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From November 3 to 5, 2023 ALDA+ took part in the 20th edition of the Swiss International Holiday Exhibition in Lugano (Switzerland), an incredible event for the tourism industry where people, cultures and places meet and share their experiences.   

Over 400 exhibitors, professional operators and buyers from more than 60 countries unveiled amazing tourist destinations, fascinating cultures and breath-taking landscapes through shows, degustations, workshops, networking and professional training.

During the 3 days of exhibition, together with the mayor of Schio (Italy), Mr. Valter Orsi, ALDA+ promoted the project “Alta Via della Grande Guerra” (AVGG), a high altitude Great War hiking trail through the Vicenza foothills. 

An historical, culture and environmental programme, with more than 125 miles of paths that joins from west to east four war memorials, symbols of the Province of Vicenza (Italy) and milestones of remembrance and liberty.  

The project is implemented by the Province of Vicenza (Italy) together with the main donor, the Bim-Bacchiglione organisation (Italy), which tasked ALDA with the project’s dissemination and promotion.

ALDA firmly believes in local initiatives and supports its implementation and dissemination everywhere

A project of cohesion and promotion of the Vicenza mountains with the aim of recounting and divulging the dramatic events that occurred on these heights during the First World War.

As a consequence, the international fair was a unique opportunity to promote the AVGG initiative and its territorial area, spreading the project purposes and the wide collaboration between municipalities and associations that cooperate all together.

ALDA firmly believes in local initiatives and supports its implementation and dissemination everywhere.
Visit the project website here.

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The European Association for Local Democracy (ALDA) warmly welcomes the momentous decision taken by the European Commission to recommend the opening of negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova, while with the long-anticipated granting of candidate status to Georgia and the initiation of accession negotiations with Bosnia and Herzegovina. This historic step greatly enhances the prospects for these States’ deeper integration into the European community, marking a significant milestone in their journeys towards European integration.  

ALDA, an organisation committed to advancing good governance and citizen participation at the local level, stands prepared to support the further collaborative efforts of these nations in promoting local democracy and strengthening cooperation between local authorities and civil society. ALDA remains committed to supporting Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia, and other countries in their pursuit of democratic values and European integration.

ALDA remains committed to supporting Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia, and other countries in their pursuit of democratic values and European integration

This news coincides with the holding of the Act Now Mayors’ Conference in Brussels from November 8 to 10, during which ALDA joins forces with Innovation in Politics, U-LEAD with Europe, the European Committee of the Regions, and other networks to bring together municipalities from Ukraine and the European Union in order to strengthen solidarity and share good practices in local governance and civic engagement. 


For more information about the ACT Now Mayor’s Conference 2023, visit the Conference website.

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In an exciting development for local democracy and community empowerment, ALDA is thrilled to announce the inauguration of the new Local Democracy Agency (LDA) in Edremit, Türkiye. The General Assembly to announce the official opening of LDA Edremit took place on October 30, 2023. This event marked a significant milestone in ALDA and the LDA’s commitment to promoting active citizenship and local governance.

For three decades, the core mission of the Local Democracy Agencies, in cooperation with ALDA since 1999, has revolved around bridging and strengthening local communities. These Agencies serve as innovative platforms for cities, municipalities, and communities to engage in citizen participation, create inclusive policies, and work collectively towards sustainable development.

The newest addition to this network, the LDA in Edremit, will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in this transformative journey

The inauguration ceremony was graced by esteemed guests, among which the Mayor of Edremit, Mr. Selman Hasan Arslan and representatives of Région Grand Est, Lushnjë Municipality, LDA Mostar, Elbarlament, MEDAR, and ALDA Secretary General, Mrs. Antonella Valmorbida.

ALDA is committed to ensure that the LDA in Edremit becomes an integral part of the local governance landscape, fostering positive changes and enhanced citizen engagement, as Edremit Municipality has been working unceasingly with ALDA for three years to establish Türkiye’s first Local Democracy Agency in Edremit. This initiative has been supported in the frame of the Fonds Triennal funded by Région Grand Est, Préfécture du Bas Rhin, Collectivité Européenne d’Alsace and Ville et Eurométropole de Strasbourg. The agency’s operations will align with ALDA’s extensive experience in the field, following the principles of local democracy, citizen participation, and the achievement of sustainable development.

LDA Edremit provides an innovative and social space that brings together various NGOs and local government representatives who continue their active work locally, encouraging common solutions, dialogue, and cooperation. Working on issues such as the environment, climate change, active citizenship, democracy, human rights, women’s rights, culture, rights of people with disabilities, good governance, and youth entrepreneurship, LDA Edremit promotes positive and constructive initiatives locally. ALDA invites everyone to follow the journey of this newly opened LDA as it embarks on a mission to empower Edremit’s local democracy and create a brighter future for all its citizens.

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The LIFE FALKON Final Conference was conducted in Myrina, Lemnos Island, Greece, spanning from the 12th to the 14th of october. As one of the partners, ALDA participated in the event alongside CNR, ISPRA, UNIVERSITY OF MILAN, and HOS.

