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In the framework of the Mind Inclusion final event, 3 European projects gathered during one webinar to highlight the need of inclusion and to promote innovation. Thus, on May 6th 2021,  Mind Inclusion, MIICT, and FACE hosted the 4th MI20 Webinar, inviting great speakers and experts to have an interesting discussion titled: “Shaping inclusive societies: the promising path of innovation”.

When fighting for inclusion, the need to “leave no one behind” becomes stronger every day.

Thus, this event was meant to re-affirm the above-mentioned concept, to reflect on the role of innovation, having the latter as the focal point of the discussion.

Three experts lead the webinar, providing inspiring food for thoughts, and making the events of great interests:

  • Michela Saretta, Psychologist, Cooperativa Margherita
  • Kurt Abela, Service Coordinator, kellimni.com
  • Florian Huber, Project Manager, SYNYO GmbH

The importance of finding new opportunities through inclusive technology for those that are unheard is as essential as needed

The three speakers have shed light not only on the opportunities, but also the risks, of using innovative tools to promote a sustainable and inclusive society. Benefitting from their professional experiences, guests speakers provided examples of innovative tools and strategies in support of people with disabilities, migrants, and youth.

Hence, the importance of finding new opportunities through inclusive technology for those that are unheard is as essential as needed. Indeed, as these people are less considered and not included within the society, digital tools could really improve integration, and provide them with devices that could allow them to interact and enjoy the benefits of technology in a safe way.

Finally, organisers would like to thank all the participants who participated in the discussion on inclusion and innovation.

If you are interested to know more on the projects, do not hesitate to follow them on social media and visit their website:

About the projects:

Started in November 2018 and funded by the Erasmus+ program of the European Commission, the Mind Inclusion 2.0 project aims to find sustainable and inclusive solutions that help caregivers improve their skills, on one hand, and allow disabled individuals to participate in the social life on the other hand. The APP that the project is developing wishes to help People with Disabilities to have access to public spaces and to exercise their rights. The project consortium gathers lead partner Margherita: Società Cooperativa Onlus (Italy) together with Polibienestar Research Institute, INTRAS Foundation (Spain), Social IT Software & Consulting Srl (Italy), Lietuvos sutrikusio intelekto zmoniu globos bendrija «Viltis» (Lithuania) and ALDA (France).

MIICT – ICT Enabled Public Services for Migration is a project funded by the European Commission through the Horizon 2020 program and addressing the challenge of migration integration through ICT-enabled solutions. Through a co-design approach with multidisciplinary stakeholders, MIICT project aims to provide migrants and refugees access to key public services, public agencies and NGOs with ICT enabled services and the necessary agency to take advantage of those services; as well as to promote inclusion and to reduce the potential for discrimination and bias. More information: https://www.miict.eu/

The FACE project is a project funded by the European Commission through the ERASMUS+ program. Based on the recognition that there is a lack of knowledge and tools on how to handle the increasing phenomenon of cyberbullying amongst teens and children the project aims at developing guidelines, materials, networks and innovative methodologies combining multidisciplinary artistic approaches to tackle this important issue. FACE is designed to involve the following different target groups (youth workers, students, parents, local authorities and other stakeholders) to design together tools to prevent and fight cyberbullying among youth. More information: https://face.oonion.eu/

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When it comes to concretely support and fund citizens’ engagement, as well as the implementation of rights and European values, a key tool to bear in mind is the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values programme – also known as CERV. The latter will tackle those areas, previously targeted by both the “Europe for Citizens” programme and the “Rights, Equality and Citizenship ” one. Yet, for the seven upcoming years, projects will all merge under this single programme –  CERV.


More into details, CERV has to be understood as a programme targeted to protect and promote both rights and values, which are enshrined in the Treaties, as well as in the Charter of Fundamental Rights. Furthermore, it is intended to support CSOs and stakeholders actively involved in promoting democracy and citizens’ engagement at different levels: from local to international.

