Young local leaders in Armenia determined to make positive changes in their communities

Yerevan (Armenia), 26 May 2016 - Twenty six young men and women, municipal employees, NGO representatives and students, coming from 8 regions of Armenia and Yerevan, gathered together to exchange best practices in the field of local democracy, on 24-26 May in Yerevan. Emin Yeritsyan, Head of the delegation of Armenia to the Congress, called on the young local leaders to “shape the future of their community with their active contribution”. The importance of further getting involved in public affairs and the community life, especially with the view to engage in local elections, was also highlighted and Congress member Nino Zurabishvili (Georgia, SOC) inspired the participants with her practical experience of taking part in electoral campaigns. “I have decided to get involved in my community because I didn’t want my future children to live in the same situation than we are now; and here I am reinforced in my motivation to work towards change” stressed one of the participants.

This second seminar of "Young local leaders:  the future of local democracy" offered a platform of exchange on the principles of local democratic governance and raised awareness of the European Charter of Local Self-Government and its practical application in Armenia.  With the support of local and international trainers and experts, the young leaders got familiar with different mechanisms of citizen participation, ethical standards at the local level, and effective public communication.

This seminar was organised by the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe within the project "Support to consolidating local democracy in Armenia", funded by the government of Denmark.

Armenia joined the Council of Europe in 2001, ratified the European Charter of Local Self-Government in 2002 with entry into force on 1 May 2002 and its Additional Protocol on the right to participate in the affairs of a local authority in 2013. Countries which have ratified the Charter are bound by its provisions. The Charter imposes compliance with a minimum number of rights, which are the European bedrock of local self-government. The Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe ensures respect for these principles.