The inaugural day of the conference commenced with a presentation of Lemnos Island as one of the project’s focal areas, where the Lesser Kestrel migrates during the spring and summer months. The selection of this island was deliberate, considering its agricultural landscape and its substantial cultural and ecological value.

Following this introduction, the LIFE FALKON consortium provided a comprehensive overview of the project, beginning with its background and objectives. They then delved into topics encompassing genomics, population movements across the globe, and the conservation efforts integral to the project. The day concluded with insights into outreach activities targeting students, citizens, stakeholders, and communication initiatives. During the afternoon, a diverse group of researchers and experts had the opportunity to present their work. The first lectio magistralis was delivered by Ms. Ines Catry, a researcher at BIOPOLIS-CIBIO, who has dedicated 24 years to monitoring the Lesser Kestrel population in Portugal. Her research investigates the impact of agricultural practices and climate change on the species, as well as the effectiveness of conservation measures aimed at halting population declines.

This underscored the necessity for evidence-based conservation to ensure the long-term survival of the Lesser Kestrel. Subsequently, various researchers shared their findings, addressing a range of topics. These included the comparison of traditional and modern buildings for Kestrel falcon conservation, spanning over 30 years of study and experience (Mr. Pepe Antolin of DEMA), efforts to strengthen and stabilize the Lesser Kestrel population in northern Greece and Bulgaria (Mr. Kostas Vlachopulos of Πανεπιστήμιο Θεσσαλίας), and the occupancy rates of artificial nest boxes by Lesser Kestrels in the Sakar SPA, as well as the combined structure for ex-situ breeding, adaptation, and release of Lesser Kestrels in the wildlife rehabilitation and breeding centre of Green Balkans (Ms. Iiyana Yaneva and Ms. Yordanka Vasileva, Green Balkans NGO).

The second day of the final conference was equally engaging, featuring a multitude of experts who shared their research insights. The morning began with the second lectio magistralis, presented by Mr. Javier Bustamante of CSIC, a seasoned researcher and specialist in Lesser Kestrels in southern Spain since 1990. He discussed his intriguing study on the movement patterns of these birds. Subsequently, other experts discussed their research findings, including Ms. Gaia Bazzi from ISPRA, who outlined the significant population decline and range contraction of the lesser kestrel over the last century, attributing it to sahelian rainfall and intensified agriculture in breeding areas.

Further presentations covered a wide array of subjects, including the potential threats of onshore wind power to the Lesser Kestrel on an intercontinental scale, the impact of rising temperatures on reproduction, the long-term persistence of this bird in Sicily (Italy), non-breeding movement patterns, and more.

Subsequently, a comprehensive array of research topics were presented:

  1. An intercontinental-scale assessment of the potential threats posed by onshore wind power to the Lesser Kestrel. Notably, 30% of European breeding colonies are located within 10 km of a wind turbine, with the Italian population facing the highest exposure (presented by Mr. Giacomo Assandri, University of Turin).
  2. The impact of rising temperatures on reproduction in the Lesser Kestrel. High nest temperatures were found to have profound effects on hatching failure, nestling survival, and even influence nestling and adult behavior (presented by Mr. Alejandro Corregidor-Castro, CNR/University of Padua).
  3. A study on the long-term persistence of the Lesser Kestrel in Sicily (Italy)over the past 24 years (presented by Mr. Maurizio Sarà, University of Palermo).
  4. Insights into the non-breeding movement patterns of the Lesser Kestrel (presented by Mr. Samuele Ramellini, University of Milan).
  5. An introduction to a project focused on the habitat selection of Italian Lesser Kestrels in the pre-breeding period (presented by Ms. Anna Kyriakopoulou, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki).
  6. An examination of the population of Lesser Kestrels present in Albania prior to their migratory movements. (Presented by Ms. Klea Duro, AOS-Albanian Ornithological Society)
  7. An exploration of the benefits of providing artificial nests in Portugal, considering both the costs and the impact on the Lesser Kestrel population. (Presented by Mr. João Gameiro, BIOPOLIS-CIBIO)
  8. A study of the phenomena characterising the Po Plain, where three species of falcons share similar habitats and diets. (Presented by Mr. Alessandro Berlusconi from the University of Insubria)
  9. An examination of the feeding ecology and conservation efforts for the Lesser Kestrel in intensive agricultural landscapes in Italy. (Presented by Ms. Claudia De Battisti, University of Padua)
  10. A fascinating account of the journey of Ema, a female lesser kestrel equipped with the Microwave Argos tag, as she visited 18 different countries over a span of 5 years. (Presented by Ms. Svetla Dalakchieva, Green Balkans)
  11. The revelation of the first breeding record of the lesser kestrel in Bosnia-Herzegovina. (Presented by Ms. Biljana Rancobic and Mr. Goran Topic)

The day concluded with Mr. Michelangelo Morganti, the coordinator of the LIFE FALKON project, and Mr. Javier Bustamante sharing their experiences in Senegal, where they followed and studied the lesser kestrel in November 2022.

