Building the European Capital of Democracy
Launch event under the auspices of the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Ms Marija Pejčinović Burić, and the Vice-President of the European Commission, Ms Dubravka Šuica. Building the European Capital of Democracy initiative! initiative! Democracyof Capital European Welcome to the work onwhatneedstobedone, together. and thecorporateworld–willmeet there and artists, foundations,administrations, academia We –individuals,politicians,experts,activists, innovate andstrengthen democracy. stage andfloorforallofuswhoengageto Capital ofDemocracy. Itwillserveasthe European citywillbedesignatedtheEuropean Starting inautumn2021,everyyearadifferent And itstartsnow.
Building the European Capital of Democracy 3 126 122 Practices Best 78 52 Voices 12 7 3 Contents Prefaces Imprint Who We Are 76 74 72 70 68 66 64 63 62 60 58 56 54 About theEuropean CapitalofDemocracy Welcome totheEuropean CapitalofDemocracyinitiative! Timeline The Group ofExperts Selection Criteria How CitiesBecomeEuropean CapitalsofDemocracy Tracks What European CapitalsofDemocracyGet What European CapitalsofDemocracyDo Why Cities? How We CanAllBenefit Impact What We Achieve of DemocracyProgramme How CitiesCanDesigntheirEuropean Capital In aNutshell
Building the European Capital of Democracy 5 catalyst formore as highlighting demo- benefits thatcome “It willprovide the and thenreap the and providing the double benefitof to holdthetitle– cratic initiatives cities compete with holdingit.” new feature intheEuropean constellation. acknowledge andcelebratethatfact.Itisawelcome vation andcivicaction–evermore sointoday’s our democracies.Theyactascruciblesofideas,inno- Cities haveaveryspecialrole inthedevelopmentof Secretary GeneraloftheCouncilEurope MARIJA PEJČINOVIĆBURIĆ
provide welcomeopportunitiesto European CapitalofDemocracywill inclusive andforward-looking. The ensure oursocietiesremain open, steadfast intheirdeterminationto people andorganisationsthatare a varietyofpressures, there are time whendemocraciesare facing This initiativealsoshowsthatata benefits thatcomewithholdingit. hold thetitle–andthenreap the lyst formore ascitiescompeteto initiatives andproviding thecata- benefit ofhighlightingdemocratic fact. Itwillprovide thedouble and welcomerecognition ofthat Capital ofDemocracyisatimely fast-changing world.TheEuropean
Building the European Capital of Democracy 7 holds andlaborato- uncertainty, seeing ries ofdemocracy crucial role ofour taking shapeand cities asstrong- “At thistimeof and promising.” reaffirming the extraordinary is reassuring difficulty and this initiative and forthefuture ofEurope asawhole. initiative beaninspirationfor thefuture ofdemocracy, the levelclosesttoourcitizens –ourcities?Maythis together. Andisthere anybetterwaytodoitbuton change thatisultimatelyaffectingtheverywaywelive ble fordemocracyanddemography–tobethepatron Vice-President oftheEuropean Commissionresponsi- I amparticularlyhonoured –inmycapacityof for DemocracyandDemography Vice-President oftheEuropean Commission DUBRAVKA ŠUICA
sition, aswellthedemographic through thegreen anddigitaltran- successfully andconstructivelygo direct engagementthatwecan year –becauseitisonlythrough logues allovertheEUlast conducting multiplecitizens’dia- also thereason whyIhavebeen levels ofdecision-making.Thisis boosting theirparticipationatall engagement andtocontribute to investallmyenergyincitizens’ My objectivefrom dayonewas racy isreassuring andpromising. holds andlaboratoriesofdemoc- crucial role ofourcitiesasstrong- taking shapeandreaffirming the uncertainty, seeingthisinitiative time ofextraordinary difficultyand pean CapitalofDemocracy!Atthis of thisexcitingeventfortheEuro-
“To besuccessful, have theobjective their citytogether.” cohesion; itmust citizens toshape participation and a cityrequires of enablingits MICHAEL LUDWIG wish theinitiative everysuccess. I offermyfull supporttoachievingthis objective and I ing andhumanrights.AsMayor oftheCityVienna based onourcommonvalues ofsocialequity, wellbe- ing upforastrong Europe withresilient democracies The European CapitalofDemocracyinitiativeisstand - change, participationandcodetermination. the frameworkforthisandfacilitatesdemocraticex- debated andnegotiated.Ademocraticcityprovides together, thewaywelivetogetherwillbecontinuously ble participation.Inaplacewhere peopleliveclosely cities becausetheystriveforsocialbalanceandena- its democraticnature. Democraticcitiesare successful The developmentofacityistherefore inseparablefrom racy initiativewillbelaunchedinourcity. is Vienna honour formethattheEuropean CapitalofDemoc- itisagreatAs theMayorofVienna, pleasure andan Austria Mayor ofVienna,
sector partnersandcivilsociety. cal leaders,administration,social and collaborationbetweenpoliti- city successfulisreal cooperation The principlefactorinmakinga their citytogether. tive ofenablingitscitizenstoshape cohesion; itmusthavetheobjec- a cityrequires participationand innovation. Buttobesuccessful, life, publicinfrastructure andsocial in theworldtermsofquality among themostsuccessfulcities
Building the European Capital of Democracy 9 democratic, fairand building, sometimes “We mustnot lose the bestpossible any more timein open societies.” conditions for guaranteeing re-building, 200 philanthropic projects allovertheworldsince1991 and President oftheKahaneFoundationwhichhasfundedover Entrepreneur, Co-FounderofTheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute, PATRICIA KAHANE time hascome. to bringtheEuropean CapitalofDemocracytolife.Its institutions andinvolvedcitizenshavealready joinedin see howmanyleadingpoliticians,politicalthinkers, concept. Democraticprocesses are changinginto- mocracy, Iwasimmediatelyconvincedbytheideaand When Ifirstheard abouttheEuropean CapitalofDe-
open societies.Itisimpressive to guaranteeing democratic,fairand the bestpossibleconditionsfor building, sometimesre-building, must notloseanymore timein tive isbasedonthefactthatwe My decisiontosupportthisinitia- and asmanycitizenspossible. the corporateworld,organisations of oursocietiesbycivilsociety, participation inthedevelopment and encouragementofactive of bestpracticeacross borders, and actionsare needed:exchange day’s worldandinnovativethinking
civil societywillbe forms ofparticipa- tion willbetested, politicians willing empowered, new and courageous “Citizens willbe to engagewith rewarded.” deserve. real world.AndthatiswhatthecitizensofEurope another conference, itwillalsohaveanimpactonthe laments aboutdemocraciesinretreat asuttered in Actions speaklouderthanwords. Iamfedupwith Managing Partner, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute HELFRIED CARL
will notonlybemore funthanjust respective CapitalofDemocracy ing achievementsannuallyinthe from alloverEurope andshowcas- democracy, sharingbestpractice ing aconstructivediscourseon society willberewarded. Build- iticians willingtoengagewithcivil and tested,courageouspol- forms ofparticipationwillbetried Citizens willbeempowered, new is theoppositeofemptyphrases. European CapitalofDemocracy ferences around theworld.The panel discussionsandatcon-
Building the European Capital of Democracy 11 Voices We would like to thank everyone who has met our European Capital of Democracy initiative with enthusiasm and joined us in our efforts to make it reality. They are politicians, political scientists, scholars, represen- tatives of civil society and the business world, artists, engaged youths, and last not least our team. They all share fundamental democratic values and are committed to defending them. Their voices count in shaping this project. approaching itsidealform.” to develop,democracywillalsokeepgrowing, thus and socialcultivationofthehumanbeingcontinues prospective waytheethosofsociety. Aslongasmoral Political ethos.Andtheethosofpoliticsbecomesina of us,ourbestqualities.Thisiscalledpoliticalculture. people are inthemajority. Butthat wedemonstrate,all Therefore, whatweare seeking isnotonlythatgood our ownfreedom butalsoforthefreedom ofothers. moderation appear, whenthere is respect notonlyfor fruit ofdemocracyonlyblossomswhenmeasure and order tobecomereality andtothrive.Becausethe often anidealthatrequires effortfrom everyonein ancient Greece andparticularlyinAthens,isvery “Democracy, withitsclearreference toitsoriginin Mayor ofAthens,Greece KOSTAS BAKOYANNIS Union.” the levelofnationstatesandEuropean present andourfuture –attheworkplace,incities, “The democraticexperienceisaboutcontrolling our Secretary General,FoundationforEuropean Progressive Studies LÁSZLÓ ANDOR the spiritofcommunity.” from mere co-existencetocollaboration,altruismand times inparticular, wehavetofosteraparadigmshift into acommonvisionofsociety. Inthesechallenging mindsets, gathered intocollectiveinterests andturned democracy dependsonourpersonaldecisionsand need activeparticipationandcommitment.Because “If wewanttochangetheworldforbetter, we The InnovationinPoliticsInstitute Project ManagerandCovid-19EventLead, ELISABETH BARTOVICS only whenactivelyparticipatingindemocracy.” tion, andculture. Ameaningfullifecanbeexperienced Democracy cannotexistwithoutscienceandeduca- challenges; itgivesitselfashakefrom timetotoo. who donothaveamajority. Democracyconstantly “Democracy isaboutlisteningtothevoiceofthose The InnovationinPoliticsInstitute Washington, DC,LithuaniaRepresentative, Non-Resident Fellow, CenterforEuropean PolicyAnalysis(CEPA), Lecturer, UniversityCommunicationsFaculty, Vilnius DALIA BANKAUSKAITÈ
Building the European Capital of Democracy Voices | 15 results, benefitingEuropean citizens.” achievements, itproves thatevenpoliticscanyieldreal for fightingpopulism.Byhighlightingthecities’ real politicians andinstitutionsthussetsaprecedent approaches inpolitics.Itincreases publictrustin exceptional project thatreinforces constructive “The European CapitalofDemocracyinitiativeisan Slovakia Representative, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute Managing Director andPartner, SEESAMECommunicationExperts, MICHAELA BENEDIGOVÁ version ofmyselfandtheworldIwishtolivein.” make thefuture different, byconstantlycreating anew with methehistoryofatroubled pastandIstriveto gave meavoiceandnowfinallyIcanbeheard. Icarry sionate aboutlife.Ibelieveindemocracybecauseit “I amaEuropean citizenfrom Portugal,andIampas- Youth Participant,ACTNOWMayors’Conference 2020 ANA RAFAELA BATISTA
“Democracy startsathome.” of theParliamentaryAssemblyCouncilEurope Luxembourg politicianandformerPresident ANNE BRASSEUR new democracyinwaysthateveryonecanrelate to.” help ustoappreciate, understand,celebrateandre- everywhere. TheEuropean CapitalofDemocracywill seen itcollapseinsomecountries.It’s beingattacked “Democracy cannotbetakenforgranted.We have The InnovationinPoliticsInstitute Founder, Dreamocracy, BeneluxRepresentative, STEPHEN BOUCHER is aplatformforgettingthere.” needed. TheEuropean CapitalofDemocracyinitiative fective, constantciviceducationandcommitmentare into consideration,too.Butfordemocracytobeef- communities. Itpushespoliticianstotakeotherpeople Ithelpscountriesremainparticipation ingovernance. “Democracy shouldmeanfree societyandcitizens’ Scientific Advisor, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute Co-Founder andPresident, THINKTANK, MAŁGORZATA BONIKOWSKA