Support CSOs and stakeholders actively involved in promoting democracy and citizens’ engagement

Besides, the programme is divided into four pillars, each of which is focusing on a specific area: 

  1. Union values: to protect, promote and raise awareness on rights. Within this pillar, financial support is given to CSOs working in this sector, and active in the strengthening of the democratic  framework;
  2. Equality, Rights and Gender Equality: to promote rights, non-discrimination, equality, including gender equality. Projects supported by this pillar are targeted to – for example – fight discrimination, protect rights of the child and prople with disabilities;
  3. Citizens’ engagement and participation: to encourage citizens’ involvement in the democratic life of the Union. This pillar is also designed to foster exchanges among Member States, and to raise awareness on the European history;
  4. Daphne: to support and promote the victims of violence. Projects under this pillar are aimed to prevent and fight all forms of gender-based violence, of violence against children or other groups at risk

Concerning the budgetary aspect, the latter amounts to over 1.55 billion euros. Hence, CERV programme is included within the Cohesion, Resilience and Value heading, which is one of the seven ones listed within the Multiannual Financial Framework.  

In addition, CERV opens up to CSOs, stakeholders and any interested parties to join the CERV – Civil Dialogue Week 2021 taking place from May 25th to May 28th 2021.

As project developers, democracy and citizens’ participation promoter, ALDA is glad to learn that not only the final budget allocated has doubled, but also that great support has been given to these programmes, and to each player engaged in this sector. Thus, ALDA has always been committed to concretely turned values and principles of these programmes into concrete actions. For example, when it comes to “promote Unione Values” (pillar 1), one can think of the recently implemented DESIRE Project; focusing on the Schuman Declaration; or the successfully concluded GET UP project, when tackling “Equality, Rights and Gender Equality” (pillar 2). Last but not least, since day one ALDA has been a strategic partner to the European Commission, a relationship strengthened by worthwhile and constant “structural dialogue”, which has positively impacted on a wide number of communities in the EU and beyond.

Useful links:

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This year, on May 9th not only will people celebrate the “Europe Day”, but it will also mark the beginning of the Conference on the Future of Europe (COFOE), held – in hybrid format – at the European Parliament in Strasbourg.  Yet, what is the Conference on the Future of Europe? At least once in a while, each of us asked him/herself this question. Well, the Conference (COFOE) represents the opportunity for European citizens to discuss and debate on both challenges, priorities; and on the future path that Europe should follow. Thus, the idea behind it is that all three institutions – be they European Parliament; Council and Commission – will listen to European citizens, their ideas and proposals as far as the future of Europe concerns.

Still one question still remains: “How can people actively join the Conference?” 

Based on a bottom-up and citizens-oriented approach, citizens can both take part in several conferences and events, divided into topics. Starting from the multilingual digital platform citizens will have the possibility to share their ideas; organise events while joining some of them already available at the participatory space online. Furthermore, also from the institutional side, organise European citizens’ panels, which should both be representatives in terms of citizens’ age, socioeconomic background, gender and origins; and provide inputs to the Conference Plenary.

“The Presidents of the European Parliament, the Council and the European Commission aim to give citizens a say on what matters to them”

The latter will make sure that recommendations, resulting from panels and debates, will be taken into account at future meetings, scheduled at least every six months. More technically, representatives from the Parliament; the Council; the Commission; as well as representatives from national parliaments will constitute the Conference Plenary. Besides, exponents from the Committee of the Regions and the Economic and Social Committee, together with Social Partners and Civil Society will also be represented. The final outcome of the Conference will be delivered to the  Joint Presidency, resulting from the authority of all the three institutions. 

As one can read in the COFOE Joint Declaration, “the Presidents of the European Parliament, the Council and the European Commission aim to give citizens a say on what matters to them”. Having that in mind, for those who have been following ALDA and its work, soon they will recognise the importance that this occasion has,  when it comes to bringing people’s voice at the institutional level. Thus,  in this regard, our Secretary General – Antonella Valmorbida – has been recently elected in the Steering Committee of the Civil Society Convention, holding a key position as far as promoting citizens’ ideas, wishes and need concerns. Within this framework, ALDA, together with other CSOs, has always been consistent, concrete and proactive in stimulating citizens engagements and dialogue among people and institutions. 

ALDA looks forward to the Conference on the Future of Europe, as a concrete occasion to restar, to improve and to strengthen Europe together with its citizens!

Join other citizens, and take part in the “Europe Day activities”:

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The “POLITEIA Western Balkans School for Youth Participation” event will reunite experts, researchers, representatives from associations and institutions from around Europe to discuss youth participation in the political process within POLITEIA School, that this year has turned digital!  ALDA is glad to be actively involved in this great experience, making its knowledge available to the participants

From a general perspective,  POLITEIA School is a successful project,  which started already in 1997, when, in a period of civic and students protests, people started to turn the attention and deepen their knowledge as far as the democratic and European values concerned.

