The Mayor Paweł Adamowicz Award, an annual tribute to outstanding contributions in local and regional governance, has reached its pinnacle as the nominations for the 2023 edition closed on December 4, 2023. With a total of 14 nominations, including one from the European Parliament and six from the Committee of the Regions, the announcement of the laureate is NOW PUBLIC! The nominations showcased a diverse array of candidates, with representation from various cities, regional councils, and partner associations such as Eurocities and the Council of European Municipalities and Regions. The Evaluation Committee comprised partner associations including UCLG, ICORN, CALRE, CEMR, AER, Eurocities, CRPM, ALDA, the City of Gdansk, and the Committee of the Regions. Together, they meticulously reviewed the nominations, resulting in a shortlist of five commendable candidates, among which the ADL Zavidovići Association outstanded.

ADL Zavidovići Association wins the Adamowicz Award 2023! 

The “Ambasciata della democrazia locale a Zavidovici” Association, founded in 1996, originated from the voluntary efforts of a pacifist group during the Bosnian War. It has since evolved into a collaborative platform involving various stakeholders. After joining the Council of Europe’s Local Democracy Agencies programme, it expanded its reach to Brescia, Alba, and Cremona. The Association, now a Social Enterprise, operates in Italy and Southeast Europe, primarily Zavidovići, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Its activities encompass social and cultural integration, decentralised cooperation, twinning initiatives, sports exchanges, youth programs, training, awareness campaigns, and research on Bosnian social realities and migration phenomena. The Association’s diverse efforts highlight its dedication to fostering democracy, integration, and collaboration on both local and international levels.

The Jury, a distinguished panel of elected representatives from the European Committee of the Regions, the European Parliament, the Council of Europe Congress of Local and Regional Authorities, the City of Gdańsk, and the town of Michałowo (the previous laureate), played a pivotal role in shaping the beneficiary of the Award, together with the Acting Chair of ICORN which contributed with valuable insights: their collective efforts culminated in the selection of the laureate for the 2023 edition, the ADL Zavidovići Association.
The eagerly awaited proclamation of the Mayor Paweł Adamowicz Award 2023 took place at the European Solidarity Center in Gdańsk (Poland) on January 13, 2024, from 16:00 to 17:00. 

The prestigious award was received by Maddalena Alberti, director of ADL Zavidovići Association at the presence of Antonella Valmorbida, ALDA Secretary General, who attended the event. This significant event not only marked the recognition of exemplary leadership in local and regional governance but also served as a poignant commemoration of the fifth anniversary of the tragic assassination of Mayor Paweł Adamowicz. 

During the receipt of the Award, Maddalena Alberti, with an emotional speech, expressed deep gratitude for receiving the Mayor Pawel Adamowicz Award on behalf of the Association ADL Zavidovici. She emphasised the honour and responsibility that comes with the award, highlighting the duty to continue Adamowicz’s legacy of promoting human rights and democracy. She stressed the importance of translating values such as equality, freedom, respect, tolerance, and solidarity into concrete actions and policies. In a time of poly-crisis with global conflicts and increasing distrust towards democracies, she called for courage and referenced historical moments like Gdansk in the ’80s, emphasising the need to find courage even in seemingly hopeless situations. Alberti stressed the need for an open Europe rooted in human rights and democracy, cautioning against history repeating itself tragically. She called for perseverance and resilience in the face of challenges, emphasising that structural changes require constant, long-term commitment. Alberti concluded by urging everyone to turn the impossible into the possible and thanked the audience.

ALDA is, also this year, honoured to be part of this manifestation. Paweł Adamowicz was the Mayor of the City of Gdańsk and a dear friend of ALDA, who was tragically murdered in January 2019, pays tribute to his dedication to democracy and community service. Paweł Adamowicz, known for engaging with marginalised voices, offering solidarity, and advocating for diversity, left a lasting legacy in local governance. The Award symbolises hope for elected representatives and citizens committed to fostering democracy and open communities at the local level. This prestigious prize not only recognises exemplary leadership but also serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Mayor Paweł Adamowicz, inspiring future generations to contribute positively to local and regional governance.

