The ELDW provides the opportunity for local authorities to organise a wide range of participatory activities that aim to boost citizens’ participation and involvement in local democracy, taking into consideration local priorities.
“The ELDW is a way to reach out to all European citizens, to involve them at the closest level” stresses Jean-Claude Frécon, Congress President; “by taking part in the events held locally within the framework of the ELDW, citizens share, promote and celebrate our common local democracy values and principles. These include, in particular, those defined in the European Charter of Local Self-Government and its Additional Protocol on the right to participate in the affairs of a local authority”.
“Each year the ELDW is targeted towards a specific topical theme. The theme for 2016 is: “Living together in culturally diverse societies: respect, dialogue, interaction”. Indeed local authorities are in a key position to address the challenges of inclusive modern societies.
The President of the Congress invites all municipalities throughout Europe to take part in the ELDW 2016 and beyond. Each year the partners of the ELDW form a European Network which contributes to highlighting local authorities’ responsibilities and contributions for identifying and sharing good practices and innovative solutions.”
This year, you will be able to further share your ELDW experience on our social media platforms - Facebookand Twitter - using the hashtag #eldw2016.