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AT A GLANCE

The CLIMentines project wants to foster a new generation of young people in Europe that have the knowledge, the tools to actively engage and impact on climate action policies in their countries and at European level. The projects forms a partnership of seven organisations in six European countries covering all geographical areas.

OBJECTIVES

  • Connect youth organisations and youth and strengthen knowledge sharing and mutual learning through building a transnational network including participating organisations, youth organisations (grassroot, networks and youth led initiatives).
  • Strengthen the capacities of youth organisations and youth workers and leaders providing them with knowledge and concrete tools to apply in their work towards active citizenship, participatory and deliberative democracy processes and climate action.
  • Support the active engagement of young people especially those with fewer opportunities or those that have been inactive.
  • Empower young people by strengthening their competences and rendering them more confident to participate and influence policy making at local, national and European level, taking in charge their future.
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AT A GLANCE

The earthquakes in 2023 Türkiye caused a mass damage through 11 provinces with loss of 50.000+ people and the financial effect reached 351 Billion TL. Hatay has been the province with the most dramatic destruction. Hatay Metropolitan Municipality was even a new metropolitan governance body before the earthquake and has critical lack of services afterwards. “Support for the Establishment of Temporary Shelter Areas in the Earthquake-Stricken Region of Hatay,” emerged in response to the prevailing circumstances. The funding for this project is provided by the Fons Mallorquí de Solidaritat i Cooperació through the Emergency and Humanitarian Aid Project Funding. Under the umbrella of emergency and humanitarian support, the Fons Mallorqui expressed a commitment to aid in the earthquake response in Türkiye, allocating funds to ALDA for the provision of beds in the Hatay area. Thanks to the financial assistance from Fons Mallorqui, ALDA is supplying 264 beds to households residing in temporary shelters in Hatay. This initiative answers a critical and pressing need, as a significant portion of the affected population lacked suitable or adequately furnished beds, making their living conditions extremely difficult. The project’s objectives are centered around addressing the needs of the region’s inhabitants who have lost their homes, workplaces, schools, health facilities, and more.

OBJECTIVES

Healthy conditions for the built 256 prefabricated units and their infrastructure with better beds, contributing to direct access to decent condition of living by families of the shelters.

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AT A GLANCE

Supporting an enabling environment for civil society in helping the country achieve common European values and standards.

OBJECTIVES

The overall objective is to strengthen the capacities of civil society organisations to support and promote the alignment of budgetary priorities with the integration agenda at national and local level, as well as to increase the involvement of the three platforms of civil society organisations to act cohesively and provide the necessary support in the implementation of the conditionalities related to Moldova’s EU candidate status and the Association Agenda.

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RELATED NEWS

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In the wake of the devastating earthquakes that struck Türkiye in 2023, Hatay Province emerged as one of the most severely affected regions, grappling with extensive damage and a desperate need for secure housing. The aftermath of the earthquakes left millions displaced, living in tents, and facing harsh winter conditions. Recognising the urgency of the situation, ALDA, in collaboration with the Fons Mallorquí de Solidaritat i Cooperació, initiated the project “Support for the Establishment of Temporary Shelter Areas in the Earthquake-Stricken Region of Hatay.”

The objective of the project was clear: to provide immediate relief by delivering 264 beds to households residing in temporary shelters in Hatay.

This endeavour aimed to address a critical and pressing need, as a significant portion of the affected population lacked suitable or adequately furnished beds, exacerbating their already challenging living conditions.

The earthquakes had not only claimed lives but also disrupted entire communities, leading to the loss of homes, workplaces, schools, and health facilities. ALDA, with the support of Fons Mallorquí, stepped in to bridge this gap and bring comfort to the lives of those affected. The financial assistance from Fons Mallorquí played a crucial role in making this initiative possible, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in times of crisis.

