“30 years of the European Committee of the Regions – Local and regional authorities shaping the future of Europe”: this was among the highlights of the 163rd Plenary Session of the European Committee of the Regions, which took place on November 20 – 21, 2024.
The discussion featured contributions from: – Vasco Alves Cordeiro, President of the European Committee of the Regions, – Roberta Métsola, President of the European Parliament – Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, who joined through a video message and several former Presidents of the CoR who reiterated how, over the years, the constant and conscious efforts of local and regional authorities have helped create stronger, more inclusive, sustainable, and more “European” communities.
Specifically, Roberta Métsola emphasised how people need to be heard and cared of in their daily challenges, to which Europe need to provide solutions, from the ground-up, not just from the top-down. In light of this, Metsola mentioned the words of Mrs Maddalena Alberti, Executive Director the Association for the Local Democracy Agency Zavidovici – laureate of the Mayor Paweł Adamowicz Award 2023:
Local Democracy Agency Zavidovici change is the result of a constant long-term commitment. And in our 30 years of joint commitment – continues Metsola – we have seen so much change for the better. So I very much look forward to the next three decades of cooperation and success!
Roberta Metsola’s quote hold great significance for us at ALDA, as it reaffirms the impact of our work at the local level. Her words highlight the essential role of local and regional authorities in building stronger, more inclusive communities, a mission that resonates deeply with our efforts. This recognition is a testament to the dedication and commitment of our members and partners, whose unwavering support drives our shared success. We take immense pride in standing alongside them, working together to create positive change and fostering a more sustainable, European future.
In this occasion, Parliament’s President and political group leaders adopted the following statement marking 1000 days of Russia’s illegal and unjustified war against Ukraine.
ALDA participated in the IX Conference of the Observatory on Decentralized Cooperation EU-Latin America, held on November 18-19, 2024, in Bogotá, Colombia. The event gathered key stakeholders from Europe and Latin America to foster dialogue and collaboration on decentralised cooperation and democratic resilience.
Marco Boaria, ALDA’s Director of Programs and Corporate Strategy, made significant contributions by emphasising the essential roleofLocal Democracy Agencies. LDAs serve as essential tools for decentralised cooperation, participatory governance, and peacebuilding in fragile contexts and their ability to actively engage local communities make them powerful drivers for rebuilding trust and strengthening the democratic fabric in challenging contexts.
A Strong Partnership with Diputació de Barcelona
The conference was organised by ALDA’s strategic partner, the Diputació de Barcelona, featuring key speakers as Ms. Maria Eugènia Gay Rosell, ALDA’s Governing Board Member. Together, we are committed to implementing impactful projects, exchanging best practices, and leveraging a robust international network to promote democratic resilience and local participation.
ALDA’s participation aligns with its new strategic pathway, adopted during the General Assembly in Barcelona, which highlights ALDA’s dedication to fostering democratic resilience and its increased focus on Latin America as a key region for democracy-building and international cooperation.
Marco’s interventions further reinforced ALDA’s mission to act as a bridge between regions, showcasing how local democracy agencies can be both inclusive governance instruments and catalysts for international collaboration.
The IX Conference served as platform for exchanging ideas and fostering dialogue between participants from diverse Latin American countries.
Stay tuned to discover how ALDA and Diputació de Barcelona will continue shaping impactful initiatives that promote peace, democracy, and local engagement across Latin America and beyond. This shared vision will continue to guide their efforts in building a more inclusive and participatory democratic landscape.
As the second round of the first edition of THE:PLACE programme is well underway, ALDA and MAD as coordinators have engaged in a series of visits of the programme beneficiaries these last weeks. THE:PLACE programme is based on the idea that social and spatial challenges encountered in Türkiye and the EU countries often share similar origins, even if they are not exactly the same. Local actors, civil society organisations, and local authorities in this context, have much to gain by collaborating and joining their forces to make a meaningful impact. The programme, therefore, targets to enhance CSOs’ capacity and facilitate the exchange of knowledge and cooperation among them. As much, it encourages collaboration with local authorities through quadrilateral partnerships.
Visits to Youth ID and ACORT in France: come along the way of upcycling workshops and photo exhibitions 🇫🇷
Since both beneficiaries are based in Paris, ALDA and MAD paid an initial visit to Youth ID and ACORT in September. As a reminder, the program relies on partnerships between the EU and Turkish Civil Society Organisations, hence, Youth ID developed a joint project with Karaman Youth Center Association on sustainable fashion among youth. Thus, we had the occasion to visit the French association’s local activities, such as an upcycling workshop to reuse old clothes donated from various fashion brands, where participants could upgrade to their liking a piece of clothing and take it back with them to fully enjoy them in style.
The same week, the ALDA team visited ACORT, a long-established French Turkish diaspora association working in a close partnership with TTM. Their joint project centres on empowering women’s voices, particularly through photographic exhibitions that highlight women’s experiences in urban settings.
Later on, on November 2, Youth ID pulled out all the stops by hosting a giant “youth market” at the renowned “La Recyclerie” third-place in Paris. The event kicked off with an engaging discussion featuring sustainable fashion creators such as Sarah Slimani or Cent Neuf, followed by a massive thrift market along with an upcycling stop, a concert with artists for all tastes, an associative village showcasing local organisations, and a fashion show featuring sustainably crafted outfits. The event was a great success with more than 400 people attending!
Visit to FoCo in Italy: how to better think migrant integration in local communities 🇮🇹
ALDA and MAD visited in October the beneficiary FoCo in Cosenza, which is partnering with the Turkish cooperative Urban Koop. Together, they hosted a three-day event featuring conferences and visits to refugee welcome centres across Cosenza and its province. Key stakeholders from Italy, Türkiye, and Malta discussed strategies for building resilient organisations that can effectively integrate refugees and migrants into local communities. One of the main focuses was exploring the cooperative model as a means to achieve these goals. The visits included stops at centres for unaccompanied minors in Cosenza and Cariati (Italy), providing valuable insights into the similarities and differences in the operations and objectives of such organisations compared to those in Türkiye. Additionally, the discussions highlighted the political role of communities and diasporas in shaping integration dynamics. Our beneficiaries have much more to offer in the upcoming months, stay tuned!
From November 13 to 15, 2024, the FOCUS Project, funded by the European Commission, hosted an International Training of Multipliers at Centro Di Servizio Per Il Volontariato (#ALDAMember) in Vicenza, Italy. The event aimed to promote the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights and equip project partners with the knowledge, tools and strategies to implement capacity-building activities locally. By emphasising the Charter as a key instrument for advancing human rights, strengthening democracy and protecting fundamental freedoms, the training enhanced participants’ understanding of its applications, enabling them to drive impactful initiatives in their communities.
