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In recent years, Moldova has actively pursued European integration, making remarkable progress in aligning its politics and society with EU values. This journey has been driven not only by the Moldovan government and civil society, but also supported by the European Union (EU) and its member states through various EU-funded projects. These initiatives have promoted democratic governance, transparency and accountability throughout the country, strengthening both local and central institutions. One of the key actors in this mission, ALDA – European Association for Local Democracy, has been deeply involved in strengthening Moldovan institutions and fostering a pro-European spirit among the Moldovan public.

However, Moldova’s aspirations have been complicated by geopolitical challenges. The ongoing war in Ukraine has put Moldova under immense pressure, particularly from Russian-backed disinformation campaigns aimed at undermining Moldova’s European ambitions. Russian propaganda has long been influential in the country, and recent events have highlighted its ability to sway public opinion, complicating the national dialogue on Moldova’s future.

On October 20, 2024, Moldovan citizens faced a pivotal moment with both the presidential election and a national constitutional referendum on amending the Constitution to enable EU accession. This election season has tested Moldova’s resilience, offering both a chance to demonstrate its democratic maturity and a gauge of the Russian influence that has intensified in recent years. For the first time, Moldova introduced mail-in voting as an alternative to in-person ballots, ensuring that citizens abroad and in remote areas could participate actively in shaping the country’s future.

This election drew a historic turnout, with 51.68% of registered voters casting their ballots.

According to data from the Central Electoral Commission, 1.562.705 million Moldovans participated in this election. The diaspora, particularly those in Canada, the United States, and Sweden, showed strong engagement, with 1,344 citizens voting by mail, while over 240,548 voters cast their ballots at overseas voting stations. Furthermore, 16,131 Moldovans from the Transnistria region also participated, underscoring the importance of this referendum in all parts of the country.

The referendum asked, “Do you support amending the Constitution to allow Moldova to join the European Union?” saw 1.488.874 voters, representing 49.81% of registered voters. The results revealed a divided electorate, with a slim majority of 50.38% (739.155 voters) voting “Yes.” This outcome, while in favour of EU accession, highlighted the influence of Russian propaganda, which framed EU integration as a threat to Moldova’s economy, culture, and sovereignty.

These confirmed results, as well as the incidents and irregularities during the elections, have been transmitted by the Central Electoral Commission to the Constitutional Court for validation.

Yet, Moldova’s journey towards European integration is far from over. On November 3, 2024, Moldova faces another crucial decision with the presidential runoff, a vote that will determine the nation’s leadership and commitment to continuing the EU accession process.

Amid these challenges, ALDA and other organisations dedicated to European integration continue their support for Moldova.

They are working to counter misinformation, foster understanding of the benefits of EU integration, and demonstrate that European values mean improved living standards, freedom of expression, human rights protections, fair justice, and greater citizen involvement in governance. For Moldova, this is not just a political choice but a fundamental transformation toward a future of peace, prosperity, and alignment with the European community.

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News in italian 🇮🇹

Il progetto Alta Via della Grande Guerra (AVGG), coordinato da ALDA+ e finanziato da BIM Bacchiglione – il consorzio dei comuni del bacino montano del fiume Bacchiglione – si avvicina alla conclusione prevista per fine anno.

AVGG si configura come un percorso escursionistico unico che attraversa le montagne vicentine lungo 200 km, unendo la memoria storica della Grande Guerra alla scoperta delle bellezze naturali locali. Cuore pulsante dell’itinerario sono i quattro sacrari militari delle Prealpi vicentine: Pasubio, Cimone, Asiago e Grappa. Questi luoghi, simboli di memoria e resilienza, rappresentano la volontà di mantenere vivo il ricordo della storia bellica italiana.

Il progetto non solo valorizza il patrimonio storico e naturalistico, ma genera anche significative ricadute economiche e sociali, coinvolgendo attivamente rifugi, baite, agriturismi e strutture ricettive locali. Il 2024 è stato un anno cruciale per AVGG, con numerosi eventi e escursioni che hanno coinvolto tappe di interesse lungo il percorso e la creazione di un piano strategico triennale per consolidare le iniziative.

ALDA+ ha svolto un ruolo di primo piano nella comunicazione e promozione del progetto, con la presentazione ufficiale a febbraio 2024 alla Borsa Italiana del Turismo a Milano e successivamente al Parlamento Europeo a Bruxelles, in collaborazione con la Provincia di Vicenza.

Grazie al supporto di ALDA+, il progetto AVGG è stato inserito in un processo di democrazia partecipata, coinvolgendo attivamente comunità e società civile in un’iniziativa che fonde natura, storia e identità territoriale. Questa iniziativa mette in luce l’importanza della memoria come valore fondante dell’Europa e testimonianza viva per le generazioni future.

Per maggiori informazioni, visita il sito ufficiale: Alta Via della Grande Guerra.

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ALDA is excited to share that it has become a member of the Youth Democracy Cohort (YDC), a worldwide group of organisations focused on increasing youth participation in civic and political activities. This membership shows ALDA’s ongoing commitment to supporting youth initiatives, offering new chances for cooperation, sharing knowledge, and making significant changes in democratic progress. YDC, which was started as part of the Summit for Democracy’s Year of Action, now has over 300 organisations from more than 70 countries, forming a strong network for discussions, joint efforts, and a shared goal of empowering youth in democracy.

As a key member of the European Partnership for Democracy (EPD) and a major contributor to the WYDE Civic Engagement project, ALDA is strongly dedicated to improving democratic governance for people of all ages and from all areas, with a particular focus on empowering youth. The Youth Democracy Cohort’s goals closely match ALDA’s focus within the Hub youth empowerment and education, which sees young people as crucial to building inclusive and strong communities. By becoming part of the YDC, ALDA not only deepens its involvement within the WYDE project but also boosts the efforts of its Youth Hub, furthering its aim to support young people through education, active involvement, and civic engagement programs across Europe and beyond.

Empowering youth globally through a network of shared knowledge and support

As part of YDC, ALDA will work with various partners, enhancing the impact of its youth initiatives through shared knowledge, workshops, and global projects. This network supports ALDA’s goal of creating strong, inclusive communities by giving young leaders the skills and support they need to actively and wisely take part in democratic processes. Through YDC, ALDA’s programs aimed at youth involvement will gain more chances to advocate, better educational resources, and access to YDC’s wide range of member knowledge on subjects like social inclusion, digital innovation, and leadership.

