DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

🇫🇷, 🇬🇧 below

L’Agence de Démocratie Locale (ADL) Tunisie a franchi une étape significative dans la modernisation de l’administration locale en inaugurant des espaces citoyens à Djerba Houmet Essouk (gouvernorat de Médenine), Remada (gouvernorat de Tataouine) et, prochainement, à Chebika (gouvernorat de Kairouan).

Ces initiatives, ancrées dans le projet « Villes inclusives – Services de proximité et emplois décents pour tous », marquent un tournant dans la relation entre les citoyens et leurs communes. Conçus pour être accessibles et inclusifs, ces nouveaux espaces offrent un accès simplifié aux services municipaux grâce à la numérisation et à la modernisation des démarches.

Ils garantissent :

  • une transparence accrue en permettant aux citoyens de suivre leurs demandes en temps réel ;
  • une accessibilité pour tous grâce à des infrastructures modernes et adaptées ;
  • une efficacité optimale grâce à un traitement rapide et fluide des demandes.

Ce projet ambitieux est le fruit d’une collaboration fructueuse entre l’ADL Tunisie et l’Union Nationale de la Femme Tunisienne, avec le soutien financier de l’Agence de Développement Suisse à travers Cities Alliance. Il s’inscrit également dans le cadre du projet « Renforcement de la Gouvernance Locale et Modernisation des Services Locaux » (REMO), soutenu par le ministère fédéral allemand de la Coopération économique et du Développement (BMZ) et mis en œuvre par la GIZ, en partenariat avec le ministère de l’Intérieur tunisien.

En phase avec l’Agenda 2030, l’ADL Tunisie considère la transition numérique comme un levier essentiel du développement local et de l’inclusion. Ces espaces citoyens contribuent à réduire la fracture numérique et à positionner les municipalités comme des acteurs clés de la société de l’information.

L’inauguration de ces espaces citoyens marque le début d’une nouvelle ère pour l’administration locale en Tunisie. L’ADL Tunisie et ses partenaires poursuivent leurs efforts pour étendre cette initiative à d’autres communes afin de bâtir une administration plus proche, plus efficace et plus inclusive, au service de tous les citoyens.

🇬🇧

LDA Tunisia deploys citizen spaces to strengthen local services

The Local Democracy Agency (LDA) Tunisia has made a significant step in modernising local administration by inaugurating citizen spaces in Djerba Houmet Essouk (Medenine governorate), Remada (Tataouine governorate), and soon in Chebika (Kairouan governorate).

These initiatives, rooted in the project “Inclusive Cities – Local Services and Decent Jobs for All”, mark a turning point in the relationship between citizens and their municipalities. Designed to be accessible and inclusive, these new spaces provide simplified access to municipal services through digitalisation and the modernisation of procedures.

They ensure:

  • Increased transparency by allowing citizens to track their requests in real time.
  • Accessibility for all through modern and adapted infrastructure.
  • Optimal efficiency through quick and smooth processing of requests.

This ambitious project is the result of a fruitful collaboration between LDA Tunisia and the National Union of Tunisian Women, with financial support from the Swiss Development Agency through Cities Alliance. It is also part of the “Strengthening Local Governance and Modernisation of Local Services” (REMO) project, supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and implemented by GIZ, in partnership with the Tunisian Ministry of the Interior.

In line with the 2030 Agenda, LDA Tunisia views the digital transition as a key driver of local development and inclusion. These citizen spaces contribute to reducing the digital divide and positioning municipalities as key players in the information society.

The inauguration of these citizen spaces marks the beginning of a new era for local administration in Tunisia. LDA Tunisia and its partners are continuing their efforts to extend this initiative to other municipalities in order to build a closer, more efficient, and more inclusive administration, serving all citizens.

DOCUMENTS

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Brussels, 20 March 2025 – Press Club, Rue Froissart | 18:30 – 20:00 CET

Serbia is undergoing a period of profound political instability, with nationwide protests escalating in response to governance challenges, democratic backsliding, and the broader political crisis. The tragic events in Novi Sad in 2024 acted as a catalyst for student-led demonstrations, highlighting the urgent need for democratic reforms and greater government accountability. These developments are not isolated; their impact resonates across the Western Balkans, influencing both regional stability and Serbia’s trajectory toward EU integration.

Recognising the significance of these developments, ALDA – the European Association for Local Democracy is convening a high-level discussion in Brussels, bringing together key stakeholders, policymakers, and civil society representatives. This ALDA Balkans Talks event will assess the latest updates from Serbia, explore the wider regional implications, and discuss how civic engagement can drive democratic resilience and EU accession efforts.

For the past 30 years, ALDA has played a pivotal role in strengthening local democracy in the Balkans, beginning with the establishment of the first Local Democracy Agency (LDA) in Subotica, Serbia, in 1993. With its extensive experience in fostering participatory democracy, ALDA is committed to promoting civic engagement and ensuring that democratic principles remain at the forefront of regional developments.

Spotlight on Civic Engagement and Participatory Democracy

The discussion will place particular emphasis on the role of civil society organisations in navigating Serbia’s current crisis. Transparency, dialogue, and participatory governance are essential tools for ensuring that democratic principles are upheld.

In this context, ALDA will present two key initiatives aimed at bolstering local democracy in the Western Balkans:

  • Shared Horizons – A project designed to support democratic engagement among youth and civil society actors.
  • BOOST – A regional initiative focused on strengthening local governance and cross-border cooperation to enhance democratic resilience.

The event will feature contributions from high-profile speakers, providing diverse perspectives on the situation in Serbia and the broader Balkan region. Key participants will include Nataša Vučković, President of ALDA and Director of the Center for Democracy Foundation, Serbia, alongside representatives from the European Commission and the European Parliament.

Speakers:

  • Nataša Vučković, President of ALDA, Director of the Center for Democracy Foundation, Serbia
  • Representative from the Cabinet of Marta Kos, European Commissioner for Enlargement and Neighbourhood (tbc)
  • Antonella Valmorbida, Secretary General of ALDA
  • Tonino Picula, MEP (tbc)
  • Local elected representative

Moderator:

  • Adrien Licha, European Association for Local Democracy

This discussion will offer valuable insights into the evolving political landscape in Serbia and its regional repercussions. Join us in shaping the conversation on democracy, civic participation, and EU integration in the Balkans.

You can find the full Agenda here.

📅 Register here to attend. 

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

8th March marks International Women’s Day, a day established by the United Nations to highlight the ongoing struggle for equality, respect, and the recognition of women’s rights worldwide. Each year, 8th March serves as a symbolic and significant date in the women’s rights movement, providing an opportunity to reflect on the violence, discrimination, and systemic barriers that women continue to face. It is also a moment to acknowledge how much progress remains to be made.

Despite the advancements achieved, women still have to fight not only to gain rights but also to safeguard those already won, which continue to be at risk. The 8th of March is therefore a crucial occasion to bring these inequalities to light on a broader scale.

The origins of a day dedicated to the women’s movement can be traced back to the early 20th century, shaped by the Industrial Revolution—a period of profound progress, innovation, and emerging social movements, including the fight for women’s suffrage. Women’s Day was first celebrated in 1909 by the American Socialist Party in New York. In Europe, the movement became closely linked to the socialist movement, particularly in Russia following the 1917 revolution. Under Lenin, National Women’s Day was integrated into socialist ideology and observed across communist countries.

However, after two decades, the day gradually faded into obscurity and ceased to be widely commemorated. It was not until the 1960s and 1970s, with the rise of the Women’s Rights Movement, that it regained prominence. This social and political movement, which championed women’s empowerment, freedom, and equality, played a key role in reviving International Women’s Day, ensuring its continued relevance in the ongoing fight for gender equality.

Officially recognised by the UN in 1977, the International Women’s Day is celebrated all around the world to promote gender equality, denounce violence and abuse against women, encourage women empowerment and women’s rights.

In many countries, peaceful demonstrations and marches are organised on the 8th of March to celebrate Women’s Day. This year, the United Nations’ official International Women’s Day slogan, “For All Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” perfectly summarises what this day represents.

Women’s Day is about remembering that every policy change and legal victory has been driven by brave activists who have organised, protested, and called for action.