An opportunity to discuss education, youth and the Balkans future

This year, young people will join lectures and workshops from May 7th until 29th.
ALDA’s Secretary General, Antonella Valmorbida, will be among the keynote speakers at the opening panel, entitled: “Youth in the Western Balkans – Agents of Change”, which will launch this year edition!

Among the main topics on the planning there will be:

– The importance of European Integration
– Youth participation and engagement
– Perspectives on the Western Balkans future
– The challenges of democracy at local level
– Gender, policies and economy

Academics and activists from Serbia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, Kosovo and Turkey will be attending the event.

ALDA is glad to be part of this great occasion of knowledge sharing and youth engagement!

Read more about it on:

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“Social Economy as a tool for territorial development and inclusion” is the tile of the first National event of the project RECRUIT that will take place online on May 6th under the coordination of the Metropolitan City of Bari and the support of Impact Hub and ALDA.

RECRUIT – REshaping CRUcial strategies to fIghT unemployment through Social Economy –  is a transnational project funded by the EU Programme COSME, started in February 2021 and lasting one year. The aim of the project is to foster the collaboration of local and regional authorities in using social economy tools and instrument to fight against unemployment.

Foster the collaboration of local and regional authorities in using social economy tools and instrument to fight against unemployment

The first national event is addressing citizens, with a focus on relevant stakeholders working in the field of social economy and social entrepreneurship. Besides presenting the RECRUIT project, the aim of the event is that to stimulate connections among relevant local and national stakeholders; while creating synergies and giving birth to a Social Economy Community. The latter will be involved, for example, in other international activities. In addition, participants, through interactive methodologies, will introduce themselves and will exchange experiences and knowledge on good practices at national level.
Finally, the Metropolitan City of Bari will illustrate two ongoing virtuous projects Porta Futuro Bari and Agriculture carried on at local level.

Last but not least, a news on the event has been also published on the Italian Agency for Press website (ANSA)! Here you can have a look at it

Useful information:

  • If you are interested in participating in the event, fill in the registration form
  • Please note: the event will be held in Italian
  • For more information on the project and our future international events contact: projects@aldaintranet.org

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During its 20 years of life, ALDA has been more and more engaged in the Eastern Partnership, especially in Ukraine, when it comes to democracy promotion, support to local authorities and civil society, and development of good governance.

Thus, on April the 20th 2021, ALDA was invited to join the “Public consultations as a tool of participatory democracy. World practises and standards”. The event, promoted by the Ukrainian Parliamentary Committee on State Building, Local Governance, Regional and Urban Development, saw the participation of ALDA Secretary General Antonella Valmorbida, also in the capacity of expert of the Council of Europe (CoE).

Support of decentralisation processes and in the promotion of public administration reforms in Ukraine

The online conference followed an agenda structured into two parts: a first panel discussion focusing on the “Current state of public consultations in Ukraine and presentation of the legislative initiative regarding its improvement”. The discussion involved ministers, members of the Parliament, experts and associations’ representatives from Ukraine discussing and sharing their perspectives and insights as far as the topic of the panel concerned.

“An international experience in conducting public consultation. Lessons from Ukraine” was the theme of the second panel, which saw the participation of ALDA Secretary General, as keynote speaker, together with delegates from European and international institutions. The latter served as a platform to reflect, debate and share knowledge when it comes to democracy promotion, decentralisation and good governance. Moreover, within this framework, ALDA’s contribution was particularly relevant in light of its proven experience in the support of decentralisation processes and in the promotion of public administration reforms in Ukraine.

The video conference was held in cooperation with:

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We are trigger to announce the launch of the International Training for Trainers “Road to Digitalisation for workers 4.0: ICONS method and tools”.

The core of such training is to present the ICONS BIM – oriented training module and app for an easy and functional understanding of BIM to non-specialised blue-collar workers and students approaching the construction sector, developed by 7 European organisations (Scuola Costruzioni Vicenza Andrea Palladio, Coventry University, Universitat de Valencia, Fundación Laboral de la Construcción, Bildungszentren des Baugewerbes e.V., Gospodarska Zbornica Slovenije e Westdeutscher Handwerkskammertag) active in the field of education and construction sector and coming from 5 European countries (Italy, Spain, Slovenia, Germany and the United Kingdom).