In extending our heartfelt congratulations to the ADL Zavidovići Association for receiving the prestigious Mayor Paweł Adamowicz Award 2023, ALDA takes immense pride in the remarkable achievements of our member. The dedication and excellence demonstrated by the Association align perfectly with the values championed by Mayor Paweł Adamowicz, and we commend them for their unwavering commitment to fostering democracy, integration, and collaboration at both local and international levels. Maddalena Alberti’s impassioned acceptance speech resonated deeply with the audience, encapsulating the honour and responsibility that accompanies this esteemed award. As ALDA, we stand united with ADL Zavidovići in our shared mission to create open and inclusive communities. This recognition not only marks exemplary leadership in local and regional governance but also serves as a poignant reminder of Mayor Paweł Adamowicz’s enduring legacy. Congratulations once again to ADL Zavidovići for this well-deserved accolade.

Following the conclusion of the Spanish Presidency of the Council of the European Union on December 31, 2023, Belgium took the helm from January 1 to June 30, 2024, under the motto ‘Protect. Strengthen. Prepare.’ Building on Spanish initiatives, Belgium aims to enhance democracy and address teleworking concerns, ensuring a seamless transition in EU leadership and policy focus.

Following a successful term under the Spanish Presidency, the European Union is poised for continuity and progress as Belgium assumes the role for the first half of 2024. The Spanish Presidency, the first in a trio followed by Belgium and Hungary, laid essential groundwork for key initiatives, setting the stage for collaborative efforts across member states. Belgium, in its thirteenth term as the rotating Presidency of the Council of the European Union, faces a pivotal moment. The EU confronts a multitude of challenges, from Russian aggression in Ukraine to the persistent pandemic, energy crises, disinformation, climate events, and renewed conflicts in the Middle East.

The Belgian Presidency is resolute in its commitment to better protect European citizens, strengthen cooperation, and pave the way for a shared future. With a focus on six key thematic areas, special attention is given to sustaining unwavering support for Ukraine. Defending the core values of democracy, the rule of law, and individual freedoms remains central to the agenda. 

The Presidency emphasises citizen empowerment, with a particular focus on youth participation

As the current institutional cycle concludes, the Belgian Presidency supports a seamless transition to the next one. It actively contributes to adopting the Strategic Agenda 2024-2029 and initiates discussions on the future of the European Union. ALDA, as a steadfast advocate for local democracy, active citizenship, and European cooperation, aligns its mission with the objectives of the Presidency. With over 300 members from 45 countries, including local authorities, associations, and civil society organisations, ALDA serves as a dynamic network contributing to the realisation of the Sustainable Development Goals and the Agenda 2030. 

In the face of evolving geopolitical realities, the Presidency prioritises long-term competitiveness and industrial policies. Efforts are directed towards strengthening the EU’s internal market, completing the capital markets union and the energy union, and enhancing economic security. Also, a robust social and health agenda is pursued, building on the European Pillar of Social Rights. The Presidency aims to create a more inclusive, gender-equal, and fair European society, focusing on social dialogue, fair labour mobility, mental health, and sustainable social protection.

The Presidency places a spotlight on addressing legislative files associated with the new European pact on migration and asylum. By reinforcing trust between Member States and offering humane and effective migration management, the Pact seeks to improve legal pathways to the EU. The Presidency also underscores the importance of decisive and holistic action to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. The energy and climate transition are central to reducing vulnerabilities, promoting circular economy practices, and ensuring a sustainable water management system.

As the Presidency navigates the challenges of our time, it remains dedicated to fostering unity, defending democratic principles, and preparing the EU for a resilient and inclusive future. The journey unfolds with a clear focus on the well-being of European citizens and a commitment to upholding the values that define the European Union.

Discover more here. 

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As we bid farewell to 2023, we reflect upon the significant milestones achieved by ALDA and its team. Throughout the year, ALDA has tirelessly pursued its mission to strengthen local democracy: let’s take a closer look at some of the key activities that defined ALDA’s impactful journey in 2023.

Flagship initiative in Ukraine

One of the standout achievements of ALDA in 2023 was the successful implementation of its flagship initiative in Ukraine. With a steadfast commitment to promoting local democracy, ALDA initiated several projects aimed at empowering local communities. From capacity-building programs to fostering civic engagement, ALDA played a pivotal role in enhancing the democratic fabric of Ukraine. The organisation’s tireless efforts underscored its dedication to fostering inclusive and participatory governance structures.

General Assembly in Brussels, Belgium

A highlight on ALDA’s calendar was the General Assembly held in Brussels, Belgium. The event brought together members, stakeholders, and advocates for local democracy from across Europe. The assembly served as a platform for fruitful discussions, strategic planning, and the exchange of ideas. Notably, the participation of Dubravka Šuica, vice-president of the European Commission, added a significant dimension to the Assembly, that provided a forum for key stakeholders to reflect on the achievements of the past year and chart a course for the future, reinforcing ALDA’s commitment to local democracy in Europe and its neighbourhood.