The event was led byJakub Jaraczewski, Research Coordinator at Democracy Reporting International, and organised by ALDA. Over the course of three days, participants engaged in an intensive program that combined theoretical insights, real-world case studies, and practical strategies for promoting and protecting fundamental rights. The training provided a collaborative space where stakeholders could exchange knowledge and develop actionable approaches to integrate the Charter into their advocacy efforts.
Understanding the Charter and its Impact through Case Studies and Practical Applications
The first day of the training introduced the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, delving into its history, purpose, and key provisions. Participants explored its role in safeguarding civil and political rights, gaining a deeper understanding of how the Charter can be effectively applied in various contexts. To ground the discussion in real-world issues, the day featured an in-depth case study, “Electricity Meters in Rome Districts,” which examined discriminatory electricity meter placements in marginalised communities in Rome. This case highlighted systemic inequality, raising critical questions about equal access to public services and legal remedies available to affected residents.
The second day shifted toward practical implementation strategies, focusing on economic, social, and cultural rights. Participants explored capacity-building techniques designed to support local authorities (LAs) and communities, ensuring that advocacy and legal frameworks align with national and regional regulations. The discussions were further enriched by the case study “Retirement Challenges for Urban Farmers,” which explored the legal and social barriers faced by elderly agricultural workers in urban environments. This session emphasised the need for policy adjustments and social protections to ensure that vulnerable groups are not left behind.
Advocacy, Local Implementation, and EU Funding
The final day was dedicated to advocacy strategies and European funding opportunities, equipping participants with practical tools to drive change. A crucial component of the session was the case study“The so-called ‘LGBT-free’ Zones in Poland,” which examined the exclusionary policies affecting LGBTQ+ communities. This discussion reinforced the importance of grassroots advocacy, strategic litigation, and EU legal frameworks in combating discrimination and promoting inclusivity.
To ensure long-term impact, the training concluded with a comprehensive session on EU funding mechanisms, offering insights into how financial resources can support local human rights initiatives. Participants learned how to navigate funding applications, identify relevant grants, and secure financial support for their advocacy efforts. By empowering stakeholders with these resources, the FOCUS Project aims to ensure that human rights work remains sustainable and effective in the long run.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening Democracy through the Charter
By equipping key stakeholders with the tools, knowledge, and strategies to advocate for fundamental rights, the FOCUS Project is fostering a more informed and engaged society. The training in Vicenza represents an opportunity in ensuring that the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights is not just a legal document, but a living framework that actively protects and empowers individuals across Europe.
With ongoing collaboration among its partners, the project is laying the foundation for a stronger, rights-based democratic culture at all levels of society. As participants return to their respective countries, they carry with them enhanced expertise and practical strategies to drive meaningful change within their communities, making the Charter a powerful tool for justice, equality, and democracy.
GINEVRA project partners gathered in the historic city of Varaždin (Croatia) for the Fourth Partners Meeting, uniting representatives from cities across Central Europe in a collaborative effort to advance urban mobility and transformative governance. This event, which took place on November 6 and 7, 2024, provided a platform for partners to align on strategic goals, share practical insights, and explore pioneering technologies set to shape the future of urban mobility in Central Europe.
Building Strategies for Sustainable Urban Innovation
The meeting sessions, held at the Student Centre Varaždin, opened with updates on project progress and recent achievements. An overview of Work Package 1 highlighted key frameworks for citizen-centred governance, addressing how cities can responsibly integrate autonomous vehicles and other transformative innovations. Strategic discussions continued with insights on the next steps, including project demonstrations in Cesena (Italy), Bad Schoenborn (Germany), and Varaždin (Croatia), marking important phases in implementing autonomous mobility solutions within real urban settings. An interactive session led by the Technical University of Wien and ALDA+ invited partners to share best practices, experiences, and local perspectives on their respective pilot projects. This collaborative exchange deepened the project’s focus on creating adaptable solutions that cater to each city’s unique challenges and aspirations, reinforcing a shared commitment to sustainable urban governance.
Study Visit: A Glimpse into the Future of Mobility
The second day included a hands-on study visit, starting with the Varaždin Airport pilot area, a real-world testbed for GINEVRA’s initiatives in autonomous mobility. This visit underscored the potential of integrating autonomous technologies to improve urban services and enhance citizen experiences. Partners then had a tour of Rimac Automobili, a leader in electric and autonomous vehicle innovation. Observing Rimac’s cutting-edge advancements offered a concrete vision of how forward-thinking technology can support sustainable urban transport, highlighting the balance between innovation and responsible governance, a core tenet of GINEVRA’s mission.
Looking Ahead: Shaping Central Europe’s Urban Future
The Fourth GINEVRA Partners Meeting in Varaždin was a significant step in advancing the project’s mission to empower Central European cities with sustainable, citizen-oriented technology solutions. Through the insights, partnerships, and strategies fostered over these two days, the GINEVRA consortium strengthened its dedication to responsible innovation in urban governance, setting a foundation for impactful, long-term transformation across the region. As the GINEVRA project moves forward, partners remain focused on developing governance models that ensure technological advancements contribute positively to urban life. With every meeting, study visit, and collaborative effort, the project inches closer to its vision of resilient, future-ready cities that prioritise inclusivity and sustainability. Stay tuned for more updates as GINEVRA partners advance their mission, bringing transformative urban solutions to life across Central Europe.
ALDA is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2025-2027 intake of the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master on Climate Change and Diversity: Sustainable Territorial Development (CCD-STeDe). This program, coordinated by the University of Padova, offers a unique two-year, 120 ECTS Master’s Degree designed to prepare future leaders in sustainable territorial development amidst global climate and environmental challenges. Applications for the first call will remain open until February 15, 2025.
ALDA, as a professional partner of the program, proudly supports this initiative that aligns with our commitment to sustainable development and local democracy.
The CCD-STeDe program stands out for its inclusive, high-quality, and multi-lingual approach. The course is structured across four distinct academic paths, each combining in-person, blended, and online teachings in partnership with renowned institutions worldwide:
Path 1: Climate Change, Sustainability, Development
Partners: University of Padova (Italy), Universidad Andina Simón Bolívar (Ecuador)
Languages: English and Spanish
Path 2: Regional and Local Studies
Partners: University of Padova (Italy), Universidade da Madeira (Portugal)
Languages: English and Portuguese
Path 3: Territorial Management
Partners: University of Padova (Italy), Université Joseph KI-ZERBO (Burkina Faso)
Languages: English and French
Path 4: Environmental Management
Partners: University of Padova (Italy), University of Johannesburg (South Africa)
Languages: English and French
Graduates receive either a double degree (Paths 1, 2, 3) or a joint degree (Path 4, awarded by the University of Padova and the University of Johannesburg).
Consortium Partners: The CCD-STeDe program is powered by an international consortium that includes five universities and four professional partners dedicated to advancing sustainable territorial development:
With support from the European Union, the program offers 20 Erasmus Mundus scholarships annually for the top-ranked candidates worldwide. Other applicants may qualify for partial support, a fee waiver, or self-funding options.