The project kicked off in November 2023, with a dedicated focus on delivering beds to residents, including families, children, the elderly, single women, and people with disabilities residing in the shelter area of Hatay. As a result of effective coordination and swift action, the project nears completion and almost all beds have been delivered to families. A total of 264 households will benefit from the project

The success of the project can be attributed to the strong collaborative ties between Fons Mallorquí and ALDA, as well as the partnerships formed with local entities in Türkiye. Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, a key partner in Hatay’s post-earthquake reconstruction, along with Istanbul Planning Agency and construction company Kiptaş, played instrumental roles in facilitating the project’s implementation. This collaborative network exemplifies the power of collective action in responding to humanitarian crises.

The “Support for the Establishment of Temporary Shelter Areas in Hatay” project not only delivered beds but also symbolises hope, solidarity, and the resilience of communities in the face of adversity. It stands as a testament to the impact that can be achieved when organisations, both local and international, come together with a shared goal of alleviating the suffering of those affected by natural disasters.

Find out more about support for the establishment of temporary shelter Areas in the earthquake-stricken Region of Hatay here.

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AT A GLANCE

POWERYOUTH is a project focused on empowering and involving young people in energy communities to actively contribute to the energy transition. The project recognises the significance of youth leadership in adopting new lifestyles and acquiring skills for supporting sustainable energy practices.

With 2022 being designated as the European Year of Youth, POWERYOUTH aims to address the lack of tools for systematically reinforcing youth participation in energy communities and providing training for energy sustainability.

OBJECTIVES

  • Effectively engage young people and other key stakeholders in collective actions;
  • Develop a toolkit that facilitates the empowerment of youth in energy communities;
  • Set up and support collective actions in youth energy communities;
  • Create and execute a comprehensive and easily replicable capacity building programme to train young people in green energy skills and promote their participation in energy communities;
  • Mobilise youth organisations and local authorities to replicate the POWERYOUTH approach across EU;
  • Formulate policy recommendations and develop exploitation plans for accelerating youth energy communities’ adoption in new areas;
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AT A GLANCE

SINCRONY aims to support youth, especially those belonging to minoritarian and marginalised groups, in reclaiming the necessary power to inform the European political institutions. The ultimate goal is to offer policymakers, public servants, researchers, teachers, youth workers, facilitators of deliberative processes, and youth CSOs concrete instruments, guidelines, and solutions to renovate deliberative and participatory practices implemented in public governance and schools. By improving the democratic quality, inclusiveness, effectiveness, and legitimacy of deliberative and participatory processes, the project will contribute to greater social justice for all youth.

OBJECTIVES

  • enhance the inclusivity of deliberative practices in two local municipalities (in Italy and Finland);
  • design, test, and deliver an innovative, co-constructed intersectional approach called the Intersectional Participatory Action Research-and-Deliberation, piloted in seven local municipalities and four schools (in Italy, Portugal, the UK, and Denmark);
  • design participatory formats;
  • create tools;
  • define ethical guidelines.

HASHTAGS

#Sincrony #Youth #Politics #Empowering #Education #Goals #EUfundedHorizonEU #EU

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Nearly 450 million citizens will be called upon to elect the Members of the European Parliament in the upcoming European elections which will be held in the 27 EU Member States from 6 to 9 June 2024. The 2024 elections will represent a solemn moment for European citizens who will be able to shape the future of the EU and strengthen democracy by having the opportunity to express their opinions on the topics they care about.

These elections take place every five years and are the largest transnational elections in the world, representing the starting point for the reorganisation of Europe’s governing bodies. 

Elected directly by the voters, the Members of the European Parliament represent the interests of citizens with regard to the EU legislative process and they have the duty to ensure that the other EU institutions operate democratically. Moreover, the EU Parliament shares with the Council the power to adopt and amend legislative proposals and to decide the EU budget, as well as to cooperate with national parliaments to get their inputs and to improve democracy and human rights not only in Europe, but also throughout the world.