International Women’s Day is about continuing the fight for girls’ and women’s rights, empowerment, opportunities, freedom, and health. It is about recognising how much progress still needs to be made to create a truly equal world for future generations.

ALDA, the European Association for Local Democracy, focuses on advancing women’s rights and empowerment, primarily through projects within the Gender, Inclusion, and Human Rights Hub.

Initiatives such as Politik-Her, which aims to empower young women in building cohesive, inclusive, and sustainable communities, and YOU-DARE, which examines how far-right youth groups construct and mobilise gender identities, undermining democratic values, seek to improve women’s lives and raise awareness of the inequalities they face at the European level.

On this day and every day, we stand with every girl and woman in the fight for equal rights, freedom, and empowerment.

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

Today, 8th March, marks International Women’s Day, a day established by the United Nations to highlight the ongoing struggle for equality, respect, and the recognition of women’s rights worldwide. Each year, 8th March serves as a symbolic and significant date in the women’s rights movement, providing an opportunity to reflect on the violence, discrimination, and systemic barriers that women continue to face. It is also a moment to acknowledge how much progress remains to be made.

Despite the advancements achieved, women still have to fight not only to gain rights but also to safeguard those already won, which continue to be at risk. The 8th of March is therefore a crucial occasion to bring these inequalities to light on a broader scale.

The origins of a day dedicated to the women’s movement can be traced back to the early 20th century, shaped by the industrial revolution—a period of profound progress, innovation, and emerging social movements, including the fight for women’s suffrage. Women’s Day was first celebrated in 1909 by the American Socialist Party in New York. In Europe, the movement became closely linked to the socialist movement, particularly in Russia following the 1917 revolution. Under Lenin, National Women’s Day was integrated into socialist ideology and observed across communist countries.

However, after two decades, the day gradually faded into obscurity and ceased to be widely commemorated. It was not until the 1960s and 1970s, with the rise of the Women’s Rights Movement, that it regained prominence. This social and political movement, which championed women’s empowerment, freedom, and equality, played a key role in reviving International Women’s Day, ensuring its continued relevance in the ongoing fight for gender equality.

Officially recognised by the UN in 1977, the International Women’s Day is celebrated all around the world to promote gender equality, denounce violence and abuse against women, encourage women empowerment and women’s rights

In many countries, peaceful demonstrations and marches are organised on the 8th of March to celebrate Women’s Day. This year, the United Nations’ official International Women’s Day slogan, “For All Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” perfectly summarises what this day represents.

Women’s Day is about remembering that every policy change and legal victory has been driven by brave activists who have organised, protested, and called for action.

International Women’s Day is about continuing the fight for girls’ and women’s rights, empowerment, opportunities, freedom, and health. It is about recognising how much progress still needs to be made to create a truly equal world for future generations.

ALDA, the European Association for Local Democracy, focuses on advancing women’s rights and empowerment, primarily through projects within the Gender, Inclusion, and Human Rights Hub.

Initiatives such as Politik-Her, which aims to empower young women in building cohesive, inclusive, and sustainable communities, and YOU-DARE, which examines how far-right youth groups construct and mobilise gender identities, undermining democratic values, seek to improve women’s lives and raise awareness of the inequalities they face at the European level.

On this day, and every day, we stand with every girl and woman in the fight for equal rights, freedom, and empowerment.

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

The COSPACE Group is a pioneering collaboration between five European-funded projects ーMAGDA, RESPONDENT, SWIFTT, 100KTREEs, and BUILDSPACE ー established under the European Commission’s Horizon Results Booster (HRB) programme. This initiative was formed to maximise the impact of these projects by aligning their efforts in leveraging space technologies to tackle climate challenges across multiple sectors.

ALDA’s Role

In this framework, ALDA is a proud partner of BUILDSPACE, and by extension of the COSPACE Group. In the project, ALDA plays a key role in communication, dissemination, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring that BUILDSPACE’s innovative tools and platforms reach key decision-makers, local authorities, and communities.

Beyond its technical contributions, ALDA fosters dialogue and facilitates collaboration between stakeholders, helping bridge the gap between citizens and decision-makers. By creating inclusive platforms for discussion, ALDA ensures that BUILDSPACE’s outputs are aligned with real community needs, making urban sustainability solutions more accessible and impactful.

The COSPACE Group: Projects and Objectives

Each project within the COSPACE Group brings a unique perspective and expertise, contributing to an interdisciplinary approach to climate resilience, sustainability, and technological innovation.

The COSPACE Group was formed based on shared objectives and the urgent need for climate mitigation and adaptation solutions. The challenges tackled by the group include:

  • Advanced Monitoring and Decision Support: Providing data-driven insights for stakeholders, policy-makers, and urban planners to make informed decisions about environmental sustainability.
  • Climate Resilience: Using geospatial and AI-driven solutions to predict and respond to climate change impacts on agriculture, energy, and forests.
  • Sustainable Urban Development: Integrating nature-based solutions, such as tree planting and energy-efficient infrastructure, to create greener, healthier cities.

The COSPACE Webinar Series: Knowledge Sharing for a Sustainable Future

To disseminate knowledge and foster collaboration, the COSPACE Group has launched a webinar series aimed at engaging decision-makers, researchers, and the public in discussions about the latest innovations in space technologies for climate resilience.

The first webinar “Leveraging Space Technologies to Tackle Climate Challenges in Energy and Agriculture”, organised by MAGDA and RESPONDENT, will showcase the impact of the two projects, exploring how AI and geospatial data enhance energy and agricultural sustainability.

Event details:

  • Date: March 13, 2025
  • Time: 10:00 CET
  • Location: Microsoft Teams
  • Registration: Registration Form

The second webinar “Advancing Sustainability and Green Cities: Innovative Applications in Urban Spaces”, hosted by BUILDSPACE and 100KTREEs, will present the two projects, highlighting urban sustainability through tree planting initiatives and energy-efficient building solutions.

Event details:

  • Date: April 15, 2025
  • Time: 15:00 CEST
  • Location: Webex
  • Registration: Registration Form

These interactive online sessions will serve as a platform for exchanging knowledge, fostering new collaborations, and equipping stakeholders with practical tools to drive sustainable transformation in cities, forests, and the energy sector. The COSPACE Group is pioneering the integration of space technology with real-world environmental solutions. 

The efforts of these projects in addressing environmental challenges align with the transversal topics of ALDA’s Environment and Climate Hub, strengthening its role in fostering dialogue and facilitating collaboration among stakeholders, while bridging the gap between citizens and decision-makers.

DOCUMENTS

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ALDA Moldova, in collaboration with eight dynamic civil society organisations (CSOs), has officially launched the first phase of the INSPIRED Moldova project. With a strong commitment to fostering civic education and community engagement, this initiative aims to equip young people across the country with the tools to actively participate in democratic processes and counter misinformation.

Kicking off in February, the project’s first activities are designed to instil a culture of active citizenship among young people. Participants are developing critical thinking skills to identify and challenge misinformation while gaining a deeper understanding of democracy and civil rights. To ensure an effective rollout, ALDA Moldova hosted an informative meeting with partner CSOs, where discussions covered project objectives, implementation strategies, financial and narrative reporting, as well as key communication and visibility guidelines.

Under ALDA Moldova’s guidance, the participating CSOs have already launched impactful initiatives. Through civic education and community mobilisation, young people are being trained in the importance of electoral participation, fostering a new generation of engaged citizens. Meanwhile, innovative digital engagement strategies are being used to create and disseminate compelling visual content on social media, raising awareness about democratic processes in a way that resonates with young audiences. In addition, workshops and training sessions are being conducted in schools and youth centres, offering young people the opportunity to engage directly with experts in governance, policy-making, and media literacy.

By engaging and empowering young people, INSPIRED Moldova is shaping the next generation of democracy ambassadors

To combat misinformation, hackathons and storytelling sessions are equipping participants with the skills to detect political manipulation—particularly crucial in the lead-up to Moldova’s strategic parliamentary elections. These interactive sessions also encourage peer-to-peer learning, where participants share their insights and experiences, reinforcing a collaborative approach to tackling misinformation.

These efforts align with Moldova’s European integration ambitions and play a crucial role in mitigating the risks of disinformation in this pivotal election year. More than just a project, INSPIRED Moldova is a driving force in strengthening civil society’s role in shaping national policies. By actively involving CSOs in political processes at both national and local levels, including digital advocacy, the initiative fosters collaboration between civil society organisations and public authorities, ensuring that civil society remains a cornerstone of Moldova’s democratic progress.

