Gharb Local Council in collaboration with the Genista Research Foundation recently organised an international conference at the Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz on the topic of local democracy- citizen participation.

During the conference, which was attended by mayors, governors and civil society representatives from 8 different countries, they addressed issues on how to instigate more active citizenship and civic participation in the management of municipalities locals.

After the welcome speech of Gharb Mayor David Apap Agius, who also celebrated his 25th anniversary as Gharb Mayor, Dr Samuel Azzopardi, President of the Gozo Regional Council, spoke about the initiatives taken by the Regional Council bringing together the councils and the NGOs to work together in Gozo.

The President of the Local Councils’ Association, Mario Fava, illustrated how the Association represents a bridge between municipalities, Councillors and citizens through its different initiatives.

They were followed by a presentation on how to bridge the gap between citizens and politicians (opportunities) – by His Excellency Ambassador Dr Mark Causon. Joe Muscat of the Gozo Tourism Association, who spoke about the challenges of tourism in Gozo and the realities and impacts experienced during the Covid pandemic.

Daniel Borg, CEO of the Gozo Business Chamber provided an overview of the industry in Gozo and the challenges faced by island societies and small marginal islands. Dr Alex Borg, the opposition spokesperson for Gozo explained the vision of Gozo.

Local Authority – Director Mrs. Marisa Pisani provided an overview of the strategy and implementation of policies in the municipalities that will celebrate the 30th anniversary of the local council legislation.

Local government and democracy have been confronted by President Emeritus Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca, who stressed the need for children’s human rights, how children’s participation helps in the development of children and is an example of effective democracy that encourages thought.

The role of local government in Malta was addressed by Parliamentary Secretary for Local Government, Alison Zerafa Civelli, who spoke about the enormous potential of local councils and their importance in society.

Gozo Minister Clint Camilleri, reflected on how the central government and local councils help to further improve the lives of citizens by reflecting on the specific needs of citizens.

During the conference, speeches and sharing of best practices were provided by the visiting Governor of Turkey’s Efeler District, Cemal Sahin; Bulgarian Mayor Svillen Shitov; President of Burgio Vit Municipal Council; Sal Polo dei Cavallieri commune; the Romanian, Lithuanian, Greek, Polish delegation, Serbian and from the Niscemi Municipality.

At the end of the conference a twinning agreement was concluded with the municipality of Devna Bulgaria and an initiative was launched with the Governorate of Efeler District in Turkey with Governor Cemal èahin

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