Building the European Capital of Democracy Voices | 17 innovative, democraticcities inthefuture.” they live.Strengthening thiswillbeakeyobjectiveof ants toactivelyparticipateinshapingtheplacewhere develops formatsthatenableallofthecity’s inhabit- isagoodmodelinthisregard,Vienna becauseit process inwhichcitiesneedtocontinuallydevelop. innovations. Democracyisnotapointofarrivalbut participation ofallresidents, bymeansofdemocratic are therefore particularly calledupontofacilitatethe the democraticlegitimacyofpoliticaldecisions.Cities chised population,whichleadstoproblems regarding between theresidential populationandtheenfran- But todaytheyfacethechallengeofagrowing gap “Cities havealwaysbeencentres ofdemocracy. Youth Austria andPersonell,Vienna, Executive CityCouncillorforEducation,Integration, JÜRGEN CZERNOHORSZKY the dutytolisten.Thisiswhatdemocracyabout.” Everybody hastherighttobeheard. Everybodyhas by amultitudeofindividualsrepresenting oursocieties. ideas, opinions,experiences,andperspectives,brought “I seedemocracyasthespaceforencounteringmany Youth Participant,ACTNOWMayors’Conference 2020 EDOARDO CAROLI
power. Everywhere.” to compromise, compromised politicians comeinto be unitedandremember thatwhenpoliticsbegins lenge offightingforit.Inthis struggle,Europe must Europe,in Eastern weare onceagainfacingthechal - “Democracy isnotagift.30 yearsafterthechanges Bulgaria Representative, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute Founder, AllChannels Communication, ALEXANDER DOURCHEV tional peersatuniversity–andnotwar.” - “Democracy pavesthewaytogettingknowinterna Project Manager, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute MATHIS DIPPON part. Moveforward. We are democracy.” seems tousevenmore importantthesedays.Take stantly. Soourmusicisformofsupportforwhat borders, whicheveryoneofushastodefendcon- to diversity, tolerance,dialogue,opennessandopen we shouldbeproud oflivingin!Ourmusicisdedicated whatapreciousworld, wecanlearn formofsociety especially truein2020.Wherever welookaround the “Democracy cannotbetakenforgranted…andthisis DELADAP
Building the European Capital of Democracy Voices | 19 culture, socialinclusionandinnovation.” practice andeffortsinthefieldsofpolicy, education, The keytoachievingthisgoalishighlightbest participation andpoliciesthatimprove qualityoflife. “In ourEurope, democracyisnotaconcept,but Mayor ofSofia,Bulgaria YORDANKA FANDAKOVA door tooneanother?” we wanttolivetogethertomorrow, asstrangers,next municipalism, itisalwaysaboutthequestion:Howdo tures. From Krutikov’s FlyingCitytothereal utopiasof a great impact,oftentransverselytonationalstruc- friends. Themicropolitical experiencesofthecityhave who are realising theidealofdemocracyasforeign cities are constantlyattractingnewideasandpeople theirpromise ofthefuture,demand tochange.With are nofinalcertainties,everythingissubjecttothe cohabitation are basedonpermanentchange.There future. Bothdemocraticnegotiationaswellurban “Democracy andcitieshaveacommontense:the for democraticinnovationandpoliticaleducation Democracy scholarandindependentconsultant TAMARA EHS
Europe, bymakingthemmore resilient.” tive becauseitistimetoprotect ourdemocraciesin “I supporttheEuropean CapitalofDemocracyinitia- Former FederalPresident oftheRepublicAustria HEINZ FISCHER democracy.” from here thatwewilldiscussthepresent andfuture of in theheartofEurope, ithasitsbeginning.Andis in FrankfurtisthecradleofGermandemocracy. Here, neck –butitwillalwaysbeworthit.ThePaulskirche equal rights.Thisisexhausting,canbeapaininthe every day, inacivildiscoursebetweencitizenswith Democracy mustbefoughtforanddefendedanew a fair-weather event,notastraightlinetoheaven. “Here inFrankfurtweknowthatdemocracyisnot Lord MayorofFrankfurtamMain,Germany PETER FELDMANN
Building the European Capital of Democracy Voices | 21 societies change.” are. Theyneedconstantworkandmustchangeas that so-called‘stabledemocracies’ canstayasthey “We havetogetridofthemuchtoocomfortableidea Project Manager, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute LAURA GIESEN Capital ofDemocracy.” forward andsecure ourfuture –theannualEuropean we needafocusedvantagepointfrom whichwemove developed byusall,astimegoeson.To enablethis, never guaranteed,ithastobere-shaped andre- I amproud tobeapartofit.Ademocraticsocietyis lights innovativeandimpressive effortsfordemocracy. “The European CapitalofDemocracyinitiativehigh- Project Manager, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute DUNJA GANSER vative ways.” and ofparticipationbycitizensincourageousinno- “Cities playamajorrole asincubatorsofdemocracy, and Marseille-Provence 2013 Programme Director forEuropean CapitalsofCulture Linz2009 ULRICH FUCHS
with them,leadingtoinequalitiesandoppression.” where workagainsttheirpeopleandnot governments most apparent incomparisonwithcountrieswithoutit, “I thinktheimportanceofreal democracybecomes Senior Developer, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute LUKAS GRAF that everyonecanmakeadifference.” enable ustostrengthen democraticvaluesandshow together’. TheEuropean CapitalofDemocracywill and acommonunderstandingthat‘We are inthis not aluxury. We needaculture ofactiveparticipation “Living inafunctioningdemocracyshouldbethenorm, The InnovationinPoliticsInstitute Community EngagementandProject Manager, NICOLA GOLD
Building the European Capital of Democracy Voices | 23 life. We must protect itasourmostprecious treasure.” portunity tobuildandpreserve adignifiedandblessed “Democracy isthemosteffective safeguard oftheop - Multimedia artist ANDRÉ HELLER important elementofdemocracyitself.” andthusan element ofmunicipalself-government of basicpublicservicestocitizensisanimportant both historicallyandinthepresent. Theirprovision “European citiesareofdemocracy, thecornerstones of theCouncilEuropean MunicipalitiesandRegions(CEMR) HonoraryPresidentFormer MayorofVienna, MICHAEL HÄUPL to create it.” of thecommongood.Amechanismisneededinorder democracy. Thegoalofdemocracyisthepreservation But participationisonlytheform,notfunctionof of theplanneddemocracyprizeforEuropean cities. are losingtheirsubstance.Therein liesthestrength and structuringsocietyare importantinsocietiesthat “Participation andnew, tangibleformsofdemocracy Danube UniversityKrems Professor ofEuropean PolicyandtheStudyofDemocracy, Founder andDirector, European DemocracyLab, ULRIKE GUÉROT
young people,counts.” course, thevoiceofeverysingleperson,including it, cooperationisbetterthanconfrontation and,of to seechangeyouneedbeontheforefront of This appliesjustaswelltodemocracy:ifyouwant United weare stronger. And:themajoritydecides. important rules:Ifyouwantsomething,goandgetit. “Growing upwitholderbrothers,three Ilearned Project Manager, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute AMADEA HORVATH ment andofparliament.” - of thesinsomission–andcommissiongovern cantonal andcommunallevel.Thisenablescorrection the constitutionorapopularvoteonlawsatfederal, legislation. Voters canrequest anamendmentto with direct rightsinrespect oftheconstitutionand “Swiss citizensknowthesystemofdirect democracy, Switzerland Representative, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute Consulting, Chairman,Farner Vice DANIEL HELLER
Building the European Capital of Democracy Voices | 25 lessons from history.” from eachother. Beaware. Listen.Discuss.Draw Corrupt leaderssubvertinstitutions.We shouldlearn “Extreme polarisationisslowlykillingdemocracies. Author MICHAL HVORECKÝ our society.” that thisapproach canbringaboutdesirablechangein high-level ideologyofnationalpolitics.Itrulybelieve of real peopleare actuallysolved,regardless ofthe cities oftodayare stillplaceswhere thereal problems inancientGreek“Democracy wasborn cities.The Lord MayorofPrague,CzechRepublic ZDENĚK HŘIB or personalpreferences.” regardless ofanyone’s beliefs,ethnicity, politicalviews the principleofproviding equalservicesforeveryone, together. Idefineitas‘bravedemocracy’. We acton gather around thetableandfindsolutionstoproblems opportunity. AsIstanbulMetropolitan Municipality, we reminded mycolleaguesofthispromise atevery world. From thedayItookoverthisposition,have democratic MayornotonlyinTurkey, butinthewhole “I madeapromise tothevotersbecomemost Mayor ofIstanbul,Turkey EKREM İMAMOĞLU a reasonable time.” else canpeoplecreate somuchpositivechangewithin bemoreernance participativethanincities,nowhere where weneedtorevive it.Nowhere cangoodgov- “Democracy originatedinurbansocietyandthatis Berlin, Germany Former HeadoftheEuropean CouncilonForeign Relations, JOSEF JANNING
Building the European Capital of Democracy Voices | 27 globalisation.” and havedirect, more personalexperiencesregarding more diverse,havemore informationavailabletothem role here. And,asweknow, urbanpopulationsare process atthelocallevel,socitiescanplayamajor It ismucheasiertoengagecitizensinthepolitical democracy, weneedtoinvestincitizens’engagement. crisis in2008.To findawayoutofthecurrent crisisof democracy. Thisislargelytheresult ofthefinancial neoliberalism andtheoldformsofrepresentational tions havegonethrough adisillusionmentprocess with reformers ofdemocracy. Bothruralandurbanpopula- “I hopethatcitiesare notonlystrongholds butalso Lord MayorofBudapest,Hungary GERGELY KARÁCSONY one wouldyouchoose?” “If youcouldvoteforthebestpoliticalsystem,which Senior Developer, The InnovationinPoliticsInstitute MORITZ KITTER ance now.” citizenship, responsible- leadershipandgoodgovern and makingitcleartoeveryone:weneedmore active critical contributiontostrengthening thisdevelopment day. TheEuropean CapitalofDemocracyprocess isa counted onelectiondayandallvoicesare heard every racies pointtoabetterfuture, inwhichallvotesare fight againstdiscrimination.Localand regional democ- with regard tothepandemic,climatecrisisand ing resilience –andisproducing innovativesolutions there isonedemocraticarena whichdisplaysfascinat- weakened bypolarisedandpopulistpoliticians.But racy. Peoplepoweratthenationallevelhasbeen representativeand thepracticesofmodern democ- tional crisesare challengingourestablishedthinking “The worldischangingquickly. Simultaneoustransna- Global democracycorrespondent BRUNO KAUFMANN
Building the European Capital of Democracy Voices | 29 than ever.” spread itssilverliningaround theworld.Nowmore aboutandworkingon democracy,learning soitmay Capital ofDemocracyinitiative.We wanttopromote your ownneeds.Istrongly believeintheEuropean to listenothersrespectfully whilebeingaware of Democracy isaboutbalanceandinclusion,theability tive andmeaningfulsolutionsforimproving ourlives. in connectionwithattentiveness.Thisleadstoinnova - “For metheessenceofdemocracymeansopenness The InnovationinPoliticsInstitute Partner, C.point,PolandRepresentative, JULIA KOZAK informed, engagedandexercise theirrights.” with responsibility foreachofus:citizenshavetostay ly withregard tocivilrights.Democracyalsocomes and balances,asetofshared beliefs,especial- politicians establishtrustininstitutionsandchecks if youconsideryourcounterpartarival.Democratic “For me,democracyconsistsofmutualrespect, even Project andEventManager, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute NADINE KORN
