The Congress of Local and Regional Authorities has issued its latest biannual publication Congress Highlights covering key activities from May to December 2025.

The publication presents the Congress’s contribution to the New Democratic Pact for Europe – the Council of Europe’s initiative aimed at democratic renewal. Key initiatives include events on deliberative democracy and consultations with European associations of local and regional authorities.

Support for Ukraine’s recovery and decentralisation remains a priority, alongside ongoing assistance to member states to strengthen multilevel governance across Europe. The publication also details intensified efforts to protect human rights and the rule of law, including the adoption of a new strategy and dialogue with local authorities on implementing European Court of Human Rights judgments.

A strong focus on youth participation is reflected in the publication, with record applications to the youth delegates’ programme and the adoption of a new version of the European Charter on the Participation of Young People in Public Life at Local and Regional Level.