As a key actor for the protection and promotion of democracy and citizen engagement at the local level, ALDA – European Association for Local Democracy – is firmly committed to reach out and involve more people in voting by reducing the turnout gap among the EU Member States and empowering their role through tangible initiatives such as the TALE project – Take the Lead in the EU Elections.

ALDA fosters the bedrock of European principles and values, including democracy and active citizens, and encourages individuals to exercise their right to vote

The right to vote is a pivotal freedom of any democracy and an essential part of the development of civil society at all levels. Therefore, the more people vote, the stronger democracy becomes. 

Voting will decide which Members of the EU Parliament will represent you in preparing new laws that affect multiple areas of everyday life such as security, migration, environment, social policies, consumer rights, economy, rule of law and many more.

The elections will also be a moment of reflection on the initiatives and improvements made by the European Institutions to foster the participation of citizens and young people in the European decision-making process (see, for example, the Conference on the Future of Europe).

Following its vocation, ALDA promotes the bedrock of European principles and values, including democracy and active citizens, and encourages individuals to exercise their right to vote in the upcoming elections. 

In order to achieve a resilient and accountable democracy, access to reliable information before voting is a tipping point. Diversifying your sources, accessing national and institutional fact-checking, following international news and independent observatories such as the EDMO will help you tackle disinformation and misinformation online down, ensuring EU values safeguard. Furthermore, the EU Parliament has introduced a dedicated website for upcoming elections to keep citizens informed with reliable content, featuring daily updates.

Voting, civic engagement and participation in the democratic process are cornerstones for rewriting the future of Europe and ALDA will carry forward its diligence responsibility to protect and promote EU values and good governance. 

Stay tuned for our updates on the upcoming EU elections 2024! 

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On 11th January, the final event of the Stand Up project, Stand Together Against Hate: A Multi-Agency Initiative took place in Brussels (Belgium) at Residence Palace. Esteemed speakers joined the event to share their valuable insights on the state of hate crimes and hate speech in Europe. 

The keynote speech delivered by MEP Magdalena Adamowicz moved the heart of the audience highlighting how hate crimes and hate speech start from simple words used to promote hatred and dehumanise people. She is a member of the European Parliament and her late husband, the Polish politician Paweł Adamowicz, was a victim of hate crime. Find out more about  Paweł Adamowicz life and Award 2023 here. 

After the presentation of the project by Giovanni Gasparini, Prosecutor Office of Venice, the morning session started with the roundtable Navigating the Intersection of Hate Speech and Crimes. The speakers were Menno Ettema, Programme Manager and Co-Secretary to expert Committee on Combating Hate Speech, Nataša Vučković, member of the Center for Democracy Foundation (CDF) and ALDA Vice President; Sergio Bianchi, expert of the Group on Combating Anti-Muslim hatred and discrimination in the EU and Simonetta Moro from the Municipality of Bologna.

The presentation of the EU Policy Paper results “EU-Level Policy Recommendations on Supporting Multi-Agency Cooperation in Countering Hate Crime, Including Through the Use of Technologies” was led by Eva Tzavala, the Coordinator of the Scientific Unit, and Dr. Anastasia Chalkia, the Human Rights Officer, both representing GNCHR.

Camilla Vedovato, project manager at ALDA, presented the Victim Support Handbook that provides an overview of the STAND-UP project’s vocabulary as well as an analysis of the technological tool OSIN employed. The handbook: 

  • gives background information on the rights of victims of hate crimes within the EU;
  • describes hate crimes and their types, their effects, and offers a victim-centred approach to support; 
  • it outlines the roles of prosecutors and CSOs, the legal system and best practices in Italy, Greece, and Spain;
  • ends with a toolkit for analysing a specific hate speech case.

The six European project partners shared the afternoon session’s panels on interagency cooperation to tackle hate crimes and hate speech, as well as local pilot success stories and results developed in Veneto, Athens, Andalusia, and Trentino-Alto Adige.