democracy, theruleoflawandhuman rights.” against detrimentaltendencies andhelpsafeguard aredaily concerns, oftenbetter placedtopushback tocitizensandtheir closer thancentralgovernments racy programme isparticularlytimely. Cities,being “The initiativetolaunchaEuropean CapitalofDemoc- Senior Adviser, German MarshallFundoftheUnitedStates Studies, Johns HopkinsSchoolofAdvancedInternational Senior AdjunctProfessor ofEuropean andEurasianStudies, SIR MICHAELLEIGH rights. Nooneshouldbeleftbehind.” to listendiverseperspectivesandfightforhuman is oneofthebiggestthreats todemocracy. We need igin, gender, and(dis)abilities.Demonisingeachother solidarity, embracingallpeopleregardless offaith,or “Democracy requires aprofound beliefinequityand Programme Director, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute MANUELA KRÄUTER not wanttheenemiesofdemocracytodoitforus.” “We needtomanagechangeindemocracyifwedo Chairman, Centre forLiberalStrategies IVAN KRASTEV
-
Building the European Capital of Democracy Voices | 31 cradles ofdemocracyandhotbedsinnovation.” innovation. Citiesplayacentralrole inthisprocess, as be.’ Thismeansthatdemocracyrequires constant the democracyofourpredecessors. Norshouldit democracy ofoursuccessorswillnotandcannotbe “The politicalscientistRobertDahloncesaid:‘The in Austria Co-founder andfoundingBoard MemberofNEOS,theliberalparty Managing Partner, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute,Germany, JOSEF LENTSCH for offeringnewand real democracytoall.” like theEuropean CapitalofDemocracyinitiativedoes– So weneedtoprovide encouragementandrewards – seem thatthere are goodreasons nottochange. the changedenvironment. Indailywork,itmightoften “Today, improving politicsis essentialfordemocracyin former French MinisterofInnovationandDigitalAffairs Partner andGlobalHeadofTerra Numerata,RolandBerger, AXELLE LEMAIRE
future.” and mycurrent life,onhowmyparents chosetheir democracy hashadamajor impactonmybirthplace happened andare stillhappeninginAsia.Soforme life, asIalsohavefrom otherincidentswhichhave insights intoandimpressions oftheirexperiences wars andtheCambodiancivilwar, Igainedalotof “Hearing storiesfrom myfamilyabouttheIndochina First LevelSupport,TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute GIA PHULIU the bestinstrumentforreaching thisgoal.” everyone hasthesameopportunities.Democracyis “Our goalshouldbetocreate asocietyinwhich Organisation Manager, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute MAGDALENA LINDORFER than ever.” joint endorsementofthesevaluesismore important peace inEurope. Intimesofterror andpopulismthe because democracyguaranteesjustice,freedom and “I supporttheEuropean CapitalofDemocracyinitiative Vice-President, AssociationofGermanCities Mayor ofMünster, Germany, MARKUS LEWE
Building the European Capital of Democracy Voices | 33 but inafocusedwayforchange.” for us. That is why Iwant to bepart of it. Still outraged, taking actionalready –forhumanrights,democracy, cracy initiativeisputtingthespotlightonthosewhoare chance toactinstead.TheEuropean CityofDemo- things thesedays.Forgettingthatwealwayshavethe “We mayexhaustourselvesinoutrageoveralotof Actress PROSCHAT MADANI draw thefuture.” live inademocracyholdthepenswithwhichwecan represented by. Therefore, thoseofusluckyenoughto and power tochoosewhotheywantbegoverned “Democracy meansthatpeoplehavetherightand Office Manager, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute SULAIMAN ALMAHMOUD
provide allof that,through –andforall ofus.” lines. TheEuropean CapitalofDemocracy initiativewill well asspaceandstructure –across borders andparty efficient dialogue,cooperation andcommunication as create constructive change. All of this, and more, requires a broad understandingoffacts,leadbyexampleand win thisfightweneedto reduce fearofthefuture, foster “Our democratic societies in Europe are under assault. To Secretary General,European ForumAlpbach PHILIPPE NARVAL as theirinaction.” more likelytofeelresponsible fortheiractionsaswell people feelpartofavalue-basedcommunity, theyare the role ofthevotermustbere-appropriated. When enough toraiseawareness oftherighttovote.First, while movingawayfrom binarymethods.Itisnot making processes sothattheygiveavoicetocitizens proaches, andreinvent politicalthinkinganddecision- to rebuild ties,highlightsuccesses,promote boldap- of re-engaging citizensinpubliclife:itisnecessary Local andnationalelectedofficials are attheforefront representatives, ininstitutions,andtheirfuture. representing themengenderstrustintheirelected solidarity are necessary. Listeningtocitizensand deavour. Listeningandempathy, benevolenceand “The renewal ofourdemocraciesisacollectiveen- France Representative, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute Member oftheBoard andformerDelegate-GeneralofEuropaNova, LENA MOROZOVA-FRIHA
Building the European Capital of Democracy Voices | 35 and theircommunities.” processes, tobeinvolvedindecisionsthataffectthem who maybeexcludedordistant from civicandpolitical cludes activelyempowering people,particularlythose specting people’s humandignityandequality. Thisin- “Healthy andtruedemocraticengagementinvolvesre- Ireland Representative, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute Social PolicyResearcher andFacilitator, JOAN O’FLYNN resilient democraticcitiesare essentialtoEurope.” face. Inshortitwillhelpremind uswhyvibrantand numerous anti-democraticdynamicsourdemocracies our existingefforts,andtochallengethevarious democratic practicethatwillinspire ustobuildon of democracyinactionandshowcasesmodels broader context.Ithighlightsnewcitizen-ledforms the European CapitalofDemocracyinitiativeinthis of attemptstoclarifythemeaningdemocracy. Isee political decision-makinghasbeenamajorconcern consideration ofthenature ofcitizeninvolvementin and nature ofdemocraticparticipation.Asaresult, resulted invastlydifferent interpretations ofthepurpose Yet varyingdefinitionsof‘thepeople’and‘rule’have all citizensshouldplayarole process. inthegoverning “‘Democracy’, literally‘rulebythepeople’,impliesthat Dublin CityUniversity, Ireland Professor ofPublicPolicyPractice,SchoolLawandGovernment, DEIRIC O’BROIN
they canlivein awaythatsuitsthem.” young people tostartchangingtheirenvironment so willing to sacrifice my time and energy to motivate other “I becameanactivedemocratic personbecauseIwas Youth Participant,ACT NOWMayors’Conference 2020 EMIN PECANIN cratic andanti-European movements.” democrats inEurope willsucceedagainstanti-demo- across borders andpartylines.Onlyajointeffortbyall achieved inacohesivesociety–workingtogether, to meettoday’s challenges,andthiscanbestbe “Democracy inEurope shouldbedevelopedfurther Municipality ofAthens,Greece Former DeputyMayorforMigrantandRefugeeAffairs, LEFTERIS PAPAGIANNAKIS century.” practices, perfectlyfittingthechallengesof21st and uniquedriversofboldnewpoliticalideals becomeanincreasinglygovernments positiveforce citizens canparticipatemostcompletely. Thereby, local democracy, citiesareatwhich thelevelofgovernment “Being innovativeandreal laboratoriesforthefuture of France, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute des CheminsdeFerFrançais,HeadofFundraising&Partnerships Former diplomaticadvisorforGCCcountries,SociétéNationale DORINA OFRIM
Building the European Capital of Democracy Voices | 37 nity suchastheRenaissance cityofStrasbourg.” must andcanbetakenup together, inalivingcommu- challenges –whichare onanunparalleledscale– of freedom withgreat quality oflife.Andwhere today’s democracy. SothatEurope remains thatuniquespace “This isthemomenttoreinvent andrevive European Chairman, FondationduCréditMutuel ETIENNE PFLIMLIN extremely unlikely.” empirical evidencethatwarbetweendemocraciesis in democraticpractice.AsadiplomatIknowfrom “As acitizenIhavealwaysbeenstaunchbeliever President, AustrianMarshallPlanFoundation WOLFGANG PETRITSCH Europeans.” institutions toprotect therightsandfreedoms ofall of inspirationinthefightforstronger democratic of hopeindarktimes–anindispensablesource “The European CapitalofDemocracywillbeabeacon Sweden Representative, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute Political scientist,ChiefAnalyst,Arena Idéthinktank, LISA PELLING
the European CapitalofDemocracy.” actively supportcreative, ambitiousconceptssuchas to react, todemonstratestrength anddaring,to down.Thetimehascome to beunderminedandworn signs andthedangers,allowing democraticinstitutions given. Alongthewaywerelaxed, underestimating the ocratic West, where democracywasconsidered a “We wereandraisedincountriesofthedem- born Greece Representative, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute Managing Partner, Out oftheBoxPR, DIMITRIS ROULIAS national borders andunitesthethoughtsofcitizens.” The European CapitalofDemocracyinitiativecrosses an traditionthatemphasisestheindividual’s freedom. “For me,democracyisanessentialpartoftheEurope- Finland Representative, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute Managing Director andPartner, MailandCommunications, ALPO RÄINÄ European values.” us todefend,strengthen andbuildupdemocracy peace andhumandignity, thetimehascomeforallof “If wewantourchildren toinheritaworldoflasting Former President ofBulgaria ROSEN PLEVNELIEV
Building the European Capital of Democracy Voices | 39 stantly forthepreservation ofdemocraticvalues.” by people.Therefore, itiscrucialthatweworkcon- been created bypeopleandcanbedestroyed again “Democracy isnotanaturalgiven.Democracyhas Head ofCommunications,TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute ROBERT SCHAFLEITNER Democracy initiativeisapowerfulwaytodothat.” nated anddisseminated,theEuropean Capitalof a functionalsociety. Goodpracticehastobeco-ordi- lished networksanddemocracyisabasicnecessityof pean, nationalandcitylevel,peoplehavewell-estab- participation opportunitiesforeveryone.OntheEuro- human rights,aswellequalandnon-discriminatory non-discrimination andequality. Istrongly believein ing useoftheskillsresidents andcommunities, “For me,democracyisbasedonopenness,mak- Helsinki CityExecutiveOffice,Finland Head oftheUnitParticipationandInformation, JOHANNA SEPPÄLÄ
as yourears.” “Democracy meansthatyour voiceisjustasimportant Head ofAwards, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute ROMAN SNEHOTTA for widersociety.” conflict. Whathappensincitiesprovides richlessons various formsittakesare crucialintheresolution of of toleranceandunderstanding.Democracythe to livesidebyandneedacquire thevalues to theresolution ofsuchconflict.Incities,peoplehave violent.Butthesurvivalofcitiesislinked sometimes turn “Cities are sooftenthefocusofconflictwhichcan Italy Representative, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute Founder ofPRcompanyNoesis, MARTIN SLATER challenges togetherandinademocraticway.” models ofpoliticssothatwecanovercome thebig “Europe anditssocietiesneednewcontent The InnovationinPoliticsInstitute Founder, TheSkillsGroup, SeniorStrategist, PAUL M.SILLS
