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ALDA – European Association for Local Democracy

ALDA, Euroepan Association for Local Democracy
ALDA – the European Association for Local Democracy – is a key actor in the field of local governance, active in promoting good governance and citizen participation at the local level across Europe, its Neighbourhood, and beyond. Founded in 1999 at the initiative of the Council of Europe, ALDA coordinates a network of over 300 members including local authorities and civil society organisations. Through its core mission of supporting resilient and inclusive local democracy, ALDA implements hundreds of projects annually, fostering community engagement, sustainable development, youth participation, human rights, and decentralised cooperation. With its unique network of Local Democracy Agencies and strategic Thematic and Regional hubs, ALDA works across more than 20 countries in Europe, the Neighbourbood, Africa and Asia. The Association also contributes to key EU programmes and policy dialogues, playing a bridging role between institutions and grassroots actors.
  • Strasbourg Headquarters, Council of Europe 1, Avenue de l’Europe, F-67075 Strasbourg, France.
Topics

Citizens' participation, Decentralisation, Environment and climate, Human rights, Local democracy, Local development, Migration, Ukraine, Youth participation and inclusion

Countries of work

Albania, Armenia, Belarus, Belgium, Benin, Bosnia and Herzegovina, France, Greece, Italy, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, North Macedonia, Senegal, Spain, Türkiye, Uganda

The latest from ALDA

Local Democratic Resilience and Global Gateway Initiative

This paper consolidates insights from 30 years of work by ALDA in supporting local democracy and citizen engagement. It draws on exchanges with partners and members since 2023 within the WYDE Youth and Women Empowerment programme, six member-led case studies, and the collective work of Team Europe Democracy, particularly the working group on local governance.

Wealth of Expertise – Toolkit for Local Authorities to successfully engage citizens

This document presents over 25 years of ALDA’s work in promoting citizen participation and local democracy. It highlights ALDA’s expertise, methodology, and tools developed through hundreds of projects since its founding in 1999 by the Council of Europe. The publication is structured around six thematic hubs and showcases best practices and successful initiatives led by ALDA and its network of members and partners.

ALDA Activity Report 2024

The ALDA Activity Report 2024 offers a comprehensive overview of the Association’s work throughout the year, highlighting its commitment to local democracy, citizen participation, and resilient communities across Europe and beyond. It showcases key achievements, partnerships, and project results in diverse thematic areas—from decentralised cooperation and youth engagement to human rights and environmental action. With contributions from the whole ALDA Community, the report reflects both local impact and global vision.

Open positions

Working for democracy provides an opportunity to contribute towards shaping fair, just, and equitable societies around the world. Our network of organisations, located at the heart of Europe, is dedicated to making a positive impact on individuals’ and communities’ freedoms and human rights through our programmes, research, and advocacy activities.