The Stand Up Project lasted two years and is a collaborative initiative dedicated to combating hate crimes and promoting inclusivity within the European Union

Through research, training programs, and the development of valuable resources, the project sought to empower communities, law enforcement, and organisations to actively address and prevent hate crimes. The project’s focus areas included awareness-raising, victim support, and the establishment of effective strategies to counter hate crime.

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Welcome to the redesigned ALDA website – your gateway to the vibrant world of local democracy, civic engagement, and global cooperation! Our fresh digital space is crafted to enhance accessibility and provide a comprehensive overview of ALDA’s initiatives.

Navigate through ALDA’s mission and vision, where we articulate our dedication to local democracy, active citizenship, and collaboration between local authorities and civil society. Meet the individuals who form the backbone of our organisation, driving positive change globally.

Stay informed with the latest updates on our activities. Our new news section keeps you in the loop, offering insights into the dynamic landscape of local and global democracy. Also, don’t forget to explore the diverse projects we are spearheading at the local, regional, and global levels. These initiatives are geared towards promoting democracy and civic activism, contributing to positive transformations in communities worldwide.

Our commitment to supporting local democracy transcends borders, and these resources serve as valuable tools for change

Discover upcoming events, webinars, and initiatives that aim to engage society in building resilient local communities. Participate in conversations that matter and contribute to the discourse on democracy.

NEW Incredible Sections!

Unveil our Thematic Hubs – dedicated working groups where ALDA organises events, conferences, workshops, and debates. By joining these hubs, you’ll deepen your understanding of various topics, actively participate in activities, and share your expertise. 

#ALDAmember – you will have the possibility to find out more about the diverse members of ALDA and explore how you can become one! As an #ALDAmember, you can easily connect with an international network of local stakeholders, unlocking benefits, project development opportunities, and funding avenues. Our network continues to grow, creating a robust community.

Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter and receive the latest news, project updates, and event invitations directly to your inbox. Connect with us on social media platforms – Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram – to engage in discussions on local democracy and many more interesting topics! 

This new website stands as a proof of ALDA’s commitment to promoting democracy and participation at the local level. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your continuous support and invite you to explore the site. Let’s work together to strengthen local communities worldwide!

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ALDA – European Association for Local Democracy – will be at the forefront of the new initiative “Get the Trolls Out” which aims to combat discrimination and intolerance based on religious grounds in Europe. 

The project, led by the Media Diverse Institute (MDI) with the collaboration of seven partners spread throughout Europe, serves as a gateway to emphasise the multiple media platforms (on and offline) available to counter intolerance and xenophobia affecting minority groups such as Jewish, Muslim or Christian communities. 

In particular, this phase of the programme is dedicated to supervise and debunk  antisemitism and anti-religious narratives in the European media space by mobilising civil society and local actors through the development of inclusive and compelling content which has the capacity to shape public opinion, especially among young people. 

Each partner will engage in their own countries to reach target audiences and consolidate the framework for monitoring and dissemination of innovative media outputs, generating a fruitful dialogue to stem the rise of intolerance and discrimination in Europe.  

ALDA will contribute through diligent surveillance to the perpetration of antisemitic and anti-religious hate, involving local entities and youth individuals to promote a positive change

The spread of hate speech, discrimination, stereotypes and intolerance negatively affects democracy and the development of an open and inclusive civil society, undermining the rights and safety of people practising a religion.  

ALDA will contribute through diligent surveillance to the perpetration of antisemitic and anti-religious hate, involving local entities and youth individuals to promote a positive change.

We promote the freedom of religion in the media by denouncing any attempts to create prejudiced narratives and suppress the voice of the community members, improving the establishment of a healthier and more respectful ecosystem online.  

Stay tuned for further updates on the “Get The Trolls Out” project by following our activities!

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

ADL Zavidovići Association wins the Adamowicz Award 2023! 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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ALDA is thrilled to announce that its Secretary General, Antonella Valmorbida, has been accepted as a member of the Europe Direct network. The collaboration between the Representation in Italy of the European Commission and Mrs. Valmorbida represents a significant step forward in enhancing ALDA’s reach and impact in promoting local democracy.