Building the European Capital of Democracy Voices | 41 to meetyour needs.” We thinkcooperatively, andtogetherwewillfind away Democracy asaplatformto boostyourowninitiatives. we inviteyoutojoinanduse theEuropean Capitalof of officiallyannouncingthe startofthis programme, to makeithappen.Aswehave nowreached thestage citizens, institutionsandorganisationshavejoinedus thing weneedtodoisbuildit!Today, manymayors, necessary conceptwhichhashugepotential.Theonly The European CapitalofDemocracyisagreat and many others.Soitquicklybecamecleartoallofus: Similar experiencesfollowedwithPatriciaKahaneand foreign ministry, tobecomethehead ofthisinitiative. but joinedusimmediatelyafterleavinghispostatthe back then.Helfriednotonlyshared myenthusiasm about it–hewastheAustrianambassadortoSlovakia IcalledHelfriedCarltotellhimAfter landinginVienna, to mewhilewewere waitingatagateBerlinTegel. mentioned theEuropean CapitalofDemocracyidea This wasthecasewhenmypartnerJosefLentschfirst an ideaandinstantlyknow:‘That’s it!Asilverbullet!’ about “It doesnothappenofteninlifethatyoulearn Founder andCEO,TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute EDWARD STRASSER listening.” “Democracy isexchangeofviews.Ittalkingand Author andcomedian DIRK STERMANN tion tosomethinglargerthanourselves.” was before. Itimpliesactiveparticipationandcontribu- mitment tomakingtheworldalittlebitbetterthanit giving avoicetoallmembersofsociety, and acom- about trust,theneedsandrealities ofotherpeople, process“I seedemocracyasalong-termlearning Youth Participant,ACTNOWMayors’Conference 2020 SARA SUŠANJ stand uptodayandourground.” cratic values.We oweittofuture generationsthatwe “We shouldnotrely onpoliticianstoprotect demo- Senior Advisor, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute NICOLAS STÜHLINGER
Building the European Capital of Democracy Voices | 43 free expression.” principles aspoliticalequality, absenceofprivilegeand protects ourbasichumanrightsandguaranteessuch in politicsthrough votingandelections.Democracy our future. Ascitizens,wecanactivelyparticipate individual oranorganisation,hastherighttodictate “For medemocracymeansthatnoone,beitan Project Assistant,TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute GALYNA TKACHENKO around theworldgalvanisedbythisideal.” mocracy initiativeprovides valuableinspirationtothose ments around Europe, theEuropean CapitalofDe- identifying andshowcasingdemocraticaccomplish- erment; aprojectBy builtonequalityandfairness. ongoing processandempow- ofdeliberation,learning “Democracy ismore thanjustavote.Atitsbestit’s an UK Representative, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute for theEncouragementofArts,Manufactures andCommerce, Global Programme Manager, RoyalSociety RILEY THOROLD
trust indemocracy.” tic andtransparent localpoliticsmayhelptorestore ment ofcitiesandtheplaceswhere theylive.Authen- “I amabigbelieverinengagingpeoplethedevelop - Architect, cityactivist,MayorofBratislava,Slovakia MATÚŠ VALLO tant pillarsofprosperity –letusprotect them!” ing are heavilyunderattack.Andallofthemare impor “Values liketruth,democracyandindependentthink- President oftheSupervisoryBoard, ERSTEFoundation,Vienna ANDREAS TREICHL instruments andrhythmsplayamelody.” “Democracy islikeaconcertwhere different voices, Social MediaSpecialist,TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute FRANZISKA TOMETSCHEK -
Building the European Capital of Democracy Voices | 45 for them.” for youngdemocraciessuchasAlbania’s, butnotonly an CapitalofDemocracyinitiative,amuch-neededone more transparent, IwelcomeandsupporttheEurope- more responsive topeople’s needs,more openand “As atrueadvocateofcitiesbecomingmore inclusive, Albania Mayor ofTirana, ERION VELIAJ refusing tobringdemocracyintothe21stcentury.” of thedecision-makingprocess. Refusingtodosois democratise democracyitself.Let’s makecitizenspart ratised informationandcommunication.Now, letus “We havedemocratisededucation,wedemoc- Author andculturalhistorian DAVID VAN REYBROUK and are accountabletotheirvoices.” people feelonceagainthatinstitutionsrepresent them values andwayoflifeasathreat. We needtomake we needtofirmlystandupchallengersthatseeour ness are incrisis.To defend thefree andopenworld need toaddress thefactthatourfreedom andopen- Solidarity movementonitsfortiethanniversary, we “While wereflect onthehistoricvictoryofPolish former President ofPoland,NobelPeacePrizewinner1983 Former Chairmanofthe‘Solidarity’movement, LECH WAŁĘSA initiative.” European Unionasawhole.Therefore, Isupportthis villages andcities,intheirowncountrythe strong voicewhenitcomestodecisionmaking–in the wisdomandexpertiseofallitscitizenswitha “Europe canonlystaystrong ifitprovides thewill, Former President oftheNetherlandsHouseRepresentatives GERDI A.VERBEET
Building the European Capital of Democracy Voices | 47 enjoy andthatwesoeasilytakeforgranted.” will havetoworktogetherprotect thefreedoms we democracy andhowquicklytheycanslipaway. We Germany. Theirstoriestaughtmethevaluesofaliberal “My parents grew upunderthedictatorshipofEast Project Manager, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute,Germany MARIE WUTZLER are thebestplacetostartimproving it.” “Cities are thecradleofdemocracy. Therefore, they Secretary GeneraloftheAustrianAssociationCitiesandTowns THOMAS WENINGER strengthen democraticprocesses.” highlight bestpracticeandthusmotivatecitiesto decisions. TheEuropean CapitalofDemocracywill canbemade accountablefortheir that governments under whichtheylive.Moreover, democracyensures decide, totakepartindefiningandamendingtherules are enabledtodeliberate,voicetheiropinions, say inpolitics,thateachsinglevoicecounts.People for thebenefitofall.Itensures thatpeoplehave a “Democracy initsbestformistheruleofmany Institute forEmpiricalSocialStudies(IFES),Vienna Political Scientist,ManagingDirector, EVA ZEGLOVITS contribute toit!” visions forsociety. Andthebestpartisthatwecanall on theintegrationofourdiverseinterests intocommon “Democracy isnocoincidence,it’s aconstantdebate Project Manager, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute KATHARINA ZANGERL
Building the European Capital of Democracy Voices | 49 for thepresent andforthefuture.” the rightandmeanstohelpdevelopdemocracy lenges ofthetimes.You andme,allofus,have and evolvingpoliticalmindset,movingwiththechal- in AncientGreece. Inmyview, itisanever-changing construct handeddownsincethetimeitwaspractised “We havetounderstandthatdemocracyisnotarigid Chief Editor, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute UTA ZEUGE-BUBERL standards.” is doneinawaythatmeetsthehighestdemocratic labour lawworldwide.We havetomakesure thatthis set therulesofgamefordataprotection, taxationor “As thelargestcommoneconomicarea, Europe can Project Manager, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute JOSEF ZEHETNER
enough aboutme.” Capital ofDemocracy. Itisassimplethat.Butthat’s democracy andsoImustalsoworkfortheEuropean no choice.Imustworkforafunctioninganddesirable want mychildren toliveinone,too.Therefore, Ihave ocrat. Iwanttoliveinafree andopensociety. AndI “Talking aboutmyself,IamaEuropean. Iamadem- Founder andSeniorStrategist,TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute RONNY ZUCKERMANN provide ampleopportunitiesforexactlythat.” to buildingit.TheEuropean CapitalofDemocracywill And tobeinvitedcontributetheirideasandefforts tinue livingtheirlivesinafree anddemocraticsociety. “Young peopleespeciallydeservetobeablecon- Founder oftheNGOAct.Now communications professional, advisortocorporations, Founder, TheInnovationinPoliticsInstitute, ELKE ZUCKERMANN
Building the European Capital of Democracy Voices | 51 About the European Capital of Democracy Cities play an essential role in finding a path forward for demo- cracy. Every European Capital of Democracy will serve as a catalyst for democratic development, provide space for democratic innovation and exchange, and showcase groundbreaking work to improve politics in Europe. the European CapitalofDemocracy. wide initiativeforstrengthening democracy: We inviteyoutojoinusincreating aEurope- In aNutshell shine underthemediaspotlight. forward andrebuild trust. Bestdemocraticpracticewill prehensive programme designed tobringdemocracy democracy inactionanddrawinspirationfrom acom- together, getinvolved,experiencenewformsofreal highly visiblespacewhere thecitizensofEurope come What weaimtoaccomplish:We aimtoestablisha and implementtheirinitiatives. come together, discussandexchangebestpractices, foundations, andinstitutionsplentyofopportunitiesto and musicfilmfestivals.Thisgivesorganisations, fairs dedicatedtothelatestparticipationtechnologies, national conferences, exhibitionsonsocietalchange, Furthermore, thecitywillhosteventssuchasinter to participateintheseefforts. members ofthemedia–willbeinvitedtoobserveand over Europe –politicians,experts,artists,citizens,and to improve andstrengthen democracy. from Visitors all ment awiderangeofactivitiesandeventsdesigned out thecourseofyear, curate,organise,andimple- society andcitizens,thedesignatedcitywill,through- for everyyear, startingin2021.Incooperationwithcivil A European CapitalofDemocracywillbedesignated -
4,000 citizens. submitted bypoliticiansand presented toajuryofover 2,000 courageousandcreative politicalprojects were in PoliticsAwards: from 2017to2020,more than beyond partylines.We alsopresent TheInnovation cated toimproving democracyacross borders and Institute constitutesaEurope-wide organisationdedi- Politics in Innovation The and partnersin15countries, Who weare: andBerlin,withoffices BasedinVienna serve asshowcasesofwhattoexpectinthefuture. will leadthewayinbringingthisinitiativetolifeand developing theenvisagedselectionprocess, twocities The firsttwocities:In2021and2022,whileweare politicians, administrationstaffandcitizensalike. application process initselfwillhaveanimpacton For thecitieswhichare notselected,thecompetitive course heightenedcivicpride. and meetingsofleadingEuropean politicians,andof events innovation, thechancetohostinternational reputationinternational asacentre ofeducationand enjoy awiderangeofbenefits,suchasanenhanced What citieswillget:Acitycarryingthistitle European population,willselectthewinner. Finally, ajuryof10,000citizens,representative ofthe of expertswillcreate ashortlistfrom allapplicants. practice. Basedontransparent criteria,ourgroup aimed atstrengthening andbroadening democratic track record andanoutlineforayear-long programme must includeaself-evaluationoftheirdemocratic How citieswillbeselected:Eachcity’s application
Building the European Capital of Democracy About the European Capital of Democracy | 55 HOW CITIES CAN DESIGN THEIR EUROPEAN 57 CAPITAL OF DEMOCRACY PROGRAMME | Cities are invited to create a multi-faceted programme and to implement democratic lighthouse projects. Additionally, the European Capital of Democracy hosts high-profile international events in collaboration with the organisers, institutions, foundations, INNOVATIVE FORMS and other partners. OF PARTICIPATION Cities bring their best participation projects to light, such as citizens’ ENGAGING YOUNG PEOPLE assemblies, participatory budgeting, A democracy-themed youth summer camp or the crowdsourcing of ideas. and music festival or the European Youth Parliament attract young people from all over Europe. About the European Capital of Democracy About the European FOSTERING A EUROPE- WIDE DISCOURSE Politicians, experts, and citizens are invited to come together at events such as the exchange conference and democracy fair titled It’s our European Union or the ACT NOW Mayors‘ Conference.