ALDA’s stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict

In the midst of global geopolitical challenges, ALDA demonstrated its commitment to promoting peace and justice by issuing a bold statement on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The organisation unequivocally called for a peaceful resolution, emphasising the importance of dialogue and diplomacy. ALDA’s principled stance not only showcased its dedication to human rights but also served as a testament to the association’s role in advocating for just and equitable solutions to complex geopolitical issues.

Projects implementation

With more than 500 active projects, ALDA achieved countless projects’ results that fostered engagement and democracy worldwide. Among all, it’s worth mentioning the “ADD Something Meaningful project“, that empowered youth through democratic processes with the cornerstone “Ideathon” methodology in Oulu, Finland; the “Sports for ALL” project, that fostered international collaborations and inclusive sports activities that were showcased at the Final Conference in Montebelluna, Italy, culminating in the publication of the “Sports for ALL Method”; the “Our Digital Village” project, whose achievements in 2023 included the #ReciprocalMaieuticApproach training, the RMA Manual publication, workshops across seven countries and the initiation of the ODV Activity Kit co-designing process; and to conclude, the PAVE (Peace Awareness through Volunteering and Education) project successfully organised the International Peace Academy in Zagreb, uniting 60 young adults from six European countries and fostering discussions on conflict prevention, peace education, and exploring historical conflicts in Europe.

Looking ahead: ALDA’s vision for 2024

As ALDA looks towards the future, the organisation remains unwavering in its commitment to advancing local democracy: the milestones achieved in 2023 serve as a solid foundation for future initiatives and endeavours. ​The upcoming year holds the promise of fresh activities, such as the upcoming EU24 elections, ALDA’s electoral General Assembly, the realisation of dozens of already approved projects, the adoption of a new ALDA Strategy that will allow us further development and new challenges based on the results achieved in the previous 30 years. ​As we step into a new year, ALDA remains at the forefront of the fight for inclusive good governance and citizens participation, continuing to help local communities thrive.

This encounter unfolded within the framework of the Create Up project, spearheaded by the European Association for Local Democracy (ALDA). As part of this research endeavour, the Create Up consortium conducted interviews and sought out key artistic profiles as case studies to construct an ideal framework. Moïse Togo is a rising artist engaged in the realms of cinematography, design, and video production: exploring his narrative and staying abreast of his professional journey proved to be an enriching experience. The focus of our interview centred on identifying the essential skills that a budding artist must cultivate to undergo a transformative journey into entrepreneurship, sustaining themselves solely on their artistic prowess.

The objective of the Create Up project is to investigate the essential competencies required for a young artist to thrive in their specific field. While it is commonly believed that originality, talent, and innovative ideas are pivotal assets for an artist’s success, the project seeks to explore whether additional competencies play a crucial role in navigating the challenges faced by young entrepreneurs and achieving success. To gain insights into this matter, we interviewed Moïse, who shared his personal perspective on his artistic journey. 

This initiative not only seeks to understand the nuances of artistic success but also endeavours to equip emerging artists with the knowledge and skills vital for navigating the challenging terrain of their chosen fields.

Moïse Togo, a burgeoning director and visual artist hailing from Mali, embarked on his creative journey with an unconventional start. Initially serving as a consultant for an international humanitarian organisation in Mali, he transitioned to the realm of visual arts after securing a scholarship to study at Le Fresnoy – Studio national des arts contemporains in Tourcoing (France).

In 2020, Moïse conceptualised a project addressing the plight of albino individuals in Africa, which gained approval from Fresnoy and materialised into the documentary 75000$. This remarkable piece garnered acclaim at various festivals and events, solidifying Moïse’s success. The documentary delves into the nexus between “the perceptible and imperceptible, the visible and invisible” (Togo, 2023), shedding light on the unknown world of albinism in African societies. The title, 75000$, alludes to the disturbing market value of a complete albino skeleton, as noted by the International Committee of the Red Cross. Moïse delves into the alarming reality that albinos exist as invisible outcasts in society, facing genuine fears and potential threats to their lives. This documentary is an original and compelling documentary that not only explores a societal issue but also showcases Moïse Togo’s growth as a director and visual creator.