The final day began with an excursion to the island of Limnos, specifically the ‘Romanos’ village, an intervention site of LIFE FALKON and one of the largest Lesser Kestrel colonies on the island. The group also explored the Keros – Alyki area (Greece) on the east coast of Lemnos, a part of the Nature 2000 SPA area. The excursion concluded with a shared meal at the MANTRA TIS ATHINAS farm, where attendees savored local dishes and observed various bird species present on the island, thanks to the favourable weather.

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On the 21st and 22nd of October 2023, the Teatro Astra in Vicenza served as the prestigious backdrop for the final conference of the V.A.N.G.A. “Re-generations” project. The event was organised by La Piccionaia, the project lead, with contributions from all the participating partners.

The event commenced at 14:30 at the Basilica Palladiana in Vicenza, where participants had the opportunity to partake in an augmented tour using radio headsets to explore the “Golden Ratio” exhibition. This immersive experience was led by Carlo Presotto, a director at La Piccionaia, in collaboration with Marco Dotti, the editorial director of Relazionésimo. This offered participants a chance to reflect on the significance of nurturing relationships with a scientific and humanistic approach. The exhibition focused on the concept of the golden ratio, tracing its evolution from antiquity to the present day, leading participants through thematic pathways underlining the idea that “everything is in relation.”

Subsequently, at 16:00, at the Teatro Astra, a conference targeting the general public, families, and educators took place. It entailed discussions related to integral ecology. Drawing from the accomplishments of the V.A.N.G.A. project, the conference explored how to connect and educate the new generations about environmental issues using alternative methods, such as theatre. Eminent experts participated in these discussions, including Daniele Zovi, the author of “Ale e i boschi” (a book upon which a theatrical performance connected to the V.A.N.G.A. project was based), Paola Cesari, a psychologist and psychotherapist, Stefano Coquinati, a pedagogue, Nina Zanotelli, a theatre director, Roberto Cuppone, a professor of theatre history at the University of Genoa, and Carlo Presotto, a director and artistic director at La Piccionaia.

Following this, two significant tools developed through the involvement of the participating schools during the V.A.N.G.A. project were presented: the educational pack and the reconnaissance and feedback activity, “The City I Wish For,” created by ALDA in collaboration with La Piccionaia.

The educational pack, presented by Gloria Marini from La Piccionaia, is a resource designed for educators to facilitate environmental education for the new generations through participatory, creative, and experiential methods. It contains various activities and tools developed over the course of the project, presented as repeatable and modular actions.

The reconnaissance and feedback activity, “The City I Wish For,” presented by Alessia Marzotto and Sofia Trevisan, Junior Project Manager and Project Manager Assistant at ALDA, involved activities conducted in schools during the concluding phase of the V.A.N.G.A. project. Young students were invited to participate in targeted workshops for collecting feedback on the project and the educational outings at locations designated by the project. They expressed their desires for a personal vision of an ecological city through drawings and questionnaires, which were subsequently presented to the public.

The final report on the feedback activity and the educational pack will soon be available on La Piccionaia’s website on the dedicated V.A.N.G.A. page

The Teatro Astra also served as the venue for the “Il bosco dei bambini” exhibition, where drawings created by students from the L. Zecchetto Primary School in Vicenza, inspired by Daniele Zovi’s narratives, were displayed.

On the morning of Sunday, the 22nd, the Teatro Astra commenced with the Assembly “Cascina Carpaneda Bene Comune,” organised by the Vicenza Community for Agroecology. It served as a gathering to collectively envision the future of this place and discuss the next steps to be taken.

Subsequently, Fabio Girotto, Junior Project Developer at ALDA, together with Alessia Marzotto and Sofia Trevisan, introduced the participants to the HILL (Habitat in Living Landscape) project. Like V.A.N.G.A., this project is also funded by the Cariverona Foundation and addresses environmental issues in the Vicenza region. HILL is a project directed towards the Monte di Malo area (VI) with the aim of expanding the protected area between the Buso della Rana and the Poscole. The presentation of this project sought to acquaint the public with initiatives similar to V.A.N.G.A. in the local territory and to foster opportunities for collaboration among local entities.

In the afternoon, the performance “Ale e i boschi,” curated by Carlo Presotto and based on Daniele Zovi’s narratives, made its debut. This performance combines themes such as youth, the environment, and theatre in a captivating manner.

DOCUMENTS

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AT A GLANCE

The VANGA is a tool used in agriculture to loosen the soil: to till it, to make it suitable for receiving seeds.

Metaphorically, this is an action that well represents what the V.A.N.G.A. project proposes to do with its pedagogical tools and seeds of future: a network project for environmental education and empowerment of the younger generations (3-20 years old) through innovative pedagogical tools – experiential, participatory and creative – differentiated by age group, and the use of arts and performance languages as a privileged mode of involvement and participation. 

The project is developed along two axes: integration of school education and youth activism, by intervening both in schools, from preschool to high school, and with interactive and experiential activities during summer. 

Our methodology is based on a pedagogical approach that integrates the 3 dimensions of the human being: cognitive (mind), experiential (body) and creative (emotions). Focus of the project will be the reconnection between city and countryside, in the light of agro ecological thinking, involving, and relating to landscape and biodiversity, food, climate change, energy resources, responsible production and consumption, and quality of life on land and in water.

