ECLD

ECLD stands for European Council of Local and Regional Authorities. It is a network of local and regional authorities from across Europe, representing over 30,000 municipalities and regions. The primary goal of ECLD is to promote cooperation and exchange of best practices among local authorities to enhance the quality of life and sustainable development in their communities.

The organization was established in 1985 and is headquartered in Brussels, Belgium. ECLD operates on a voluntary basis, with members contributing to its activities through their own resources. It covers a wide range of policy areas, including urban planning, environmental protection, public health, and social inclusion.

ECLD facilitates dialogue and cooperation between local authorities and other stakeholders, such as national governments, the European Union, and international organizations. It organizes conferences, workshops, and study visits to share knowledge and experiences among its members. Additionally, ECLD publishes reports and guidelines on various topics relevant to local authorities, aiming to support their decision-making processes.

The network is open to local and regional authorities from all European countries, as well as from countries in the Western Balkans and Turkey. ECLD's work is guided by its Charter of Local Self-Government, which emphasizes the principles of subsidiarity, proportionality, and good governance. The organization also engages in advocacy efforts to promote the role of local authorities at the European and international levels.