In addition to its focus on youth empowerment, the project seeks to establish sustainable mechanisms for civic engagement, ensuring that the impact of INSPIRED Moldova extends beyond the duration of the programme. This includes building long-term partnerships between CSOs, educational institutions, and decision-makers to create a lasting framework for democratic participation.

Funded by the European Union, the INSPIRED Moldova project is implemented by a distinguished consortium, including the European Partnership for Democracy (EPD), ALDA, the National Center for Assistance and Information of NGOs in Moldova CONTACT, the Center for Policy and Reform (CPR Moldova), Democracy Reporting International (DRI), and People in Need (PIN). As these activities unfold, INSPIRED Moldova continues to drive meaningful change, ensuring that young people remain at the forefront of shaping the country’s democratic future.

  • Period:

    -

  • Countries involved:

    Eastern Partnership & Central Asia
    Ukraine

  • Donor:

  • SDG:

  • Lead partner:

  • All partners:

  • Contacts:


    projects@alda-europe.eu

DOCUMENTS

  • No documents available

A New Milestone in European-Ukrainian Cooperation – 🇬🇧, 🇺🇦, 🇫🇷 below

ALDA together with its partners and local authorities—gathered in March for the starting of operations for the Local Democracy Agency (LDA) Vinnytsia. This initiative represents a crucial step forward in strengthening democratic governance, fostering international cooperation, and supporting local development in Ukraine during this challenging time.

LDA Vinnytsia will serve as a hub for international cooperation, enhancing local governance, providing capacity-building opportunities, and strengthening civil society engagement in the region. While LDA Vinnytsia is already operational, the official inauguration will take place in summer 2025, with the participation of all partners. This event will mark a step forward in consolidating international cooperation in the region.

The Local Democracy Agency in Vinnytsia was established with the support of key European and Ukrainian partners, including:

Official Meeting at the Municipality of Vinnytsia

The event opened with an official meeting between ALDA’s Secretary General Antonella Valmorbida and local authorities, including:

  • Vyacheslav Sokolovyi, Head of the Vinnytsia Oblast Council
  • Anatoliy Tkach, Deputy Head of the Vinnytsia Oblast Council
  • Vladyslav Skalskyi, Deputy Mayor of Vinnytsia
  • Halyna Yakubovych, Deputy Mayor of Vinnytsia
  • Ihor Shutak, Head of the Secretariat, Vinnytsia Regional Association of Local Self-Government Bodies
  • Olha Oliinyk, Acting Delegate of LDA Vinnytsia
  • Elizaveta Savchuk, Director of the Vinnytsia Regional Development Agency

During the meeting, discussions focused on the role of local democracy in supporting Ukraine’s European integration, international cooperation and community resilience during wartime.

Roundtable Discussion: “Democracy in Action”

A major highlight of the event was the roundtable discussion, which gathered representatives from ALDA, local and regional authorities, and international partners. The session, titled “Democracy in Action: Uniting Efforts of Local Authorities, Civil Society, Youth, and Partners,” provided a platform to discuss:

  • The role of local self-governance in sustaining democratic values during martial law
  • Best practices for youth engagement in decision-making processes
  • The importance of European cooperation in local governance
  • Experiences from other Local Democracy Agencies (LDAs), including LDA Dnipro and LDA Kharkiv, which also participated in the event

Field Visit to Khmilnyk: Fostering Local and International Collaboration

As part of the visit, the ALDA delegation and local authorities traveled to Khmilnyk, a municipality in the Vinnytsia region participating in the TIPS4UA programme of the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) and U-LEAD with Europe.

Thanks to ALDA’s facilitation, two municipal representatives from Khmilnyk will take part in an internship in a municipality in the province of Barcelona (DIBA, ALDA member). This initiative reflects ALDA’s commitment to strengthening local governance by fostering international partnerships.

What LDA Vinnytsia Brings to Local Communities

With its operational launch, LDA Vinnytsia will focus on:
✅ Facilitating access to European grant programmes and investment opportunities
✅ Strengthening international partnerships and knowledge exchange
✅ Supporting local governance and civic engagement
✅ Creating new socio-economic development opportunities

ALDA and its partners remain committed to fostering democratic resilience and local development in Ukraine. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to strengthen local democracy!

🇺🇦

ЛДА Вінниця офіційно розпочала свою діяльність: Посилення місцевої демократії в Україні

Новий етап у європейсько-українській співпраці

ALDA разом із партнерами та місцевими органами влади провела зустріч, присвячену початку роботи Агенції місцевої демократії (ЛДА) Вінниця. Ця ініціатива є важливим кроком вперед у зміцненні демократичного врядування, сприянні міжнародній співпраці та підтримці місцевого розвитку в Україні у цей непростий час.

Створення ЛДА Вінниця: Ключові партнери

Агенція місцевої демократії у Вінниці була створена за підтримки ключових європейських та українських партнерів, зокрема:

ЛДА Вінниця стане ключовим центром міжнародного співробітництва, посилення місцевого врядування, реалізації освітніх програм та зміцнення громадянського суспільства у регіоні.

Хоча Агенція вже розпочала свою діяльність, офіційне відкриття та урочисте перерізання стрічки відбудеться влітку 2025 року, коли всі партнери зможуть особисто взяти участь у цій події.

Офіційна зустріч у Вінницькій міській раді

Захід розпочався офіційною зустріччю Генерального секретаря ALDA Антонелли Вальморбіди з представниками місцевої влади, серед яких:

  • В’ячеслав Соколовий, Голова Вінницької обласної ради
  • Анатолій Ткач, заступник голови Вінницької обласної ради
  • Владислав Скальський, заступник міського голови Вінниці
  • Галина Якубович, заступниця міського голови Вінниці
  • Ігор Шутак, керівник секретаріату Вінницької обласної асоціації органів місцевого самоврядування
  • Ольга Олійник, в.о. делегата ЛДА Вінниця
  • Єлизавета Савчук, директорка Агенції регіонального розвитку Вінницької області

На зустрічі обговорювалися питання ролі місцевої демократії у процесах європейської інтеграції України, міжнародного співробітництва та зміцнення громадської стійкості під час воєнного стану.

Круглий стіл “Демократія в дії”

Однією з ключових подій заходу стало засідання круглого столу, яке об’єднало представників ALDA, місцевих та регіональних органів влади, а також міжнародних партнерів.

Сесія, що мала назву “Демократія в дії: Об’єднання зусиль місцевої влади, громадянського суспільства, молоді та партнерів”, дозволила обговорити:

  • Роль місцевого самоврядування у підтримці демократичних цінностей під час воєнного стану
  • Найкращі практики залучення молоді до процесу ухвалення рішень
  • Значення європейської співпраці у місцевому врядуванні
  • Досвід інших Агенцій місцевої демократії (ЛДА), включаючи ЛДА Дніпро та ЛДА Харків, представники яких також взяли участь у заході

Візит до Хмільника: Посилення місцевого та міжнародного співробітництва

У рамках заходу делегація ALDA та представники місцевої влади відвідали Хмільник—громаду у Вінницькій області, яка бере участь у програмі TIPS4UA, ініційованій Комітетом регіонів ЄС та U-LEAD з Європою.

🤝 За підтримки ALDA два представники Хмільницької громади поїдуть на стажування у муніципалітет у провінції Барселона (DIBA, член ALDA). Це ще один крок у розвитку місцевого самоврядування завдяки міжнародним партнерствам.

Що ЛДА Вінниця дає місцевим громадам?

З початком своєї діяльності ЛДА Вінниця зосередиться на:
✅ Забезпеченні доступу до європейських грантових програм та інвестицій
✅ Розширенні міжнародного партнерства та обміні досвідом
✅ Підтримці місцевого врядування та активного громадянського суспільства
✅ Стимулюванні соціально-економічного розвитку регіону

Попереду – урочисте відкриття у 2025 році!

💡 Хоча ЛДА Вінниця вже працює, офіційне відкриття відбудеться влітку 2025 року за участі всіх партнерів. Ця подія стане важливою віхою у розвитку міжнародного співробітництва у регіоні.

