European Conference on “Good Democratic Governance: The New Standard for Member States of the Council of Europe” gathered almost 100 representatives of regional, national and local authorities and other relevant local stakeholders in the Italian Friuli Venezia Giulia (FVG) region, and offered a unique platform to discuss the recently adopted Council of Europe Recommendation CM/Rec(2023)5 on principles of good democratic governance.
In an important moment for the Friuli Venezia Giulia region and its municipalities, the Centre of Expertise for Good Governance of the Council of Europe supported the Italian Association for the European Council of Municipalities and Regions (AICCRE) FVG in cooperation with the Institute of International Sociology Gorizia (ISIG) in bringing together stakeholders to discuss, disseminate and address the issues raised by the new Council of Europe recommendation.
Claudia Luciani, Director of Human Dignity, Equality, and Governance of the Council of Europe, highlighted how the new standard offers a tremendous opportunity for dialogue and collaboration, not only strengthening coherence in multi-level governance, but also enabling member states to share best practices and common challenges.
In moderating the event, Daniele Del Bianco, Director of ISIG, raised the question of the significance of discussing good democratic governance at a time marked by many local and international concerns. Although from different perspectives, all the speakers came to the same conclusion that it is not only important to discuss it, but it is crucial to encourage the practical implementation of the 12 principles in public administration at all levels. Furthermore, they highlighted the importance of shared efforts and committed to promote synergies.
Pierluigi Trombetta, Diplomatic Adviser to the Minister for Regional Affairs and Autonomy at the Presidency of the Council of Ministers and member of the European Committee for Democracy and Governance, highlighted the national-level implications of the Council of Europe’s recommendation. He emphasised that these broad principles are, in fact, concrete guidelines for governmental action. Mr Trombetta stressed the importance of implementing these principles in national policy-making and administration to effectively implement good democratic governance.
Milena Bertani, President of AICCRE Italy, highlighted the critical need to integrate sustainability as a tangible goal in local and national policies. This approach reflects a comprehensive view of sustainability encompassing economic, social, and governance dimensions.
Franco Brussa, Deputy-President of AICCRE Italy and President of the Friuli Venezia Giulia AICCRE Federation, stressed the importance of leadership training as a key component for effective democratic governance at the local level.
The event concluded with the delivery of certificates to the local authorities who participated in the Leadership Academy Programme, symbolising a practical step towards enhancing democratic governance at local levels.