Understanding Europe Direct and Its Role

Europe Direct is a network of independent communicators and experts on European Union (EU) matters, with a focus on participatory democracy. The primary goal of this network is to support the Representation of the European Commission by intensifying citizen engagement at the local level, sparking public discourse on the EU. Members of the network, including Mrs. Valmorbida, will act as communicators, speakers, moderators, animators, or facilitators at various events, leveraging their expertise to convey the activities and added value of the EU to a broader audience.

Roles and Responsibilities of Europe Direct Members

As part of Europe Direct, members operate independently and provide factual, objective, and unbiased information about the EU to encourage citizens to better understand EU policies and actively participate in the democratic life of the EU. They may engage in various activities, including presentations, open discussions, panel debates, conferences, radio and television broadcasts, seminars, and newspaper articles.

Crucially, members commit to staying updated on recent developments in EU policies and aligning their activities with the priorities of the Commission in terms of communication. They are also active on social media and other chosen media platforms, sharing messages and participating in discussions on EU-related topics.

Advantages for ALDA in Joining Europe Direct

ALDA, through Antonella Valmorbida’s acceptance into the Europe Direct network, gains valuable access to resources and expertise directly related to EU matters. This affiliation will strengthen ALDA’s ability to promote local democracy, participatory processes, and citizen engagement.

Both actors commit to fostering a better understanding of the EU among citizens. ALDA, as a member, has the opportunity to participate in a variety of events and activities organised centrally by the Commission or the Representation. The collaboration aims to synergise with the activities of Europe Direct Centers and European Documentation Centers in member states.

Through this partnership, ALDA envisions establishing direct communication channels with citizens, aligning perfectly with the organisation’s commitment to promoting active citizenship and democratic values.

Antonella Valmorbida’s acceptance into the Europe Direct network marks a pivotal moment for ALDA, opening doors to a broader audience and enriching the organisation’s efforts to foster local democracy. ALDA looks forward to leveraging this collaboration to create meaningful dialogues and engage citizens in the EU’s democratic processes.

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Nel corso del 2023, il team di ALDA+ ha compiuto significativi passi avanti nel perfezionamento del proprio sistema di gestione, sotto la guida di un consulente esterno esperto in materia, al fine di renderlo conforme alla normativa ISO 9001.

Durante i mesi dedicati all’analisi e alla standardizzazione dei processi, sono stati ottimizzati i flussi di gestione relativi alle fasi di progettazione, gestione e rendicontazione dei progetti nazionali ed europei e questo grazie al coinvolgimento dell’intero staff

Il processo di miglioramento ha portato anche alla creazione e all’implementazione del software gestionale interno denominato “PROMPT Plus”, grazie anche al contributo del tecnico informatico che segue da anni le evoluzioni tecnologiche di ALDA, ALDA + e ALDA Italia: uno strumento prezioso per organizzare le idee intercettate e trasformarle in progetti concreti.

Ma l’impegno di ALDA+ non si è limitato a questo. Un focus particolare è stato dedicato alla certificazione della parte di attività che rappresenta da tempo il cuore del business di ALDA+: la formazione. Per conformarsi alle normative, è stato fatto uno sforzo considerevole per evidenziare tutti i momenti formativi offerti ai soci e ai clienti attraverso la creazione del nuovo logo “ALDA+ Academy“. Questo logo simboleggia l’unione delle molteplici esperienze maturate nel campo formativo e nella progettazione da numerose figure dello staff.

Con orgoglio e soddisfazione, ALDA + condivide con tutti il grande risultato raggiunto: dal 21 dicembre 2023, il sistema di gestione è stato certificato conforme alla norma ISO 9001:2005!