Objectives:

The environmental literacy of children, youth and young people, by improving both their scientific knowledge and that of the practical connections between everyday behaviours and the environment. Encourage their active participation in environmental protection, in a local vision and collective dimension;

The reduction of the phenomenon of eco-anxiety widespread among the younger generations, by making young people able to interpret environmental problems and imagine possible responses;

The improvement of schools’ training offerings in environmental education; supporting the training of educators and teachers and providing them with innovative pedagogical tools to be used within the educational curricula.

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Mrs. Antonella Valmorbida, ALDA Secretary General, participated in the 45th Session of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe which took place in Strasbourg (France) from 24 to 26 October, by addressing the audience with a speech on “Youth engagement as a factor of peace and reconciliation”.

In her address, Mrs. Valmorbida emphasised the importance of the long-standing partnership between ALDA, the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities, and the Council of Europe. She acknowledged that ALDA had its origins in the Council of Europe, evolving from the first Local Democracy Agency opened in Subotica in 1993 into a dynamic network with over 300 members, spanning regions from the EU to the Balkans, the Mediterranean, Türkiye, Eastern Partnership countries, and beyond. ALDA’s impressive work includes over 500 implemented projects, engaging more than 25 million people since its inception.

The core of Mrs. Valmorbida’s address revolved around ALDA’s role in the Balkans over the past three decades and the organisation’s substantial contribution to youth engagement. She outlined several thematic pillars underpinning ALDA’s work, including local democracy, migration and inclusive cities, environment and climate change, digitalisation, gender equality, human rights, anti-discrimination policies, and, significantly, youth engagement.

She stressed the importance of including youth in decision-making processes at all levels and protecting their human rights. She also highlighted the critical role of young people in peacebuilding, social cohesion, and reconciliation.

Local democracy, according to Mrs. Valmorbida, provides a fertile ground for youth to drive sustainable change

Under the framework of its Thematic Hub “Youth Empowerment and Education,” ALDA actively supports the implementation of the UN’s 2030 Agenda, with a particular focus on SDG 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. The Organisation is dedicated to empowering youth, youth workers, young leaders, and educators, adhering to the European Commission’s priorities and the Quality Standards of the Council of Europe.

To further youth engagement, ALDA is involved in various projects. “PAVE – Peace Awareness through Volunteering and Education” enhances the understanding of peace, conflict management, and international integration among young participants. “PEACE – Peace Education as a Tool for Effective Conflict Management in Secondary School” equips teachers and educators with the necessary skills and knowledge to reduce violence and promote peace education.

ALDA’s “National Compass Training” initiative, in partnership with the Municipality of Vicenza and the Youth Department of the Council of Europe, focuses on raising awareness about democratic participation and human rights among young people.

“VALUEBOX” emphasises inclusive and high-quality education, centred on EU common values such as human dignity, human rights, freedom, democracy, equality, and the rule of law.

The “Youth in Action” also establishes a broad network of civil society groups across Europe and the Balkans to promote local democracy and engage youth in local-level policymaking.

Mrs. Valmorbida underlined the pivotal role of youth in peace, stability, and development. Youth engagement is a cornerstone of local democracy’s ability to create innovative solutions and foster trust in governance. In line with the 30th-anniversary celebrations, Mrs. Valmorbida highlighted the key role that youth engagement has played in the Balkans, supporting social cohesion and community-building in the face of challenges such as radicalisation and brain drain.

She concluded her address with an optimistic outlook, emphasising the importance of local democracy in saving democracy itself and reinforcing the commitment of ALDA to local and regional governments, citizens’ participation, and the promotion of peace and reconciliation.

Antonella Valmorbida’s insights and ALDA’s work exemplify the profound impact of collaborative efforts in empowering youth and building sustainable, resilient communities.

  • Period:

    -

  • Countries involved:

    Middle East & Africa
    Turkey

  • Donor:

  • SDG:

  • Lead partner:

  • All partners:

  • Contacts:


    projects@alda-europe.eu

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Between September 18th-22nd and October 9th-13th, two exciting editions of the “School on Participatory Democracy” took place in Türkiye, co-organized by the Council of Europe. These events aimed to empower change makers and equip them with the knowledge and tools needed to foster effective civil participation at the local level.

A team of international and national experts from the Council of Europe led the training sessions, with the active participation of Anna Ditta, ALDA Head of Programs and Development Unit, representing ALDA as the School’s co-leader.

The first edition unfolded on the picturesque Büyükada Island (Türkiye) and was co-hosted by the Istanbul Citizens’ Assembly and the Argüden Governance Academy. Twenty-two dedicated participants, representing Civil Society Organizations and Local Authorities from the Istanbul Metropolitan city (Türkiye), joined to enhance their expertise in participatory democracy.

The second edition of the School was held in Ankara (Türkiye), co-hosted by STGM – the Association of Civil Society Development Center. It saw the active engagement of 28 representatives from various Civil Society Organizations and Local Authorities across the country. Additionally, experts from the Directorate of EU Affairs, the Presidency of Strategy and Budget, and the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye participated as observers, underlining the significance of this initiative.