ALDA joining YDC also adds a significant element to the group’s collaborative network, which includes organisations from various continents. This cooperation enables ALDA and its partners in YDC to work together on global issues, promote inclusive policies, and assist young leaders in developing the skills needed for effective participation. In return, YDC provides ALDA’s young members with a platform to connect with others, learn, and contribute to shaping global democratic governance.

Encouraging young people to speak up is important for building societies that are ready for the future and include everyone. The YDC initiative works to make politics and democracy easier to understand and take part in, especially for young people. This includes teaching about politics, encouraging people to be active citizens, and helping young leaders grow. ALDA’s work with YDC will share ideas from its projects across Europe and beyond, showing how important it is for young people to be involved in local decision-making.

ALDA’s participation in the Youth Democracy Cohort shows its dedication to creating fair and inclusive democratic societies that value equality, sustainability, and involvement from people of all ages. By joining YDC, ALDA is ready to make its youth programs even more effective. This partnership will link these programs with a worldwide network that aims to support the development of future leaders. Both ALDA and YDC share a vision of a world where young people are crucial in creating and maintaining democratic systems.

To learn more about the Youth Democracy Cohort and the advantages it provides, please visit the YDC website.

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The report is now available also in French (🇫🇷), click on the button at the end of the article to discover it! Le rapport est maintenant disponible en français (🇫🇷), cliquez sur le bouton à la fin de l’article pour le découvrir !

The project Get the Trolls Out, led by the Media Diversity Institute and the support of 6 partners across Europe, launched the report “Media coverage of the Israel-Gaza conflict across GTTO countries of operation” to analyse the massive wave of global news coverage surrounding the conflict, examining the social and political perspectives with which different media organisations have approached the events.

The project partners in Belgium, France, Germany, Hungary, Moldova, Poland and the UK evaluated coverage of the events, starting on October 7th 2023 to mid-July of 2024, analysing metrics such as bias in the reporting, the language used to describe the actors in the conflict, the depiction of the conflict itself and the reliance on generalisations and stereotypes. 

In France, around 30 publications spanning the political spectrum were analysed, including left-wing outlets like Charlie Hebdo, centrist mainstream sources such as Le Monde and Le Figaro, and right-wing publications like Boulevard Voltaire and Valeurs Actuelles. In the UK, a similar strategy was applied, covering media from left- to right-wing perspectives. In Belgium, an equivalent number of publications were reviewed, focusing on mainstream outlets without regard to ideological bias. In Hungary, Poland, and Moldova, the research was more extensive, examining a high volume of headlines and articles, with a particular emphasis on xenophobic outlets in Poland.

The results revealed the presence of bias, and the use of offensive words, stereotypes and terminology

The evidence gathered by the transnational study revealed the presence and use of offensive wording and social stereotypes when reporting about the October 7th attack and the consequent invasion of Gaza. 

In France and the UK, news outlets on the right side of the political spectrum tended towards a more favourable approach to the Israeli perspective. In contrast, left-leaning outlets were more aligned with the concerns of Palestinians and Gaza and had a more sceptical view towards Israel’s actions. 

ALDA’s analysis of the French media landscape found that Le Figaro, Le Point, CNEWS, and Valeurs Actuelles (a traditionally right-wing outlet) provided balanced coverage of the Israel-Gaza conflict. However, the far-right outlet Boulevard Voltaire focused almost exclusively on actions perpetrated by Hamas. In contrast, moderate left-wing outlets like Le Monde presented Israel’s actions in a slightly negative light, while left-leaning outlets such as Marianne tended to report more favourably on Gaza.

After partners in the project’s six countries reviewed over 500 reports on the events in Israel and Gaza since October 7, 2023, findings indicate widespread biased reporting and the use of offensive, discriminatory language and stereotypes. While patterns varied by country, influenced by political context, historical traditions, and other biases, the widespread dissemination of such materials poses a risk of inflaming tensions in each participating country.

The project GTTO! aims to counter anti-religious hate speech across the European media landscape

The initiative identifies and responds to hateful narratives about Judaism, Islam, Christianity, and other religions across traditional and online media.

The partners involved in this report are The Media Diversity Institute (MDI) (UK), ‘NEVER AGAIN’ Association (Poland), The Independent Journalism Centre (IJC) (Moldova), The European Union of Jewish Students (EUJS) (Belgium), the Center for Independent Journalism (Hungary) and ALDA (France). 

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The report is now available also in French (🇫🇷), click on the button below to discover it!

Le rapport est maintenant disponible en français (🇫🇷), cliquez sur le bouton ci-dessous pour le découvrir !

RAPPORT 🇫🇷

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In a continuous effort to support local governance and democracy in Ukraine, ALDA successfully completed a mission from October 14 to 18, 2024, strengthening partnerships and fostering collaboration with key local and international actors. This mission highlighted the importance of dialogue and cooperation in the face of ongoing challenges, especially in the regions most affected by the conflict. The key areas visited included Ovruch, Zhytomyr, and Poltava, where the progress of ongoing projects and potential future partnerships were explored.

Ovruch: Building Resilience Near the Border

Ovruch, a village near the Belarusian border, showcased remarkable resilience despite the challenges posed by its proximity to the border and the conflict. ALDA’s visit underlined the importance of ongoing community partnerships, with strong collaborations between Ovruch, UNICEF, GIZ, and towns in France and Estonia. One of the major achievements is the establishment of an active youth centre. Moving forward, ALDA aims to utilise funds from Saint Brieux to establish a Local Democracy Agency (LDA) office in Ovruch and explore collaboration opportunities with the nearby town of Korosten (Ukraine).

Zhytomyr: Strengthening International Ties

In Zhytomyr, ALDA carried greetings from the Mayor of Vicenza, Giacomo Possamai, and from Maria Rita Dal Molin, Director of the Vicenza Centro Servizi Volontariato. A heartfelt thank you was expressed by all the Ukrainian partners we met in Zhytomyr, for the continued support throughout these challenging times. Zhytomyr’s Mayor, Sergiy Sukhomlyn, now serves as Director of the Ukrainian Agency for Reconstruction, while the mission was hosted by Deputy Mayor Svitlana Olshanska and the city’s Secretary, who will manage the municipality until the next elections. Zhytomyr, located in central Ukraine about an hour and a half west of Kyiv, remains a key hub for fostering international cooperation. Our meetings focused on enhancing ties with Italian businesses and promoting environmental initiatives. Plans for a March 2025 mission aim to strengthen the partnership between Zhytomyr and Vicenza. Additionally, Zhytomyr is making notable progress toward its 2025 climate-neutrality goal, driven by ambitious sustainability efforts.

