Since its inception in 1999, ALDA has worked tirelessly to promote civic engagement, participatory democracy, and local governance across Europe and beyond. To further enhance its impact and expand its global vision, ALDA has established the Advisory Board, a selected group of experts providing strategic support and technical expertise to the Governing Board and the Association’s thematic initiatives.
ALDA Advisory Board is a diverse team of professionals and specialists drawn from various sectors, regions, and fields of expertise. Acting as a key consultative body, the Advisory Board plays a key role in strengthening ALDA’s initiatives by:
- Providing technical expertise and insights in thematic areas such as citizen engagement, climate and environment, gender and inclusion, youth empowerment, migration, digital innovation, and local development.
- Bridging geographical areas where ALDA operates, offering localised knowledge and fostering strategic partnerships.
- Supporting the Governing Board with tailored advice to inform decision-making processes and future strategic priorities.
This collaborative and multi-dimensional approach allows ALDA to address complex global challenges while maintaining a strong focus on its core mission of fostering participatory democracy.
The Advisory Board aligns its work within ALDA’s Thematic Hubs and it is strategically positioned to enhance ALDA’s work across various regions:
- Europe: experts collaborate with ALDA’s thematic hubs to drive citizen participation, social inclusion, youth engagement, and environmental sustainability. Representatives such as Kirsi Verkka (City of Helsinki), Maite Arrondo (Urban innovation consultant), and others bring critical knowledge and hands-on experience.
Kirsi recently participated in the OECD Innovative Citizen Participation Network meeting on November 18, 2024, in Paris (France). The meeting emphasised the foundational role of trust in fostering democratic engagement and societal cohesion. She engaged in discussions focused on enhancing democratic practices through digital and deliberative participation models, addressing challenges like misinformation, equity of access, and the responsible use of emerging technologies such as AI. The meeting highlighted the need for legislative support, resource allocation, and collaboration among stakeholders to establish effective citizen panels but also the importance of robust tools to evaluate participation initiatives, ensuring transparency and accountability while combating societal polarisation and fostering inclusive governance. She is currently supporting ALDA in developing a training for our members on digital tools for participation.
- Middle East and Africa: professionals like Elif Avci (participatory processes and women empowerment expert in Türkiye), Ahmet Allouch (Youth Without Borders, Tunisia) and Dr. Ibrahim Ndagijimana (GIZ Rwanda) provides insight into governance challenges and opportunities for strengthening civic initiatives in these regions. They have also been invited to key events (Elif Avci participated in the Euro-Mediterranean Civil Society Conference on “Regaining our Shared Humanity” in Barcelona in October 2024), participating as volunteer evaluators of sub-granting project proposals (Elif Avci for WE ACT), giving advice and feedback on strategic matters (for the registration of ALDA in Tunisia by Ahmet Allouch) and on project proposals regarding their areas (Ibrahim Ndagijimana).
- Western Balkans and Eastern Partnership: experts including Senida Mesi (Member of the Albanian Parliament), Inna Volkova (Odesa Rayon Council) and Tamara Ehs (State Councillor of the Baden-Württemberg State Government) act as key connectors, helping ALDA implement impactful projects in these geopolitically significant areas.
The establishment of the Advisory Board reflects ALDA’s commitment to fostering innovation, collaboration, and excellence in all its activities. By combining strategic advice with hands-on expertise, the Advisory Board enables ALDA not only to enhance the quality and scope of its projects and initiatives, foster stronger partnerships with local communities, international organisations and key stakeholders, but also to address emerging challenges in governance, climate, migration, and inclusion with tailored and localised solutions.
The Advisory Board’s work began with its official presentation at the ALDA General Assembly 2023, held in Etterbeek, Belgium.
During the Assembly, members of the Advisory Board met with ALDA’s Governing Board, laying the foundation for a fruitful and strategic collaboration.
ALDA Advisory Board members follow closely ALDA’s work, supporting its initiatives, contributing expertise, and engaging in cross-regional dialogue to advance participatory democracy globally. It exemplifies the power of collaboration and knowledge-sharing in tackling global governance challenges. Through their expertise and commitment, the Advisory Board will support ALDA’s mission to empower local communities, promote civic participation, and build resilient, inclusive societies. As ALDA continues to grow and adapt to a rapidly changing world, the Advisory Board stands as a cornerstone of its global vision, ensuring that ALDA’s work remains impactful, innovative, and responsive to the needs of communities worldwide.