For more information and to apply, visit the CCD-STeDe website at ccd-stede.eu.
On November 4 and 5, 2024, the conference “Democracy in Exile: Empowering Local Democracy and Civil Society for Belarus” was held in Gdansk, Poland.
The event convened Belarusian civil society organisations and activists, both inside the country and abroad in exile, who continue to face immense challenges amidst ongoing political repression and instability in the Eastern Partnership (EaP) region. Despite the risks of persecution, restrictions on freedom, and constant surveillance, these organisations continue to work relentlessly to maintain their activities and continue advocating for justice and freedom.
In his opening remarks, Irakli Jgharkava, Southern Caucasus and Central Asia Coordinator, focused on the importance of building democratic resilience within the EaP, especially in fragile and challenging contexts. He highlighted the need to support Belarusian civil society by addressing their specific needs, fostering partnerships with experienced democracy advocates, and developing effective strategies to sustain democratic efforts both in exile and locally. Additionally, he underscored the critical role of diaspora communities in fostering local democratic participation, connecting this to ALDA’s migration initiatives. The speech concluded with a moment of silence in remembrance of war victims, emphasising the urgency of collective action to promote peace and democracy.
Antonella Valmorbida, ALDA Secretary General, followed with heartfelt acknowledgments, expressing gratitude to the city of Gdansk and its partners for their commitment to democratic resilience in the EaP region. She highlighted ALDA’s long-standing support for Belarus and the EaP, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding with the Committee of the Regions, and underscored democracy’s role as a cornerstone of social well-being. Drawing from ALDA’s extensive work across themes such as migration, digitalisation, and gender equality, she referenced impactful initiatives, including those in Mariupol (Ukraine), to illustrate the organisation’s ongoing commitment. Mrs. Valmorbida stressed the importance of connecting participants with ALDA’s efforts to strengthen local democracy, fostering collaboration with Belarusian partners while learning from the experiences of Georgia and Ukraine. She concluded by introducing ALDA’s migration flagship initiative, inviting participants to explore its impact further throughout the day.
The city of Gdansk, represented by its Mayor Aleksandra Dulkiewicz, welcomed participants, emphasising its symbolic role as a hub of solidarity and freedom and highlighting its long-standing partnership with ALDA.
Addressing the Belarusian context, the Mayor acknowledged the challenges faced by the country, drawing parallels to Moldova and Georgia while reflecting on Poland’s own democratic struggles. Mrs. Dulkiewicz stressed the critical role of local CSOs, NGOs, and grassroots initiatives in driving democratic change, citing Poland’s progress as an example of their impact.
Recalling Poland’s history with martial law and the Solidarity movement, she highlighted the power of persistence and readiness for change, even when the timeline is uncertain.
Held in Gdansk, a city symbolising solidarity, the conference reaffirmed the enduring fight for democracy and justice in the region
The opening speeches were followed by a panel discussion exploring the role of diasporas in advancing efforts to restore democracy in Belarus. This was complemented by a workshop, initiated by ALDA, on the potential establishment of a Local Democracy Agency for Belarus in Exile.
The first day concluded with a presentation on ALDA’s Migration Flagship initiative, delivered by Andrea Rilievo, member of ALDA’s Governing Board, and Mohammed Moustafa, Coordinator of the Migration Hub.
The second day of the event featured two insightful panels: “Updating the State of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Belarus and in Exile” and “Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing Between Belarusian and Georgian CSOs.”The day concluded with a powerful screening of a documentary on the 1993 conflict in Abkhazia, Georgia—a poignant historical parallel to the current situation unfolding in Ukraine.
The “Democracy in Exile: Empowering Local Democracy and Civil Society for Belarus” conference showcased the resilience and determination of Belarusian civil society in the face of immense challenges. Over two days, panels, workshops, and a moving documentary screening highlighted the critical role of solidarity and collaboration in sustaining democratic efforts, both in exile and within Belarus.
The event closed with a powerful message of hope and determination. Despite the obstacles, the commitment of Belarusian CSOs, diaspora communities, and international allies like ALDA continues to inspire progress. Held in Gdansk, a city symbolising solidarity, the conference reaffirmed the enduring fight for democracy and justice in the region.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the German Marshall Fund and to the City of Gdansk for their generous support and dedication to this vital cause.
The E-VOICE project was created with communities to reflect on the post-pandemic European Union from the point of view of solidarity between citizens, especially young people, and democratic participation in local communities.
The final conference took place across Padua, Venice, and Gazzo Padovano, featured experts in law, governance, and community engagement and presented findings from the E-VOICE survey. Here are the main takeaways from these impactful events.
On October 24th in Padua, speakers including Lawyer Paola Martin, Professor Messina, and Jacopo Massaro discussed the importance of the concept of resilience, from the theoretical basis to its application in real local contexts. In particular, These community-led initiatives allow local populations to produce, share, and use renewable energy, reducing dependence on external sources and enhancing local economic stability.
In Venice, Luciano Sandonà, President of the Regional Permanent First Commission, led a press conference focusing on the importance of regional support for community resilience projects. Paolo Pilotto, project manager of Comune di Gazzo and leader of the project, also took this opportunity to disseminate the activities and presented the project, its achievements and activities.
In Padua, conference attendees visited theCucine Economiche Popolari, a longstanding charitable organisation that supports vulnerable populations with meals and essential services. This site visit provided a hands-on perspective on grassroots resilience efforts, highlighting the importance of social support networks during economic challenges. The Cucine Economiche Popolari demonstrates that resilience is not just about infrastructure but also about supporting and caring for individuals within the community.
The final event in Gazzo featured the presentation of the E-VOICE survey results, a study capturing how the pandemic and the early post-pandemic was experienced, also measuring citizens’ perception of closeness to institutions, from local to European, and identifies priorities to suggest to administrators. The E-VOICE survey provided insight into how 267 respondents, primarily young people aged 15 to 29, experienced the pandemic and its immediate aftermath. Among these respondents, 65.92% were women, 31.09% held a Master’s degree or higher, and 44.94% were employed, with 38.52% residing in towns of 10,000 to 100,000 people and 31.46% in smaller villages. The survey revealed that distance learning had been widely implemented in high schools and universities across partner countries, easing academic demands but also intensifying feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and boredom. Nearly one-third (30.71%) reported never feeling free during this period. Social activities also shifted, with 23.30% of respondents stopping sports and 16.85% reducing their participation, while volunteering saw a mix of reductions and new engagements. Economically, the pandemic left many respondents in precarious positions, with 68.16% experiencing job losses and nearly half without social security, while only 22.10% received economic aid from institutions. The survey captures a nuanced view of young citizens’ experiences and highlights their evolving priorities and expectations from local to European institutions.
