The war in Ukraine shows that our democracy shouldn’t be taken for granted. The European Capital of Democracy initiative is working together with citizens and politicians all over Europe to celebrate, to strengthen and to secure our democratic future.
Your city has a crucial role to play and can apply to become the first ever European Capital of Democracy!
We are very grateful if other organisations and stakeholders can help spread the word about the European Capital of Democracy to encourage applications from cities. If you are interested in supporting us or collaborating, please get in touch with us at office@capitalofdemocracy.eu
Applications for the European Capital of Democracy are now open: we are inviting cities, located within a Council of Europe member state enjoying full rights of representation and with a population of over 100,000 inhabitants, to apply.
Admitted Cities will then have the chance to be the very first European Capital of Democracy which will be selected by 10,000 European citizens. Your City will be at the centre of Europe’s discourse on the future of democracy, hosting a Programme Year full of exciting events, festivals and activities.
With your application, your City becomes a member of the European Capital of Democracy City Network, strengthening democracy all over Europe.
A city selected as the European Capital of Democracy will enjoy a wide range of benefits, such as an enhanced international reputation as a centre of education and innovation, the opportunity to host international events and meetings of leading European politicians, and of course a boost to civic pride. International media coverage will focus on democratic best practice. The mayors of all Member Cities will present their most successful Democracy Projects during the European Capital of Democracy Programme Year.