La certificazione di qualità rappresenta una scelta strategica che incide sull’organizzazione interna dell’azienda, sulla sua reputazione e può tradursi in un vantaggio competitivo che favorisce la crescita e il successo sul mercato. Questo rappresenta il primo passo verso un percorso di miglioramento continuo che anche ALDA ha da poco intrapreso.

Riconoscendo l’importanza di una comunicazione efficace verso l’esterno, ALDA+ sta lavorando alla realizzazione di un sito internet dedicato, che fungerà da canale di divulgazione per le molteplici attività svolte dallo staff, sottolineando ulteriormente il risultato ottenuto.

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ALDA è entusiasta di annunciare l’apertura del bando di Servizio Civile 2024 dedicato ai giovani, con l’opportunità unica di partecipare a un’esperienza di volontariato internazionale. Se hai tra i 18 ei 28 anni, questa è la tua occasione per contribuire attivamente alla promozione della democrazia locale e acquisire preziose competenze interculturali.

Il Servizio Civile con ALDA offre ai giovani la possibilità di svolgere un ruolo significativo nelle sedi estere dell’associazione, contribuendo alla realizzazione di progetti innovativi che promuovono la democrazia, la partecipazione civica e lo sviluppo sostenibile. Un’occasione straordinaria per ampliare le prospettive, accrescere le proprie competenze e creare connessioni significative con persone provenienti da tutto il mondo.

Perché candidarsi con ALDA?

  1. Esperienza unica: il Servizio Civile con ALDA offre un’esperienza unica di volontariato internazionale, consentendovi di immergervi in nuove culture, lingue e nuovi contesti sociali.
  2. Sviluppo personale e professionale: project management e development, comunicazione interculturale – queste solo alcune delle competenze chiave che ALDA da l’opportunità di sviluppare, fondamentali per il proprio sviluppo personale e professionale.
  3. Contributo attivo alla democrazia locale: attraverso progetti innovativi e impegnativi, si contribuisce attivamente alla promozione della democrazia locale, svolgendo un ruolo fondamentale nel supportare comunità e istituzioni.
  4. Networking globale: ALDA offre la possibilità di creare reti con altri giovani provenienti da diverse parti del mondo, costruendo connessioni transnazionali durature.
  5. Supporto costante: ALDA fornirà un supporto costante durante tutto il vostro percorso di volontariato, garantendo tutte le risorse necessarie per massimizzare l’esperienza.

Vuoi saperne di più? Partecipa ad uno dei 3 infoday dedicati agli aspiranti volontari!

Lunedì 15 gennaio ore 17.30 – SpazioComune – Piazza A. Stradivari, 7 – Cremona

Giovedì 25 gennaio ore 18.00 – Circolo Arci Arcipelago – Via Speciano, 4 – Cremona 

Giovedì 1 febbraio ore 17.30 – Centro Fumetto Andrea Pazienza – Via Palestro, 17 – Cremona

La scadenza per presentare la candidatura è fissata per giovedì 15 febbraio 2024, alle ore 14:00

Per ulteriori informazioni qui è possibile consultare le schede dei progetti complete e sintetiche ed il vademecum con tutte le indicazioni per fare domanda.

Hai domande o difficoltà? L’ufficio dedicato del Comune di Cremona è sempre disponibile ad organizzare un momento di orientamento, previo appuntamento: 0372407786 – 0372407792 – 0372407051 – serviziocivile@comune.cremona.it

Non lasciarti sfuggire questa straordinaria opportunità di essere parte del cambiamento positivo nel mondo: scegli di fare Servizio Civile con ALDA e vivi un’esperienza unica di crescita personale e di impatto sociale significativi nell’ambito della democrazia locale in Europa e nel suo vicinato.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Discover more here. 

