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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 11/03/2026

Ankara 🇹🇷, Brussels 🇧🇪 and Denizli 🇹🇷 have been shortlisted for the title of European Capital of Democracy 2027. The three cities were selected by the Experts’ Jury for their innovative approaches to citizen participation, local governance and democratic innovation

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 06/03/2026

During the ceremony, the European Capital of Democracy trophy 🏆 was handed over to the municipality. Mayor Nuno Piteira Lopes emphasised: “This award is not mine – it belongs to the citizens of Cascais. This trophy is a commitment to the future of Cascais.”

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 06/03/2026

Today, Cascais officially launched its year as European Capital of Democracy 2026 🇪🇺 More than 200 guests gathered at the Casa das Histórias Paula Rego to celebrate the beginning of Cascais’ Democracy Year – a year dedicated to democratic innovation, civic participation and international exchange.

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 23/02/2026

ECoD goes Brussels 🇪🇺 Last week, Tijana Zherajikj and Helfried Carl were in Brussels to meet with representatives of the European Commission and explore how we can further strengthen democratic innovation across Europe.

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 22/02/2026

In Tirana, the Experts’ Jury examined how democratic innovation moves beyond concepts — into real institutional practice on the ground. 📍 Tirana is one of four longlisted cities competing for the title European Capital of Democracy 2027.

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 22/02/2026

🇦🇱 Tirana welcomed members of our Experts’ Jury as part of the ECoD 2027 evaluation process. The Jury met with city leadership, representatives of governing and opposition parties, academic experts and civil society actors to assess how participation is translated into concrete policies.

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 19/02/2026

In Denizli, the Experts’ Jury explored projects translating democratic principles into everyday public services — from inclusive urban planning and child development centres to barrier-free infrastructure and participatory mobility.

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 19/02/2026

🇹🇷 Members of our Experts’ Jury visited Denizli to exchange with the Mayor, city representatives, councillors from governing and opposition parties, and civil society organisations. These city visits are key to assessing democratic innovation on the ground — beyond concepts, towards real impact.

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 06/02/2026

🏆 The Innovation in Politics Awards 2026 are open for submissions! Do you know a political project that’s making a real difference in Europe? Or are you working on one yourself?

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 05/02/2026

📍 City visits allow us to see democratic practices in action, ask critical questions and better understand how participation works on the local level.

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 05/02/2026

🏙️ As part of the European Capital of Democracy selection process, members of the our Experts' Jury spent a full day in #Brussels meeting 🏛️ city representatives, 🤝 governing & opposition councillors, 🌱 civil society organisations and 🧩 project owners.

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 04/02/2026

Our Experts’ Jury visited Ankara to assess democratic projects and practices on the ground. They met with the Mayor, city representatives, opposition councillors, civil society organisations and youth initiatives.

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 29/01/2026

After a highly successful Democracy Year in Vienna, Cascais is taking over the title of European Capital of Democracy in 2026. At the same time these four cities are competing for European Capital of Democracy 2027.

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 19/11/2025

“Cities are laboratories for democratic futures.” ECoD founder @helfriedcarl.bsky.social shared this thought at the press briefing – and we couldn’t agree more. 📹 Watch the interview: www.meinbezirk.at/wien/c-polit... Thanks to everyone who helped shape this year. Cascais, it’s your turn 🇵🇹

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 12/10/2025

🌿 Join us Monday, 13 Oct (10:30–12:00 CEST) for our EURegionsWeek webinar “Cities for Green Transition.” Featuring the Cities of Brussels & Vienna — exploring how communities drive local climate action. 🔗 Register now: capitalofdemocracy.eu/ecn-webinar/

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 28/09/2025

The jury is testing games right now 👀 Exciting ideas coming to life at #TruthLiesDemocracy

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 27/09/2025

Day 2 of the #TruthLiesDemocracy Game Jam: Teams are building their games, with mentors guiding the way. Tomorrow: the big finale! #TLD25

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 22/07/2025

Ready to shape the future of democracy through gaming? Join Truth, Lies & Democracy — our international Game Jam tackling disinformation and democratic resilience. Here’s how to apply in just 3 easy steps. capitalofdemocracy.eu/truth-lies-d...

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 17/07/2025

In a room full of diplomatic representatives, experts and international delegates, he spoke about what we see every day in our work: Democratic innovation is alive – and often, it begins with cities.

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 17/07/2025

OSCE meets ECoD. Our founder @helfriedcarl.bsky.social had the honour of presenting the European Capital of Democracy at the OSCE’s first thematic meeting on Smart & Resilient Cities.