Another interesting point of the discussion was Manuela Marsano’s intervention, representing Italy’s CERV (Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values Programme) contact point, discussed CERV’s support for European initiatives promoting democratic values and social resilience, inviting European authorities and entities to apply for grants aligned with CERV’s mission.
As Europe faces ongoing social and environmental challenges, initiatives like E-VOICE are critical in guiding policy and inspiring civic action, paving the way for local communities to learn and be prepared for the challenges ahead.
This article was produced with the support of the European Union. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of ALDA – The European Association of Local Democracy and can in no way be considered as reflecting the views of the European Union.
“The Middle East conflict has been a key driver for various forms of intercommunity hatred, dehumanisation of the ‘other’ and radicalisation for many decades. The ongoing escalation since 7th October 2023 has brought the polarisation to unprecedented levels. It is time for civil society across the Euro-Mediterranean region to come together for a constructive, fact-based, and inclusive discussion on how to counter this dangerous trend, which undermines social cohesion, and intergroup relations and thwarts regional peace efforts.”
For this reason, On October 26 and 27, 2024, IEMed and the EEAS have convened the EuroMed Civil Society Conference “Reclaiming our shared humanity – Promoting mutual understanding and countering polarisation in the Euro-Mediterranean region”. ALDA was invited to share our experiences in the panel “From Polarisation to ‘Re-humanisation’, Deradicalisation and Peacebuilding: Enabling Women’s Agency”.
In this context, Giulia Sostero – Coordinator of the Middle East & Africa Department, could present the two EU-funded projects PARFAIT – PARticipation des Femmes pour l’Avancement et l’Innovation de la Tunisie (Participation of Women for the Advancement and Innovation of Tunisia) and WE ACT – Women Empowerment and ACTion in politics and media. These two projects, implemented respectively in Tunisia from 2017 to 2020 and in Türkiye from January 2023 and ongoing, both aim at women empowerment in politics and public life at the local level, and had a similar structure of activities, involving local partners in capacity building activities, accompanying women candidates to the municipal elections in both countries, and managing a sub-granting scheme benefitting grassroot women NGOs.
Especially through the sub-granted projects, these two projects present many examples on how women can be further empowered as actors of policy-making and community building, therefore contributing to peacebuilding. Both projects also helped us draw some takeaways that feel more necessary than ever to be reminded in an extremely conflictual context: an unequal society cannot be peaceful, and no peacebuilding effort can be successful and legitimate without the meaningful involvement of half of the society it seeks to target. In both countries, we could also see great examples of solidarity as the main value driving collaboration, and overcoming political differences among women candidates.
The Euro-Med Civil Society Conference has represented a great space for reflection and dialogue on the involvement of youth and the role of media in the increasing polarisation of Euro-Mediterranean societies. Institutional speakers, such as Josep Borrell, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the European Commission, as well as HRH Princess Rym Ali, President of the Anna Lindh Foundation, have taken the stage to share their deep engagement in fighting against the worrying inhumanity which is permeating political choices and reactions to the conflict. Indeed, this commitment by institutions is vital for peace to be sustainable, along with the recognition of the key role of civil society organisations both on the ground and at the international level.
The main speeches and outcomes of the conference are available at this link
The event culminated with the formulation of the Barcelona Declaration on Reclaiming our Shared Humanity, a collective engagement to hold on to the values that keep us together. As ALDA, we have also collectively formulated and published a Statement on the ongoing conflict in Palestine and Lebanon: ALDA condemns the ongoing human rights violations in Palestine and Lebanon, and calls for an immediate ceasefire. As ALDA, we advocate for a long-term solution of the conflict based on peaceful coexistence, supported by international institutions, that will allow all Palestinians and Israelis, as well as Lebanese people, to live in dignity.
The AMIL project is a dedicated initiative aimed at improving the long-term integration of Third Country Nationals (TCNs) into the European labour market. Building on the Migrants Economic Integration Cluster (MEIC) approach from the AMIF-funded LIME project, AMIL is designed to establish local partnerships in Cyprus and Greece, where TCNs will benefit from tailored socio-economic inclusion pathways. At the same time, AMIL extends this local model to national, regional, and European levels, promoting a multi-level, multi-stakeholder approach to integration. By institutionalising an integrated service system and strengthening European networks, the project ensures that its impact will reach well beyond the project’s lifetime.
ALDA’s Contribution to AMIL: Empowering Stakeholders and Enhancing Reach
As a key partner in the AMIL project, ALDA plays a vital role in advancing the project’s goals. ALDA leads Work Package 4 (WP4), which focuses on effective dissemination of project methodologies and results, including the MEIC model. Known for its extensive network of almost 300 members across Europe and its Neighbourhood countries, ALDA mobilises a diverse coalition of local authorities, civil society organisations, and grassroots associations. ALDA’s contribution ensures that AMIL’s methodologies and learnings are shared widely, amplifying the project’s potential for sustainable impact across the continent.
Recently, ALDA has provided essential technical support through a series of webinars on the MEIC model in Greece, Italy, and Cyprus. These sessions, which gathered local and national stakeholders, aimed at capacity building on MEIC (Migrants Economic Integration Clusters) methodology, highlighting the importance of a bottom-up approach, involving various social actors at different levels, and the need for a conducive environment to facilitate inclusive actions.
AMIL Community of Interest (CoI): Strengthening the European Network for Third Country Nationals (TCN) Integration
To extend the project’s reach and foster a broad, inclusive network, AMIL has established a Community of Interest (CoI). These are groups of people who share a common concern, set of problems, or interest in a topic, and who come together to fulfil both individual and group goals. The practice involves the shared resources, tools, language, and methods for addressing issues within members that develop over time, creating a collective repository of knowledge and skills.
The CoI invites EU stakeholders—including local authorities, NGOs, vocational training providers, and migrant-led associations—to join a collaborative platform dedicated to sustainable labour market integration for TCNs. Through ALDA’s network, which includes actors from over 40 countries, CoI members gain access to shared resources, tools, and practices aimed at advancing integration efforts at multiple levels.
Benefits of Joining the CoI
Learning and Networking: Access capacity-building opportunities like training, webinars, and networking events, promoting shared learning on effective migrant inclusion practices.
Strategic Collaboration: Engage in discussions with actors from across Europe to exchange insights on integration strategies and scalable solutions.
Practical Application: Gain direct exposure to locally tailored approaches under the MEIC model, with guidance on adapting these solutions in new contexts.
Contributing to the CoI
Joining the CoI allows members to actively contribute to knowledge-sharing efforts, scaling successful integration measures, and collaborating on new practices for migrant inclusion. Members participate in events, webinars, and working groups, positioning themselves as integral partners in AMIL’s mission.