🌍 ALDA та її партнери продовжують працювати над зміцненням демократичної стійкості та місцевого розвитку в Україні.

📢 Слідкуйте за нашими новинами, щоб не пропустити важливі оновлення!

🇫🇷

LDA Vinnytsia commence ses activités : Renforcement de la démocratie locale en Ukraine

Un nouveau jalon dans la coopération entre l’Europe et l’Ukraine

ALDA, en collaboration avec ses partenaires et les autorités locales, a organisé une réunion marquant le début des opérations de l’Agence de la Démocratie Locale (LDA) Vinnytsia. Cette initiative représente une étape clé dans le renforcement de la gouvernance démocratique, la promotion de la coopération internationale et le soutien au développement local en Ukraine en ces temps difficiles.

Création de la LDA Vinnytsia : Partenaires clés

L’Agence de la Démocratie Locale de Vinnytsia a été créée avec le soutien de partenaires européens et ukrainiens majeurs, notamment :

LDA Vinnytsia servira de pôle clé pour la coopération internationale, en renforçant la gouvernance locale, en développant des programmes de renforcement des capacités et en favorisant l’engagement de la société civile dans la région.

Bien que LDA Vinnytsia soit déjà en activité, son inauguration officielle aura lieu à l’été 2025 avec la participation de tous ses partenaires. Cet événement marquera une avancée significative dans la consolidation de la coopération internationale dans la région.

Réunion officielle à la mairie de Vinnytsia

L’événement a débuté par une réunion officielle entre la Secrétaire Générale de l’ALDA, Antonella Valmorbida, et les autorités locales, notamment :

  • Vyacheslav Sokolovyi, Président du Conseil de l’Oblast de Vinnytsia
  • Anatoliy Tkach, Vice-Président du Conseil de l’Oblast de Vinnytsia
  • Vladyslav Skalskyi, Adjoint au Maire de Vinnytsia
  • Halyna Yakubovych, Adjointe au Maire de Vinnytsia
  • Ihor Shutak, Chef du Secrétariat de l’Association Régionale des Organes d’Autonomie Locale de Vinnytsia
  • Olha Oliinyk, Déléguée par intérim de LDA Vinnytsia
  • Elizaveta Savchuk, Directrice de l’Agence de Développement Régional de Vinnytsia

Lors de cette rencontre, les discussions ont porté sur le rôle de la démocratie locale dans le processus d’intégration européenne de l’Ukraine, la coopération internationale et la résilience communautaire en temps de guerre.

Table ronde “Démocratie en action”

L’un des moments forts de l’événement a été la table ronde, qui a réuni des représentants de l’ALDA, des autorités locales et régionales ainsi que des partenaires internationaux.

La session, intitulée “Démocratie en action : Unir les efforts des autorités locales, de la société civile, des jeunes et des partenaires”, a permis d’aborder plusieurs sujets clés :

  • Le rôle de l’autonomie locale dans la protection des valeurs démocratiques en période de loi martiale
  • Les meilleures pratiques pour l’implication des jeunes dans la prise de décision
  • L’importance de la coopération européenne dans la gouvernance locale
  • L’expérience d’autres Agences de la Démocratie Locale (LDA), notamment LDA Dnipro et LDA Kharkiv, dont les représentants étaient également présents

Visite à Khmilnyk : Renforcement de la coopération locale et internationale

Dans le cadre de l’événement, la délégation de l’ALDA et les autorités locales se sont rendues à Khmilnyk, une municipalité de la région de Vinnytsia qui participe au programme TIPS4UA, dirigé par le Comité Européen des Régions (CoR) et U-LEAD avec l’Europe.

🤝 Grâce à la facilitation de l’ALDA, deux représentants municipaux de Khmilnyk effectueront un stage dans une municipalité de la province de Barcelone (DIBA, Membre de l’ALDA). Cette initiative illustre l’engagement de l’ALDA en faveur du renforcement de la gouvernance locale à travers des partenariats internationaux.

Quels bénéfices LDA Vinnytsia apporte-t-elle aux communautés locales ?

Avec le début de ses activités, LDA Vinnytsia se concentrera sur :
✅ Faciliter l’accès aux programmes de subventions et aux investissements européens
✅ Renforcer les partenariats internationaux et l’échange de bonnes pratiques
✅ Soutenir la gouvernance locale et la participation citoyenne
✅ Créer de nouvelles opportunités de développement socio-économique

L’ALDA et ses partenaires restent engagés dans le renforcement de la résilience démocratique et du développement local en Ukraine.

DOCUMENTS

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From February 24 to 26, the ALDA Staff Meeting 2025 brought together over 70 colleagues for three days of strategic discussions, collaboration, and future planning. Hosted in the historic setting of Villa Fabris, Thiene (Italy), this annual gathering served as a key opportunity to align ALDA’s mission and initiatives with its long-term vision.

Shaping ALDA’s Direction

The meeting opened with welcome remarks from ALDA’s Secretary General, Antonella Valmorbida, and Thiene’s Municipal Councillor for European Affairs, Marina Maino. Discussions on the first day focused on ALDA’s strategic priorities for 2024-2028, emphasising key themes such as local democratic resilience and community engagement. Presentations from ALDA’s thematic hubs provided insights into ongoing projects, strengths, and areas for improvement, setting the stage for refining operational strategies. In the afternoon, sessions explored ALDA’s regional positioning, highlighting collaboration with Local Democracy Agencies (LDAs) and addressing challenges in various geographical areas, particularly in Eastern Europe.

Visit from our President & Team Building

The second day was marked by the presence of ALDA President Natasa Vuckovic, offering a valuable opportunity for our recently elected President to engage with the entire team and reaffirm the organisation’s commitment to democratic development. She actively participated in sessions covering ALDA’s geographical departments, membership engagement, and internal cooperation. A dynamic “speed dating” session encouraged cross-departmental collaboration, strengthening internal communication and teamwork. The day concluded with a social gathering at ALDA’s new office in Vicenza, where colleagues had the chance to explore the organisation’s beautiful new premises, located in the heart of the city.

Inclusive Policies, Innovation & Looking Ahead

The final day featured parallel sessions on inclusive communication and non-discrimination policies, reinforcing ALDA’s commitment to diversity and equity. A dedicated session explored ALDA’s services beyond projects, with a spotlight on the International School on Local Democracy. The day continued with an engaging design thinking workshop, where staff collectively brainstormed ALDA’s future growth and impact.

The meeting concluded with a formal evaluation session, gathering feedback for continuous improvement, followed by an institutional visit where ALDA representatives met with the Thiene municipal board, reaffirming ALDA’s strong local partnerships.

A Stronger Commitment in a Challenging World

The ALDA Staff Meeting 2025 underscored the organisation’s dedication to collaboration, strategic development, and innovation. At a time when many regions where ALDA is present are facing crises, conflicts, and political turmoil, democracy itself is increasingly at stake. In this context, ALDA’s mission is more relevant than ever. We remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting local democracy, promoting active citizenship, and standing by communities in need.

A huge thank you to everyone who contributed, participated and made this event a success!

DOCUMENTS

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On 17 and 18 February 2025, twenty-three participants from over thirteen countries convened in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, for a two-day event dedicated to youth empowerment in democratic participation across East Africa.

Organised by ALDA and the Kofi Annan Foundation, the event took place under the WYDE Civic Engagement project, a European Commission-funded initiative in partnership with the European Partnership for Democracy. The project aims to strengthen youth involvement in democratic processes at all levels—local, national, regional, and global—while fostering leadership and civic engagement among young changemakers.

The event began with an Outcome Harvesting Meeting, led by Giulia Sostero, Regional Coordinator for Africa, South West Asia, and Türkiye at ALDA. This session provided a space for ALDA sub-grantees to connect, share insights, and discuss the projects they are implementing in their respective countries. The meeting sparked meaningful exchanges and new collaborations, reinforcing the impact of youth-led initiatives. From the outset, participants’ energy and enthusiasm set a vibrant tone, demonstrating their dedication to driving change in their communities.

On 18 February, ALDA’s WYDE Civic Engagement sub-grantees engaged with the WYDE Accountability Hubs, led by the Kofi Annan Foundation. This interactive conference provided a valuable opportunity for participants to present their projects, exchange best practices, and explore collaboration opportunities, ultimately strengthening their efforts in advancing youth participation in governance.