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 01/07/2025

“I’m tired. Not of the Stadtfest – but of the constant stream of alarming, fear-driven news flooding our timelines every day.” Instead of resignation, Helfried Carl proposed Zuversicht at Salzburger Stadtfest I 📸 : Stadt Salzburg

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 25/06/2025

A classroom full of questions. Five hands-on stations. One day dedicated to democracy. Together with Foster Europe, we brought civic learning to Neusiedl am See — from fake news to AI to role-playing democratic decisions.

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 24/06/2025

A full team day in #Bratislava → Boat ride across borders → Visit to the Austrian Embassy → Talks on Slovakia’s political landscape → Art, sunlight, and excellent broccoli soup Our founder once served as ambassador here – so this trip was more than symbolic.

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 09/06/2025

Last chance to sign up for our last European City Network Webinar before our summer break! 📅 Tuesday, 10 June ⏰ 10:30–12:00 CEST Register now: capitalofdemocracy.eu/ecn-webinars/

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 26/05/2025

📣 Join our webinar “Cities Learn: Impact Garden Framework” on 10 June from 10:30 to 12:00 CEST, featuring Unity Effect and insights from the City of Barcelona and City of Vienna. Learn more and register now: capitalofdemocracy.eu/ecn-webinars/

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 12/05/2025

The next European City Network webinar is coming up. 📣 Cities Learn: Data Feminism Hosted by the City of Bologna with guest expert Giulia Sudano Learn more and register now! capitalofdemocracy.eu/ecn-webinars/

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 02/05/2025

Have you seen our Agenda for the ACT NOW Mayors' Conference, "Just Transition: Local Action for a Sustainable Future," in Vienna? If not, now is your chance to discover what we have planned for you! 🌱🌍 Find the full programme here: event.innovationinpolitics.eu/ANMC2025#/ag...

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 29/04/2025

Last chance to join our "Cities Teach: Diversity & Inclusion" Webinar with experts and practitioners who are making inclusion work on the ground from 🇮🇹 Bologna, 🇧🇪 Antwerp and 🇳🇱 Rotterdam. 📅 30 April, 10:30 CEST 📍 Online 🔗 Learn more & register here: capitalofdemocracy.eu/ecn-webinar/

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 25/04/2025

Discover the speakers and voices shaping the ACT NOW Mayors‘ Conference, „Just Transition: Local Action for a Sustainable Future,“ on May 5-6 in Vienna. 📣 The climate emergency and biodiversity loss require urgent solutions. 🌿 More info: connecthub.zohobackstage.eu/ANMC2025#/

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 24/04/2025

What are the challenges and opportunities for creating diverse and inclusive cities? 👩🏼‍🔧 👨🏻‍🦽🧕🏾 👨🏻‍🌾 We’d love to hear your opinions—please share your thoughts in the comments section! You can register here: capitalofdemocracy.eu/ecn-webinar/

Webinar
Cities Teach: Diversity and Inclusion

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 15/04/2025

Explore the inspiring speakers, local leaders, and expert voices shaping the ACT NOW Mayors' Conference, "Just Transition: Local Action for a Sustainable Future," on May 5-6 in Vienna. 🌿

Mathieu Mori has more than 15 years of experience in political organisations and European institutions. He was elected in 2022 as Secretary General of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the
Council of Europe.

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 14/04/2025

Have you heard about our next webinar? Be part of our European City Network webinar, "Cities Teach: Diversity and Inclusion," on Wednesday, April 30, from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM CEST. Discover more about our outstanding speakers! 📣 Register here: capitalofdemocracy.eu/ecn-webinar/

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 08/04/2025

Find out more about the speakers, local leaders and experts who are shaping the ACT NOW Mayors' Conference 2025 "Just Transition: Local Action for a Sustainable Future" on 5-6 May in Vienna! 🌱

Anacláudia Rossbach is the Executive Director of UN-Habitat

Anacláudia Rossbach is the Executive Director of UN-Habitat, bringing over 20 years of expertise in housing, informal settlements, and urban policy to her impactful role.

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 07/04/2025

Would you like to learn more about diversity and inclusion? 📚 Join us for the ECN webinar, "Cities Teach: Diversity and Inclusion," on Wednesday, April 30, from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM CEST. You can register now for the webinar to gain valuable perspectives: capitalofdemocracy.eu/ecn-webinars/

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 31/03/2025

Meet the speakers, local leaders and experts shaping the ACT NOW Mayors' Conference "Just Transition: Local Action for a Sustainable Future" on 5-6 May in Vienna! 🌱

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 26/03/2025

We stand with the appeal by International Civil Society in Support of Serbian Academia and Civil Society Actors condemning the violence during the student-led protests in Belgrade that injured peaceful demonstrators, including activists and students. Sign here: form.jotform.com/250782916068...