Moïse identified key competences for professional growth in the artistic field domain

From the portfolio of possible entrepreneurship competencies that an artist could have and need when starting his own career path, Moïse highlighted the significance of his transition from Mali to France. While working as a visual arts consultant in Mali provided him with a comfortable middle-class lifestyle, the monthly scholarship of 500€ in France presented financial constraints. However, the institute in France not only offered valuable experience but also paved the way for a specific career. Reflecting on his journey as a young director, Moïse identified key milestones for professional growth:

• Understanding the Art Scene: the importance of comprehending the state of art in the country where an artist operates in order for the artist to identify opportunities, such as participating in festivals that offer prizes, funds, and scholarships, which will not only contribute to the artist’s prestige and connections but also serve as crucial income sources.

• Skill Diversification: Moïse stressed the significance of expanding an artist’s skill set to create a versatile profile.

• Networking and Learning from Others: Building a network of contacts and learning from the experiences of fellow professionals is indispensable.

• Project Management: project management skills and creativity are both important. 

• IT and Digital Competencies: In an era where digital skills are increasingly important, Moïse emphasised the relevance of IT and digital competencies.

• Versatility: Maintaining a versatile mindset is crucial for artists. It enables them to work on multiple projects, effectively manage their time, overcome setbacks, and protect their ideas.

In Moïse’s perspective, a well-rounded artistic profile encompasses not only original ideas but also strong project management and development skills.

More case studies of creative people and companies will follow on the Create Up Website.

For more information about the Create Up project, click here.

More than 650 participants, 36 nationalities and almost 70 speakers took part in the European LEADER Congress which took place on 18 and 19 December 2023, in Brussels (Belgium). ALDA, represented by Mrs. Antonella Valmorbida, ALDA Secretary General and Mr. Adrien Licha, Coordinator of the Secretariat of the Association, participated in the Congress discussing rural development in Europe and the needs and challenges of local communities in the context of the upcoming European elections.

Hosted by the European Parliament, the event was organised in partnership with the European Commission, the European Committee of the Regions and the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC). The Congress, developed on the initiative of the French Presidency of ELARD (European Association for Rural Development), was attended by over 600 Local Action Groups (LAGs) from all over Europe, officials from the European Commission, MEPs, and representatives of national and regional rural networks and managing authorities.

A special mention goes to Thibaut Guignard, ALDA Governing Board member and representative of LEADER France, who took over the Presidency of ELARD 2023-2024!

The European LEADER Congress represented the occasion for ALDA to present its work and explain the importance of local engagement, supporting the implementation of rural communities and their essential role in strengthening democratic resilience throughout the EU.

Mrs. Valmorbida, ALDA Secretary General, participated in the Congress leading the panel on “Implementing LEADER actions in non-EU countries and fostering cooperation”. Among the speakers, Mrs. Patricia Varzari and Mrs. Marina Albu from LAG Moldova presented the situation in their country and the progress achieved in allowing the creation of LAGs, while Mrs. Sandra Macura from LAG Serbia emphasised the issues related to cooperation with non-EU countries, including linguistic barriers.

Afterwards, Mr. Petar Gjorgievski, President of the Rural Development Network of the Republic of North Macedonia, highlighted the importance of donors in terms of assistance and support to LAGs development.

Mr. Serhii Zamidra, First Deputy Chairman of the All-Ukrainian Association of Communities, continued the discussion highlighting the relevance of the programme and explained the problem of the lack of a standard law for rural development in Ukraine. Finally, Mrs. Marta Martczis, former President of the European Association for Innovation in Local Development (AIEDL) and expert of United Nation Development Programme (UNDP), emphasised the innovation of the LEADER approach on democracy, society and economy. 

Moreover, during the day, Mr. Adrien Licha, Coordinator of the Secretariat Office, held the round table on “European elections: challenges of rural areas and how to engage them”. 

Protagonists of this session were Mr. Piotr Styczen, representative of the European Youth Card Association, Mrs. Irène Tolleret, MEP and Vice-President of LEADER France and Mr. Bertrand Trepo, representative of the French Marne department. This discussion focused on the upcoming EU elections and on how to involve and facilitate the representation of rural communities. 

The panel was also an opportunity to debate around youth’s involvement in the elections and how to face the feeling of underrepresentation in the institutional authorities and political priorities.

We thank LEADER France (ALDA member) and all the participants for this successful event and for sharing with us fundamental values of supporting and promoting democracy at a global level.

We believe that ALDA’s commitment to local communities and their engagement to European policies is a milestone element to ensure a democratic and effective decision making process through a sustainable development.