Some 130 representatives of local, regional and central authorities, academia and civil society organisations will gather in Strasbourg, on 26 November 2025, in the framework of the conference “Resilient Europe through deliberative democracy: Cities and regions in action!”. The event is organised by the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe as a contribution towards the New Democratic Pact for Europe

Citizens’ deliberations have gained prominence in European cities and regions and are becoming an increasingly widespread governance practice. Citizens’ assemblies and their recommendations serve to better address today’s multiple crises and build citizens’ trust in democratic institutions. Looking forward, what are the future developments in public deliberation, the potential benefits for local and regional authorities and the challenges ahead? How can the Council of Europe strengthen deliberative democracy for greater democratic resilience in Europe?

From citizens’ assemblies held during the war in Ukraine to deliberations on mental health in Spain and urban planning in Lithuania, mayors and local leaders will share their experiences on engaging residents in local policy making. The conference will conclude with a collective discussion and exchange of ideas on how the Council of Europe can boost innovation and defend democratic values.

The conference will be livestreamed. The agenda and additional information on the conference is available here.

Contact: Centre of Expertise for Multilevel Governance [email protected]