Conference of European Ministers responsible for Local and Regional Government - Valencia, Spain, 15-16 October 2007

Ceremony to launch the European Local Democracy Week

Valencia, Spain, 15 October 2007

Speech by Halvdan Skard, President of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities Council of Europe

Minister,

Excellencies,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Today, we are taking another step in advancing local self-government across our continent, by launching an annual European Local Democracy Week. The date of the launch, 15 October, was not chosen by accident. It symbolically coincides with the anniversary of the European Charter of Local Self-Government, a cornerstone treaty which underpins the framework for territorial democracy on our continent, and which was opened for signature 22 years ago, on 15 October 1985.

It is symbolic because it shows the continuity of our action, and our will to bring democratic governance to the doorstep of our communities.

As I said in my opening statement at the conference, an informed citizenry is key to a well-functioning democracy and to good governance at the local and regional level. By raising awareness of our citizens, by explaining to them the workings of local governance, and receiving their feedback on our action, we will, I am sure, inspire their more active involvement in the process of governing themselves.

I am delighted that municipalities from fifteen countries have already responded positively to this joint initiative of the Council of Europe Congress of Local and Regional Authorities and the European Committee on Local and Regional Democracy. In more countries, national associations of local authorities have begun promoting this Week for the year 2008. Of course, we count on the active support of both local elected representatives and central authorities all across Europe to make this undertaking a success.

Each municipality is free to choose its form of interaction with local populations – open days at city halls, targeted websites, town meetings or festivities. Local authorities and their associations can draw their inspiration from the “start-up” kit which has been developed and disseminated by the Council of Europe and which includes first project descriptions, good arguments for participation and ideas for first local projects during the Week. They may also be inspired by the first website for the European Local Democracy Week, which was published by our Organisation in July this year.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

One week in a year is of course a symbolic gesture. However, it will encapsulate our day-to-day action to strengthen grassroots democracy for the benefit of our 800 million fellow Europeans – and to make our continent an even better place for all those living in it.

Let us give the European Local Democracy Week our full support.

Thank you.