Local Councils’ Association hosts ALDA Festival and General Assembly in Malta
International event strengthens local democracy ties with focus on citizen participation and resilience
The Local Councils’ Association recently hosted the ALDA – European Association for Local Democracy – Festival and General Assembly 2026 in Malta, bringing together nearly 200 participants from across Europe, the Mediterranean, Taiwan, Mexico and neighbouring regions under the theme ‘Local Democracy that Delivers’.
The international event served as an important platform for dialogue and collaboration between local and regional authorities, civil society organisations, youth representatives, academics and international stakeholders working to strengthen democracy, citizen participation and community resilience.
A major highlight of the festival was the launch of the Centre of Expertise, an important initiative aimed at strengthening local governance, capacity-building, innovation and cooperation between local authorities and civil society organisations. The Centre of Expertise is intended to serve as a platform for the exchange of knowledge, best practices, research and training opportunities related to democratic governance, citizen participation, sustainability and community development.
Over the course of the festival and general assembly, participants engaged in discussions, workshops, networking sessions and thematic exchanges focusing on some of the most pressing challenges currently facing cities and regions.
Key themes included AI and digital transformation in governance, climate change adaptation, migration, youth participation, social inclusion, democratic resilience and the future role of local authorities in shaping stronger and more sustainable communities.
Hosting the event in Malta further strengthened the country’s position as an active participant within European and Mediterranean networks promoting local democracy and international cooperation.
The initiative also provided Maltese local councils and regional entities with an opportunity to showcase local best practices and community initiatives while establishing new partnerships and future cooperation opportunities.
During the event, participants highlighted the importance of empowering local and regional authorities to remain close to citizens and responsive to the realities faced by communities. Discussions emphasised that many global challenges are first experienced at local level and that municipalities and regions play a crucial role in promoting democratic participation, innovation, inclusion and also sustainable development.
The festival created valuable opportunities for youth engagement and intercultural dialogue, with participants from diverse backgrounds exchanging experiences and perspectives on how communities can work together to strengthen democratic values and social cohesion.
The president of the Local Councils’ Association, Mario Fava, said hosting the ALDA Festival and General Assembly in Malta represented an important milestone for local governance in the country. He emphasised that collaboration between local authorities, civil society and international partners remains essential in addressing modern challenges while ensuring that citizens remain at the centre of policymaking and community development.
The event also reinforced Malta’s commitment towards strengthening local democracy and active citizenship at both national and international level.
Participants acknowledged the importance of continuing to invest in cooperation, innovation and citizen engagement to build more resilient and inclusive communities for future generations.
The Local Councils’ Association expressed its gratitude to all partners, speakers, delegates, volunteers and organisations who contributed towards the successful organisation of the event and reaffirmed its commitment to continue working closely with European and international partners to promote stronger local governance and active citizen participation.