During the conference, some of the first cluster sub-grantees, led by ALDA in collaboration with People in Need and ElBarlament, had the opportunity to present their projects and showcase their impact.

Country-Specific Initiatives: Driving Youth Engagement Across Africa

Youth participation and involvement in Democratic Processes – Tanzania

Young people in Tanzania face significant obstacles to political participation, including limited civic education, weak legal frameworks, mistrust in democracy, and resource constraints. Many feel excluded from decision-making, viewing politics as distant or inaccessible.

A new initiative, led by the subgrantee Action for Democratic Governance, is working to bridge this gap by promoting civic and voter education through community-based activities and digital tools ahead of the 2025 elections. By equipping young Tanzanians with knowledge and skills, the project aims to empower them to take an active role in shaping their country’s democratic future.

Accessible Democracy Initiative – Tanzania

Youth with hearing impairments often face exclusion from political discussions due to limited access to information in sign language and a lack of awareness about their voting rights. The Accessible Democracy Initiative seeks to change this by providing sign language-interpreted civic education, accessible electoral materials, and leadership training. Through policy advocacy, digital tools, and inclusive debates, this initiative, led by the Deaf and Sustenance Development Organisation, is ensuring that deaf youth can fully engage in democratic processes, fostering a more inclusive political landscape.

Enhancing Youth Representation in Governance – Tanzania

Despite their significant demographic presence, Tanzanian youth remain underrepresented in decision-making, with only 23% contesting local council positions in 2020. The lack of youth councils and clear regulatory framework further limits their ability to influence governance. This initiative, led by Mydia Tz, works to strengthen youth councils, promote inclusive governance, and foster collaboration between young leaders, government institutions, and civil society. By increasing awareness, representation, and engagement, the project ensures youth voices contribute to shaping national policies.

Youth Voice in Spaces Project – Kenya

In Kisumu County, youth are often excluded from policymaking, engaged only at the final stages of implementation. Limited awareness, exclusion of marginalised groups, and funding challenges further restrict their influence. This initiative, led by Youth Lead Africa, aims to bridge this gap by promoting early youth engagement in policy formulation, fostering inclusive representation, and leveraging digital advocacy to strengthen their role in governance.

Amplifying Youth Voices for Good Governance and Social Accountability – Kenya

Women, youth, and persons with disabilities frequently face systemic exclusion from decision-making. The Ugunja Youth Parliament Initiative provides a platform for advocacy and social accountability, empowering young people to influence policy, demand accountability, and improve resource allocation. The initiative works to expand democratic spaces, foster cross-border exchanges, and support youth-led innovations, creating a more inclusive governance system.

Our Space Project – Uganda

This initiative seeks to empower youth in slums across Uganda, Kenya, and Zambia by increasing their participation in public decision-making through regional accountability mechanisms. It addresses key challenges such as limited civic engagement spaces, poor coordination among youth groups, and lack of knowledge on electoral laws. The project, led by Hope 4 Life Uganda, promotes community dialogues, mentorship programs, and online campaigns to drive youth civic participation.

Increasing youth participation in Uganda’s decision-making – Uganda

The project, led by PBC, aims to increase youth participation in Uganda’s decision-making, addressing their exclusion despite making up 75% of the population. Through training, networks, and educational platforms, it seeks to empower young people and challenge negative stereotypes. Key actions include youth engagement platforms, policy involvement, localised information, support for youth-led initiatives, and democracy education in schools.

Youth for Democracy and Civic Engagement – Uganda

The challenge in Luweero and Mpigi is low youth participation in democracy, driven by lack of civic education, political intimidation, and limited awareness. Many young people abstain from voting due to fear, disinterest, or lack of knowledge, weakening their influence on policies affecting their future.

The project, led by the KYSO Organisation, seeks to empower youth through civic education, leadership training, legal support, and digital engagement, fostering greater political inclusion and stronger youth leadership.

Unleashing Youth Voices in Civic Engagement – South Sudan

In South Sudan, where youth make up 70-75% of the population, their exclusion from governance remains a pressing issue. Many face economic hardships, political manipulation, and limited civic education, preventing them from engaging in democratic processes.

The Empowering the Youth of South Sudan project, led by Voice for Change,  provides training in civic engagement, leadership, human rights, and communication. It also promotes public awareness, economic empowerment, and safe spaces for participation, ensuring that youth voices are heard as the country prepares for its first democratic election since separation.

Strengthening Youth Advocacy and Institutional Reform – Ethiopia

The Voices United for Change initiative, led by UNA-ET, tackles limited access to decision-making platforms, weak institutional capacity, and tokenistic youth representation. By enhancing the capacity of youth civil society organisations (CSOs), providing mentorship, and advocating for policy reforms, the project promotes institutional change and more engagement opportunities for young people.

Action 35: Strengthening Democracy in Southern Africa – Zimbabwe

Youth disillusionment with governance in Southern Africa has led to widespread political apathy, fueled by perceptions of corruption and unresponsiveness. The Action 35 project, led by SAYof, aims to counter this disengagement by fostering civic education, mentorship, and advocacy. It provides platforms for dialogue and leadership development, encouraging young people up to 35 years old to take an active role in governance.

As part of the Youth and Women in Democracy Initiative (WYDE) by the European Commission, the WYDE Civic Engagement Project works to enhance youth participation in democratic processes at all levels. By fostering cross-border cooperation, supporting youth-led initiatives, and bridging policy gaps, the project seeks to create a more inclusive, participatory, and representative democracy.

Through initiatives like these, young leaders are not just being included in political processes—they are shaping them.

  • Period:

    -

  • Countries involved:

    Eastern Partnership & Central Asia
    Ukraine

  • Donor:

  • SDG:

  • Lead partner:

  • All partners:

  • Contacts:


    projects@alda-europe.eu

DOCUMENTS

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February 24, 2025, marks three years since the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine, a war that has reshaped Europe’s geopolitical landscape and profoundly impacted millions of lives. As the conflict persists, ALDA reaffirms its unwavering support for Ukraine, its people and the democratic resilience of local communities.

Since the beginning of the war, ALDA has been actively engaged in Ukraine, working alongside members, partners, and civil society to promote local democracy, community resilience, and decentralisation efforts. Through its Local Democracy Agencies (LDAs), ALDA has provided essential support to local communities, fostering cooperation, humanitarian aid, and advocacy efforts.

For almost a decade, ALDA has built strong relations with Ukrainian local authorities, civil society organisations, and international partners, strengthening democratic governance through decentralised cooperation. The LDAs in Ukraine—established with the support of European municipalities—have played a crucial role in supporting local communities, particularly during these challenging times.

Since the onset of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, ALDA has reinforced its commitment to supporting local democracy, citizen engagement, and decentralization efforts. Through its Flagship Initiative in Ukraine, ALDA has mobilised resources, engaged in advocacy, and strengthened its network of LDAs to provide long-term support and reconstruction assistance to war-affected communities.

This morning, on February 24, 2025, a powerful moment of reflection and solidarity took place at Palazzo Trissino, uniting Vicentini and Ukrainians in remembrance of the third anniversary of the war in Ukraine.

Organised by CSV Vicenza (#ALDAMember) in collaboration with the Municipality of Vicenza and ALDA – European Association for Local Democracy, the event underscored the community’s unwavering commitment to peace and support for those affected by the conflict.

🇮🇹🇺🇦🕊️ The ceremony in Sala Stucchi opened with the national anthems of Italy and Ukraine, performed by Anna Maria Di Filippo and Ilaria Ethno, under the direction of Maestro Giuliano Fracasso.

Among the distinguished speakers:
🔹 Deputy Mayor Isabella Sala, representing the Municipality of Vicenza;
🔹 Vice President Maria Grazia Bettale and Director Maria Rita Dal Molin, representing CSV Vicenza;
🔹 ALDA Secretary General Antonella Valmorbida and Anastasia Buslaeva, LDAs coordinator, reaffirming the organisation’s dedication to local democracy and community resilience thanks to the Local Democracy Agencies Network and Flagship;
🔹 Deputy Mayor Svitlana Olshanska, joining remotely from Zhytomyr (#ALDAMember), a city that, in 2023, signed a Cooperation and Partnership Agreement with Mayor Giacomo Possamai to promote friendly relations and a culture of peace.