These tools represent an opportunity to increase the workers’ digital skills and BIM knowledge, as well as promoting the productivity and sustainability of the construction sector in Europe.

Read the full agenda and join!

The training sessions are targeted to expert trainers from 5 European countries (Italy, Spain, Slovenia, Germany and the United Kingdom).

Keynote speakers in the BIM and innovation sector from Italy and Spain will provide advanced training to participants about the methodology, functioning and application of the ICONS training module and app.

Furthermore, valuable experts will have the chance to take part in the digital transformation of the building sites and to improve the quality of blue collars’s working conditions in the construction sector! Indeed, trained expert trainers will concretely contribute in the testing and validation process of the ICONS BIM-oriented training course and app, through their involvement in the organisation of national training and pilot sites in the building sites in 5 European countries.

Finally, trainers will collect students’ and blue collars’ feedback, thanks to those ICONS BIM-oriented training model app will be adjusted and validated.

Useful information:

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Mobilising Against Extremist through Countering and Diverting Radicalisation of Young people” RADEX, is an Erasmus+ funded project on the span of two years. The project targets young people, youth workers, social workers, youth   organisations and equip them with the tools needed to identify patterns, methods, and different processes of youth violent radicalisation.

The project objectives are:

  • Designing and implementing a methodological framework and to collect data on youth radicalisation in Europe, then a report will be drafted with the findings.
  • Preventing and diverting young people’s radicalisation, through supporting the building of the capacity to identify and understand the different types of online youth radicalisation, by providing real data in the form of relevant educational materials. Which will act as an alert for the target group against online and offline radicalisation processes.

A learning experience which includes real life examples and patterns

Eventually the project aims at creating a safe space for the target group to enjoy a learning experience which includes real life examples and patterns.

Restorative Justice for All (UK) takes the lead of the RADEX project, supported by five different partners; Synthesis Center for Research and Education (Cyprus), Club for UNESCO for Education, Science & Culture (Greece), Ingenious Knowledge (Germany), Inclusive Europe (Belgium) and ALDA – European Association for Local Democracy (France).

Consecutive meetings have been held between the partners in January, March and April, to insure an efficient planning phase. The first transitional project meeting of RADEX is planned to take place on June 3rd 2021 in Brussels.

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Thursday and Friday the 22nd and the 23rd of April were two meaningful days for the online introduction of the project VALID – European Towns – Enacting Common Values of Solidarity and Intercultural Dialogue. This two-days online event was organised by the municipality of Larissa (Greece) together with various stakeholders placed at different level:

  • The municipality of Peja (Kosovo*) as the lead partner;
  • The municipalities of Zadivovici (Bosnia and Hezergovina), Niksic (Montenegro), Knjazevac (Serbia), Patos (Albania), Kumanovo (North Macedonia);
  • The cities of Ravenna (Italy), Larissa (Greece);
  • The Association for Developing Voluntary Work Novo Mesto (Slovenia); and
  • The Local Democracy Agencies such LDA Kosovo and LDA Subotica and ALDA, as partners of the project.

The main objective of the project, as M. George Soultis said during the first meeting, “is to build connections between European cities”. Indeed, the VALID project aims to build a strong network of towns committed to intercultural exchange by using dialogue and open spaces through the promotion of cultural participation and civil society in decision-making. This strong network of cities was thought as a way to build bridges and connections while establishing a common legal frame.

Moreover, this international event offered an opportunity to reflect on different European matters such as, for example, on candidates to the EU adhesion. Additionally, it was the occasion to share experiences and knowledge about certain facts that might inspire other stakeholders; empathising – among other things – on the role of cities and municipalities in the establishment of a well-functioning democratic society; by insisting on the idea that changes can be made at the local level.

The principle of local participation is a key factor in making sustainable cities in the future

Over these two days of cultural interaction and discussion, a lot of speakers got involved and shared their visions and progresses made at their own level: the principle of local participation is a key factor in making sustainable cities in the future. Hence, speakers underlined the necessity to facilitate interactions between the local governments and stakeholders coming from the civic society. The example of the municipality of Larissa showed as a successful story, encouraging and giving inspiration to other participants.

As the different speakers were sharing their experiences, the conversation lead to a couple of reflections on social inclusion, such as:

  • It goes before cultural inclusion;
  • It has to do with social identity which in some countries can lead to exclusion due to different opinion, religion, sexual orientation, or ethnicity;
  • Despite the fact that inclusion should belong to a moral consideration, societies would actually benefit from a clear process of inclusion as it would generate economical assets.

