Experience the legacy of Democracy at Villa Fabris: join the Summer School

ALDA – the European Association for Local Democracy, implements more than 100 projects a year supporting local democracy and citizen engagement. The Summer School in Villa Fabris offers to our members, partners and all participants a unique opportunity for sharing experiences, getting inspired and collecting strengths for future commitment in your professional and personal life.

The experience will give you the opportunity to focus on what democracy means today and why it is challenged and how to fight back.

Villa Fabris, with its rich historical significance and serene surroundings, provides an ideal setting for reflection and discourse on the vital role of local democracy in sustaining and strengthening democratic principles.

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The Summer School on Local Democracy at Villa Fabris (Thiene, Italy) will take place on 28-29-30 August 2024

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By bringing together diverse perspectives and experiences, the summer school seeks to facilitate knowledge exchange, capacity building, and networking opportunities among participants, empowering them to become catalysts for positive change in their respective communities. Overall, the Summer School on Local Democracy at Villa Fabris seeks to inspire, educate, and empower participants to become effective advocates for local democracy and champions of democratic governance in their communities and beyond. By fostering collaboration and mutual learning, the summer school aims to contribute to the establishment of Villa Fabris as a hub for ongoing dialogue and capacity building in the field of local democracy.

You will meet with like-minded people who are, like you, engaged in democracy at the local, national and more global level. You will get to know key actors at the European level that will share with you their personal and professional paths.

The School also offers a spotlight, on an yearly basis, on a specific country. This year the focus will be on Ukraine, which is going through massive challenges, after the fully fledged aggression of Russia in 2022.

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The Summer School aims to convene thought leaders, policymakers, academics, and practitioners from around the world to explore innovative approaches, emerging trends, and best practices in local governance.

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Key themes and objectives of the summer school include:

1. Understanding the Foundations of Local Democracy: Delving into the historical evolution and theoretical underpinnings of local democracy, examining its significance in the broader context of democratic governance.
2. Challenges and Opportunities in Contemporary Local Governance: Identifying and analysing current challenges facing local governments, such as political polarization, fiscal constraints, and social inequality, while exploring innovative strategies for overcoming these obstacles.
3. Harnessing Technology for Citizen Engagement: Exploring the potential of digital platforms, data analytics, and e-participation tools to enhance citizen participation, transparency, and accountability in local decision-making processes.
4. Promoting Inclusive and Sustainable Communities: Examining approaches to fostering inclusive dialogue, diversity, and social cohesion within local communities, with a focus on sustainability, resilience, and equitable development.
5. Strengthening Democratic Institutions and Civic Engagement: Assessing the role of civil society, grassroots movements, and local leadership in nurturing democratic values, promoting civic education, and building trust between citizens and government.
6. Case Studies and Best Practices: Showcasing successful initiatives, pilot projects, and innovative models of local democracy from various regions, highlighting lessons learned and practical insights for replication and adaptation.

SUMMER SCHOOL AGENDA

DAY 1: Foundations of Local Democracy

• 9:30 – 10:00 Welcome and Introduction to Villa Fabris
  • presentation and community building 
• 10:00 – 11:00 Keynote Address: “The Evolution of Local Democracy: Historical Perspectives”
• Coffee break
• 11:30 – 13:00 Panel Discussion: “Principles and Values of Local Democracy”
  • implementation, instruments and projects of ALDA as well as partners contributions 
• Lunch
• 14:30 – 16:00 Workshop: “Citizen Participation and Democratic Decision-Making”
  • using the right instrument at the right place, mapping 
• Coffee break
• 16:30-18:00  Workshop: “Citizen Participation and Democratic Decision-Making”
• 18:30 Networking Reception and Cultural Evening

DAY 2:  Challenges and Innovations in Local Governance

• 9:00 – 9:30 Keynote Address: “Navigating Challenges in Contemporary Local Governance: post normal times and challenges of local governance”
• 9:30 – 11:00 Panel Discussion: “Innovative Approaches to Local Service Delivery”
• Coffee break
• 11:30 – 13:00 Workshop: “Digital Democracy: Leveraging Technology for Civic Engagement”
• Lunch
• 14:30 – 16:00 Interactive Session: “Design Thinking for Local Solutions”
• 16:00 – 18:00 Study Visit: Thiene Municipality and Local Community Projects

DAY 3: Ukraine at a critical path : looking into the future for sustainable and deep democracy

• 9:00 – 11:00 Keynote Addresses and open discussion: “Mayor of Mariupol and Civil Society groups from Ukraine 
• Coffee break
• 11:30 – 13:00 Panel Discussion: “Social Cohesion and Community Resilience”
• Lunch
• 14:30 – 16:00 Workshop: “Empowering Marginalized Voices: Strategies for Inclusive Governance”
  • animation form the Local Democracy Agencies Ukraine and coordinator 
  • democracy at stake and in fragile context
• Coffee break
• 16:30 Closing Ceremony: Reflections and Next Steps
• Departure

DAY 4 – Venice (optional trip)

A visit to Veneto would be incomplete without a trip to the enchanting city of Venice. Just a short distance from Vicenza, Venice is a world-renowned destination, famed for its unique network of canals, historic bridges, and an abundance of artistic and architectural treasures.

Venice is not only an enchanting city: it played a very important role in keeping democracy tendencies alive in the past. The most serene republic—Serenissima, as Venice styled itself—had many democratic virtues: it was founded in equality and frank speech, willing to adapt collectively to defend itself and prosper.
Stepping into Venice feels like entering a living museum, where every corner tells a story of democracy, culture, and romance.

Start your Venetian adventure with a visit to St. Mark’s Square and the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica. Following this, the visit will continue to the Doge’s Palace, with the famous Bridge of Sighs, which connects the palace to the historic prison and the Rialto Bridge, one of Venice’s most iconic landmarks. No trip to Venice is complete without a gondola ride. Glide through the narrow, winding canals and under charming bridges, experiencing the city from a unique and serene perspective. 

Wander through the narrow streets and discover hidden gems like local trattorias, where you can savour authentic Venetian cuisine. Try Cicchetti, small plates similar to tapas, paired with a glass of local wine, for a true taste of the city.

A day trip to Venice from Villa Fabris provides a rich and unforgettable experience, blending history, art, and the unique charm of one of Italy’s most captivating cities.

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FEES

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Option 1:
€1300 for the full package with a private accommodation in a private room with a king size bed.

Option 2:
€1100 for the full package with a shared accommodation in a double room with a single bed for each one.

Option 3:
€850 for the full package without the accommodation.

The fourth day in Venice, which is optional, is not included in the participation fee and is borne by the participant.

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JOIN US FOR THIS ENRICHING EXPERINCE:

SIGN UP HERE TO THE SUMMER SCHOOL!

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For information or booking please call +39 0444 540146 or send an e-mail villafabris@alda-europe.eu

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