Joining the Community of Interest of the AMIL project isn’t just an opportunity to stay informed; it’s a chance to make a lasting impact on the labour market integration landscape for migrants across Europe.
As part of the Get The Trolls Out project—an initiative aimed at countering hateful narratives in media and online spaces that fuel fear and division—ALDA works to identify and address negative portrayals of Judaism, Islam, Christianity, and other religions in traditional and digital media across the French landscape.
In this context, a recent article published by Valeurs Actuelles, a French newspaper known for its hardline stance against migrants and Islam, included selected excerpts from essayist Jean-Paul Brighelli’s latest book.
In “L’École sous emprise”, former teacher Jean-Paul Brighelli criticizes a supposed “morality police” within French schools, which he claims allows fanaticism and Islamism to thrive, with detrimental effects on the intellectual and social development of children.
The excerpts chosen by Valeurs Actuelles and much of Brighelli’s commentary rely on familiar anti-Islam tropes—precisely the kind of narratives that the Get The Trolls Out project aims to challenge and debunk.
Jean-Paul Brighelli, French schools, and Islam
Jean-Paul Brighelli regularly contributes to the anti-system media, such as Marianne (traditionally left-wing), Front Populaire, Boulevard Voltaire, or Valeurs Actuelles (right-wing). He directs most of his criticism at the French school system which, according to him, “tellslies from nursery school right up to the Capes exam,” and is led by “morons.”
Brighelli explores several solutions to this problem in his books, from a return to morality and order in classrooms, to adding special provisions against Islam under the law on the separation of the State and religions.
In his most recent work, Jean-Paul Brighelli expands on the supposed influence of Islam in schools. The content of the pamphlet can be summarised in three points:
Schools and teachers must be stricter to counter this “school jihad”.
Furthermore, Jean-Paul Brighelli cites recent criminal events (that have, for the most part, nothing to do with schools) to justify his arguments and viewpoints. For instance, the selected excerpts mention the aggression of a girl on a school bus in Achenheim for not behaving according to Ramadan rules, or how another girl was beaten in Montpellier for wearing “European” clothes. These events, Brighelli says, create a climate of fear and tension that favours the rise of Islamism in French schools.
This method of using “various events” to call for political decisions is fundamentally flawed: it does not address the root causes of the problems at hand and oversimplifies complex situations.
Furthermore, the author mixes various concepts – religion, gender issues, crime, the schooling system, wokism, feminism etc. – have about as much to one another as Brighelli has with decency. In a single paragraph, Brighelli pretends that the “intersectionality of struggles [assumes] that a woman raped by a Muslim should not lodge a complaint on the risk of being considered racist [and commands that] the veil is wrong in Iran, but it’s right [in France]”. For a former teacher, we could have expected more nuance in his words.
The myth of “Cultural incompatibility”
Brighelli, like many a writer from the right-wing nebula, falls culprit of using some well-known — and well debunked — tropes of anti-Islam hate speech.
Mainly, that Islam is incompatible with Western values and society. This belief warns that traditional Western values are at the risk of disappearing if Western countries attempt to accommodate immigration from Muslim-majority countries.
However, this belief negates the long history of Muslims in Western societies, from their contributions to academic disciplines and culture, to their presence in Europe for generations.
Finally, Brighelli inaccurately delivers an analysis that is solely based on isolated violent events, some of which have nothing to do with schools, but only contribute to the stigmatisation of Muslims and migrants.
Reception of Jean-Paul Brighelli’s book
However problematic the ideas of Jean-Paul Brighelli are, the author’s influence seems rather slim in French media. Jean-Paul Brighelli appears on several occasions in anti-establishment, anti-migrant, and anti-Islam media such as Valeurs Actuelles, Boulevard Voltaire, or Marianne. But apart from a video interview with Le Figaro (centre-right) a month ago, his book remained largely confidential.
However, this is not to say that his ideas are not shared by others.
This article by Valeurs Actuelles is very much an example of how the far-right nebulae sees Islam, migration, and progressive ideas: problems that will ultimately lead to the demise of traditional Western values and the victory of Islamism over France.
But projects like Get The Trolls Out will continue to identify and report on similar religious-based hate speech incidents, and most importantly, advocate for and empower people to fight against hate in our societies.
For more information on GTTO or its partners, click here!
The opening session started with introductory words by Durmish Guri, Director of Projects and Programmes of CEMR, and Nataša Vučković, President of ALDA. They both highlighted the key role of local and regional governments (LRGs) in the strategic foresight planning, and the need to engage the LRGs in the fight against climate change.
Nadia Di Iulio, Project Manager at ALDA, briefly presented the FOSTER project framing the conference.
As a keynote speaker, the Conference was proud to announce Riyong Kim, Head of Programme, Sustainability Transitions at the European Environment Agency. Ms Kim presented the recent EEA’s publication focusing on Sustainability governance under highly uncertain and complex conditions. She also highlighted the strategic policy considerations to take into account when foresight planning.
The opening session was followed by the panel debate “Local and regional policy-making for a sustainable future”. Moderated by Antonella Valmorbida, Secretary General of ALDA, this session was the occasion to hear from policy experts and a mayor about their experiences and hear about strategic foresight for climate change from different points of view. In this sense, Henrique Simões, Policy analyst in the Climate Action Research and Tracking Service of the European Parliament Research Service described the positions and research of the research institute on climate change at EU and local level. Jānis Vītoliņš, Mayor of Ventspils in Latvia, showcase some good practices and examples on how to deal with the local consequences of climate changes. Pierluigi Brombo, Head of Unit at the European Economic and Social Committee, gave the audience an introduction on strategic foresight and its dimensions, giving some of the basics about foresight planning. Finally, Eamonn Noonan, Consultant and former European official, discussed the participatory dimension of strategic foresight.
The afternoon session took the form of an experts’ talk and peer exchange, hosting FOSTER project partners who discussed key aspects in strategic foresight, from the perspective of different organisations and countries. Moderated by Pedro Bizarro, CEMR Project Lead – Climate, Energy & Urban Development, was divided around two thematic panels: Foresight and strategic planning and Governance, participation and communication.
To mention some, in the first panel, Flavia Pesca from IRS (Italy), gave practical examples on how to shape the future with participatory foresight. Evita Agapitou and Ioanna Stogiannari from IASIS (Greece) presented data collection techniques within crisis intervention methodologies.
In the second panel, the first intervention was from Elena Simeonova, UBBSLA (Bulgaria) who described the decentralisation challenges in the Black sea region. Mihaela Damian from AMR (Romania), talked about the implementation of citizens participation in the decision making process at the local level. The last intervention of the day was presented by Manal Snidi, Communication officer from ALDA, and focused on inclusive communication tips.
After the experts’ talk, Nadia Di Iulio thanked the participants, and the Conference was closed.
The day was concluded by a Networking aperitif, and ended at 5:30.