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AT A GLANCE

In a multidisciplinary approach the Innovation Alliance Circular Design (CiD) addresses the gap in skills and knowledge, in the sectors of architecture, urban design, product/service design, offering a radically new model on how to link design to circularity and urban transformation. CiD rethinks design for a circular economy, orients multidisciplinary collaboration towards carbon-neutral cities, and focuses on bio-based innovation for the built environment — using bio-materials from other sectors, creating regional circular systems in renewable materials, and installing buildings as bio-machines. Green, digital, resilience and entrepreneurial skills in Circular Design are developed through an Innovation Ecosystem that brings together relevant actors from HEIs and VET with the broader socio-economic environment (RTO, municipalities, civil society and businesses). The Alliance develops innovation in Circular Design education by fostering entrepreneurship in academia, with an accelerator and continuing education programmes to upskill in emerging labour market profiles and enabling the creation of green start-ups.

Objectives:

  • Fostering new, innovative and multidisciplinary approaches to teaching and learning in Circular Design.
  • Fostering corporate social responsibility in Circular Design.
  • Stimulating through Circular Design a sense of initiative and entrepreneurial attitudes.
  • Improving the quality and relevance of skills in Circular Design.
  • Facilitating the flow and co-creation of knowledge for Circular Design.
  • Building and supporting effective and efficient HE and VET systems through Circular Design.

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

Flagship initiative in Ukraine

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

General Assembly in Brussels, Belgium

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

ALDA’s stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict

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

Projects implementation

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

Looking ahead: ALDA’s vision for 2024

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

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Winter Greeting and Happy New Year from ALDA President, Mr. Oriano Otočan, ALDA Secretary General, Mrs. Antonella Valmorbida and the whole ALDA team!

As every December, it is time to stop for a second and look back at what has been done during the last 12 months. A year full of initiatives, meetings and events that give great energy for the upcoming 2024.

“Dear Esteemed Members, Cherished Partners, and Friends of ALDA,

As we gather together on the cusp of the Winter Holidays, my heart swells with warmth and gratitude. It is my privilege to extend heartfelt wishes to each and every one of you on behalf of the entire ALDA team, its Governing Board, its Advisory Board and our network of LDAs.” – stated our President, Mr. Otočan at the beginning of its letter.

“In reflecting on the passing year, I am moved to acknowledge the difficult challenges that have touched our lives. The ongoing wars have cast a long shadow, deeply affecting the implementation of our activities across Europe and beyond. Many of you have confronted the stark realities of these conflicts, facing obstacles that extend from economic to social and cultural dimensions. It is during these tumultuous times that our commitment to supporting local communities becomes more critical than ever.

In 2024, our overarching goal remains unwavering — to foster connections within our network of local communities, civil society and local authorities from Europe and beyond. We firmly believe that only through collaborative efforts, idea-sharing, and joint initiatives can we navigate the complex challenges of our time. We stand ready to play our part in alleviating the plight of those affected and approach the coming year with renewed determination. Our aspiration is to transition to a peaceful and democratic future, where communities stand together, strong and resilient.

Citizens participation and local communities working toward a globally sustainable change, striving for a better future for all humanity and our planet, remain the core of ALDA, our essence and the foundational values that unites all of us. As we face what lies ahead, let’s gather strength from our shared commitment and unity. Looking at 2024, we see a time full of new hope and purpose ahead.

​​The upcoming year holds the promise of fresh activities, such as the upcoming EU24 elections, our electoral General Assembly, realisation of dozens of already approved projects, adoption of a new ALDA Strategy that will allow us further development and new challenges based on the results achieved in the previous 30 years. Together, we will continue to champion the values that bind us. As we embark on this journey, let optimism guide our steps, and may our collective efforts pave the way for a world where democracy thrives and the voices of local communities resonate more powerfully than ever.

Wishing you all happy Winter Holidays, and a great New Year!” – concluded Mr. Otočan.

The entire ALDA team wishes you all Happy Winter Holidays, and a great New Year!

Similarly, Mrs. Antonella Valmorbida, ALDA Secretary General, wished to the network and friends of the Association warm winter greetings and happy New Year!

Subtitles are available in ENG and FR.