Furthermore, the event served as a moment of discussion also as far as the multi-stakeholder approach within a project concerns. More in depths, it will quite often be a beneficial practice, especially when it comes to countries motivated by the same outcome. Yet, education, work, or school but more importantly, local governments could play a key part by implementing functioning tools to avoid discrimination – be it exclusion of some people due to their origin, ethnicity, race, or belief.

At last, the level of transparency and of public consultation was also addressed. As a matter of fact, young people have shown a high level of interest in political actions, making them potential “change promoters”, who will present a positive impact on decision-making process.

Concluding, this project is placing intercultural dialogue and exchange at the heart of it and aims to address exclusion and marginalisation while giving power to the citizens.

***
VALID project engages 12 partners in 10 countries and it is financially supported by the Europe for Citizens programme

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On Monday, April 26th, on the occasion of the World Democracy Forum (WDF), the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe has organised an online event. This ninth edition of the WDF foresees monthly debates on different topics, ending on November 2021 with the final event. Having that in mind, let’s see what the April edition was about!  Focusing on the environment, the debate served as a moment of discussion and reflection on the actions taken at local level as far as green transition initiatives and citizens’ participation  are concerned.

Promoting debate among institutions and representatives of the civil society is an essential factor

In light of her expertise on environmental issues, Ms Nataša Vučković, ALDA Governing Board member, was among the keynote speakers of the event. Representing the Center for Democracy Foundation, Ms Vučković shared key insights on the topic as well as good practices of green transition measures, with a specific focus on the Balkan Region. Furthermore, she has a proven track on rule of law, human rights and parliamentary procedures; being also a member of Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE). 

On behalf of ALDA as a whole, we take the occasion to thank and congratulate the Congress for the organisation of this  event: we are deeply convinced that promoting debate among institutions and representatives of the civil society is an essential factor to raise awareness and stimulate concrete actions and cooperation among stakeholders. 

Watch the video about WDF

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Although this year has been particularly difficult for the cultural and touristic sector, SMART is even more determined to support local and international tourism; to strengthen organizations and to promote communities’ resilience!

Thus, we are thrilled to announce the launch of three SMART International Webinars which will take place during the month of May:

  • 12th May – 3.00 – 4.30pm CET – Inclusive web accessibility for all – Federico Poda, Web developer from Independent L.
  • 18th May – 3.00 – 4.30pm CET – Museums go digital: best practices and tools for innovative design & extraordinary experiences – Lukas Grundner, MA\ Junior Researcher and Mag.a Stefanie Wallinger\ Researcher (University of Salzburg)
  • 26th May – 3.00 – 4.30pm CET – Silent play: cultural heritage and new participatory practices through theatre – Carlo Presotto (La Piccionaia), Paola Rossi (La Piccionaia), Stefania Zardini Lacedelli (Dolom.it)

Webinars are free! Participants only need to register!

During the three webinars, relevant and valuable speakers from SMART partners organizations will share their views, know-how and practices on the link among museums, citizenship, accessibility and digitalization. During the theoretical and interactive sessions participants can experience interesting best practices while reflecting and discussing with experts.

All the above-mentioned webinars are free! Participants only need to register (click here to register!). Professionals and organizations working in the tourism, culture and accessibility sectors cannot miss this chance!

It represents a great opportunity to increase their knowledge and capacities and take an active role in the re-launch of European culture and museums!

The webinars will be delivered in Italian, German and English including simultaneous translation in one of the three languages. The translation in English Sign Language is available.

For more information please contact info@smart-museums.eu or visit SMART project website and the Facebook and Twitter page 

*The webinar is organized within the project SMART-Small Museums Representing Territories and funded by the European Union and Interreg V-A Italy-Austria 2014-2020 and lasting 30 months (September 2019-March 2022).

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Do not miss the first international meeting of VALID project!