The primary objective of the School was to enable change makers to design and implement effective participatory processes at the local level

Throughout the training, participants were introduced to a set of invaluable tools developed by the Council of Europe. The curriculum encompassed key principles and standards of the Council of Europe, with a particular focus on its dedicated Democracy pillar. Additionally, participants were acquainted with the Code of Good Practice for Civil Participation in Decision-Making, emphasising essential principles and conditions conducive to healthy civil participation.

The training also delved into practical tools, including the Civil Participation in Decision-Making Toolkit, an efficient method for community mapping and stakeholder analysis. Participants were equipped with the Civil Lab Toolkit, facilitating effective consultations and reporting. The U-Change board game provided insights into the decision-making process, considering various factors like resources, responsible individuals, and applicable laws or regulations. Lastly, the School Participatory Budgeting toolkit, designed for young people, encouraged civic engagement, starting from a place of great importance to them: indeed, school.

The concluding day was dedicated to Q&A sessions, particularly on the tools, and facilitated partnership-building among participants. This session provided an opportunity for participants to explore potential collaborations and strategize on how to integrate the acquired tools into their daily work.

The School adhered to the principles of non-formal education, combining theoretical sessions with group work, simulations, debriefings, and feedback sessions. This 5-day School is envisioned as the first step in a broader process, where trained participants will apply their newfound knowledge and incorporate these tools into their work. A training needs assessment will follow, allowing participants to express their interest in further deepening their knowledge and potentially becoming experts themselves, aligned with the Council of Europe’s values.

We eagerly await the proactive initiatives of these change makers, as they transform their communities with the knowledge and tools they’ve acquired during this transformative School on Participatory Democracy.

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AT A GLANCE

ADD Something Meaningful – strengthening youth engagement through local involvement!

Youth participation plays a crucial role in upholding democratic principles and values within society. Unfortunately, young people often find themselves underrepresented in decision-making processes across various levels, leading to a lack of attention towards youth-related issues critical for sustainable development and societal well-being. Studies reveal that this disconnect from the political system and disengagement from democratic processes contribute to feelings of apathy, frustration, and disinterest among young individuals towards civic life.

In response to this pressing need, the project ADD Something Meaningful was created, aiming to establish mechanisms that enable young people to influence all aspects of society and decision-making stages. By providing accessible structures, the project seeks to empower youth and amplify their voices in shaping public policies.

Objectives:

1: To introduce IDEATHON in the youth sector to establish a permanent mechanism for active involvement of young people in public affairs at a local level. 

2: To empower youth organisations and local authorities to implement participatory processes with young people through the use of IDEATHON. 

3: To raise awareness among young people, youth organisations, representatives of local authorities and the general public about the importance of youth participation at the local level.

4: Strengthen young people’s social and political participation by addressing local challenges.

5: Ensure sustainability by achieving systemic funding for IDEATHONs beyond the end of the project.

    ,

    DOCUMENTS

    AT A GLANCE

    Inclusive and Bottom-Up Approach: The project aims to involve rural communities and political actors in a bottom-up participation approach, which fosters long-lasting impact.

    Co-Creation of Educational Content: High-quality educational materials are co-created to meet the specific needs of local communities. Self-analysis workshops play a key role in understanding local contexts.

    Awareness Raising: Active awareness-raising activities are conducted to drive long-term digital transformation in rural areas.

    Teacher and Trainer Training: Educators are equipped with the skills and knowledge to implement co-designed activities with learners.

    Enhancing Competencies: The project focuses on enhancing the competences of both young and adult learners through ICT courses.

    Local and International Promotion: The project aims to promote its impact and results at both local and international levels.

    Objectives:

    1- To initiate a self-analysis process in rural areas through the “Reciprocal Maieutic Approach” in order to identify context-specific needs, increase motivation and raise awareness about the importance and potential of digital and transversal competences necessary for the current and future labour market, education and social life.
    2- To create educational materials through a co-design process, which are adaptable to different educational and geographical contexts aiming to strengthen the digital and transversal skills of teachers, trainers and learners, while developing dedicated tools to evaluate and monitor its quality and transferability.
    3- to test and evaluate the Our Digital Village Activity Kit with teachers and trainers and to implement ICT courses in educational institutions and community locations throughout the rural areas; to foster the digital and transversal skills development of learners
    4- To contribute to a sustainable process of digital transformation in rural areas and to mainstream the project’s approach in order to have a positive impact on educational and training systems in different EU countries on local, national and EU-level.

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    Within the framework of the International Conference on “A Wider European Community: The Importance of Local Governance” held in Skopje on October 19 and 20, 2023, a compelling panel discussion focused on the European Label for Governance Excellence (EloGE) took place on October 20.

    ALDA unveiled plans for a second round of self-assessment with Macedonian Municipalities

    This event provided a valuable opportunity to glean insights from the Municipality of Aerodrom and the Municipality of Berovo, both of which received the EloGE label the previous year after successfully completing the self-assessment process. The Mayor of Aerodrom, Mr. Timco Mucunski, and the Mayor of Berovo, Mr. Zvonko Pekeski, underscored the significance of self-evaluation for municipalities, as it enables them to recognize their achievements and pinpoint areas in need of improvement.