The FOSTER conference brought together experts and local leaders to work together on creating strong, prepared communities across Europe, focusing on practical ideas and new ways to make policies
The Public conference gathered almost 100 participants, coming from a wide range of European countries, organisations and backgrounds. Indeed, the Conference welcomed representatives of several national associations of local and regional governments (Denmark, Latvia or Portugal) as CEMR members, representatives of think tanks and research institutes such as EPD, but also officers from the Brussels municipality, and representatives from the EU institutions (European Parliament, European Commission).
On the following days, 10-11 October, the Training of Trainers took place at CEMR headquarter.
The ToT was addressed to partners only, with the scope to:
build a common understanding and language on foresight and participatory democracy.
build and\or improve partners’ capacities and knowledge around the two main project pillars (participatory democracy and strategic foresight)
set the basis for the local cascade training (WP3) and the local path (WP6-8-10-12)
The ToT lasted 1 day and a half (total of 8h) and was structured in 4 modules:
Participatory democracy
Foresight and scenario planning
Inclusive communication
Gender and anti discrimination policy
The training was conducted by ALDA and IRS as partner experts respectively on Module 1, 3, 4 and Module 2.
In the first training day (10 October), ALDA opened the morning session bringing partners into the Module 1 – Participatory democracy
The afternoon session was dedicated to Module 2 – Foresight and scenario planning, conducted by the IRS.
The second training day was conducted by ALDA who introduced the Module 3 and 4, and partners took the occasion to meet in presence and hold a SC meeting, to review the project workflow, clarify some tasks, discuss and plan the next steps.
The overall event, conference and training, were an opportunity for the participants, and for the FOSTER project’s partners, to hear from other experts in the field of strategic foresight, from theoretical and practical point of views, with different layers and levels of understanding.
Moreover, the event was the occasion for all the partners to meet for the first time. This meeting helped with the building of a common understanding around the initiative, and made the partners get a sense of consortium and partnership around the FOSTER project.
About the project
FOSTER aims to contribute to the development of governance frameworks that can effectively and inclusively address future environmental challenges at local level, by fostering strategic foresight and preventative local management of climate change-related phenomena. Started in September 2024, during the project, participants build capacity for foreseeing and analysing future socio-economic needs as consequences of climate change at local level; as well as, co- designing potential solutions bringing together all relevant stakeholders and community representatives at public and private level. Finally, international online networks are created to share best practices, materials and widely raise the debate on future oriented environmental governance.
Giovedì 7 novembre, il Liceo Corradini di Thiene (Italia) ha ospitato un importante evento di formazione nell’ambito del progetto Valuebox, organizzato da ALDA+ in collaborazione con l’istituto. Questa iniziativa, finanziata dal programma Erasmus+, è volta a sostenere docenti ed educatori nella loro preparazione per insegnare i Valori Comuni Europei, con particolare attenzione alla Carta dei Diritti Fondamentali dell’Unione Europea.
L’evento ha messo in evidenza l’approccio innovativo del progetto Valuebox, che utilizza metodi di gamification per rendere l’apprendimento coinvolgente e adattabile alle esigenze degli studenti. Durante l’incontro, la dirigente scolastica, Dottoressa Marina Maino, ha sottolineato l’importanza di infondere una visione europea nell’insegnamento e ha ricordato come ALDA rappresenti una realtà profondamente integrata nel territorio di Thiene, in particolare attraverso la gestione condivisa di Villa Fabris, un bene comune recuperato e valorizzato grazie alla collaborazione di diverse associazioni, tra cui ALDA.
Marco Boaria, Direttore dei programmi di ALDA e ALDA+, ha raccontato la storia e l’evoluzione della comunità ALDA, evidenziando l’importanza che il settore dell’istruzione riveste nei progetti sostenuti dall’organizzazione. Il suo intervento ha offerto uno spunto prezioso sull’impegno di ALDA nel promuovere l’educazione civica e i valori europei attraverso progetti partecipativi.
Nell’Aula Magna del Liceo Corradini, i docenti presenti, provenienti da scuole di Vicenza, Schio e Thiene, hanno partecipato con entusiasmo. Dopo una sessione introduttiva sugli elementi principali del progetto Valuebox, sono stati divisi in gruppi di lavoro per sperimentare e discutere i materiali e gli strumenti formativi proposti.
Valuebox offre una gamma di risorse online destinate agli insegnanti, tra cui un test di autovalutazione delle competenze e un corso online pensato per fornire strumenti pratici ed efficaci nell’insegnamento dei valori fondamentali europei.
Questa piattaforma sarà lanciata ufficialmente nelle prossime settimane, offrendo a docenti ed educatori un’opportunità unica per arricchire il loro percorso formativo.
Vuoi saperne di più sul progetto Valuebox e rimanere aggiornato sulle prossime attività? Seguici sui nostri canali LinkedIn e Facebook, e iscriviti qui alla newsletter del progetto per ricevere tutte le novità!
ALDA is excited to announce that the first round of grants is available for regional projects within the BOOST Programme, an initiative funded by AFD – Agence Française de Développement designed to support and strengthen civil society organisations (CSOs) across the Western Balkans. Through this programme, ALDA aims to foster democratic, economic, social, and cultural growth across six Western Balkan countries, supporting them on their journey toward EU integration.
What is BOOST?
BOOST stands for Balkans for Optimizing Opportunities, Sustainability, and Transformation of Civil Society. This initiative promotes sustainable development and collaboration by providing a unique sub-granting scheme, designed to empower CSOs in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia.
The Grant Programme at a Glance
The BOOST Programme’s goal is to catalyse impactful projects through two types of grants:
National Grants: Funding 60 national initiatives that address specific local needs.
Projects will focus on three key pillars:
Youth and Entrepreneurship
Rural Development and Environmental Protection
Preservation of Cultural Heritage and Community Development
Funding and Financial Overview
With a total of €2,250,000 allocated to cascading grants, the BOOST Programme will provide substantial resources for selected projects:
Regional BOOST Grant Programme: €450,000, with each project eligible for up to €60,000.
National BOOST Grant Programme: €1,800,000, with the first round set to launch in March 2025.
How to Apply for the BOOST Grants
For those interested in the Regional Grants, the call for proposals is now open and closes onDecember 27, 2024. Eligible applicants are invited to submit their proposals via the BOOST Grants Platform, where detailed guidelines and application forms are available. This streamlined online process ensures all applicants have easy access to the necessary resources for a successful submission.
Eligibility and Partnership Requirements
To ensure broad, collaborative participation, BOOST encourages partnerships among CSOs from different countries:
Applicants must be non-profit CSOs registered in one of the six targeted countries.
Each regional partnership must include at least three organisations from different countries.
Special emphasis is placed on youth- and women-led CSOs, which are encouraged to apply.
