Local and regional authorities are the level of government closest to the citizens.

They are tasked with the implementation of the majority of laws and they know best how to address the reality on the ground.

They have the unique position and responsibility to bridge the gap between the EU and the people.

 This conference will serve to take stock of the current situation when it comes to building trust in and legitimacy of the European project.

The conference also marks the public kick-off for training the next generation of EU leaders in effectively engaging citizens and representing their interests.

Following the success of the Winter School 2024, the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) is facilitating the training of Young Elected Politicians (YEP) on citizen engagement and outreach methods.

Throughout the three-day course, members of the YEP programme will have a chance to engage with EU institutions and stakeholders in order to acquire important skills and knowledge for their role as locally and regionally elected representatives.

The conference aims to: Examine the role of Local and Regional Authorities in strengthening democratic legitimacy Explore challenges and opportunities when it comes to effective citizen engagement Facilitate good practice exchange in reinforcing democracy  For more details please consult the draft agenda below.

  Registrations are open until 7 March 2025, end of business.

Please note that registration is compulsory to access the building for anyone who doesn't have an EU badge.

  We look forward to welcoming you in the audience!  This hybrid event will take place in-person at the CoR in Brussels (room JDE52, Jacques Delors building, Rue Belliard 99-101, 1040 Brussels) and online.

Interpretation will be provided in English, French, Italian and German.