    The panel discussion was further enriched by the contributions of Mr. Zoran Jankulovski, one of the evaluators of the EloGE program, who emphasised the importance of municipalities conducting their own evaluations of their work.

    Mr. Niall Sheerin from the Centre of Expertise for Good Governance of the Council of Europe reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to supporting EloGE’s implementation. He also announced recent updates in the program, particularly highlighting the 12 Principles of Good Governance.

    It’s noteworthy that in 2022, the first round of the EloGE program was successfully completed by nine Macedonian Municipalities.

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    The remarkable journey of Local Democracy Agencies (LDAs) spanning three decades was celebrated under the theme “A Successful Story from Conflict Aftermath Toward Europe” as part of the International Conference on “A Wider European Community: The Importance of Local Governance.”

    This significant event took place in Skopje (North Macedonia) on October 19 and 20, 2023

    This international conference provided a unique platform to showcase the extensive work undertaken by ALDA and the LDAs in the Western Balkans region over the past thirty years. The distinguished speakers took the audience on a captivating journey through the establishment of the LDAs and the myriad projects implemented during this momentous period.

    The panel discussion was initiated by ALDA General Secretary, Mrs. Antonella Valmorbida, who offered a retrospective overview of the creation of the LDAs and their historical contributions. Following that, Stanka Parac from LDA Subotica shared her memories and recounted the success stories of the first LDA established in the Balkans, located in Subotica. Dzenana Dedic, representing LDA Mostar, emphasised the pivotal role of LDAs in the reconstruction of local communities. Vullnet Gusia, a representative from the Municipality of Peja, which hosted LDA Kosovo*, highlighted the value that LDAs bring to local communities and the collaborative efforts with municipalities.

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    ALDA’s Vice-President, Mrs. Natasa Vuckovic, and Governing Board member, Dobrica Milovanovic, held a productive meeting with the Mayor of Karpos Municipality, Stevco Jakimovski, on the 18th of October. This working visit took place in the municipal premises and marked a significant milestone in their ongoing collaboration, with a special focus on Karpos Municipality’s membership in ALDA, which commenced this year.

    The collaborative relationship between the Municipality of Karposh and ALDA dates back to 2012, coinciding with the establishment of the ALDA office in Skopje

    Over the years, this partnership has consistently yielded excellent results through mutual engagement and innovative approaches.

    Mayor Jakimovski extended a warm welcome to the attendees and expressed his eagerness to deepen the cooperation between the Municipality of Karpos and ALDA. During their discussions, he emphasised the potential of joint participation in larger regional projects to make a more significant impact on citizens and society as a whole.
    As a dedicated member of ALDA, the Municipality of Karpos consistently lends its support to ALDA’s work and actively participates in various events, project development, and the exchange of ideas. The collaboration between the Municipality of Karpos and ALDA initially began as part of the Normandy – North Macedonia decentralised Cooperation Program, where the municipality was twinned with the city of Fleury in Normandy. Through this partnership, they have successfully executed numerous projects spanning a wide range of topics and exchanged invaluable experiences.

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    On the 18th of October 2023, the ALDA Governing Board convened in Skopje for a pivotal and highly productive meeting. This gathering was marked by a series of discussions that offered updates and invaluable insights into ALDA’s current endeavours and future plans.

    The meeting commenced with a warm and gracious speech by Mr. Goran Gerasimovski, the Mayor of the Municipality of Centar. The Municipality of Centar has been a dedicated member of ALDA since 2016 and plays a pivotal role within the Governing Board.

    Following this warm welcome, the meeting addressed formalities, including the approval of the meeting agenda and the minutes of the prior Governing Board session held in Brussels.

    A substantial portion of the meeting was devoted to a comprehensive discussion of ALDA’s activities throughout the year

    The Governing Board members engaged in productive dialogues, sharing valuable insights and innovative ideas to further ALDA’s mission.

    A significant part of the meeting focused on preparations for the General Assembly in 2024, an event of paramount importance for ALDA. The latter part of the meeting featured various updates and discussions, including assessments of strategies and other pertinent matters. The meeting concluded with discussions regarding the next proposal and the upcoming Governing Board session.

    The ALDA Governing Board Meeting in Skopje underscored the organisation’s unwavering commitment to promoting good governance and local democracy. Through these discussions, ALDA reaffirmed its dedication to its mission and the betterment of local communities.

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    In a dedicated effort to celebrate three decades of Local Democracy Agencies (LDAs) in the Balkans, LDA Mostar brought together representatives from ALDA, the Balkan LDAs, and organisations committed to advancing local democracy in the Western Balkans. This exceptional event, titled “Seeing is Believing,” served as a platform for the exchange of best practices between the civic sector and local authorities. This study visit, a part of Project Mostar – Spaces to Activate and Rejuvenate, took place from September 20th to September 22nd, 2023, in the vibrant city of Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina.

