Since January 2026, the European Local Democracy Action (ELDA) takes over from the European Local Democracy Week (ELDW) - which was launched in 2007 - with a new name, logo and visual identity. The initiative is a Europe-wide platform for cities and regions that aim to strengthen participative democracy at the local level.
ELDA supports municipalities and regions in bringing citizens closer to local decision-making. It encourages dialogue, participation and cooperation in everyday local life. It provides a simple and flexible framework for local and regional authorities to report on activities that allow people to express their views, share ideas and take part in shaping their community.
Under the overarching theme “Encouraging citizens participation in local democracy” and with respect for the values of the Council of Europe, ELDA builds on the experience of the European Local Democracy Week but goes further, promoting participatory democracy actions throughout the year.
The initiative is coordinated by the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe, which works to strengthen democracy, human rights and good governance at the local level across Europe.
Information on how to participate can be found here.
Why should my municipality or region participate?
Local democracy is strongest when citizens feel listened to, involved and respected. ELDA helps municipalities achieve this in a practical and visible way.
By participating in ELDA, your municipality can:
strengthen trust between citizens and local authorities,
improve the quality of local decisions and policies,
engage people who do not usually participate,
show commitment to democratic values and transparency,
connect with a Europe-wide network of municipalities.
ELDA focuses on action, with room for small or large initiatives.
Participating in ELDA is easy and adaptable to your local context.
1. Organise activities involving citizens
Plan activities that encourage citizens to take part in local public life, such as:
public debates or meetings,
open or participatory council sessions,
workshops, consultations or forums,
youth, school or community projects.
Participatory budgeting
You can organise one or several actions, at any time during the year.
2. Register your municipality and actions
Register on the ELDA platform to join the initiative and make your actions visible at European level.
3. Share experiences and learn from others
Exchange ideas and good practices with other municipalities across Europe during the annual ELDA meeting organised by the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe.
4. Apply for the ELDA Award
Participating municipalities may receive a formal European recognition through a Partner Status Certificate upon application. As a new feature of ELDA, an Award will also be granted every year to one outstanding, sustainable and innovative activity or project aimed at encouraging citizens’ participation in local democracy.
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