World Summit of Mayors “Alliance of European cities against violent extremism” Rotterdam (Netherlands)

9 November 2016

Statement by Gudrun Mosler-Törnström, President of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities

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Dear Mayor,

Dear President,

Dear participants and friends,

The fact that so many politicians and experts have responded to our invitation shows once again that the topic of radicalization is one that concerns all of us in our daily political work.

Given its unique role as a pan-European, political assembly that represents more than 200 00 local and regional authorities, the Congress has always contributed to combating the root causes of radicalization in European cities. And if I speak about Europe, I mean the local authorities from greater Europe, from all 47 Council of Europe member states.

There are multiple reasons that can contribute to individuals becoming radicalized: Lack of integration into society, political disengagement or exposure to extremist individuals, groups or organizations. The local, cultural and social context affects the radicalization process which is reflected in the public authorities’ response. Among these, prevention and de-radicalization rather than repression are actions that coincide with the competences of local and regional authorities.

At the Congress we have always been convinced that radicalization can be best contained at a level closest to the vulnerable individuals in the most affected communities. Therefore, local politicians and administrations play a vital role in identifying such tendencies in their community and shaping policies that do make an effective contribution to prevention.

I would like to emphasize one of our main contentions: Local authorities should not be left alone in this endeavor. The coordination between various government levels is an important dimension in protecting citizens against these threats and creates synergies, so does cooperation with civil society, researchers and practitioners.

From the numerous discussions with our Congress members and the extensive work of our colleagues on the issue of radicalization, I have noted that there is an urgent need to bring local decision makers together and provide a space for inter-city exchange with regard to local preventive initiatives against radicalization. Exchanging experiences and best practices among colleagues and seeing first-hand how to respond to this phenomenon, is often the most efficient way to push for change on the ground.

This is the background of the “Alliance of European cities against violent extremism” we launched last year in Aarhus and I am happy to welcome you today to the second edition of this unique event.

Today’s sessions will not only allow you to exchange best practices and discuss the recent developments regarding initiatives to tackle the causes of radicalization.  In addition, you will have the chance to see various projects implemented in the city of Rotterdam and learn more about capacity building and training programmes.

The end of this conference will be marked by the endorsement of the Declaration of Rotterdam. You have copy of the draft text in front of you and you are welcome to comment on it.

I encourage you to actively participate in all three sessions and make use of the diversity reflected in this group of mayors and experts coming from 29 countries.

I wish us all a successful conference!