👉🏻 Deputy Mayor Isabella Sala emphasised the importance of reflection and remembrance:

“Three years have passed since that tragic February 24, 2022, when the first bombs tore through the skies of Ukraine, bringing pain, destruction, and death. Vicenza is a city of peace—not just in words, but in action. It is a principle enshrined in Article 2 of our Statute, inspired by Article 11 of the Italian Constitution, and one that guides our concrete efforts: from welcoming those fleeing the war, to supporting humanitarian projects, standing with the Ukrainian community in our city, and fostering international cooperation through our agreement with Zhytomyr. Today, Vicenza reaffirms its unwavering commitment to peace and solidarity.”

🤝🏻 Also present were representatives of numerous associations from across the region, working tirelessly to provide support, inclusion, and assistance to Ukrainian refugees who continue to live in Italy, awaiting the day when peace will finally return to their homeland.

The Role of LDAs: Instruments of Cooperation and Development

LDAs serve as decentralised cooperation platforms that foster local governance, community resilience, and democratic participation. These agencies provide direct support to displaced populations, strengthen civil society, and enhance local authorities’ capacity to address urgent needs

🔹 LDA Dnipro (Established 2014): Supporting IDP integration, democratic governance, and shelter modernisation.

🔹 LDA Mariupol (Established 2017, currently working from Kyiv): Continuing engagement with displaced citizens and the Mariupol Reborn initiative.

🔹 LDA Odesa (Established 2023): Strengthening international cooperation and supporting local governance in post-war reconstruction.

🔹 Signed the Memorandum of Understanding for LDA Vinnytsia

🔹 LDA Kharkiv (Opened in 2024)

Plans are underway to establish more LDAs, expanding the reach of democratic resilience efforts.

Key Actions Under ALDA’s Flagship Initiative

Beyond its local presence, ALDA has mobilised resources and stakeholders to provide tangible support:

🔹 Humanitarian Aid & Emergency Relief

  • Raised 134,000€ for humanitarian relief and emergency support:
    • Supported to YA Mariupol IDP centres (Provision of food and hygiene kits EUR 19.000) Fons Pitiús de Cooperació and Fons Menorqui;
    • Supported the Project for LDA Dnipro – Equipping Shelters EUR 12.000; Funding Source: Fons Pitiús de Cooperació;
    • Supported the Vinnytsia region. Funding Source: Fons menorquí de cooperació. Expenditure: Acquisition of two ultrasound machines for Bar hospitals (€9,754.00) and electricity generators (10 units at €824.60 each, totalling €8,246.00). Total Expenditure: €18,000.00
    • Supported Dnipro and Odesa. Funding Source: Fons Mallorqui. Dnipro: Renovation of an 80-square-meter communal apartment for temporary IDP social housing; social and psychological adaptation activities for IDPs in Dnipropetrovsk region. 
    • Services: psychological and legal counselling for IDPs, Conducting training for IDPs on self-development, adaptation, leadership potential, and employment opportunities, organising round tables and meetings with stakeholders on IDP integration. 
    • In Odesa, a centre for children and adolescents aged 7-14 years (100 sq. m.) was furnished with furniture, carpeting, and equipment (notebook, TV, multimedia projector, screen, microwave oven, cooker, washing vacuum cleaner, heater), consumables for children’s activities and creativity. 
    • ALDA also provided support for the Early Development Centre for children aged 3-6 years old (120 sq. m.) and a shelter for temporary accommodation of women with IDP children (100 sq. m.). Expenditure: €45,000.00. 
    • Supported LDA Dnipro – Equipment of the Shelter. Funding Source: NRW region Germany. Total Expenditure: €20,000.00 for the refurbishment of the shelter. 
  • Supported the Veteran’s Hub in Poltava (#ALDAMember), a centre for veterans’ initiatives and reintegration. Funding Source: Council of Europe. Total Expenditure: €20,000.00. 

🔹 International Advocacy & Strategic Engagement

  • Brussels Donors’ Conference (July 2022) – Highlighted local needs in Dnipro, Odesa, Vinnytsia, and Mariupol.
  • Wroclaw Conference (November 2022) – Defined 10 key recommendations for local self-governments.
  • Organised a visit in Kyiv between 14-17 of February 2023 to meet local stakeholders, assess their needs and plan future support actions together. 
  • Cooperated with Innovation in Politics on making the Act Now Conference 2023 a success, by bringing the expertise of Local Democracy Agencies as a meaningful tool to rebuild trust in Ukrainian society and support local governance; 
  • Participates in the Committee of the Regions’ ‘European Alliance of Cities and Regions for the reconstruction of Ukraine‘, and several other EU-level bodies such as the CoR’s working group on Ukraine;
  • General Assembly in Kyiv (June 2023) – Strengthened cooperation with Ukrainian local authorities.
  • International Conference in Vicenza (November 2023) – Focused on decentralized support for Ukrainian municipalities.
  • Bridges of Trust Initiative – Strengthened partnerships between European and Ukrainian municipalities. ALDA successfully completed a project in cooperation with U-LEAD with Europe as part of the Bridges of Trust initiative, aimed at strengthening local democracy and fostering partnerships between Ukrainian and European municipalities.
  • Contributed to the ELARD Congress by promoting the sharing of good practices between EU and Ukrainian Local Action Groups as a good tool for rural development and inclusive governance.
  • Congress of French Mayors and Local Authorities in Paris (Nov 25, 2024) – Organised annually by the Association des Maires de France (AMF), this event gathers local leaders, policymakers, and international stakeholders from across France and beyond. ALDA’s presence, alongside the Ukrainian delegation, highlighted the critical importance of local governance in promoting democratic resilience and sustainable development.
  • Committee of the Regions’ ‘European Alliance for the Reconstruction of Ukraine’ – ALDA actively contributes to EU-wide reconstruction efforts.

Looking Ahead: Join ALDA in Supporting Ukraine

ALDA will continue to support the development of LDAs in Ukraine and engage international partners in local governance initiatives, particularly in preparation for the Ukraine Recovery Conference 2025 in Rome, where local democracy will be a key theme in Ukraine’s reconstruction process.

As Ukraine continues to fight for its freedom, ALDA remains steadfast in its mission to support local democracy, active citizenship, and humanitarian relief. But our work is far from over—we invite our network, partners, and supporters to join this commitment in the following ways:

🔹 Support ALDA’s humanitarian and reconstruction efforts.
🔹 Become a partner in establishing new LDAs in Ukraine.
🔹 Engage in advocacy to keep Ukraine at the heart of European democratic development.

Now, more than ever, local democracy and community resilience are crucial in rebuilding Ukraine.

Thank you to ALDA Ukraine Task Force composed by Khrystyna Kvartsiana, Representative of ALDA in Ukraine; Anastasia Buslaeva, LDA coordinator; Viacheslav Yefymenko, Ukraine Project Assistant; and Dario Tolfo, of the Secretariat at ALDA in Brussels – who have tirelessely working for a stronger, democratic and peaceful Ukraine.

#StandWithUkraine 🇺🇦 #LocalDemocracy #ALDAforUkraine

DOCUMENTS

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On February 18, 2025, the Shared Horizons Project – Component 2 held a key event in Podgorica, Montenegro, aimed at advancing regional cooperation and community development through cultural heritage. The meeting brought together regional experts on cultural heritage and storytelling as well as representatives from the Podgorica Municipality and the French Embassy in Montenegro. This three-day event marked the launch of the Cultural Component of the Shared Horizons Project, an initiative coordinated by ALDA and funded by Expertise France.

Focused on engaging youth, promoting dialogue and enhancing accessibility to cultural heritage, Shared Horizons – Component 2 is designed to foster cooperation, unity and progress throughout the Western Balkans.

Bridges of Reconciliation: Promoting Unity and Cultural Exchange in the Western Balkans

Shared Horizons – Component 2 is an initiative that features historic bridges as symbols of reconciliation and regional unity across six Western Balkan countries. Focusing on Gorica Bridge (Albania), Stari Most (Bosnia and Herzegovina), Stone Bridge (Kosovo and North Macedonia), Adž-Pasha’s Bridge (Montenegro) and White Bridge (Serbia), the project aims to engage young people in activities like storytelling, photography and digital heritage preservation. They also include workshops, exhibitions, open days and a final event in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina). By fostering intercultural dialogue and strengthening community ties, Shared Horizons – Component 2 plays a crucial role in promoting unity and cultural exchange in the region.