First of all, do you know what VALID stands for? It is the acronym for: European Towns – Enacting Common Values of Solidarity and Intercultural Dialogue and it will be implemented for the next two years by a consortium of 12 partners in 10 countries across Europe

More in depth, the kick off meeting will be the perfect occasion to discuss different aspects of the project itself. On April 22nd, participants, after a first overview, will reflect on key objectives, such as: 

  • Local practices in social inclusion and intercultural education and dialogue;
  • Participatory processes in policy decision making and 
  • Integration and cohesion at local level

Please register here

Furthermore, during the second day of the event, April 23rd, the kick off meeting will tackle several aspects, among which participants will discuss:

  • Raise awareness in civic engagement
  • Capacity building and facilitation methods and tools for intercultural dialogue

Those who are willing to participate can find more information here:

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On April 15th 2021, ALDA and the Human Rights and Peace Institute of Caen have organised a workshop held in French for the young Macedonians francophone, on the “Freedom award”.

This online workshop gathered 16 participants, interested in finding out more on the “Freedom award”, the nominees while discussing democracy, inclusion, and digital citizenship.

The workshop started with a quick quiz on topics such as: women’s right to vote and the importance of digital technologies during the elections.

Then, it continued with a series of useful visuals thanks to which participants discovered the profiles and backgrounds of the 3 nominees, and the reasons why they were chosen:

  • Sonita Alizadeh, Afghan activist against forced child marriage;
  • Agnes Chow, democracy activist in Hong Kong and
  • Omar Radi, imprisoned Moroccan investigative journalist.

The Freedom award is the results of a pedagogical project aiming at raising awareness on the notions of peace, freedom, and respect for human rights

Finally, the Human Rights and Peace Institute moderators have guided the young participants throughout the entire process of voting for their favorite nominee.

The Freedom award is the results of a pedagogical project aiming to raise awareness on the notions of peace, freedom, and respect for human rights. It targets young people across the world and making them a unique jury. In that respect, youth generations –  aged from 15 to 25 – get to vote and elect the winners they consider as the most deserving. The Freedom award represents a strong tribute to every person that fought and will keep fighting in reaching this ideal of peace.

The workshop has been organised as part of the “Normandie pour la Paix” actions, by ALDA along with the Human Rights and Peace Institute of Caen.

To know more about “Normandie pour la Paix” please visit their website

You can find further information on the Human Rights and Peace Institute at the following link

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The 3rd Transnational Meeting organised within the FOREST project took placed both on 15 and 16 April, focusing on the topic of certification and qualification in the forestry sector. The meeting, held in virtual mode, was hosted by the project partner Grm Novo Mesto.

The agenda was full of great initiatives and updates. Thus, on April 15th, following the institutional greetings of the project partner Grm Novo Mesto, a public conference served as the perfect occasion for each partner to present an overview of the existing certifications and qualifications at national level, outlining both the legislative and training aspects. Furthermore, criticalities in terms of standardisation compared to other European countries were also discussed. Forestry technicians and trainers from 5 European countries (Italy, Romania, Slovenia, Croatia, Austria) working in the project partner organisations joined the meeting.

Safety in the workplace, certification, sustainability and innovation, and female inclusion in the forestry sector

Moving on, the main focus discussed on the second day was the development of a manual for the standardisation of forest workers’ competences. The technical book represents, in fact, one of the main project output. More in depth, the latter will collect all the good practices that emerged from the project including: safety in the workplace, certification, sustainability and innovation, and female inclusion in the forestry sector. In particular, the handbook will also contain a comparative analysis of forestry training programs among the 5 project partner countries, highlighting strengths and gaps; while proposing recommendations and suggestions to achieve a European standardisation of forestry training.

From a general perspective, partners discussed what were the main issues to tackle within the project; how to develop the manual, while defining key points of the publication and a possible index. In particular, special attention was given to comparative analysis. Hence, through interactive brainstorming, partners reflected and defined which are the main targets to address in the publication; and what are the objectives they want to achieve.

Finally, partners started to discuss and reflect on methodology and the activities that will follow.

Last but not least, the latter aspect will be further analysed in a next meeting scheduled for May. Join us and do not miss any updates!

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ALDA has been supporting the communication between civil society, local associations and authorities in Tunisia for many years. 

ALDA Tunisia under the leadership of Solidarité Laïque gave birth to Municivile project. The project aims to contribute to the construction of an effective local democracy in Tunisia, taking into account the needs of all citizens, including the most vulnerable groups, and to strengthen the participation of Tunisian civil society in the implementation of the decentralisation process in the country.