    For thirty years, Local Democracy Agencies have played a pivotal role in championing grassroots democracy and community engagement

    The celebration of this 30th anniversary marks a significant milestone, and there’s no better way to commemorate it than by embarking on a journey to Mostar, a city that embodies the spirit of participatory democracy in action.

    At the core of this event lies Project Mostar – Spaces to Activate and Rejuvenate, an initiative that has ignited a revival within the city. By establishing spaces that nurture community engagement and rejuvenation, Mostar has showcased the immense potential of collaboration between local authorities and the civic sector. The results serve as a testament to the power of participatory democracy and provide a wellspring of inspiration for the entire Western Balkans region.

    The event’s theme, “Seeing is Believing,” encapsulates the essence of the experience. Participants didn’t merely hear about the transformative power of local democracy; they actively engaged with the people, projects, and practices that are shaping Mostar’s future. It’s a powerful reminder that change is possible, and it often begins at the local level.

    The “Seeing is Believing” exchange, organised by LDA Mostar and Balkan Network for Local Democracy (BNLD), provided a unique opportunity to witness the tangible outcomes of participatory democracy and the positive transformation it brings to local communities. This celebration marked three decades of progress, served as a testament to the power of collaboration, and inspired continued efforts to promote participatory democracy throughout the Western Balkans.

    DOCUMENTS

    • No documents available

    On 19 and 20 October, 2023, ALDA hosted in Skopje the international conference “A Wider European Community: The Importance of Local Governance – Roadmap for the Western Balkans, Moldova, and Ukraine on the Path to EU Accession.”

    The two-day event gathered more than sixty participants at the amphitheatre of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of North Macedonia. Government officials, representatives from the international and local organisations, diplomats, professors and experts from the countries in focus shared their insights on the matter.

    Ms. Fatmire Isaki, The Deputy Minister of Foreign affairs of North Macedonia welcomed the participants, emphasising the country’s full commitment to regional integration through political, economic and other initiatives. “I believe that we, as a region, must increase our efforts to contribute to internal reforms, as well as to regional cooperation, and increase the frequency of good neighbourly relations and reconciliations”, said Isaki.

    Ms. Ivana Holoubková, the Deputy Secretary General of Central European Initiative, continued on the importance of regional cooperation, especially in difficult times marked by the war in Ukraine, pandemics, and similar crises.

    Mr. Oriano Otocan, the President of ALDA, welcomed the participants through a video conference, stating that ALDA, in cooperation with the LDAs, is doing precisely what is needed in the enlargement process, referring to the capacities of ALDA to support and manage the EU funds within its international network. 

    The Macedonian media took on his statement comparing the EU enlargement throughout the years, in particular in Croatia, where the EU integration process lasted 8 years. “Now we have a gap of 10 years, which is the biggest since the first enlargement of the European Union, but I am afraid that it might be bigger”, he stated.

    The Western Balkans, Moldova, and Ukraine – Tackling the challenges on their journey towards EU accession


    Despite being at different stages of relations with the EU, from the Stabilisation and Association Process to ongoing accession negotiations, the Western Balkans, Moldova, and Ukraine face similar reforms and share key challenges in rule of law, fundamental rights, economic and social development. These topics turned the conference into a platform of exchange and discussions.

    The participants delved into preparations for EU enlargement, highlighting the diverse levels of progress for each country in focus. Recent candidate status grants to Bosnia, Moldova, and Ukraine, along with accession talks with Albania and North Macedonia, showcased a collective commitment to stability and growth.

    There are tangible lessons to be drawn from the EU enlargement experiences of the neighbouring countries, emphasising the importance of strong, transparent institutions and local democracy. The local level was recognized as the starting point for reforms, fostering economic development and improving access to other levels and services.
    Recognizing the need for regional cooperation is a solution for the European perspective, and it can help speed up the long, for some even out of reach, integration process. The EU should support and assist the candidate countries, and build the capacities of local governance.

    The first day concluded with a focus on stability and peace, which are now needed more than ever, as the participants identified the conflicts as a common denominator. EU accession is an extremely complex journey for each country, and the collaboration with the civil society sector is crucial in order to align the road to EU.

    Tools and experiences for better cooperation – Project Eloge

    The conference continued the next day with a good example of citizens’ participation in the process of integration, presenting local and regional initiatives and good practices from the wider European community. The mayors of the Macedonian municipalities described the positive result from the participation in the self-assessment process, sharing their insights and conclusions from the terrain.

    ALDA is accredited for the implementation of the EloGE project in North Macedonia, and revealed the plans for a second round of self-assessment with Macedonian Municipalities scheduled for the following year.

    30 years of Local Democracy Agencies – Celebrating milestones

    To emphasise the importance of local democracy, the event culminated with a celebration marking the three-decade journey of the Local Democracy Agencies (LDAs) in the Western Balkans. This milestone celebration showcased LDAs’ successful transition from post-conflict situations to a path towards Europe.

    The conference’s final moments were marked by a documentary screening, created for this occasion by Francesco Zarzana. This documentary vividly depicted the difficult early days of LDAs’ work, supported by ALDA and CoE, and recounted the inspiring origin stories from the LDAs’ delegates.