Panel Discussion on Cultural Heritage

The launch event featured a panel discussion titled “Shared Cultural Heritage, Reconciliation and Regional Development.” It brought together prominent figures, including H.E. Ms. Anne-Marie Maskay, Ambassador of France in Montenegro; Ms. Nađa Ljiljanić, Deputy Mayor of Podgorica; Mr. Paul-Alexis Berthezene, Project Manager from Expertise France; Mr. Maurizio Camin, Vice President of ALDA; and Mr. Dejan Ubovic from the Museum of the 90s. Moderated by Ms. Antonella Valmorbida, ALDA Secretary General, the panel delved into the role of cultural heritage as a tool for fostering unity within a historically divided region. The speakers examined the challenges of heritage preservation, the impact of digital storytelling on collective memory and the importance of engaging young people in cultural initiatives. They also shared insights on how heritage sites can become platforms for dialogue and education, emphasising that history should not be seen as a source of division, but rather as a foundation for reconciliation and cooperation.

Engaging Experts in Strategies for Preserving Heritage and Empowering Youth

Following the panel, the event continued with a dedicated session presenting regional experts in cultural heritage and storytelling. It provided a platform for exchanging best practices and strategies, focused on preserving shared cultural landmarks and ensuring the engagement of young people in the activities. The experts discussed the importance of digital storytelling, youth engagement and innovative approaches to heritage conservation, while also developing plans for future activities under Component 2. With its ambitious scope and clear vision, the Shared Horizons Project is poised to leave a lasting impact on the region, proving that bridges are more than just physical structures—they are powerful symbols of connection, history and a shared future.

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The European Committee of the Regions (CoR) has entered a new era with the election of President Kata Tüttő and Vice President Juanma Moreno, marking the beginning of a critical five-year term for local and regional governance in Europe. ALDA – the European Association for Local Democracy – extends its warmest congratulations to the newly elected leadership, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening cooperation on key priorities such as EU enlargement, deliberative democracy, and citizen participation.

A Strong Partnership with the European Committee of the Regions

ALDA has long maintained a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and an Action Plan with CoR, reflecting a shared vision for strengthening local democracy and supporting regions across Europe and beyond. This collaboration focuses on:

  • EU Enlargement and Neighborhood Countries: Supporting democratic reforms in the Western Balkans and Eastern Partnership countries (Ukraine, Moldova, Armenia, Georgia).
  • Deliberative Democracy & Citizen Participation: Ensuring that citizens have a direct role in decision-making processes and fostering inclusive governance.
  • Local Democracy Agencies (LDAs): Strengthening grassroots governance by supporting the network of Local Democracy Agencies, which act as key facilitators of participatory democracy in their regions.

During the elections and first meetings of the newly formed leadership, ALDA’s Secretary General, Antonella Valmorbida, engaged with key stakeholders, ensuring that ALDA’s priorities align with the broader European agenda on local democracy and governance.

Both the President and Vice President have assured ALDA of their commitment to strong leadership, ensuring local and regional authorities and their communities have a voice at the European level. We are excited to collaborate with them, continuing our work through the CIVEX Commission.

Antonella Valmorbida.

The elections also saw the reappointment of Thibaut Guignard as a full member of the European Committee of the Regions (2025-2029). As a dedicated advocate for rural development and European cooperation, Guignard’s continued presence within CoR ensures a strong voice for small municipalities and rural territories in shaping EU policies.

His first success in the new mandate came with the unanimous adoption of his initiative opinion on rural development during CoR’s first plenary session. This opinion highlights the success of the LEADER approach over the past 30 years in promoting local development.

“I will continue advocating for rural territories, municipalities, and small cities in EU policies, as well as addressing neighborhood challenges, particularly in our cooperation with Ukraine,”.

Thibaut Guignard, reaffirming his dedication to ensuring that local and regional voices remain at the heart of European decision-making.

Looking Ahead: Strengthening Local Democracy in Europe

With a renewed leadership and a shared commitment to democratic resilience, the European Committee of the Regions and ALDA are poised to deepen their collaboration, reinforcing the role of local governance in fostering democracy, resilience, and citizen engagement.

As ALDA continues its mission of empowering local communities, the organisation looks forward to actively working with the new CoR leadership and its CIVEX Commission to ensure that the voices of local authorities and citizens are heard, valued, and integrated into European policies.

Stay tuned for further updates as ALDA continues to engage in high-level European discussions and initiatives to strengthen participatory democracy and regional development across Europe and beyond!

® Picture: European Committee of the Regions

DOCUMENTS

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On February 13, 2025, the Governing Board of ALDA convened online to discuss strategic developments, new memberships, and upcoming initiatives. The session, attended by board members and ALDA staff, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to local democracy, civic engagement, and international cooperation.

Key Decisions and Approvals

The Board approved several important documents, including:
✔ Minutes of the previous Governing Board meeting (December 11, 2024)
✔ The first list of co-chairs for ALDA’s Thematic Hubs, with final confirmation to be made in the next Governing Board meeting in Belgrade
✔ New memberships from Zhytomyr Municipality, Cherkasy Province, Chernihiv Municipality (Ukraine), PULSE Groupe SOS (Italy) and Vicenza Calcio Femminile (Italy)
✔ Approval of Local Democracy Agency (LDA) labels

Support for Ukrainian Partners

ALDA reaffirmed its support for Ukrainian members, with a growing number of LDAs in the country. Inna Volkova, ALDA Board Member, emphasised the need for continuous support and integration of new Ukrainian members.

A Collective Effort for Local Democracy

The Governing Board meeting reaffirmed ALDA’s unwavering commitment to democratic governance, civic engagement and global partnerships. With new initiatives on the horizon, ALDA remains dedicated to fostering inclusive, sustainable and resilient local democracies worldwide.

DOCUMENTS

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We are excited to announce that the ALDA+ website is now available in English, making our services even more accessible to an international audience. Following the successful launch of the Italian version in December, www.aldaplus.com now provides a platform for global users to explore tailored consultancy, training, and technical support for organisations, local authorities, businesses, and institutions navigating European funding and the Project Cycle Management (PCM).

What you will find on the website

The website offers insights into the history and mission of ALDA+, the benefit corporation of ALDA, and introduces the dedicated professionals behind our services. Our multilingual team brings extensive expertise in European funding, project management, and capacity-building, ensuring high-quality support for organisations seeking to develop successful projects and access funding opportunities.

Explore our services!

Project Cycle Management (PCM): ALDA+ supports organisations at every stage of project development, from idea generation to implementation, to reporting by offering:

  • Development of project proposals, budgeting, and preparation of technical-administrative documentation;
  • Assistance in building partnerships and submitting applications to donors;
  • Support in project management, monitoring and evaluation, and reporting and dissemination of results.

Technical Assistance: ALDA+ provides specialised consulting services to help transform ideas into impactful projects. We assist organisations with:

  • Identifying funding opportunities;
  • Applying participatory methodologies for effective engagement;
  • Establishing strong networks and partnerships;

Training & Capacity Building – ALDA+ Academy: Through ALDA+ Academy, we offer high-quality training courses designed to strengthen expertise in:

  • Project Cycle Management;
  • European Union funding programmes;
  • Financial management and auditing of funded projects;
  • European Commission portals;
  • Communication and Dissemination.

Our courses, available in standard or customised formats, are led by experienced trainers and tailored to the needs of: local authorities, civil society organisations, companies, professionals, universities and research institutions and businesses looking to expand their EU project knowledge.

With our extensive experience, our training is designed to be practical and application-driven, equipping participants with real-world skills that can be immediately implemented in their projects and professional activities.

Get to know our projects!

You will find detailed insights into the projects ALDA+ is actively implementing, including the Villa Fabris redevelopment initiative (Villa Fabris Bene Comune), a six-year collaboration between three partners aimed at restoring and revitalising this historic site in the heart of Thiene.

Another notable project is the Alta Via della Grande Guerra (AVGG)—a 200 km hiking trail and open-air museumthat winds through the Vicentine Pre-Alps, preserving and narrating the legacy of World War I. ALDA+ plays a key role in this project, overseeing communication, strategic planning, promotion, and event organisation to enhance its visibility and impact.

