevant stakeholders involved in the process. Restorative justice, provides a different viewpoint from the common sense and legal conceptualisation of crime and societal responses to it. The objective of restorative justice is to bring together those affected most by the criminal act – the perpetrator, victim, and community members – in a non-confrontational manner to encourage responsibility of the offender and understanding of the impact of the offence on the victim and beyond. This perspective is consistent with the European Directive 2012/29/EU, which promotes the rehabilitation and reintegration into society of individuals who have committed crimes.

However, in order for restorative justice initiatives to be implemented, they must be based on a comprehensive “educational” culture that is shared among the different actors involved in the justice process. In addition to the formal preparation of legal professionals, Civil Society Actors play a crucial role in promoting cohesion, combating social marginality, facilitating educational pathways, and supporting the social and labour reintegration of individuals with criminal convictions.

OBJECTIVES

The specific objectives that the project aims to achieve are the following ones:

  1. to identify the strengths and weaknesses of current practices in the field of restorative justice in Europe
  2. based on the findings from the analysis of SO1, to enhance the skills of essential personnel in this field to encourage and facilitate the adoption of restorative justice initiatives within the local community
  3. to facilitate communication between public and private sector stakeholders to explore effective approaches and establish restorative justice routes on a local scale.