    By focusing on empowering local democracy, the communities can build up to societies of inclusion, progress and peace. Merging the local efforts in national and international joint actions can have a multiplier effect, and the municipalities should be ready to be the drivers of the implementation of the reforms, because they are the closest to the citizens.

    The commitment of Southeast European nations to EU integration aligns with the principles upheld by European institutions. Focusing on empowering local democracy helps the nations to lay the foundation for more inclusive and equitable societies. A thriving local democracy is a necessity for local economic development.

    ALDA as a global network is always trying to build on the shared values, not letting wars and conflicts be the links between the countries, always promoting peace and reconciliation. Regional stability and conflict resolutions are key priorities in line with the EU perspective. The conference served as an insight of the geopolitical factors for the Western Balkans countries, Ukraine and Moldova. 

    One of the fundamental takeaways from the conference is the synergy between local authorities and civil society organisations. This collaboration, characterised by a shared vision, has the potential to bring meaningful changes starting at the local level, in the services of the citizens in their communities.

    This conference marked a significant step towards building a wider European community. It serves as a reminder that true progress begins at the local level, where communities and their leaders come together to effect change. In this pursuit, ALDA has been pivotal in encouraging cooperation and a common vision among all regional partners.

    The event was organised by ALDA in collaboration with the Local Democracy Agencies (LDAs) in the Western Balkans, Moldova, and Ukraine. It is financially supported by the Central European Initiative, the Council of Europe, and its Center of Expertise for Local Government Reform.

    DOCUMENTS

    • No documents available

    The Local Democracy Agency Tunisia organised a spectacular event entitled “Caravan to Kairouan” from 26 until 30 September, 2023 during the celebrations of the “Mawled”, which is a cultural celebration widely honored in Kairouan (Tunisia), where visitors come from all over the country and beyond to celebrate it. During the “Mawled” visitors can shop artisan products and souvenirs, visit historical and religious monuments, and taste the local and popular dishes.

    In this sense, the LDA Tunisia was thrilled to welcome its Algerian partner Biking Dz to the event, aimed at promoting sustainable means of transport, which came from Algeria to Kairouan by BICYCLE!

    The staff of LDA Tunisia was delighted to meet the Algerian travelers and learn more about their extraordinary experience and their honourable mission which consists of promoting cultural sites and traditions through documented visits on bikes.

    The LDA Tunisia organised a spectacular event entitled “Caravan to Kairouan” to promote sustainable mobility in Tunisia!

    In addition, LDA Tunisia was also delighted to help Biking_DZ participants and representatives to discover the city of Kairouan, which is rich in historical monuments and traditional features, through guided tours in the Medina and its suburbs, in particular through a group excursion by bicycle to the Reqqada Museum.

    The “Caravan to Kairouan” event was included in the official programme of the city celebrations and gained much attention and visibility from the media especially due to its important aim: promoting bikes and sustainability as a possible means of transportation that involves the transition to a healthy lifestyle, more strength, mindfulness, and patience.

    Lastly, LDA Tunisia has also shared the passion for sustainable mobility and biking in particular through the exchange with the project team of VéloPark and the partners of the Autrement project. 

    Keep your eyes peeled for future updates!

    DOCUMENTS

    • No documents available

    On the 16th of October 2023, ALDA Brussels welcomed a group of over 35 young individuals from Romania as part of a visit by the “Group of the European Youth for Change” (GEYC), a recent addition to the ALDA membership.

    GEYC, a Romanian youth organization founded in 2010, operates at the European level and serves as the initiator and coordinator of the PRISMA European Network. This network represents a broad coalition aimed at enhancing the quality of youth projects. GEYC’s overarching mission is to empower young people to instigate positive change within their communities.

    ALDA maintains six offices that are accessible to all its members. During this visit, our colleagues had the pleasure of hosting the GEYC delegation at its Brussels office. The occasion provided an opportunity for a mutual exchange of ideas, with ALDA representatives shedding light on their mission, activities, and the connections that unite the two organizations. Furthermore, the session allowed ALDA to gain insights from the young participants regarding their projects and how ALDA could contribute to their initiatives.

    One project highlighted during the visit, in alignment with both organizations’ commitment to empowering and supporting youth for community-driven change, was “Constanța pentru TINEri!” (Constanta for YOUth!). This initiative is a collaborative effort between GEYC and the Youth Federation of Constanta. Its primary goal is to empower young people to advocate for the establishment of Youth Centers in their communities. These centers will serve as hubs guiding and representing youth in their interactions with local authorities. They will provide information, counseling, promote volunteering, civic engagement, and serve as a vital link between young individuals and decision-makers.

    Both GEYC and ALDA share a common vision of enhancing local environments by fostering connections with local authorities

    Both GEYC and ALDA share a common vision of enhancing local environments by fostering connections with local authorities, with the objective of ensuring good governance and encouraging citizen involvement through grassroots actions.

    Membership in ALDA offers numerous advantages, including integration into a well-established European network, support for project development and funding opportunities, access to information, organizational structures, and dissemination of knowledge, as well as opportunities for training and capacity building, among many other benefits.

    For more information on becoming a member, please visit this page.