Poltava: A Model for Resilience and Future Collaborations

ALDA’s visit to Poltava underscored the city’s exceptional organisation in managing refugees and local services, from schools to veteran centres. Poltava’s resilience and proactive efforts make it a strong candidate for future LDA partnerships. A partner visit is scheduled for February 2025, marking the start of deeper collaboration and support for Poltava’s initiatives.

Key Partnerships and Upcoming Events

The mission culminated with the event on October 17, 2024—ALDA Network Meeting in Kyiv: a Pre-URC 2025 Preparatory Exchange. The event, in collaboration with U LEAD, brought together high-level representatives, including ambassadors from Italy, Austria, and the EU, to discuss strategies for Ukraine’s recovery and modernisation. Meetings with Ambassadors yielded promising outcomes for ALDA’s work in Ukraine. The Italian Ambassador, Carlo Formosa and the Ambassador of the European Union to Ukraine, Katarína Mathernová, expressed interest in ongoing projects despite some communication challenges. There is a strong focus on increasing advocacy for Italian support, particularly in relation to the Proud Project. The Austrian Ambassador, Arad Benkö, has been proactive in supporting the LDAs, and further collaboration with Austrian stakeholders will be explored.

This meeting was crucial in defining key areas of focus for(URC 2025), with a particular emphasis on decentralised cooperation, sustainable recovery, and empowering local governance.

This mission reinforced ALDA’s commitment to Ukraine and its local communities, setting the stage for stronger collaborations and impactful projects in the near future. As we move forward, ALDA will continue to play a pivotal role in fostering resilient, modern communities across Europe and Ukraine.

CONSULT THE FLAGSHIP

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On October 15, 2024, the SCEPA – Scaling Up the Energy Poverty Approach project consortium convened in Kilkenny (Ireland), bringing together key stakeholders from across Europe to address one of the most pressing issues facing households today: energy poverty. Key discussions focused on updates from the second reporting period, including the completion of essential deliverables like the Joint Action Strategy (JAS) and Local Action Plans (LAP). Looking forward, partners discussed launching pilot programs to test energy-saving measures in local contexts and confirmed upcoming meetings, including the midterm event in 2025. The meeting underscored the collective commitment to making the energy transition inclusive and accessible, especially for vulnerable households across Europe. With 9.1% of European households classified as “energy poor,” partnerson practical measures to alleviate the burden of high energy costs and inadequate heating that disproportionately impacts vulnerable populations.

Local municipalities and organisations are at the forefront of this fight, working to implement solutions tailored to their communities. However, as highlighted during the meeting, bridging the gap between available technological and financial resources and the people who need them most is a challenge.

A significant part of SCEPA’s strategy is the creation of a Community of Interest (CoI), a network designed to unite local authorities, organisations, and citizens in a shared effort to combat energy poverty.

By joining the SCEPA Community of Interest, participants can collaborate with like-minded organisations, share resources, and contribute to a collective effort to fight energy poverty. Whether you are a municipality, an organisation working with vulnerable families, an academic institution, or a small to medium-sized enterprise, SCEPA is an opportunity to scale up existing solutions or find new collaborations to tackle energy challenges.

The CoI offers:

  • A learning environment for municipalities and universities to exchange best practices.
  • Online and in-person meetings to discuss practical measures.
  • Access to newsletters, technical reports, and other resources developed by the project.
  • The chance to contribute feedback and ideas to shape future actions.

Become Part of the Solution

Are you looking for ways to address energy poverty in your local community? Do you want to join a network of committed organizations and experts working to make energy more accessible and affordable for all? The SCEPA Community of Interest invites you to get involved.

Discover more and register today to join this growing movement. Together, we can make energy poverty a thing of the past.

For more information or to register your interest, please contact:

This four-year project will run until June 2027, aiming to make a just energy transition a tangible reality for Europe’s most vulnerable citizens.

Now is the time to take action and SCEPA is the platform to do it.

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In October 2024, Marco Boaria, Director of Programs and Corporate Strategy and Anna Ditta, Head of Programs Design at ALDA, embarked on a mission to Bhutan, furthering ALDA’s commitment to fostering democracy and civil participation worldwide. Bhutan, a small landlocked country situated in the eastern Himalayas, is bordered by China to the north and India to the south. Renowned for its distinctive approach to development, Bhutan prioritises Gross National Happiness as a measure of progress, striving to balance economic growth with cultural preservation and environmental sustainability.

This mission was conducted within the framework of the EU-funded project V4GCP (Voice for Green Change Partnership), led by the Handcraft Association of Bhutan (HAB). The V4GCP project focuses on enhancing civic engagement and sustainable production in the Cottage and Small Industries/Small and Medium Enterprises (CSI/SME) sector. The overall objective of the project is to transition to a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient economy through robust participation in governance, which is crucial for the country’s development and the empowerment of local communities.

During their stay, Marco and Anna held a series of strategic meetings with various project partners representing key business associations across Bhutan, including the Bhutan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI). They engaged with several institutions and leaders, laying the groundwork for future collaborations and actions in Bhutan. Among the notable figures they met were the President of the National Chamber of Commerce of Bhutan, the Secretary General of the National Assembly of Bhutan, the Governor of Punakha Dzong, and the Dean of the Jigme Singye Wangchuck (JSW) School of Law.

A highlight of the mission was a training session on policy analysis and policy advocacy, hosted by the prestigious JSW School of Law, whose President is HRH Princess Sonam Dechan Wangchuck, the sister of the current King of Bhutan. This seven-day training was part of ALDA’s broader contribution to the project, showcasing its expertise in civil participation and advocacy. ALDA provided real-world insights into civil society engagement and advocacy, drawing on its experiences and those of European stakeholders.

This mission marks another significant step in ALDA’s ongoing efforts to promote participatory democracy and empower civil society actors around the world.

Through this mission, ALDA has not only strengthened its collaboration with Bhutanese partners but has also underscored its role in supporting local communities and institutions in fostering inclusive governance and sustainable development.

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Gdansk, Poland, November 4-5, 2024

ALDA is thrilled to announce the conference, “Democracy in Exile: Empowering Local Democracy and Civil Society for Belarus,” taking place on November 4 and 5 in Gdansk, Poland!