To better do that, the project was divided into three main action fronts, each administered with the mutual cooperation of a Tunisian and a French institution: 

  • Education
  • Social and Solidarity Economy
  • Local and participative democracy

ALDA and Scouts Tunisiens associations, coordinator of the local and participative democracy pole, established the MUNICIVIL project which designed an extensive plan of actions, focused on advocacy and capacity building to help CSOs to reach citizens, understand their needs and contribute to the construction of an inclusive and participative democracy in Tunisia. Their main actions involve:

  • Trainings of Trainers (ToT) (administrative staff, elected officials and civil society actors);
  • Training on local democracy and participation
  • Local public consultations;
  • Exchange visits between France and Tunisia
  • Financing Masters studies and promoting Civic engagement of Sub Saharan Master students.

Promoting a long lasting and durable transformation towards the reduction of inequalities, expansion of local participation and to the decentralisation process in Tunisia

From a general perspective, PCPA trainings reached out not only CSOs involved, but also local government and educational institutions; promoting a long lasting and durable transformation towards the reduction of inequalities, expansion of local participation and to the decentralisation process in Tunisia. Significant improvements from it can already be observed:

  • CSOs have increased their capacity to understand and voice the citizens’ needs, while  improving their methods on the implementation of an effective participatory democracy and enhancing their engagement in local and national decision-making process;
  • Methods from the trainings have been spread to other CSOs, local government and educational institutions
  • The communication and dissemination of project results have been more effective
  • Tunisian and European local authorities have been progressing towards the decentralisation process by strengthening their cooperation

Yet, this is not everything. Thus, activities are still going on, focusing on:  

  • The third training session for administrative staff, elected officials and civil society actors from a range of selected municipalities;
  • The partnership with Faculty of political, social and juridical sciences (Faculté des sciences juridiques, politiques et sociales) of Tunis in order to fund 3 master thesis on Local Governance and related themes;
  • The launch of local events on 12 different municipalities to promote civil society consultation and municipality commissions trainings;

Bear in mind that these are only a few actions developed within the PCPA’s framework and a series of other actions are expected to be put in place throughout the rest of the  year. 

To know more about Société Laïque, please visit their website: https://www.solidarite-laique.org/ 

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MI20, MIICT and FACE Projects joint webinar about innovation and social inclusion

At the occasion of the final event of the Mind Inclusion project, celebrate inclusion and innovation during the 4th Mind Inclusion Webinar!

Inclusion is a daily challenge, strengthened once more by the current global health crisis. The need to talk about the struggles of those that are unheard and to reflect on actions to take in order to “leave no one behind”, becomes stronger every day. It is with this purpose that the three European projects Mind Inclusion 2.0, MIICT and FACE come together in one joint event to talk about innovation and inclusion: Shaping inclusive societies: the promising path of innovation.

The 6th of May at 15:00 CEST, three experts involved in the development of services fostering inclusion will hold a panel discussion about how innovation can bring new opportunities and perspectives in the fight for inclusion. Departing from their own experiences and the lessons learnt through their work, the experts will focus specifically on three groups: people with disabilities, migrants, and youth.

The event will provide the participants with the opportunity to reflect about and to learn from the expertise of the three panellists and from the best practices developed in the framework of the three projects. In this way, each of us can make a step forward in this daily challenge, towards a more inclusive society!

SPEAKERS:

  • Andrea Giaretta, Project Manager, Cooperativa Margherita
  • Kurt Abela, Service Coordinator, kellimni.com
  • Florian Huber, Project Manager, SYNYO GmbH

JOIN THE WEBINAR:

Register and Join us to these great talks!

MI2.0, MIICT and FACE Projects joint webinar about innovation and social inclusion

#MI20Webinar

About the projects :

MIICT – ICT Enabled Public Services for Migration is a project funded by the European Commission through the Horizon 2020 program and addressing the challenge of migration integration through ICT-enabled solutions.Through a co-design approach with multidisciplinary stakeholders, MIICT project aims to provide migrants and refugees access to key public services, public agencies and NGOs with ICT enabled services and the necessary agency to take advantage of those services; as well as to promote inclusion and to reduce the potential for discrimination and bias. More information: https://www.miict.eu/

Started in November 2018 and funded by the Erasmus+ programme of the European Commission, the Mind Inclusion 2.0 project aims to find sustainable and inclusive solutions that help caregivers improve their skills, on one hand, and allow disabled individuals to participate in social life on the other hand. The APP that the project is developing wishes to help the People with Disabilities to have access to public spaces and to exercise their rights. The project consortium gathers lead partner Margherita: Società Cooperativa Onlus (Italy) together with Polibienestar Research Institute, INTRAS Foundation (Spain), Social IT Software & Consulting Srl (Italy), Lietuvos sutrikusio intelekto zmoniu globos bendrija «Viltis» (Lithuania) and ALDA (France). More information: https://www.mindinclusion.eu/

