The President of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities, Anders Knape took part in the 130th Session of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, held online on 4 November 2020. He delivered the following speech:
“The health crisis caused by COVID-19 has a major sanitary, social, economic impact on societies but also on the role and functioning of institutions of democratic governance, including at the local and regional level.
As we know, elected politicians in cities and regions and the administrations under their authority, are key players in the management of crisis.
More than 100.000 mayors are closest to the citizens and provide basic and emergency services; together with their councils, they mitigate the social, economic and sanitary consequences of the crisis. They are at the frontline of the daily fight against the pandemic and in maintaining the social fabric and cohesion. The rapid response they provide is contributing to keep trust in public institutions in these difficult times.
The people trust that we, the politicians they elected at the different levels, will deliver do their best to protect them and take the necessary decisions, as difficult as they may be, and will be held accountable. We also know that decisions are being challenged on ground of proportionality.
In the Congress, we are convinced that only constructive multilateral co-operation and multi-level governance can bring about the quality and effectiveness of the decisions needed. Successful responses need flexibility in coping with emergencies as they are better suited to provide solutions tailored to specific needs.
In order to protect citizens and rebuild our European model of society of solidarity, we need to join forces at all levels.
The governments of all our 47 member States should take advantage of the capacity and competence of the mayors and councillors, their networks and experience to better manage major crisis of all nature and help providing sustainable and democratic solutions in full respect for Democracy, the Rule of Law and Human Rights.
Let us draw the lessons from the past to find the right responses to the current crisis and work together for safer and more resilient societies.”
Congress contribution to Athens ministerial meeting
Statement by the President of the Congress to the 130th Session of the Committee of Ministers
See also :
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News: Foreign Affairs Ministers call for unity and more solidarity between nations
- Announcement news: Congress President participates in the annual session of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe
- Greek Chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers
- Political dialogue of the Congress with governments