CULTURE AND TACKLING CHALLENGES DEMOCRACY Exhibitions, performances, FOR DEMOCRACY literature, and more as artistic Tracks about climate, education, expressions of democracy participation, and technology showcase possible solutions for pressing issues. Building the European Capital of Democracy Building the European Democracy, weachieve … efforts onthestageofaEuropean Capitalof they needoursupport.Bypresenting such ways ofreshaping howwelivetogetherand this change.Manypeopleare already creating Democracy ischangingandwehavetoaddress Achieve What We … … in European CapitalofDemocracyactivities. and innovatorswhocometogetherparticipate change ofideasandbestpracticesbystakeholders are ultimatelyexpeditedbyvirtueoftheactiveex- New conceptsfordemocraticpoliticalprocesses acceleration focus andgrow insize. Europe-wide audiencesotheycansharpentheir democracies receive thespaceandattentionofa Promising newinitiativesaimedatimproving our incubation
… … … democracy. uals whoare devotedtoimproving anddeveloping ative isaimedatcreating apeernetworkofindivid- At alllevelsofsocietyandacross borders, theiniti- impact across borders comes engagedandinvestedinpositivechange. audience –visitors,media,andprofessionals –be- best practicewhichtheycantrust.AEurope-wide Capitals ofDemocracyexperienceinnovationand Seeing isbelieving.CitizensoftheEuropean trust indemocracy individual freedom, andcreating socialbalance. in thefieldsofcitizenparticipation,strengthening Democracy functionsasalabforpoliticalprototyping of workingsolutions.TheEuropean Capitalof hands-on designing
Building the European Capital of Democracy About the European Capital of Democracy | 59 among itsconstitutiveelements. and evaluationatalllevelswilltherefore be pact isattheheartofinitiative.Research aims tostrengthen democracylong-term,im- Since theEuropean CapitalofDemocracy Impact elicit transformationofparticipatingcities. itself willstimulatedemocraticdevelopmentandeven Capital ofDemocracybutalsotheapplicationprocess This meansthatnotonlywinningthetitleofEuropean development andtransformationofparticipatingcities. designation aloneservesasacatalystforthecultural the European Commissiondemonstratedthatthe A 2004studyontheEuropean CapitalofCulture for be reflected inthemedia. es forproponents ofdemocracy–whichwillhopefully our societies,wewillcreate newcommunicativespac- ment asapositivecontributiontoproblem-solving in By presenting democracyanditsinnovativedevelop- institutions. medium andlong-termpartnershipswithEurope-wide democratic practice,providing plentyofopportunityfor as arich“livinglaboratory”forpoliticalscienceand The European CapitalofDemocracyinitiativewillserve researched indepth. cess. Additionally, specificsub-projects maybe Democracy, orduringandaftertheapplicationpro- before andaftertheirtimeasEuropean Capitalof questions listedabovewillbeaddressed incities isations, aswelluniversitiesandthinktanks,the organ- In cooperationwithfoundations,international ➔ ➔ ➔ ➔ on thefollowingquestions: Moreover, weintendtofocus have animpactonnon-participatingcities? Does theEuropean CapitalofDemocracyinitiative Democracy initiativeempowercitizens? Does participationintheEuropean Capitalof Democracy initiativeleadtobetterdecisions? Does participationintheEuropean Capitalof tween citizensaswellandgovernments? Democracy initiativeleadtomore mutualtrustbe- Does participationintheEuropean Capitalof
Building the European Capital of Democracy About the European Capital of Democracy | 61 Benefit How We Can All rights, anddemocracy. common valuesofsocialbalance, prosperity, human its mission:buildingastronger Europe basedonour The InnovationinPolitics Instituteaccomplishes contribution toensuringourqualityoflife. Capital ofDemocracyinitiativemakesasubstantial wide institutionbuilttolastfordecades.TheEuropean initiative participateinlaunchingasustainable,Europe- The partnersoftheEuropean CapitalofDemocracy at alllevelsofpolicy-making. cal innovatorsbeyondpartylines,across borders, and They participateinanopen,personalnetworkofpoliti - Politicians inEurope are inspired bybestpractice. and asvisitors. members, asparticipantsinexchangeconferences, in developingnewformsofdemocraticpolitics:asjury The citizensofEurope enjoyhands-oninvolvement hance democraticpracticeinparticipatingcities. part ofthisprocess willinandofitselfservetoen- title andthecurationofademocraticprogramme asa cradle ofdemocracy. Theprocess ofbiddingforthe renowned Cities,afterall,are journalists. thehistoric art technologydevelopers,pre-eminent artists,and leading thinkers,highlymotivatedvisitors,state-of-the- European CapitalsofDemocracywillattract
Cities are incubatorsofdemocracy. Why Cities? in itsapplication. include activitiesinitssurrounding region orruralareas European CapitalofDemocracytitle.Acitymightalso geographically closemightjoinforces toapplyforthe pretation oftheterm“city”:smallercitieswhichare Our rulesandregulations allowforawiderinter as “thesmartcity”andtheuseofrenewable energy. the citylevelare expandingintoadditionalareas such public transport.Meanwhile,consultativeprocesses at the preservation ofculturalheritage,andimproving the process ofimmigrantintegration,traffic-free zones, by organisingcitizens’consultationsonissuessuchas proving qualityoflife.Manycitieshaveshowntheway Cities cancreate opportunityandinnovationforim- opment tofittheirgoalsandbudgetseffectively. programmes, policies,infrastructure, andspatialdevel- scale makesthemagileandflexible.Theycantailor talents, anddynamicsoftheirpopulations, human rights.Why?Citiesare closesttotheneeds, velop democracy, protect theruleoflaw, anduphold Cities are oftenbestplacedtohelpsafeguard andde- -
Building the European Capital of Democracy About the European Capital of Democracy | 63 for innovationindemocracy. establish themselvesasastage European CapitalsofDemocracy Democracy Do of Capitals European What concept –and involvecivilsociety. Programmes shouldfocusoninnovationandproof of address intheirprogrammes fortherespective year. These are theareas which thecitiesare supposed to and celebrateademocratic Europe. practice concepts,andcometogethertoworktoward initiatives tovisitors,discussandexchangetheirbest from manycountrieswhosubsequentlypresent their tals ofDemocracyattractpeopleandorganisations events from alloverEurope. TheEuropean Capi- Secondly, theyhostvariousinitiatives,projects, and to participateinthem. are theninvitedtowitnesstheseeffortsfirst-handand media representatives from otherEuropean countries partners. Citizens,politicians,experts,artists,and racy –togetherwithcivilsociety, citizens,andlocal all designedtohelpinnovateandstrengthen democ- ises andrealises awiderangeofactivitiesandevents, own programmes. Eachcitydevelops,curates,organ- Cities actontwolevels.Firstly, theyimplementtheir
Participation 1. ua Rights Human 4. Entrepreneurship 3. Bridge-building 2. 5. realise theirdreams –whethersocialorcommercial. restrictions forallcitizens,andenablescitizensto for foundersofnewinitiatives,reduces bureaucratic The cityprovides foranequalandopenplayingfield and exhibitsduerespect forminorityrights. collaborate inpursuitofachievingcommongoals, and communityengagement,motivatescitizensto provides effectivemethodsofbuildingintercultural The citybringstogethervariousgroups insociety, goals shouldbeachieved. the cityadministration,andindecidinghowthese involve citizensinsettingthegoalsandprioritiesof The cityprovides inspiring solutionsonhowto ronmental protection toaccessthearts. from transporttotelecommunication,andfrom envi- to jobs,from educationtoservicesforolderpeople, communities andneighbourhoods–from housing needs ofallcitizensinawaythatbuildssustainable The citytakesactiontoprovide forthechanging Basic Needs human rightsandequalitystandards. The cityfosterstheimplementationofEuropean
Building the European Capital of Democracy About the European Capital of Democracy | 65 ➔ In addition to hosting its own programme, high-pro- 67 | What European file international events will take place in the Euro- pean Capital of Democracy, such as the European Youth Parliament supported by the Schwarzkopf Capitals of Foundation, and major events organised by The Innovation in Politics Institute such as the Act.Now Democracy Get International Mayors’ Conference. Cities carrying this title enjoy a range of benefits beyond improving democracy
for their inhabitants. Capital of Democracy About the European
Strengthening the city’s reputation ➔ The city will benefit by enhancing its importance as a centre of education, innovation, and business thanks to a stable and open environment.
➔ A more hands-on and accessible approach to the sometimes “dry“ topic of democracy reaches a broader public.
➔ Leading European politicians meet in the Capital of Democracy.
➔ Partnerships with universities and think tanks who carry out research into democratic activities and projects are fostered under the umbrella of the European Capital of Democracy initiative.
➔ The city will receive support for planning and organ- ising all activities related to the title.
➔ Significant networking events bring together leading politicians, experts, members of the art world, and media representatives from all of Europe and beyond. Building the European Capital of Democracy Building the European 69
Participation Track | Tracks A European Capital of Democracy implements meas- ures and programmes to foster participation. The The European Capital of Democracy initiative Participation Track highlights innovative mechanisms invites institutions, corporations and foun- for all citizens to take part in decision-making at all levels of government, such as citizens assemblies or dations to participate in a series of tracks on participatory and gender budgeting. topics vital to improving democracy. Technology Track Technology is critical for securing and improving liberal democracy. The Technology Track will explore challenges Climate Track and opportunities for our democracies generated by Participatory climate action taken at the city level can the digital revolution, including AI and disinformation.
help entire regions in reaching their climate targets and Capital of Democracy About the European The Technology Track includes the design of each can serve as an inspiration for towns and villages in year’s topics, online information and participation scaling up their climate-related practices and ambitions. campaigns, the use of specific technological solutions The Climate Track will feature inspiring examples, pro- on-site, as well as events for experts, the political field grammes, and events on addressing climate change and the broader public throughout the year. whilst enhancing democratic capacity within the chosen city or region.
Education Track A good education enables citizens to make informed choices. The Education Track showcases best prac- tice in civic education from all over the world. It fosters the learning of democracy for different demographics.