Belarusian civil society organisations and activists, both inside the country and in exile, face significant challenges amidst the ongoing political repression and broader instability in the Eastern Partnership region. Despite the difficulties they face, including restricted freedoms, constant surveillance, and the threat of persecution, these entities continue to work tirelessly to maintain their operations and advance their advocacy efforts.

This event will bring together experts, representatives of the Belarusian diaspora, and international partners to discuss the potential for democracy in exile

The conference is an opportunity for collaboration and dialogue, focusing on how to support Belarusian civil society in these challenging times, as well as showcasing the importance of establishing a new platform for Belarus local democracy efforts and issues. Despite being in exile, it is crucial that Belarusian pro-democratic activists and forces promote citizen participation in decision-making processes at the local level.

In addition to the Belarusian focus, the conference will emphasise broader regional dynamics, including the impact of Russia’s actions in Ukraine and Georgia. One of the sessions will focus on the experience of Belarusian civil society organisations and the phenomenon of “fatigue” caused by the uncertainty of working outside the country, as well as the challenges faced by the Georgian civil society organisations due to the new law “on transparency of foreign influence” in Georgia. The event will serve as both a space for solidarity and mutual assistance, as well as an opportunity to outline strategies for sustaining democratic initiatives despite adversity. 

The “Democracy in Exile: Empowering Local Democracy and Civil Society for Belarus” conference represents a platform for collaboration, resilience, and innovation in the face of adversity. By uniting civil society leaders from Belarus, Georgia, and Ukraine, this event will not only address the pressing challenges posed by political repression and regional instability but also foster a spirit of solidarity and mutual support. As participants engage in meaningful dialogue, share experiences, and develop actionable strategies, they will help pave the way for a more vibrant and participatory democracy, both in exile and at home. Together, we can empower local democracy and strengthen the foundations for a brighter future in Belarus and beyond.

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AT A GLANCE

INSPIRED Moldova aims to contribute to creating an enabling environment for civil society in Moldova by empowering civil society organisations (CSOs) to actively engage in policy discussions at all levels. Building on the momentum generated by the EU accession process, the action will facilitate policy dialogue processes on the enabling environment for civil society and relevant plans and programs stemming from the accession negotiations. Recognising the importance of democracy building in the new EU methodology as one of the first fundamental accession criteria, the initiative will strengthen the capacities of CSOs to act as catalysts of democracy both at national and local level and in the digital sphere. In addition, the action supports collaborative efforts to cultivate an inclusive and participatory environment conducive to improving public participation, including through the promotion of under-represented groups and women in Moldova. The project empowers Moldovan civil society to actively influence national policies and boost the country’s EU integration by involving CSOs in policy-making processes at national, local and digital levels. The project will provide technical and financial support to 70 Moldovan CSOs with the essential tools and resources needed to amplify their voice and achieve sustainable impact. It will also encourage dialogue and collaboration with public authorities, ensuring that civil society becomes a key actor in promoting democracy in Moldova.

OBJECTIVES

  • General Objective: To contribute to democratic decision-making and to the creation of an enabling environment for civil society in the Republic of Moldova.
  • Specific Objective: Civil society is empowered to engage in participatory and inclusive policy dialogue to advance the implementation and monitoring of national and EU development plans and programs, with a particular focus on underrepresented groups and women.

HASHTAGS

#InspiredMoldova

RELATED NEWS

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On October 10, 2024, ALDA hosted an ‘Effective Ageing and Nature Conservation’ Seminar in Grez-Doiceau, Belgium. The event was organised within the Grey4Green Project, which aims to eliminate social exclusion experienced by the elderly while at the same time acting for sustainability and climate change. Some of the project’s objectives are to promote active participation of this social group in environmental programs, support the third age sector and quality of life, fight climate change and create an online observatory. The Grey4Green project brings together a diverse consortium of six partners committed to promoting environmental action through the engagement of elderly citizens, from five different countries: France, Denmark, Cyprus, Iceland and Portugal. To achieve this goal, during the project lifecycle, a wide range of activities have been organised, such as training courses, intercultural and international exchanges, and environmental volunteering (e.g., beach cleaning, natural path restoration, plogging, recycling…). ALDA plays a key role in this initiative alongside FO Aarhus – Association for Adult Education, which focuses on lifelong learning. The Lousada Municipality and Bio Living Association contribute their expertise in community-based environmental efforts, while the Environment Agency of Iceland provides insights into sustainable practices and environmental protection. CARDET – Centre for the Advancement of Research & Development in Educational Technology, adds a strong focus on innovative educational methods, ensuring the project’s approach is both inclusive and impactful. Together, these partners are working to foster greater environmental stewardship across generations.

The Seminar started with a presentation of ALDA and Grey4Green project activities, thanks to the intervention of Adrien Licha, Coordinator of the ALDA Secretariat Office, and Ginevra Gatti, Project Manager in the Environment and Climate Hub of ALDA. Similarly, Pascal Goergen, Councillor for Civic Participation in Grez-Doiceau, talked about the role of the elderly and environmental projects in the Belgian municipality. Afterwards, the event foresaw a round table on the benefits of volunteering in nature for psychophysical health, nature and society, with an impressive lineup of speakers: Herni Lourdelle, Special Advisor at the European Federation of Retired and Elderly People (Ferpa); Ismael Paez Civico, Executive Director at the European Confederation of Senior Expert Services (CESES); Manon Jacob, Partnership Manager at Give a Day platform; and Julie Goffette, “Forest Friend” Project Manager at the Royal Forestry Society of Belgium (RFSB). 

The session was a great chance to discuss and reflect on local models and good practices for volunteering and social inclusion. Every speaker contributed to the discussion by sharing their work and personal experience, managing to involve the public in the exchange of knowledge.

In line with the project’s topic, the event concluded with a guided nature walk during which participants actively experienced volunteering in nature. Thanks to the volunteers of Les Amis du Parc de la Dyle, participants gained more insights into the soil of this part of Belgium, as well as into the typical fauna and flora. The biodiversity of the area is protected by the Natura 2000 Project. 

Including elderly citizens in active policy-making

The primary goal of this ‘Effective Ageing and Nature Conservation’ Seminar was to involve citizens, especially elderly people and policy-makers, in active and inclusive policy-making to tackle the impacts and risks of climate change. 