Impact Areas of BOOST
Through its unique sub-granting schemes, BOOST aims to:
Empower local communities by enabling CSOs to collaborate with local authorities and foster citizen engagement.
Promote sustainable development by supporting projects focused on entrepreneurship, rural sustainability, environmental awareness, and the preservation of cultural heritage.
Advance European integration by cultivating networks that align with EU values of peace, democracy, and inclusivity.
Upcoming Info Session
To learn more about the application process, join our online information session on November 7, 2024, at 11:00 CET—a great opportunity to gain insights into the application process (eligibility criteria, project requirements, and how to maximise your proposal’s potential). The application deadline follows on December 27, 2024, at 17:00 CET. After submissions close, the evaluation of applications will take place throughout January and February 2025, with results set to be announced on March 3, 2025.
For more details on how to apply and access the BOOST Programme resources, visit the BOOST Grants Platform and join us in driving impactful change across the Western Balkans. Let’s work together to empower civil society and foster sustainable development across the region!
In a media landscape riddled with misinformation and growing pressures on journalists and press freedom, projects such as Media4EU that address such issues in North Macedonia, are of great importance. The project implements targeted interventions through professional training, EU expertise exchange, and practical skill development. A key focus is enhancing digital and media literacy while providing journalists with concrete tools for quality reporting, including training in data analysis, on self-censorship and tackling disinformation. Media4EU has also created an opportunity for young people to develop their skills and learn from experts and seasoned journalists.
The 2023-2024 mentorship programme has demonstrated measurable impact in its first round. Ten fellows, selected from 18 applicants, completed a structured three-month program under mentors Bojan Blazevski, Tamara Grncharoska, and Semra Musai. The program combined focused training on EU institutions with practical journalism skills development, and has had successful quantitative outcomes. Fellows produced 58 journalistic articles, in Macedonian and Albanian, that garnered significant public attention across social media platforms. The content published on Eurothink’s website, once shared reached 81,609 users on Facebook and 18,191 on Instagram, with total impressions exceeding 130,000 across platforms.
These results highlight the significant interest and impact the project has generated, reaching an extensive audience across social media.
Two fellows have particularly demonstrated the programme’s effectiveness through their reporting. Mihail Milosevski has produced in-depth coverage of press freedom and environmental issues. His analysis of the European Act on Media Freedom highlighted specific challenges:
“Macedonia still faces serious challenges including threats and violence against journalists, corruption, political and business influence, as well as a lack of effective legal protection for journalists.”
Mihail Milosevski
While, Zenel Miftari‘s reporting on EU integration has brought expert perspectives to complex political developments. His work includes analysis from political experts and journalists on concrete integration challenges, such as constitutional changes and regional diplomatic relations. The work of the young fellows demonstrates that investing in the next generation of reporters is crucial for fostering a more informed and democratically engaged society.
The mentorship programme operated through a clear framework and a well-structured approach which has helped address specific gaps in North Macedonia’s journalism sector, particularly in coverage of EU integration and democratic processes.
The programme continues to focus on developing concrete skills in data journalism, analytical reporting, and evidence-based storytelling.
Overall Media4EU and its mentorship programme, which is now in its second round, are a great example of how targeted professional development can strengthen journalistic standards and improve coverage of crucial policy issues. Through practical training and expert mentorship, participants are developing specific skills needed for quality reporting on North Macedonia’s EU integration process and broader democratic development.
From November 19 to December 6, ALDA is excited to host Membership Days, a cycle of engaging events and activities across our offices in Europe! Designed for both #ALDAMembers and potential members, this series is an invitation to discover ALDA’s impact, forge new partnerships, expand networks, and gain essential tools for fostering citizen participation and inclusion. We invite you to connect with us and learn more about the transformative work we do in local democracy.
Grand Opening – ALDA Talk on the 2024 EU Enlargement Reports for the Western Balkans and “30 Years of Local Democracy” book presentation 📘
On November 28, join us for the Grand Opening with an online ALDA Talk which will shed light on the progress and challenges of EU candidate countries, with key discussions led by regional experts and civil society leaders, among which ALDA President, Nataša Vučković. The book “30 Years of Local Democracy” by ALDA Secretary General, Antonella Valmorbida will also be showcased, highlighting ALDA’s impact within the region. Dive with ALDA into the role of democracy, civic engagement, and local initiatives in shaping the path toward EU integration. This session offers a glimpse into ALDA’s journey and the power of community-led action. 🗓 November 28, 2024 ⏰ 15:00 – 16:30 CET You can be part of the journey towards a stronger, united Europe by signing up! Don’t miss the chance to join the conversation and learn how regional and national CSOs are driving change.
All ALDA offices will be hosting open days, inviting attendees to connect with our teams and delve into our local work. Join us to experience ALDA’s contributions to local governance firsthand!
Skopje Office, North Macedonia
Presentation of the BOOST project and Shared Horizons
On December 5, 2024 two online events 💻 will be held, offering attendees insights into project management and heritage revitalisation.
ALDA Training: Designing a Project Communication Strategy ⏰ 10:00 – 12:00 CET This session will enhance participants’ understanding of EU-funded project management, introduce key communication strategies, and provide practical examples.
Webinar: Aggregation and Heritage Revitalisation – Historic Villas ⏰ 14:30 – 15:45 CET A case study on Villa Angaran and Villa Fabris, Italy, demonstrating participatory practices for managing historically abandoned spaces.
Our closing session on December 6, 2024 will celebrate the achievements of 11 ALDA members who received support through the Operating Grant to implement their impactful projects. Open to all, this event will showcase the benefits of collaborating with ALDA. Don’t miss this chance to engage with successful members and explore how ALDA can support your initiatives. ⏰ 10:30 – 12:30 CET
These Membership Days promise a journey through ALDA’s work and offer invaluable opportunities to connect with relevant organisations and stakeholders. Join us to understand the potential to be part of the network and celebrate three decades of empowering communities. We look forward to seeing you there!
The event held on October 31, 2024, in Milan (Italy) was part of SPUR – Social PostCovid Urban Revitalisation project. It represented a unique opportunity to discuss and to reflect, together with a rich panel of European cities and organisations, on initiatives and practices aimed at revitalising the suburbs after social crisis events such as the Covid-19 pandemic through processes of social integration and participation of the most vulnerable groups, mainly young people and the elderly. Through workshops, panel discussions, and shared experiences, the event showcased initiatives designed to foster social integration and community participation among vulnerable groups, focusing especially on the elderly and young people.
Day 1: needs analysis and local insights
On the first day, presentations from various cities and municipalities provided a deep look into local needs assessments conducted within the SPUR framework. Etterbeek (Brussels) noted a pressing need for intergenerational connections, particularly among migrants and youth, facilitated by activities like conversational tables and multilingual outreach. Yet, language barriers and a reluctance to revisit the topic of Covid-19 posed challenges to participation. Etterbeek’s response included creating a supportive network, where individuals of similar backgrounds, like the Polish community, could connect more comfortably.