By tailoring learning experiences according to the specific preferences and needs of all citizens, a diverse population can be reached. Each European Capital of Democracy can produce its specific framework reflect- ing its unique identity and areas of interest. Building the European Capital of Democracy Building the European competitive three-stage selectionprocess. Council ofEurope are invitedtotakepartina Cities across the47memberstatesof Democracyof Capitals European Become Cities How of Democracyhasitscitizensatheart. dures are designedtoensure thataEuropean Capital also bewelcomed.Meanwhile,allapplicationproce- citizens. Co-creationdesignswill andco-governance effort betweenthecityadministration,civilsociety, and Becoming aEuropean CapitalofDemocracyisajoint Stage 1:Applicationbythecity be invitedtoparticipateaswell. what toexpectinthefuture. Othercitieswillbethen bringing thisinitiativetolifeandserveasshowcasesof aged selectionprocess, twocitieswillleadthewayin In 2021and2022,whileweare developingtheenvis-
sions willbecomparable,objective, andfair. consist ofacross-section ofsocietysothattheirdeci - and inEnglish,usingasecure database.Thejurywill vote ontheshortlistedcities.Voting takesplaceonline member statesoftheCouncilEurope hasthefinal A juryof10,000European citizensacross the47 Stage 3:Selectionbythecitizens’jury hensive programme forthewholeyear. meet allcriteriaandwhichpropose themostcompre- then assembleashortlistofthefivecitieswhichbest assessment. From allentries,theGroup ofExperts the citytoconductformalinterviewsandon-site cations. Ifallformalcriteriaare met,expertswillvisit GroupThe international ofExpertsassessesallappli- Stage 2:Assessmentbyexperts ly amongyoungpeople. erate participationindemocraticprocesses –especial- networking oftenplayasignificant role inhelpinggen- mobile educationorcounsellingaswellregional in theirapplication:ruralareas, voluntarywork, Cities mayincludeactivitiesintheirsurrounding region process. of Democracywillcarrymore weightintheselection proposed actionsbythecityasaEuropean Capital While thetrackrecord isimportantforcredibility, their plannedprogramme meetsthecriteria. a European CapitalofDemocracy, andsecondly, how democracy inrecent years qualifiesthemtobecome levels: firstly, howtheirtrack record inimproving In theirapplication,citiesprovide informationontwo
Building the European Capital of Democracy About the European Capital of Democracy | 71 A transparent setofobjectivecriteria Criteria Selection developed andpublished. applicable toallcontendercitieswillbe and broadening democraticpractice. and aninnovativeprogramme aimedatstrengthening to beaplatformforEurope’s discourseondemocracy, record regarding democraticprocesses, thecapacity The commitmenttoHumanRights,acleantrack Capital ofDemocracy? What doesittaketobecometheEuropean and TheUniversalDeclarationofHumanRights. based ontheEuropean ConventionofHumanRights The activitiesofaEuropean CapitalofDemocracyare happen. and thepublicsphere where dialogueandgovernance community regardless ofage,gender, and legalstatus– the citizens–meaningallinhabitantsofalocalpolitical At theheartofaEuropean CapitalofDemocracyare
initiative atallstages. cial criteriaaswellthetermsandconditionsof selection process isconductedaccording totheoffi- andcertifiedauditorwillensure thattheAn external audit External strategies andambitionssetoutinitsapplication. administration anditscivilsocietystandbehindthe its be abletoshowthatboththelocalgovernment, A prospective European CapitalofDemocracymust sions foraCuratedProgramme. well asadraftprogramme alongasetof12Dimen- submit amissionstatementoutliningitsambitionsas the CouncilofEurope, an applicant cityisexpectedto andDemocracyasendorsedby of GoodGovernance Along withaself-evaluationbasedonthe12Principles
Building the European Capital of Democracy About the European Capital of Democracy | 73 of Experts of The Group of theEuropean CapitalofDemocracy. well asthedevelopmentofrulesandprocedures It isresponsible forthemethodologicalcredibility as in Europe. political andsocialscienceoverseesjuryprocesses recognized expertsandpractitionersinthefieldof The Group ofExpertsassemblessomethemost
issues related totheselectionprocess. The Group meetstwiceayearandadvisesonall a shortlistofthebestcandidatestocitizens’jury. sions bycities,conducton-siteinterviews,anddrawup the selectionprocess. Itsmembersauditallsubmis- The Group ofExpertsactsasapre-selection panelin and implementedbytheGroup ofExperts. The evaluationprocess andcriteriawillbedeveloped
Building the European Capital of Democracy About the European Capital of Democracy | 75 2020 Timeline Official launch 18 September2020 submissions to generateawareness andpromote future Europe-wide communicationcampaign From autumn2020 European CapitalofDemocracy Public announcementofthefirstpre-selected Autumn 2020 pre-selected European CapitalofDemocracy Public announcement ofthesecond First pre-selected cityholdsthetitle of European CapitalofDemocracy Autumn 2021–2022 of Democracy2023-2024 elected European Capital Call forsubmissionsfirst Spring 2021 Autumn 2021 2021
their registration. have completed contender cities The first March 2022 cities. a shortlistoffive and selects for interviews, visits cities applications, assesses all Group ofExperts The international April –July2022 2022
of Democracy. selects thenextEuropean Capital A juryof10,000citizens August 2022 politicians, andothercitizens Pre-events withjurors, civilsociety, prepares itsyear-long programme. The third European CapitalofDemocracy September 2022-2023 of European CapitalofDemocracy. The secondpre-selected cityholdsthetitle Autumn 2022−2023 of Democracy Day the International of Democracyon third European Capital of thejury-selected Public announcement 15 September2022
15 September2023 of Democracyonthe International Dayof International Opening ceremony 2023 European Capital
for thethird Democracy
Building the European Capital of Democracy About the European Capital of Democracy | 77 Best Practices
It is our privilege to have access to an abundance of proven innovative political projects from all over Europe. The following selection shows how much can be achieved at city level. It may serve as inspiration for what a European Capital of Democracy can contribute to strengthening democracy and improving the wellbeing of its citizens. Developments Inclusive Town Walkability and Athboy disabilities touseit. bench andhoiststoenable peoplewithmore profound Places’ toiletfacilitywhich has aheight-adjustable boy hasacommunitycentre thatfeatures a‘Changing Friendliest Town’ intheRetailExcellenceAwards. Ath- munity andAthboyhasbeennominatedas‘Meath’s sues. CllrGilroy workscloselywiththebusinesscom- and sensoryimpairment,aswellphysicalaccessis - accessibility. Uniquely, thisauditconsidered cognitive Age-Friendly Walkability Auditinthetowntoaddress clusive andprogressive town.Herecently ledan Councillor DavidGilroy promotes Athboyasanin- impairment. less ofageorphysical,cognitive,sensory Accessibility andinclusivityforallcitizensregard- Councillor inMeathCountyCouncil,Ireland DAVID GILROY
consultation withthecommunity. zones andasensorygarden, whichare developedin and progressive developments,includingbiodiversity music competition.There are alsomanyotherinclusive ‘Leinster Fleadh’2019–aprestigious traditionalIrish the Irishlanguageisspokendaily, andhostedthe is closetooneofMeath’s twoGaeltachtareas, where tred ontheoriginalsiteofSamhain/Halloween.Athboy festivalcen- supported todevelopasaninternational mental inthe‘SpiritsofMeath’festivalwhichisbeing Cllr Gilroy isChairmanofBoyneValley Tourism, instru-
Building the European Capital of Democracy Best Practices | 81 of Athensof The Grand Walk priorities as a city government. priorities asacitygovernment. public spaceandchangethewaywedetermineour year project whichencouragescitizenstoreimagine democracy withtheGrandWalk ofAthens,amulti- We are startingtorealise ournewvisionforpromoting visitors tojoinintheconversationaboutthisplan. treasures forthefirsttime,andinvitesAthenians neighbourhoods toitsworld-classarchaeological The GrandWalk ofAthenswillconnectAthens’historic tion ofthehistoriccitycentre. A comprehensive planfortherevival andintegra- Mayor ofAthens,Greece KOSTAS BAKOYANNIS
is more accessible,inclusive,andresilient. these newprocedures willleadustoward afuture that before thechangesbecomepermanent.We hope much greater speedthanatypicalcityproject and allowing themtoseetheirideasimplementedwith citizens’ participationintherealization oftheproject, The project beganwithapilotphasethatencourages posed byanincreasing numberofextreme heatwaves. shade andcoolplacestohelpusfacethechallenges for expandingthegreen canopy, givingourcitymore sustainable mobility. Theproject alsocreates space which shouldbesafeforamixofusesandready for longer bedesignatedexclusivelyforcartraffic,but and walkingpaths,creating corridorsthatwillno The project callsformore than6kilometres ofcycling
Building the European Capital of Democracy Best Practices | 83 Bonn Participates Bonn ate environment. problemsconcerns, anddeficienciesintheirimmedi- improve cycling;andaplatformforcitizenstoreport city budget(2019/2020);theBonnbikedialogueto tion processes, suchasthecitizens’dialogueon ticipation prepares, implementsandreviews participa- decisions. AdedicatedAdvisoryPanelonCitizenPar the organisationoftheircityandinfluencemunicipal an onlineplatformwhichhelpscitizenstotakepartin administrators andcitizensalike.Thecityprovides processes isencouragedandinitiatedbypoliticians, next level–citizens’involvementindecision-making The cityofBonnistakingcivicparticipationtothe to encouragecivicparticipation. Online participation:anonlineplatformdesigned Lord MayorofBonn,Germany ASHOK SRIDHARAN - young peopleandmarginalisedgroups. is thefocusofstrategy, especiallywithregards to sive approach totacklingurbanissues.Inclusiveness cilitates direct citizenparticipationandtakesaninclu- about planningandprojects inthecity, thisproject fa- By providing transparent informationtoallcitizens Bürgerbeteiligung inBonn
Building the European Capital of Democracy Best Practices | 85 Budapest Assembly Community Budapest – Közösségi Gyűlés the areas itwantstofocuson. climate strategybasedonthegoalssetbycityand politan MunicipalityofBudapestwilldevelopanew make sure theyfacilitateajusttransition.TheMetro- Climate changeaffectseveryone,socitieshaveto climate policy. Citizens selectprioritiesforBudapest’s new Lord MayorofBudapest GERGELY KARÁCSONY
dapest municipalcouncil)will adoptinOctober2020. climate strategywhichthe General Assembly(theBu- climate policy. Theseprioritieswill thenbepartofthe organisations –identifythecity’s prioritiesforitsnew who will–withthehelpofexpertsandcivilsociety 50 participantsfrom amongallregistered residents What shouldBudapestdo?”Aciviclotterywillselect sembly with the theme ‘There is a climate emergency – 10,000 randomly-selectedcitizenstoaClimateAs- then makeproposals tothemunicipality. Thecityinvited A communityassemblywilldiscusstheseissuesand