Nowadays, the ageing population and environmental protection are two pressing issues all over Europe. Combining the social and environmental dimensions could help address both challenges. The elderly are often eager to contribute to society through civic engagement and one way to accomplish this involvement is through environmental volunteering. Projects like Grey4Green, encourage the elderly to stay active in their daily lives, meet people and fight loneliness – that is a common challenge for this group – but at the same urge them to contribute to act for climate change and environmental protection. In brief, Grey4Green Project is committed to make older people active participants rather than passive actors in the face of climate change and environmental degradation.

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ALDA is happy to start working on a new project – INSPIRED Moldova, funded by the European Union, that started in September 2024 and will last until February 2027. The project aims to empower Moldovan civil society to actively shape national policies and play a leading role in the country’s integration into the European Union. By engaging civil society organisations (CSOs) in policy-making processes at the national, local, and digital levels, the project aims to create more inclusive and effective governance. Additionally, it promotes open dialogue and collaboration between CSOs and public authorities, ensuring that civil society becomes a central actor in advancing democracy, transparency, and accountability in Moldova.

The project aims to expand participatory opportunities for Moldovan civil society organisations (CSOs) through Citizens’ Assemblies and Civic Engagement Conferences, fostering greater involvement in reforming participation frameworks and addressing key policy reforms linked to Moldova’s EU accession. Additionally, it focuses on enhancing the capacity of public authorities to collaborate with CSOs by supporting multi-stakeholder platforms and fostering consultation. This cooperation will lead to more effective policy implementation. Another key objective is to improve the digital skills of CSOs, enabling them to participate more effectively in policy dialogue, advocacy, and citizen engagement, while also strengthening their online presence. Youth engagement will be promoted through community-based media and democracy literacy activities. The project also seeks to build up CSO capacities through help desks, training programs on advocacy, policy analysis, digital tools, and knowledge exchanges on EU policies. Civic education campaigns will highlight the importance of creating an enabling environment for civil society.

On September 23-26, 2024, the first strategic discussion and planning meeting of this project took place in Chișinău, Moldova.

The event brought together key consortium partners, including the European Partnership for Democracy, CPR Moldova – Center for Policy and Reforms, National Center for Assistance and Information of Moldovan NGOs CONTACT (CC) People in Need Moldova and Democracy Reporting International. The week’s sessions focused on aligning the project’s objectives with local and national needs, drawing on lessons from past experiences, and setting the groundwork for the next steps of the project. Representatives from the consortium organisations covered a variety of crucial topics, paving the way for the successful implementation of INSPIRED Moldova’s mission to strengthen democracy and local governance throughout Moldova.

During the meeting, significant progress was made in several key areas. The governance structure for the consortium was established, ensuring smooth coordination among all partners. The project’s objectives, scope, and desired outcomes were thoroughly reviewed to ensure alignment with the broader goals. Participants also designed the research framework for key outputs using the Democracy and Institutions for a Conducive Environment (DICE) approach, which will guide future activities. A comprehensive strategy for visibility, engagement, and outreach was developed to enhance the project’s impact and public awareness. In addition, discussions focused on the financial support provided to local organizations and beneficiaries. This support will enable them to carry out specific tasks aimed at capacity building, policy dialogue, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, all contributing to the project’s overall objectives and broader societal impact.

The Inception Week was an important opportunity for the consortium partners to exchange ideas, align their efforts, and strengthen their commitment to INSPIRED Moldova’s vision. The discussions and decisions made during the week are expected to have a significant impact on the successful rollout of the project’s upcoming phases.

The project partners expressed their gratitude for the collaborative spirit that defined the Inception Week, emphasising the importance of partnership in achieving the project’s ambitious goals. Moving forward, INSPIRED Moldova will continue to work with local communities and stakeholders to implement the plans discussed during the Inception Week, ensuring that the project creates lasting, positive impacts in Moldova.

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On October 9, 2024, our three innovative Interreg projects, namely GINEVRA and 3P4SSE, which participated in the Governance Roundtable, and GreenScape CE, which took part in the Climate Change Roundtable—came together at the Synergies Roundtable organised by Interreg Central Europe. This event was a unique opportunity for cross-project collaboration, focusing on transformative governance, climate-proofing urban areas, and promoting social and solidarity economies (SSE) across Central Europe. Each project brought its unique expertise and innovative solutions to the table, fostering productive discussions on shared challenges and synergies.

GINEVRA: Driving Responsible Innovation in Governance

The GINEVRA project aims at developing new governance models for transformative innovations like autonomous vehicles (AVs), was well-represented at the Governance Roundtable. The project emphasizes its focus on empowering small and medium-sized cities with the tools to engage citizens and stakeholders in AV deployment.

The roundtable enabled GINEVRA to explore synergies with other projects, sharing its insights on responsible innovation, multi-level governance, and the importance of stakeholder engagement. The project’s core message revolved around  the need to co-create governance models with citizens, ensuring AV technology serves sustainable, citizen-friendly futures.

GreenScape CE: Climate-Proofing Urban Areas

The GreenScape CE project contributed to the Climate Change Roundtable by showcasing its efforts in reversing urban sprawl and integrating green infrastructure (GI) into grey cityscapes. GreenScape CE’s mission is to address urban heat islands and mitigate climate change effects through nature-based solutions (NbS) and urban greening.

At the roundtable, GreenScape CE highlighted its success in developing Local Action Plans (LAPs) that provide a clear framework for implementing NbS across five pilot cities in Central Europe. By sharing their experience, the project inspired discussions on how to scale up these actions and identified potential collaborations with governance-focused projects to integrate green policies into urban planning more effectively.

3P4SSE: Empowering Social and Solidarity Economies

The 3P4SSE project brought a socio-economic dimension to the Governance Roundtable, focusing on strengthening the Public-Private Partnership for the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE). The project works with local stakeholders to co-design action plans aimed at reducing inequalities and promoting local economic development through SSE.

During the discussions, 3P4SSE presented its joint strategy on 3Ps to support Social and Solidarity Economy in Central Europe. The project highlighted the value of SSE as a policy instrument for addressing regional disparities and emphasized the potential for synergies with governance projects to enhance participatory decision-making processes.

Synergies and Future Collaboration

The Synergies Roundtable provided an ideal platform for cross-sectoral collaboration between governance, climate change, and SSE-focused projects. By sharing experiences and insights, GINEVRA, GreenScape CE, and 3P4SSE successfully identified common ground for future cooperation.

The roundtable concluded with a commitment from all participants to build on the synergies drawn, with a shared goal of fostering innovative governance models, promoting climate resilience in urban planning, and supporting sustainable socio-economic development across the region.