The availability of the ALDA+ website in English reinforces our commitment to supporting organisations across Europe and beyond, providing greater access to project management, funding opportunities, and technical expertise.

Visit the English version of our website today: www.aldaplus.it

Stay informed about our training opportunities, consulting services, and project management insights by following ALDA+!

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The CLIMentines Project, running from November 2023 to October 2025, is co-funded by the European Union and coordinated by KMOP (Greece), in partnership with leading organisations in climate and youth work, including ALDA (France), ActionAid Italia, Nuorten Akatemia (Finland), Groupe SOS Solidarités (France), PROM (Poland), and ÖJAB (Austria).

Through a series of co-creation workshops, international training sessions, and youth-led initiatives, the project seeks to establish a strong transnational network of over 100 active youth organisations, ensuring that young people have the tools and confidence to participate in climate policy formulation.

The CLIMentines Project has officially released the Youth Worker’s Guide to Climate Action. This comprehensive resource equips youth workers, organisations, and educators with practical tools and methodologies to mobilise young people in participatory climate advocacy and policy making.

The guide, developed by a consortium of seven organisations from six European countries, is a key deliverable of the CLIMentines – Empowered Youth for Climate Action project. It serves as a hands-on manual to foster youth engagement, enhance climate literacy, and provide structured approaches to participatory democracy in environmental decision-making.

A Toolkit for Active Citizenship and Climate Policy Influence

With climate change posing an urgent challenge to modern democracies, the CLIMentines Youth Worker’s Guide aims to bridge the gap between youth activism and policy making. The guide includes:

  • Methods and tools for public participation in climate action, such as civic monitoring, deliberative assemblies, and participatory budgeting.
  • Step-by-step frameworks for youth organisations to design, implement, and sustain climate initiatives.
  • Case studies and best practices from across Europe showcasing successful youth-led climate advocacy.
  • Practical sheets and toolkits to facilitate climate-focused democratic engagement at local, national, and European levels.
You can access the guide here!

In addition to the launch of the guide, we invite youth organisations, activists, and climate advocates to join the CLIMentines Transnational Network. This growing community of over 100 organisations provides a platform for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and action to drive meaningful climate policy change.
By joining the CLIMentines Network, members can take part in exclusive training sessions, webinars, and events, connect with like-minded organisations across Europe, and actively contribute to shaping climate policy at all levels.

For further information, please contact:
📧 info@climentines.eu or visit CLIMentines Website

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AT A GLANCE

YOU-DARE (YOUth Debunking the gendered Arguments of far-Right Extremism), funded by the European Commission, is an interdisciplinary project that examines and challenges the gender constructions of far-right youth groups and leaders – and how these ideas are becoming mainstream – across eight countries: Denmark, Spain, the United Kingdom, France, Hungary, Italy, Romania and Sweden.

Adopting an intersectional approach, the project aims to reveal the contradictions within far-right gender narratives, focusing on under-researched far-right youth and studying both formal and online leadership. It explores how these gendered ideas shape identity, politicisation and democratic processes. Methodologically, YOU-DARE uses qualitative research, maps online gender controversies and fosters a transnational network. To drive real-world change, a key outcome is the creation of a Policy Lab, designed to generate and implement solutions at the local level to counter far-right gender narratives among young people – ultimately protecting democratic values. The project is led by the European Science Foundation and is planned to last for three years.

OBJECTIVES

The specific objectives that the project aims to achieve are the following ones:

  1. Challenging oversimplified far-right gender ideas by showing the contradictions between anti-gender messages and pro-equality views in anti-immigration campaigns;
  2. Focusing on youth as a key yet under-studied demographic for identity formation and politicisation;
  3. Examining far-right youth leadership at local levels and among online influencers;
  4. Charting the impact of these ideas on democracy through policy debates and normalisation processes.

#youdare #youth #counteringextremism #policies

RELATED NEWS

DOCUMENTS

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A Call for Proposal for Organisations to develop their own projects on EU key values. A Call for ALDA members to fund local actions up to 10.000 Euro!

ALDA, in the context of the Operating Grant of the CERV programme, will support initiatives aimed at strengthening civic participation in the EU, and which align with ALDA Thematic Hubs.

Don’t miss this opportunity to participate: 16 projects will be funded!

🔹Who can be a beneficiary?

The Call is open to legal entities, private non-profit organisations (private bodies), established in an EU Member State, which must be members of ALDA before the signature of the grant contract. 

🔹What is the main objective of the Call for Proposal?

This call for proposals seeks to support initiatives that are aimed at fostering European Citizenship by improving conditions for civic and democratic participation in Europe, at promoting environmentally sustainable communities – in line with the Green Deal – and at supporting an inclusive and people-oriented economic local development all over Europe. Specifically, the thematic focus of the actions should be on strengthening civic participation in the EU, and align with ALDA Thematic Hubs.

Fund your local actions up to 10.000 Euro!

🔹Which is the thematic focus of the actions?

The re-granted actions should focus on:

Aligning with ALDA Thematic Hubs: projects must align with the priorities set by ALDA’s thematic hubs. Proposals should specify the thematic hub under which their action falls and how it contributes to the overarching goals within that theme.

Strengthening Civic Participation in the EU: projects should strengthen citizens’ engagement and participation in democratic life while empowering individuals and organizations to understand, advocate for, and actively contribute to the respect of EU rights and values at the local level.

ALDA is structured in seven different Thematic Hubs, with their own key priorities:

Environment & Climate HUB

Digital and Innovation HUB

Gender Inclusion & Human Rights HUB

Migration HUB

Youth Empowerment & Education HUB

Territorial and Local Development HUB

Learn more here!

🔹How much is the grant?

The contribution from the sub granting scheme will cover 100% of the total eligible costs of the total budget for the activity. 

The grants awarded will be: 10.000 Eur each, 16 projects in total.

🔹Where can the project be implemented? 

Activities must take place in the EU.

🔹How to apply?

Read the full Call for Proposals to have all the information about the call and how to apply. The Call will be open until April 18th 2025 at 23:59 CET. Here is the link to send your application.

On March 10th at 12:00 CET ALDA will host a Q&A Session to present the call and to answer some questions related to it. Please, make sure to attend the webinar by registering here.


The applicants will receive support by the ALDA team during the proposal writing process. Any questions can be sent to this email address: regranting@alda-europe.eu

🔹Useful material and links:

[Call published on February 18th 2025]

Find the slides of the Q&A Session here. The recording can be found below.

DOCUMENTS

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On February 4, 2025, the city of Strasbourg, France, became the backdrop for the official launch of the YOU-DARE project, an ambitious initiative funded by the European Commission. This collaborative effort brings together a pan-European consortium of leading research institutions and organisations, to confront the pressing challenges posed by far-right extremism through a gendered lens.

The YOU-DARE project (YOUth Debunking the gendered Arguments of far-Right Extremism) sets out to investigate how far-right youth groups construct and mobilise gender identities within their ideologies, and how these narratives threaten democratic values and social cohesion.

Susi Meret of Aalborg University, a key partner in the initiative said,

“This project aims to expose the gendered strategies of far-right movements and provide solutions to protect democracy and equality.“

Through comparative research spanning eight European countries, YOU-DARE seeks to uncover the nuanced and complex roles that gender plays in the appeal and propagation of extremist ideologies. By analysing these dynamics, the project hopes to contribute not only to academic knowledge but also to the development of practical tools and policies that can counteract divisive and anti-democratic narratives.

Empowering Youth Against Rising Extremism

The launch event in Strasbourg gathered scholars, policy-makers, and civil society representatives, fostering a transnational dialogue on safeguarding democratic principles in an era marked by rising extremism. The YOU-DARE project will run for three years, producing arange of outputs, including policy recommendations, educational materials and community-based interventions designed to empower young people to resist extremist rhetoric.

As Europe faces the challenges of political polarisation and democratic backsliding, initiatives like YOU-DARE offer a beacon of hope, emphasising that understanding and addressing the gendered dimensions of far-right extremism is crucial for building more inclusive and resilient societies. The consortium invites stakeholders across the continent to join in this critical endeavor, reinforcing the shared commitment to democracy, gender equality and human rights.