Building the European Capital of Democracy Best Practices | 87 Ideas Square Ideas Ferla Agorà – vote usingcoloured cards. events. Whendecisionsneedtobemade,participants street networktotheorganisationofcalendar issues relevant tothecommunity–from theurban square ofthetownwhere citizensare free todiscuss local community. Meetingsare scheduled inthemain oftheterritorywith brings togetherthegovernance citizens. Thisfun,newformofdemocraticparticipation Agorà –IdeasSquare’ atthesuggestionofvarious East Sicily, experimentedwithaninitiativetitled‘Ferla In 2014,theMunicipalityofFerla,atowninSouth- square. oftheirtownbymeetingonthemain governance Citizens takepartinthedemocraticprocess and Mayor ofFerla,Italy MICHELANGELO GIANSIRACUSA live streaming onFacebookwiththeMayor. the MunicipalityofFerlaanditscitizens,monthly formation servicetofacilitatecommunicationbetween This ledtothebirthof‘Filo’–adirect Whatsappin- have beenaddedtoreach theyoungerpopulation. munity assemblies,smartcommunicationmethods through votingandsharingideas.Inadditiontocom- pation byinvolvingcitizensdirectly inlocalgovernance ment ofcommunitydialogueanddemocraticpartici- The aimoftheproject istoencouragethedevelop-
Building the European Capital of Democracy Best Practices | 89 Girastorie reality withoutleavingtheirhomes. travel intheirimaginationsandfeelpartofabigger stories togetheronadigitalplatformhelpsthemto young peoplefrom different citiesinthe region. Creating telling withcommunicationandconnectschildren and The Girastorie(DigitalStories)project combinesstory- physical distancingmeasures. maintaining relationships withtheirfriendsdespite Italy initiatedaproject tohelpgirlsandboys to continue community ofFerraraintheEmiliaRomagnaregion of children andtoeasetheirlonelinessboredom, the effects ofisolation. To supporttheseyoungpeopleand or mother-child facilities,suffered thepsychological vulnerable groups, suchaschildren livinginfostercare posed great challengesforeverybody. Especially Lockdown measures duringtheCovid-19pandemic storytelling tact betweenchildren andyoungpeoplethrough Digital workshopstoenablevirtualsocialcon- Commune Ferrara ELENA BUCCOLIERO
Building the European Capital of Democracy Best Practices | 91 Frankfurt Frankfurt Convention 2019 Democracy resulting inconcrete recommendations foraction. Many different perspectivesandideaswere represented, citizens’ participationcouldbeimproved inFrankfurt. Frankfurt citizensmetforthree daystodiscusshow ent people.InFebruary2019,fiftyrandomlyselected co-shaping through theconsultationofmanydiffer reconceived aspractice–acreative process ofactive ienation from thepoliticalsystem.Democracyistobe of constructivelocaldebateandreduce feelingsofal- mutual exchange.Thepurposeistocreate aculture make politicalparticipationtangiblewithafocuson The aimoftheFrankfurtDemocracyConventionisto increase activeparticipationinlocaldemocracy. Bringing citizenstogethertodiscusshow Mayor ofFrankfurtamMain,Germany PETER FELDMANN
-
events where participantsare personallyinvited. different perspectives,incontrasttootherpolitical of selectionisintendedtobringtogetherpeoplewith low-income, migrantandhomelesspeople.Thistype groups ofunderrepresented citizens,suchasyoung, Democracy Conventionwere randomlyselectedfrom numbers, andone-third ofthe50participantsin en from alldistrictsofFrankfurtwere invitedinequal central tothedemocraticprocess. Menandwom- decision-making –citizensadvisepoliticiansandare possible toactivelyinvolvepeopleinlocalpolitical The firstDemocracyConventionshowedthatitis
Building the European Capital of Democracy Best Practices | 93 Open Gdansk Open ernment hasdemonstrablyimproved.ernment accomplished: thecitizens’confidenceincitygov - transport, investmentandtheenvironment. Mission available regarding cityfinances,demographics,public On otwartygdansk.plvariousrelevant datasetsare time becomeafine-tunedmechanism. countered alotofchallenges,butithasinthemean- programme. Thedevelopmentofthepolicyinitiallyen- for more transparency andimplementedanopendata itopted tween thecitizensandlocalgovernment, When thecityofGdanskneededtoincrease trustbe- ment anditspeople. - Open data:fosteringtrustbetweenacitygovern Former MayorofGdansk,Poland PAWEL ADAMOWICZ(1965-2019)
Building the European Capital of Democracy Best Practices | 95 Innovation Social and Design Youth for Centre Wymiennikownia – match theirneeds. Theprogramme ofworkshops people haveadjustedthecentre’s openinghours to Having takenovertheoperational management,young based ontheirownideasand theirplannedactivities. people were free todesign theinteriorofcentre events. Incooperationwithprofessionals, theyoung expanding thedistrictorcity’s offersthrough various to youngpeople,breaking usualconventionsaswell time ininteresting ways.Responsibilitiesare delegated provides thespaceandconditionsforspendingfree ideas, share hobbies,andcollaborateonprojects. It by localyoungpeople,tohelpthemimplementtheir centre istosupportbottom-upinitiativesundertaken The primarygoaloftheWymiennikownia(WM)youth on projects together. young peopletoshare ideas,hobbiesandwork Empowering localyouth:acentre designedfor Mayor ofGdynia,Poland WOJCIECH SZCZUREK
they acquire andexchangeskillsshare knowledge. sence oftheplace.Byrunning thecentre themselves, on whateventstoorganiseortakepartinisthees- is adaptedcontinuously. Independentdecision-making submitted byyoungandactivecitizensofGdynia, and eventsinWMisprepared basedontheprojects
Building the European Capital of Democracy Best Practices | 97 Council Groningen Cooperative racy (electedrepresentatives). democracy (activecitizens)withrepresentative democ- would notbepossiblewithoutconnectingparticipatory responsibility iscolouringthedialogueinawaythat sharing conversations havetakenapositiveturn; sit shoulder-to-shoulder ontheCooperativeCouncil, ous levels:bylettingresidents andcitycouncillors This project hasalready madeadifference atvari- goal wastorebuild trustbetweenpoliticiansandcitizens. Groningen, wasconceivedandrealised. Theprimary This iswhytheCooperativeCouncilinOosterpark, trust politics,norpoliticians,orevenotherpeople. As apolitician,onemeetsmanypeoplewhoneither possible toconnect,create, loveorgrow withouttrust. Trust isoneofthemostessentialvaluesinlife.Itim- democracy. connecting participatoryandrepresentative Building trustbetweenpeopleandpoliticsby City CouncillorGroningen, Netherlands WIEKE PAULUSMA
and indicatorsofatighter-knit community. collective riseinlevelsoftrust,increased voterturnout tored bytheUniversityofGroningen whichhasfounda randomly selected.TheCooperativeCouncilismoni- To encourageavarietyofpeopletojoin,citizenswere
Building the European Capital of Democracy Best Practices | 99 to Global Solutions Local Challenges they began. to makeadifference. Equippedwithashared vision, warming, butIididnothavetheresources orexpertise action. TheArctic isthearea mostaffectedbyglobal really changingtheworldandthattheyhadtotake the communityrealised thattheclimatecrisiswas Ii isasmalltowninthenorthofFinland.Back2012 climate changeinasmalltown. Creating aculture ofresponsibility regarding Mayor oftheCityIi ARI ALATOSSAVA Managing Director, Micropolis Ltd(basedinIi) LEENA VUOTOVESI
emissions by60%. ble tomakeadifference. Sofar, thetownofIihascut that theiractionshaveanimpactanditispossi- thatitmakessense tobeclimate-friendly,They learn electricity andreceive 50%ofthesavingstheymake. centres measure theirconsumptionofwater, heatand participating. Oneexample:Schoolsandday-care most enthusiastic.Everychildinthetownisnow outthatitwasthechildrenand itturned whowere The municipalitywelcomedeveryonetoparticipate
Building the European Capital of Democracy Best Practices | 101 Your Say Your Söz Senin – and wherever theychoose. outspoken thanever, theywishto beheard whenever zens interactwiththeirmunicipalityischanging.More In linewithtechnologicaldevelopments,thewayciti- user-friendly surveysonawiderangeoftopics. viapersonalisedand ent anddemocraticgovernance decision makingprocess, andenableopen,transpar tiative willbringIstanbul’s citizensintothepolicyand Istanbul Senin(IstanbulisYours) superapp.Theini- Municipality ofIstanbul’s comprehensive all-in-one citizen participation,whichwillbeembeddedinthe Söz SeninisanAIsupportedmobiledigitaltoolfor Mobile citizen-engagementplatform Smart CityDirector, Istanbul BURCU ÖZDEMIR Mayor ofIstanbul,Turkey EKREM İMAMOĞLU -
Building the European Capital of Democracy Best Practices | 103 Green Budget Green had tobeinapublicspace. proposed green area. The onlyrequirement wasthatit idea withanindicationoftheplaceandnature ofthe land developmentconceptorjustadescriptionofthe take theformoffullconstructiondocumentation,a the firstGreen Budget.Residents’applicationscould PLN 2millionwere allocatedfortheimplementationof new green areas ortherevitalisation ofexistingones. resident couldparticipatedirectly inthecreation of announced inLublin,Poland.Theideawasthatevery In 2016,thefirsteditionofGreen Budgetwas spaces throughout thecity. Lublin designedfortheallocationofnewgreen Civic participation:participatorybudgetingin Mayor ofLublin,Poland KRZYSZTOF ZUK for implementation. the city’s green spaces.24projects were putforward teria, projects hadtosignificantlyimprove thequalityof thematic. Apartfrom meetingpre-defined selectioncri- then subjectedtoatwo-stageevaluation:formaland applications foratotalofPLN16million,whichwere isations andhousingcooperativessubmitted107 residents, organ- districtcouncils,non-governmental As aresult ofthefirsteditionGreen Budget,the
Building the European Capital of Democracy Best Practices | 105 Crowdfunding Civic co-funding. awarded theremaining 50%bytheCityofMilanin collected 50%oftheirbudgetfrom donationswere the donationsfrom thecommunity. Theprojects that form infourrounds, eachlasting50days,togather Eighteen projects featured onthecrowdfunding plat- tion committee. through apubliccallandthenassessedbyanevalua- the secondphase,innovativeprojects were gathered was chosenthrough apublicprocurement tender. In impact. Inthefirstphase,acrowdfunding platform co-funding forprojects ofpublicinterest withasocial crowdfunding initiativebyallocatingEUR400,000as In 2016thecityofMilansupportedabottom-up inclusive andsustainable. crowdfunding initiativetomakeMilanmore Co-funding projects organised bycitizens: and HumanResources, MilanMunicipality, Italy Councillor forLabourPolicies,EconomicDevelopment,Commerce CRISTINA TAJANI
by promoting thedirect involvementofcitizens. aging thepoolingofpublicandprivateresources and ways offinancingprojects ofpublicinterest byencour been anopportunitytoexperimentwithinnovative crowdfunding platformforsuchmatch-funding.Ithas using a the firstcaseinItalyofalocalgovernment This civiccrowdfunding initiativeinMilanrepresents -