This online event underscores the power of collective action in addressing complex challenges, offering a roadmap for sustained cooperation and impactful outcomes. Most importantly, demonstrates how the Interreg Central Europe program fosters synergies between diverse projects, accelerating regional development through shared innovation and collaboration. 



  • Period:

    -

  • Countries involved:

    North Macedonia

  • Donor:

  • SDG:

  • Lead partner:

  • All partners:

  • Contacts:


    projects@alda-europe.eu

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

On September 17, 2024 in Skopje, North Macedonia, ALDA Balkans organised the event “Building connections, creating opportunities” with members of the Macedonian Network of the Anna Lindh Foundation. The event hosted 22 network members who participated in three sessions dedicated to networking and interaction, moderated by Simona Slavkova, project assistant at ALDA Balkans and responsible for Anna Lind’s activities in North Macedonia.

Highlights of the event

The first session featured a panel discussion where four speakers from various organisations shared their experiences: Arben Vila, from My Mobility, Liljana Jonoski, from Rural Coalition, Samet Shabani, from Horizon Civitas, and Nadir Redzepi, from InSoc. The participants shared their success stories and practices from their organisations, offering inspiration and knowledge to the network members.

In the second part, participants worked in groups to reflect on their goals, expectations and contributions to the network, coming up with creative and innovative inputs and ideas.

The final session focused on sharing active calls and ongoing projects from network members. Each partner gave updates on their current initiatives, highlighting key achievements, challenges, and potential areas for collaboration. This exchange encouraged participants to explore synergies and strengthen partnerships for future joint projects.

Speakers included Ivana Velkova (ALDA) who presented the call for journalism interns within the “Media for the EU” project. Samet Shabani, from Horizon Civitas, presented the call for participants for the Mediterranean Youth Academy for Culture and Dialogue in collaboration with organisations from other ALF member countries. Then, Marija Georgievska from Bilkilife introduced the herbal tea bag collection initiative. Marjan Icoski from ARNO presented the fifth call for the RISE project. Maja Varoshlija presented the BOOST project, currently being developed by ALDA. Liljana Jonoski, from Rural Coalition, announced the thematic forum “Included community for resistance to corruption”. Finally, Zoran Ileski from SEGA presented the regional youth consultations for the advancement of the Law on Youth Participation and Youth Policies.

The event concluded with an informal cocktail where members expressed their enthusiasm for future collaborations, both within the network and with members from other countries of the Anna Lindh Foundation.

ALDA in North Macedonia

In 2024, the European Association for Local Democracy (ALDA) Skopje established North Macedonia’s first network of civil society organizations. This national network aims to maintain a well-balanced and diverse profile of the civil society sector, covering a wide range of fields to promote complementarity, foster mutual understanding, and encourage participatory approaches.

The network’s main objective is to advance good governance and foster citizen participation at the local level in North Macedonia and throughout the Western Balkans. To reach these goals, both the network coordinator and its members are dedicated to implementing strategies that promote active involvement and support peer-to-peer knowledge exchange. These efforts are designed to fully engage the network’s members and leverage their skills and expertise to the fullest.

The event was highly successful, with participants showing great enthusiasm for future collaborations. Their shared interest in working together underscores the network’s potential to foster stronger connections and create new opportunities moving forward.

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

On October 8, 2024, the Brussels Press Club hosted the presentation of “30 Years of Local Democracy,” the latest book by Antonella Valmorbida, Secretary General of ALDA. The event gathered prominent voices from European institutions, local governance, and civil society to reflect on the past, present, and future of local democracy.

The evening began with a warm welcome from Maddalena Alberti, Director of the Association “ADL in Zavidovici“, ALDA Member, who set the tone for a gathering dedicated to celebrating decades of commitment to fostering citizen participation and strengthening democratic governance at the local level.

A panel discussion followed, moderated by Adrien Licha, ALDA’s Secretariat Coordinator. The discussion offered rich reflections on the challenges and opportunities of local democracy, with insightful contributions from:

The panel explored the importance of local democracy in today’s complex political landscape, discussing the role of citizen participation in shaping resilient, inclusive, and democratic communities across Europe and beyond.

Following the panel, Maddalena Alberti led a conversation with Antonella Valmorbida about the book itself. This dialogue delved into the core themes of “30 Years of Local Democracy,” which recounts ALDA’s journey since its foundation, highlights its accomplishments, and candidly addresses the challenges it has faced in promoting democratic governance. Antonella also shared her reflections on the evolving landscape of local democracy, drawing on her vast experience and the lessons learned from three decades of advocacy and action.

The book presentation concluded with a networking reception, where attendees enjoyed refreshments and continued the conversation in a more informal setting. This provided an opportunity for participants to connect, exchange ideas, and discuss the future of local governance in Europe, particularly in light of current global challenges, such as the war in Ukraine, which was a recurrent theme throughout the evening.

Order Your Copy of “30 Years of Local Democracy”

ALDA is pleased to offer copies of “30 Years of Local Democracy” in three languages—English, French, and Italian. To receive your copy, please email us at alda@alda-europe.eu, specifying your preferred language. Shipping costs will kindly be covered by the recipient.

For more information about this event or ALDA’s ongoing work in promoting local democracy and civic participation, visit our website or contact us at info@alda-europe.eu.

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

On October 9, 2024, ALDA held its Governing Board meeting in Brussels (Belgium). This meeting marked an important moment, as ALDA and Promote Ukraine are now located in the same building and on the same floor in the heart of the European Quarter. Promote Ukraine’s President, Marta Baraniy, offered welcoming remarks, underscoring ALDA’s growing role in supporting Ukraine through ongoing projects and collaboration.

The meeting began with remarks from ALDA President Nataša Vučković, followed by an address from the Representative of the Ombudsman of Ukraine to the EU and Belgium, who discussed the current situation in Ukraine. Later, the Board held a minute of silence in honour of Alessandro Perelli, a dedicated member and advocate for local democracy.

Key agenda items included the approval of new members, showcasing ALDA’s expanding reach across Europe. New members included the Zelenodolsk Municipality, the Grand Est Region, WTFO Europe (the European Branch of the World Fair Trade Organization), CitizensACT, and Chernivtsi Municipality. The meeting also addressed memberships and the change of elected representatives from Diputació de Barcelona, welcoming Maria Eugenia Guy, the Deputy Mayor of Barcelona, who now represents it.