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 24/03/2025

Have you heard about our upcoming webinar? If not, now is your last chance to register for tomorrow's European City Network webinar titled "Cities Teach: Inclusive Social City Development." 📣 You can sign up by using the link here: capitalofdemocracy.eu/ecn-webinar/ We are already happy to See you

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 21/03/2025

Spring is on its way, and you can feel it in the air. March brings an amazing programme to the European Capital of Democracy in Vienna. Have you attended any events this month? Explore incredible cultural and community events that highlight the lively nature of this city. 🌷

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 20/03/2025

Just Transition: Local Action for a Sustainable Future 🌍 Climate emergency and biodiversity loss are defining challenges of our time, demanding bold leadership and innovative solutions. 🌱 🗓️ 5-6 May 2025 📍 Vienna City Hall Register Now: connecthub.zohobackstage.eu/ANMC2025#/re...

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 18/03/2025

Fantastic News! Citizens elect Cascais as European Capital of Democracy 2026. Felicitações Cascais! 🌊 You can read the press release here: capitalofdemocracy.eu/citizens-sel...

Cascais is the European Capital of Democracy 2026

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 17/03/2025

Be part of the European City Network Webinar, "Cities Teach: Inclusive Social City Development," on Tuesday, March 25, from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM CET. 📣 We are delighted to introduce the inspiring speakers for our upcoming webinar! You can sign up here: capitalofdemocracy.eu/ecn-webinar/

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 13/03/2025

What’s the mission of the ACT NOW Mayors' Conference? 📣 Be a part of the ACT NOW Mayors’ Conference 2025 on May 5-6 at Vienna City Hall as we explore Just Transition: Local Action for a Sustainable Future. 🌱 Pre-register now to secure your spot: actnow.capitalofdemocracy.eu/conference-25/

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 11/03/2025

Join us for the European City Network webinar, "Cities Teach: Inclusive Social City Development," on Tuesday, March 25, from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM CET. This webinar is hosted by the City of Cascais with contributions from the City of Kraków. You can sign up here: capitalofdemocracy.eu/ecn-webinar/

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 27/02/2025

⏳ Time is running out - Today is your last chance to join the European Capital of Democracy Citizens’ Jury! Apply by February 28 to become a juror and have your say in shaping democracy, gain free trainings, and be part of a Europe-wide community. Apply Now: capitalofdemocracy.eu/join-us-as-a...

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 26/02/2025

Who do you want to stand alongside in the fight for a just world? Tag a friend so you can inspire each other to create meaningful change together! 🌎 You must register by 28 February to participate in this year’s vote! 🗳️

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 24/02/2025

Here are 5 reasons to join the jury, with testimonials from past jurors Maarja-Leena Saar and Athanasios Koutoupas. Apply now! capitalofdemocracy.eu/join-us-as-a...

5 reasons you should join the citizens jury

1. Help recognise impactful political iniatives across europe

2.Be part of a diverse group of 1000+ citizens to evaluate projects based on their innovation and impact

3. Engage in a rewarding experience that many jurors find truly inspiring

4. Receive a printed certification in recognition of your participation

5. Enter a raffle and win a ticket to the awards Finals

I joined the jury driven by my commitment to mainstreaming democratic innovation and civic participation.

It is truly rewarding to be part of the process that highlights the efforts of changemakers who address complex challanges with bold and creative solutions.

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 21/02/2025

“Stay united with Ukraine”, was the message of Mayor of Kyiv, Vitali Klitschko. He received the Mayor Paweł Adamowicz Award for courage and excellence in the promotion of freedom, solidarity and equality at the Committee of the Regions yesterday in Brussels.

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 17/02/2025

Which city will be the European Capital of Democracy #ECoD 2026? #Cascais, #Rotterdam, and #Sofia have been shortlisted for their outstanding commitment to participation and democracy! Now, it’s up to the Citizens' Jury to decide which city best represents democratic values.

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 11/02/2025

During our visit to Rotterdam, we discovered a vibrant city known for its cultural diversity. 🇳🇱 Rotterdam symbolizes a sense of community and sustainability. This spirit of participation and cooperation is the foundation we strive for. 🌷

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European Capital Of Democracy @capitalofdemocracy.eu · 06/02/2025

Our city visits took us to Cascais, a vibrant destination known for its warm hospitality and rich cultural diversity. 🇵🇹

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