Why Local Democracy Matters for a More Prosperous World

Democracy is about far more than elections. It is a system of institutions, norms and practices that enable citizens to shape government, hold public officials accountable and ensure that government works in service of the people. At its best, democracy protects the rule of law, limits the abuse of power and creates conditions in which communities and individuals can flourish.

This is particularly important at the local and regional level. Local and regional governments (LRGs) are where people most directly experience government – through the services they rely on, the infrastructure they use and the decisions that shape their everyday lives. Local decisions profoundly affect people’s everyday well-being and opportunities.

When citizens have meaningful mechanisms to influence government and hold leaders accountable, governments have stronger incentives to be transparent, responsive and attentive to community needs. Elections, courts, rules-based institutions and accountability mechanisms can help prevent poor performance, misuse of authority and diversion of public resources from going unchecked.

Democratic local governance is therefore not only an ethical foundation for liberty and justice; it is also a practical architecture for delivering better outcomes. Effective local institutions can support better public services, inclusive local economic development, resilience and stronger social cohesion.

Date: 28 September 2026
Time: 16:00 – 17:00 CEST
Location: Online