During the session, the Board approved new LDA Delegates, welcoming Shota Kvaratskhelia from Georgia and Valentyna Puzikova from Odesa, Ukraine, further reinforcing the network’s presence in regions critical to democratic governance. The event was also attended by Chiara Adamo, Head of Unit “Gender, Human Rights and Democratic Governance” – DG DEVCO at European Commission, who reaffirmed the Unit’s commitment in supporting Civil Society Organisations outside Europe, specifically within the WYDE – Civic Engagement project framework.

The discussion also encompassed broader strategic and operational topics, including the 2024 Programme and Strategy Implementation, the first details of the 2025 Programme and Budget, and the registration of new offices, notably in Ukraine. An important moment was the approval of ALDA’s Statement on Palestine, showing the association’s commitment to dialogue and local democracy worldwide. Adrien Licha, Head of the Eastern Partnership Department at ALDA also presented a report on a mission to Central Asia, sharing insights into future opportunities in the region.

The event concluded with a reception, where ALDA’s Governing Board members and Chiara Adamo, from DG INPTA, joined colleagues and guests for a moment of informal exchange, marking the end of a highly productive session.

In addition to the agenda items, the meeting was also an occasion for the presentation of Secretary General Antonella Valmorbida’s book, “30 Years of Local Democracy.” In her book, she reflects on three decades of promoting democratic governance at the local level, sharing her experiences and the challenges faced, including the impact of the war in Ukraine.

The meeting reinforced ALDA’s strategy for the coming years and highlighted its ongoing commitment to local democracy, solidarity, and resilience in the face of Europe’s biggest challenges.

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

News in Ukranian 🇺🇦, English below 🇬🇧

2 жовтня 2024 року Агенція місцевої демократії Одеси організувала вступну зустріч, присвячену презентації місії організації, майбутніх цілей та можливостей для співпраці. Захід відбувся як в очному форматі, так і онлайн, зібравши представників різних секторів, зокрема місцевої влади, громадянського суспільства, бізнесу та науки.

Зустріч розпочалася з хвилини вшанування пам’яті загиблих захисників України, після чого було вітальне слово делегатки АМД, яка підкреслила важливу роль ALDA та АМД Одеса у сприянні розвитку демократії та громади в Одеському регіоні. Було наголошено на важливості партнерства між громадянським суспільством, місцевими органами влади та міжнародними організаціями для досягнення цих цілей.

У заході взяв участь почесний гість, Луїджі Мальферрарі, міжнародний експерт та член юридичної служби Європейської комісії. У своїй основній промові Мальферрарі наголосив на непохитній підтримці Європейського Союзу на шляху інтеграції України до ЄС, а також поділився своїм досвідом роботи з міжнародними інституціями, включаючи Європейський суд справедливості.

Адрієн Ліча, голова відділу Східного партнерства в ALDA, також долучився до діалогу, презентувавши різноманітні ініціативи ALDA в рамках Східного партнерства. Його виступ був зосереджений на залученні місцевих громад до процесів демократизації та самоврядування, викликав великий інтерес у присутніх, відкриваючи нові можливості для співпраці між українськими та європейськими організаціями.

Віталій Дмитрович Барвіненко, голова Одеської районної ради, висловив тверду підтримку АМД Одеса у впровадженні міжнародного досвіду на місцевому рівні, підкреслюючи важливість глобальної співпраці у впровадженні демократичних реформ. Так само Марія Федорівна Попова, представниця від Уповноваженого ВРУ з прав людини, наголосила на ключовій ролі міжнародної співпраці у захисті прав людини, особливо на тлі військових викликів, з якими стикається Україна.

Протягом зустрічі учасники активно обговорювали кілька потенційних напрямків співпраці, включаючи підвищення участі громадян у прийнятті рішень на місцевому рівні, збільшення прозорості та підзвітності місцевого врядування, а також просування європейських цінностей і принципів місцевого самоврядування.

Захід завершився жвавим обміном ідей та пропозицій щодо майбутніх спільних проєктів.

Учасники домовилися підтримувати відкриті комунікації та організовувати подальші зустрічі для зміцнення співпраці у сфері розвитку місцевої демократії.

Це успішне зібрання не лише сприяло встановленню значущих зв’язків, але й надало цінні інсайти та практичні рекомендації від міжнародних експертів, підкріпивши спільну відданість підтримці демократичних ініціатив в Одеському регіоні. В подальшому АМД Одеса має намір продовжувати розвиток цих партнерств, сприяти зміцненню громад і просуванню інтеграції України до Європи.

News in English 🇬🇧

Strengthening Local Democracy in Odesa: A Successful Introductory Meeting with LDA Odesa

On October 2, 2024, the Local Democracy Agency Odesa organised an introductory meeting aimed at presenting the organisation’s mission, future objectives, and collaboration opportunities. Held both in person and online, the event brought together representatives from various sectors, including local government, civil society, business, and academia.

The meeting commenced with a moment of remembrance for Ukraine’s fallen defenders, followed by a welcoming address from the LDA delegate, who emphasised the critical role that ALDA and LDA Odesa play in fostering democracy and community development in the Odesa region. The importance of partnerships between civil society, local authorities, and international organisations was underscored as key to achieving these goals.

The event featured a distinguished guest, Luigi Malferrari, an international expert and member of the Legal Service of the European Commission. In his keynote address, Malferrari highlighted the European Union’s unwavering support for Ukraine on its path to integration with the EU, while also sharing insights from his experience working with international institutions, including the European Court of Justice.

Adrien Licha, Head of the Eastern Partnership Department at ALDA, also contributed to the dialogue, presenting various ALDA initiatives within the framework of the Eastern Partnership. Licha’s remarks, which centered on the engagement of local communities in democratisation processes and self-governance, were met with great interest from the attendees, as they opened new avenues for cooperation between Ukrainian and European organizations.

Vitaliy Dmytrovych Barvinenko, Chairman of the Odesa District Council, expressed his strong commitment to supporting LDA Odesa in implementing international expertise at the local level, reinforcing the significance of global collaboration in driving democratic reforms. Similarly, Maria Fedorivna Popova, a representative from the VRU Commissioner for Human Rights, emphasised the critical role that international cooperation plays in safeguarding human rights, particularly in the face of Ukraine’s current military challenges.

Throughout the meeting, participants actively discussed several potential areas for collaboration, including enhancing citizen participation in local decision-making, increasing transparency and accountability within local governance, and promoting European values and principles of local self-government.

The event concluded with a vibrant exchange of ideas and proposals for future joint projects.

Participants agreed to maintain open communication and organise further meetings to solidify cooperative efforts in strengthening local democracy.