Building the European Capital of Democracy Best Practices | 107 your Voice your Your Vote their righttovote. on therightsofpeoplewithadisability, particularly and European electionsin2019,itwastimetofocus local Rights ofPeoplewithaDisabilityin2018.With following theratificationofUNConventionon as aprioritybyMonaghanCountyCouncilin2019, their righttovote.Your Vote Your Voice wasidentified in Ireland andhowanypersonover18canexercise and usesaclearlayout.Itexplainsthevotingprocess voting inIreland. TheguideiswritteninplainEnglish Your Vote Your Voice isaneasy-to-read guideto focus ontheneedsofdisabledvoters. easy-to-read guidetothevotingprocess, witha Monaghan CountyCouncilhasdevelopedan Councillor andCathaoirleachinMonaghanCountyCouncil,Ireland SEAMUS COYLE polling station. the ballotboxandsecret ballot;rulesinsidethe lot papers;supportforvoterswithvisualimpairments; and fillingoutaballotpaper;gettinghelptofill bal- day; accessibilityofpollingstations;thevotingprocess should; registering tovote;pollingcards andpolling place; theConstitution;whocanvoteandwhythey ment structures; typesofelectionsandvotesthattake - booklet. Theguideincludesinformationon:govern voting inIreland intooneeasy-to-read information This initiativehascollatedallinformationrelating to
Building the European Capital of Democracy Best Practices | 109 the Epidemic.the with Dealing Office. Safe CityBox Otwock – vative waystocontinuetheirservices. measures hadtofindinno - inplace,localgovernments During thecoronavirus crisis,withsocialdistancing services tocitizens. Digitally equippedcabinsprovide government Mayor ofOtwock,Poland JAROSŁAW MARGIELSKI cabin, itisdisinfectedbyirradiationwithUV-C rays. with therelevant clerk.Aftertheresident leavesthe multimedia equipmenttoenablevideoconferencing ments tothecityofficers.Additionally, thecityinstalled allows userstosecurely transferthenecessarydocu- certificate, deathcertificateoranIDcard. Thebox attend tourgentofficialmatterssuchasissuingabirth camera andmultifunctiondevicesoresidents can ated cabinsequippedwithacomputer, microphone, during thepandemicinsafeconditions.Thecitycre- CityBox Otwocktocontinuethecityoffice’s operation The PolishcityofOtwocklaunchedaninitiativecalled
Building the European Capital of Democracy Best Practices | 111 Budget Participatory Paris’ to beimplementedbytheCityofParis. 150,000 inhabitantstookpart,selecting219projects euros are allocatedtothisinitiative.In2016more than submitted byothercitizens.Everyyear, 100million has allowedcitizenstovoteforprojects designedand for itsfuture. Since2014,Paris’ParticipatoryBudget with residents providing ideasandmakingdecisions Hidalgo setouttomakethecitymore collaborative, A fewmonthsaftershewaselected,ParisMayorAnne posed byothercitizens. Have yoursay:citizensvoteforprojects pro- Mayor ofParis,France ANNE HIDALGO how thatmoneyisspent. aged toparticipateandchildren’s votesdetermining for youthandeducationprojects, withschoolsencour of thebudgetformostdeprivedareas aswell level. In2016thecitydecidedtoallocatefixedparts allocated toparticipatorybudgetingattheborough from thecity-widebudget,there isadditionalbudget and more than67,000peoplevotedonthem.Apart the residents ofParisproposed over5,000ideas, In thesecondyear, afterthelaunchofanewwebsite, -
Building the European Capital of Democracy Best Practices | 113 Republic Bill Republic of the Digital Drafting Transparentand Collaborative and theSenate. adopted unanimouslyboth bytheNationalAssembly even presented toParliament.Thebillwaseventually the DigitalRepublicBillbefore thelegislationwas new articles.90oftheproposals madetheirwayinto on thetext,suggestedamendmentsandproposed online consultation.21,330contributorscommented in anopen,transparent andinteractivethree-week Europe toinitiateabillthatwasco-draftedbycitizens of France wasthefirstin The nationalgovernment drafting abill. New waysoflawmaking:citizenstakepartin of InnovationandDigitalAffairs Former FrenchMinisterincharge Government AXELLE LEMAIRE
civic projects. launched asaprivateinitiative tosupporttech-based periment, anincubatorfor democratic innovationswas accessasauniversalright.Followingthisex- internet for companies,protects onlineprivacy, andpromotes sures equalrightsforconsumersandfaircompetition to andthedisseminationofdataknowledge,en- The billhasnowbeenimplemented;itwidensaccess abouttheprocessto learn ofdraftingabillinreal-time. experience, especiallyyoungpeople,whowere able The participantsreported great satisfactionwiththeir
Building the European Capital of Democracy Best Practices | 115 Změňte.to and evaluatelocalservices. also havetheopportunitytogivepositivefeedback can makesure theproblem getsfixedquickly. People street lightorplantsthatneedwatering,municipalstaff know aboutit.Whetheritisvandalisedbench,afaulty or lightsinthecitycaneasilyletlocalauthorities transport, roads andsidewalks,cleaninggreenery, Anyone whonoticesaproblem todowithpublic ipate intheprocess ofmakingtheircityabetterplace. The Změnte.to project allows citizens to actively partic- procedures oftheircity. of Praguetoparticipateinthedecision-making Mobile applicationsandwebsiteenablingcitizens Lord MayorofPrague ZDENĚK HŘIB
Building the European Capital of Democracy Best Practices | 117 Junges Wien Junges Werkstadt adopted by the Vienna CityCouncil. adopted bytheVienna 2020, theStrategywith193specificmeasures was ments contributedtoachievingthesegoals.InJune of theninetopics.Allcity’s municipaldepart- setonefundamentalgoal foreachStrategy forVienna Based onthisinput,theresulting Children andYouth the agenda. to othersimilarprojects –theywere trulyfree toset werein Vienna invitedtoparticipateand–incontrast children andyoungpeople.All4to19-year-olds living basedontheexpertiseofyouth strategyforVienna aimedtocreate across-sectoralWien children and investing forfuture generations.Werkstadt Junges guarding socialfreedom and forallcitizensofVienna placesgreatThe cityofVienna importanceonsafe- Co-Creating Vienna’s Children andYouth Strategy Project lead:BettinaSchwarzmayr Integration, Youth andPersonnel Executive CityCouncillorforEducation, JÜRGEN CZERNOHORSZKY
Building the European Capital of Democracy Best Practices | 119 You Vote You Learn Before put aquestion tothecandidates. between citizensandpoliticians, allowinganyoneto ed apubliconlineplatform fordirect communication Network volunteersdeveloped, maintainedandupdat- on socialmedia. the eventsand260,000peoplewatcheddebates candidates. Intotal,over12,000peopleparticipated in organised in57municipalities(outof60)withmayoral elections inFebruary-March 2019,84debateswere ty ofpoliticianstothisgroup ofvoters.Duringthelocal more youthparticipationwillincrease theaccountabili- their activeandinformedparticipation.Theideaisthat in local,nationalandEuropean politicsandencourage This project aimstofostertheinterest ofyoungpeople knowledge ofyoungpeopleinLithuania. Increasing thepoliticalengagementand Coordinator DIRZINSKAITE AUSRINE Farmers andGreens Union ofLithuanian SINKEVICIUS VIRGINIJUS
Coordinator VAITIEKUTE GOUDA Initiator AKROMIENE JUDITA
communities. political lifewhoare now‘ambassadors’intheirlocal into asocialmovement,involvingyoungpeoplein decision. Launchedin2014,theinitiativehasevolved as wellhowtomakeaninformedandwell-founded peers regarding theimportanceofyouthparticipation, educational activitiestoraiseawareness amongsttheir young volunteersalsoconductedaround 60interactive platform whichattracted20,000uniquevisitors.The There were 1,400questionsputtopoliticiansonthe
Building the European Capital of Democracy Best Practices | 121 Who WeWho Are ing andimplementingtomorrow’s politics,today. across borders andpartylinesbyidentifying,develop- It istheinstitute’s missiontoimprove democracy Sweden, SwitzerlandandtheUnitedKingdom. Greece, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania,Poland,Slovakia, Austria, Belgium,Bulgaria,Finland,France,Germany, has representations in15European countries: group ofprivateentrepreneurs. TheInstitutecurrently organisationfoundedin2016bya non-governmental The InnovationinPoliticsInstituteisanon-partisan, a long-termcommitmenttoimplementingtheinitiative. professional managementofthepreliminary stageand Institute Germany. Thesetwoorganisationsensure andTheInnovationinPoliticsitics InstituteinVienna, established andisoperatedbyTheInnovationinPol- The European CapitalofDemocracyinitiativewas Organisation
Ronny Zuckermann Josef Zehetner, UtaZeuge-Buberl,ElkeZuckermann, Tometschek, MarieWutzler, Katharina Zangerl, Riley Thorold, GalynaTkachenko,Franziska Martin Slater, RomanSnehotta,NicolasStühlinger, Dimitris Roulias,RobertSchafleitner, PaulM.Sills, Joan O’Flynn,DorinaOfrim,LisaPelling,AlpoRäinä, Al Mahmoud,LenaMorozova-Friha, JamesMorisson, Lentsch, MagdalenaLindorfer, GiaPhuLiu,Sulaiman JuliaKozak,ManuelaKräuter,Nadine Korn, Josef Amadea Horvath,PatriciaKahane,MoritzKitter, Nicola Gold, LukasGraf,AndréHeller, DanielHeller, Jürgen H.Gangoly, DunjaGanser, LauraGiesen, Helfried Carl,MathisDippon,AlexanderDourchev, Benedigová, MałgorzataBonikowska,StephenBoucher, Dalia Bankauskaitè,ElisabethBartovics,Michaela The InnovationinPoliticsInstitute
Building the European Capital of Democracy 123 and theUnitedKingdom. Lithuania, Poland,Slovakia,Sweden,Switzerland, Finland, France,Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, in 15European countries:Austria,Belgium,Bulgaria, the Institutehasofficesandpartnerorganisations past fouryearsandiscontinuingtogrow. Currently, Our Europe-wide Networkhasgrown quicklyoverthe Our Europe-wide Network
Building the European Capital of Democracy 125 Nicola Gold,DunjaGanser, LauraGiesen,RobertSchafleitner, PaulM.Sills, Editorial Team Edward Strasser Chief ExecutiveOfficer The InnovationinPoliticsInstituteGmbH,September2020 Media OwnerandPublisher Registration numberatcommercial register FN461215h ofVienna: Web: innovationinpolitics.eu Mail: [email protected] Phone: +436606543027 Austria Ungargasse 59-61,1030Vienna, The InnovationinPoliticsInstitute Imprint Printers: 08/16Print Production Graphic Design: Harald Ströbel,www.derstroebel.at Proofreading &Translation: Tom Challenger&Tom Crawley/FoxCoffey Katharina Zangerl,UtaZeuge-Buberl mann; LechWałęsa: ©UNPhoto/PauloFilgueiras; ThomasWeninger: ©Lichtstark.com © LennyOosterwijk; ErionVeliaj: Gerdi A. Verbeet: ©Municipality ofTirana; ©RogierVeld - © RSA;Andreas Treichl: ©JakobPolacsek; MatúšVallo: ©MatúšBence;DavidVan Reybrouk: Dirk Stermann: © GeraldvonForis; Dubravka Šuica:©European Union, 2020; Riley Thorold: © MaisonDel’Alsace;RosenPlevneliev ©ccby2.5;JohannaSeppälä:SuvituuliKankaanpää; Pungovschi, DeiricO’Broin: ©Pobal;Wolfgang Petritsch:©MichaelMazohl;EtiennePflimlin: Ofrim: ©AlissarNajjar;Proschat Madani:©MirjamKnickriem, PhilippeNarval:©Andrei SulaimanAlMahmoud,LenaMorozova-Friha, Dorinaund InformationsdienstderStadtWien; Lemaire: ©GéraldineAresteanu; MarkusLewe:©CityofMünster;MichaelLudwig:Presse- © European CouncilonForeign Relations;GergelyKarácsony:©BenceJadrany;Axelle Hvorecký: ©NoraaJakub;EkremJosefJanning: İmamoğlu:©OykuDialogueInternational; Consulting Ltd;AmadeaHorvath:©DanielNovotny;Michal Stöckl; DanielHeller:©Farner IanEhm;AndréHeller:©Suzy Gold: ©NataschaUnkart;MichaelHäupl:StadtWien/PID, Fischer: ©FederalMinistryofDefence;UlrichFuchs:Linz09;UlrikeGuérot: ©DED;Nicola Heinz ©IngoPertramer; PeterFeldmann:©FrankWidmann; Jürgen Czernohorszky: Benedigová: ©SEESAME;MarijaPejčinovićBurić:CouncilofEu rope/Sandro Weltin; © Act.NowJaquelineGodany, KostasBayokannis:©LeonidasMichelopoulos;Michaela Elisabeth Bartovics:©SebastianPhilipp;AnaRafaelaBatista,Edoardo Caroli, EminPecanin: Photo Credits
Building the European Capital of Democracy 127