The FACE project is a project funded by the European Commission through the ERASMUS+ program. Based on the recognition that there is a lack of knowledge and tools on how to handle the increasing phenomenon of cyberbullying amongst teens and children the project aims at developing guidelines, materials, networks and innovative methodologies combining multidisciplinary artistic approaches to tackle this important issue. FACE is designed to involve the following different target groups (youth workers, students, parents, local authorities and other stakeholders) to design together tools to prevent and fight cyberbullying among youth. More information: https://face.oonion.eu/

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The Agency for Local Democracy (LDA) in Tunisia has just successfully held part Ⅱ of the training Psychomotor Activities Adopted from the Circus for Social Inclusion. This activity, carried out in partnership with COPE Italy, is within the project  Je Repars de Toi (I Restart from You), which aims to reinforce rights of people with disabilities in Tunisia and promote a culture of inclusion.

While part Ⅰ lasted for 9 days in September 2020, part Ⅱ took place for 11 days from March 24 to April 07, 2021, for the benefit of 25 participants who were educators in specialised rehabilitation centres for people with disabilities and young sportspeople. During the course, the participants explored innovative, unconventional, and flexible exercises that they could employ in various contexts with different disabilities.

It was essential to provide a tolerant non-judgmental space where participants could express themselves, be creative, and develop their capacities

Thus, Tommaso Negri and Leonardo Variale – both instructors in circus arts – presented a plethora of teaching methodologies and techniques. Under their careful supervision, participants explored the importance of creating an engaging, amusing, and safe environment, in which learners acquire confidence to participate without the fear of being judged or labeled. It was essential to provide a tolerant non-judgmental space where participants could express themselves, be creative, and develop their capacities. Collaboration and cooperation among learners and educators were highlighted as key pillars to successfully carry out these activities. Indeed, the educators reinforced their competencies on a learner-centred approach that is based on the premises of teamwork, integration, progression, adaptation, and communication.

The materials used in activities – be they juggling, acrobatic, and balance  – were affordable, simple, and recycled: from cans, handkerchiefs, and tennis balls; to sticks, barrels, wooden boards, and pedals. In so doing,  the rehabilitation centres could get them and adopt the exercises in their syllabus. Furthermore, using these tools testifies how creativity and innovation could be realised in our environment with already-existing objects.

It was thrilling that a total of 30 students from rehabilitation centres for people with deaf, motor, and mental disabilities visited the training. The young visitors were enthusiastic and delighted to participate in the diverse activities designed by the educators. This was also possible thanks to a prior lesson planning, thanks to which good organisation and coherence were ensured.

By the end of the training, the participants made an outstanding development in organising, adapting, and managing the sessions thanks to their commitment and motivation. It was extremely encouraging to receive their positive feedback and witness their engagement and dedication to their work.

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Last March 29th, took place, by videoconference, the “European Stakeholders’ Platform of the Strategy for Innovation and Good Governance at the Local Level” – an important session organised by the Council of Europe to review the state of the democracy and good governance in the CoE-member countries. Such an assessment has been carried out according to the European Label of Governance Excellence (ELoGE) and the 12 principles of Good Governance.

ALDA has received the accreditation to implement ELoGE in Croatia and North Macedonia until June 2023

More in particular, the meeting was the occasion for ALDA, and other European Oganisations, to presents the accreditation and renewal requests to implement ELoGE in targeted territories.

We are thus proud and excited to announce that ALDA, has received the accreditation to implement ELoGE in Croatia and North Macedonia until June 2023.

Similarly to our past actions in Moldova and Ukraine, during the next 2 years ALDA will deliver specialised trainings to local and regional authorities, civil society organisations and citizens of around 15 Croatian and Macedonian municipalities. Such courses will provide those stakeholders with an in- depth knowledge of democratic processes and tools, enabling and monitoring the implementation of the 12 principles of good democratic governance at the local level.

We look forward to continue our mission of empowering local communities all over the Enlarged Europe, working side by side with the Council of Europe and the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities, by means of our strong partnership and shared vision.