This successful gathering not only fostered meaningful connections but also provided valuable insights and practical recommendations from international experts, reinforcing the shared commitment to supporting democratic initiatives in the Odesa region. Moving forward, LDA Odesa is poised to continue developing these partnerships, fostering stronger communities, and advancing Ukraine’s European integration efforts.

  • Period:

    -

  • Countries involved:

    European Union
    France
    Greece
    Lithuania
    Portugal
    Spain

  • Donor:

  • SDG:

  • Lead partner:

  • All partners:

  • Contacts:


    projects@alda-europe.eu

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

The EXTRA C – Extraordinary Citizens project, hosted a major mobility event in Strasburg, France, from September 23 to 27. The event gathered participants from the project’s partner countries – France, Greece, Lithuania, Portugal and Spain -, fostering inclusive democratic participation of young people with intellectual and physical disabilities. The EXTRA-C project aims to empower young people with disabilities to take an active role in democracy. This initiative aims to raise awareness and promote inclusive participation to transform local, regional, national and EU-level environments into communities where diversity and inclusion are fostered, where everyone has a voice and platform to express themselves. Through activities such as this mobility event, the project aims to empower these citizens and the organisations working with them. This week-long mobility aimed to deepen participants’ understanding of their democratic rights and responsibilities while enhancing their knowledge gained from previous training sessions. It brought together around 45-50 individuals, including youth with disabilities, support staff, and project partners, creating an environment conducive to learning and exchange.

A look at the event’s activities and highlights

The activities throughout the week were designed to provide both educational and interactive experiences. On September 24, the day started with engaging activities to help participants get to know each other, followed by a visit to the Council of Europe, where they gained valuable insights into European governance. The following day, September 25, participants had the morning free to explore Strasbourg, while in the afternoon, they visited the European Parliament, deepening their understanding of the institution’s role in upholding democratic values. The morning of September 26 was dedicated to exploring the permanent exhibition “The European project: from dream to unity” at Lieu d’Europe. This visit was conducted in groups, with interactive activities organised in the park for those waiting, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience for all. Finally, on September 27, the mobility concluded with a goodbye picnic in Parc de l’Orangerie, providing a space for participants to reflect on their experiences and share their insights.

Exchange of knowledge and experience: community and shared purpose

The primary goal of this mobility initiative was to foster the exchange of knowledge, experiences, and best practices among the participants, ultimately enhancing their understanding of diverse perspectives while strengthening their sense of community and shared purpose. Through workshops, discussions, and collaborative activities, participants were able to deepen their connections and develop a strong network of peers dedicated to similar goals. One of the highlights of the mobility was the series of visits to key European institutions, which proved particularly valuable in providing participants with a firsthand understanding of the democratic processes and governance structures that shape the European Union. These visits offered unique opportunities to witness policy-making processes, explore the inner workings of European institutions, enriching their overall experience and commitment to fostering democratic values in their own lives.These interactions not only equipped the participants with a deeper understanding of their rights and responsibilities as citizens but also contributed to the broader dialogue on democratic principles, inclusion, and civic engagement. 

Working towards inclusion: a multi-faceted approach

The Extra-C project is framed within ALDA’s thematic hubs of Gender, Inclusion and Human Rights and Youth Empowerment and Education. The Gender and Inclusion Hub adopts an intersectional approach to expand opportunities, reduce barriers, and combat discrimination across various identities and experiences. Meanwhile, the Youth Empowerment Hub is dedicated to fostering active participation among young people, with a special emphasis on creating educational and engagement opportunities for marginalised and disadvantaged youth.
The outcomes of the Strasbourg mobility, along with other project results, will be further disseminated in the upcoming months. For more details on the project’s activities and future events, please visit the project’s official website.

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

AMIL,  the Alliance Multi-Stakeholders for Migrants Integration and Labour, promotes sustainable integration of third-country nationals into the labour market by enhancing the MEIC methodology, empowering migrants to engage in their integration through person-centred approach and orientation and training programs.  Over the next 20 months, it will implement a collaborative plan leveraging partner expertise to tackle challenges and explore innovative solutions, benefiting local experiences and fostering knowledge sharing among partners in Greece, Cyprus and France.

Programma Integra explores the various reasons why Italy, Greece, and Cyprus were selected for the AMIL project. Situated along key migration routes, these countries serve as primary entry points for migrants and refugees from diverse regions of Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Given that AMIL aims to enhance the economic and labour integration of newly arrived individuals, it is crucial to focus on the countries where they first settle. In addition to geographical factors, these nations face economic and social challenges that necessitate a targeted approach to effectively address their needs.

Italy faces notable employment disparities between its native and foreign populations.

In 2023, the employment rate for migrant workers stood at 63.4%, compared to 66.6% for native workers. A primary concern in this context is job insecurity: while only 12.7% of Italian workers held temporary contracts, a significant 36% of migrant workers were employed under such contracts. This disparity underscores a fragmented labour market characterised by limited inclusivity and stability for migrants. The data reveals a clear divide between migrant and native workers, highlighting the urgent need for reform.

Greece presents an even more challenging scenario, with an unemployment rate of 22.2% among migrant workers.

This indicates that job opportunities for this segment of the population are severely constrained, reflecting significant limitations in the labour market. Across different countries in Europe, migrant people often work in more precarious conditions than the native population, with disadvantageous conditions such as temporary contracts and fewer labour protections. In countries such as Italy and Greece this situation is particularly pronounced as disparities between foreigner and native workers in the labor market are among the most severe in Europe. 

Cyprus faces similar problems, with labour force participation levels significantly lower compared to the EU average. 

AMIL is committed to addressing these challenges. Utilising the MEIC Methodology (Migrants Economic Integration Cluster), the project focuses on enhancing migrants’ skills, facilitating their access to employment, and promoting more effective inclusion policies within the labour market. The initiative has several key objectives: not only to integrate migrants into society but also to strengthen the economic and social fabric of host countries. By offering innovative and inclusive solutions, AMIL aims to create a more cohesive community, fostering a mutually advantageous environment for all.

Italy, Cyprus, and Greece were chosen for the AMIL project because of their strategic geographic positions as primary entry points to Europe, as well as the complex challenges they face regarding the economic integration of migrants into society and the labour market. This project offers a unique opportunity to enhance working conditions and reduce disparities between native and migrant workers in these countries. By addressing these challenges, AMIL aims to foster a more equitable and inclusive labour environment for all.