Harghita (Romania) presented a vibrant youth response, with most survey participants being young people. Key needs focused on the social impacts of Covid-19, adaptation to new digital realities, and overcoming health and lifestyle disruptions. Participants highlighted that Covid-19 had fostered stronger family bonds for some but had also intensified mental health challenges. Best practices in Harghita have since focused on cultural and social events that strengthen connections and digital literacy, particularly for older residents.
Fondazione Comunitaria di Agrigento and Trapani (Italy) emphasised the need for community spaces, a concern amplified by the area’s high youth unemployment and migration rates. The local approach included establishing collaborative networks and a social library, transforming an abandoned space into a community hub. Here, increased social isolation and anxiety underscored the necessity for effective social inclusion and mental health resources.
Key takeaways on obstacles and enabling factors
A thematic discussion on “Obstacles and Enabling Factors” facilitated reflections across participating cities. The challenges cited included communication barriers (Etterbeek), institutional distrust (Agrigento and Trapani), and resistance to participation (Dignano). Conversely, several enabling factors were also identified, such as collaborative networks, accessible community spaces, and sustained social programs, which emerged as powerful tools to rebuild community resilience post-pandemic.
For Cinisello Balsamo (Città Metropolitana di Milano), isolation, anxiety, and distrust in institutions were particularly impactful. Young people and those living alone experienced higher levels of social disconnection. Local initiatives, such as the Legnano Civic Library and youth-focused advisory councils, are being developed to improve youth engagement, foster integration, and provide safe, judgment-free spaces.
Day 2: Workshop results and roundtable on social resilience
The second day focused on sharing results from collaborative workshops, where three main themes emerged:
Incentives for Community Engagement – Discussions centered on designing engaging environments that blend cultural and civic experiences, such as community gatherings combining music, food, and educational elements. Participants stressed the importance of personal outreach and highlighted innovative ideas like on-site babysitting services to boost accessibility.
Effective Resource Communication – Workshop attendees emphasised the need to communicate available resources transparently. Legitimate and accessible information, reinforced by civic ambassadors and a collaborative digital platform, was seen as essential for encouraging community participation and trust.
Social Resilience and Intergenerational Solidarity – In the roundtable discussion, several European municipalities, including Etterbeek, Vila do Conde, and Harguita, presented perspectives on supporting social resilience. Vila do Conde (Portugal) shared two senior-focused programs: Entre Maos and Pecis, which offer workshops and social opportunities to combat isolation among seniors living in social housing. These initiatives reflect the need for interventions that foster independence and mental well-being among elderly populations.
Citizen rights in urban revitalisation
Citizen rights emerged as a central theme in urban revitalization efforts. The CERV (Citizens, Equality, Rights, and Values) program underscored the importance of integrating citizens’ voices in these projects to ensure sustainable and inclusive solutions. This citizen-centered approach fosters stronger community bonds, enhances local engagement, and encourages a shared sense of responsibility in the recovery process.
Building on shared experiences
The SPUR event provided a collaborative platform for European cities to share successful practices and reflect on new strategies for post-Covid recovery. By prioritising intergenerational solidarity, citizen participation, and transparent communication, SPUR participants are setting a precedent for urban revitalization that could serve as a replicable model across Europe.
As part of the International Conference of the International Observatory for Participatory Democracy (IOPD) under the theme “Populist Threats: Building Democratic Resilience with Participatory Communities”, ALDA, the European Association for Local Democracy organised an interesting panel discussion on “Fostering Democratic Participation and Resilience for Migrants and Community Integration: Advocacy and Combating Misinformation in Post-EU Election Europe.” The event was held in Valongo, Portugal, on October 19, 2024, in collaboration with the Anna Lindh Foundation.
Objectives of the Panel
Moderated by ALDA Migration hub coordinators Mohammed Mustafa and Giulia Sostero, the panel featured three expert speakers who each offered unique perspectives on strengthening democratic resilience and fostering migrant integration:
Promoting Migrant Participation in Democratic Processes Maddalena Alberti, Governing Board Member of ALDA and Director of ADL Zavidovici Association, emphasized the need to improve data collection on migrant participation in democratic processes, particularly during EU elections. Alberti highlighted that while second-generation migrants are more involved due to stronger language skills and education, challenges such as citizenship restrictions and limited municipal resources continue to hinder their civic engagement.
Cultural Heritage as a Tool for Integration Isber Sabrine, President of Heritage for Peace and a member of the Anna Lindh Foundation, discussed how cultural heritage initiatives can foster integration, particularly for refugees, by helping them feel connected to their new environments. He underlined the need for programs linking cultural heritage to mental health and community-building for migrants.
Advocacy and Community-Led Initiatives Monica Corrigan, National Coordinator of the Anna Lindh Foundation in Portugal and President of AEQUALITAS, focused on the need to combat misinformation affecting migrant integration. She highlighted advocacy efforts, capacity-building programs, and legal aid initiatives aimed at dispelling harmful narratives and stressed the importance of collaboration among local governments, NGOs, and migrant communities to foster positive, accurate narratives around migration.
During the Q&A session, the panellists addressed various challenges, including language barriers, climate migration, and the need to engage migrants in public consultations. The audience underscored that misinformation, fear of discrimination, and legal constraints are primary obstacles to migrant engagement in democratic processes.
The conference included a range of thematic panels addressing participatory democracy, from local environmental issues to participatory budgeting, adult education in democratic tools, and increasing youth engagement in civic activities. Among the featured speakers, Anzhelika Pylypenko, a delegate from the Local Democracy Agency of the Dnipropetrovsk Region, shared insights on “Sustainable Local Democracy: Participatory Governance in Eastern Europe in the Face of Challenges.” Alongside her colleagues Viorica Tudos (ALDA), Irakli Jgarkava (ALDA), and Lucine Alexandrian (LDA Armenia), she discussed the challenges faced by civil societies in Eastern Europe in exercising their rights within the framework of participatory democracy. Ms. Pylypenko highlighted the achievements of Ukrainian civil society during the ongoing conflict, especially the high level of self-organisation demonstrated at the outset of hostilities. She stressed the importance of supporting community-based organisations, such as condominiums, that use direct democracy tools to influence local governance. The audience engaged in a lively discussion on strategies for involving youth in civic activities, recognising the crucial role of young people in shaping the future.
The ALDA panel concluded with a call to action for continued advocacy, emphasising that fostering migrant participation and combating misinformation are essential steps in building democratic resilience. Through inclusive policies and intercultural dialogue, ALDA and its partners aim to cultivate a Europe where migrants are actively engaged in democratic communities.
For more information on ALDA’s work and initiatives in fostering democratic participation for migrant communities visit the page dedicated to the Migration HUB!
