European Capital of Democracy
Democracy in action, city by city
The European Capital of Democracy (ECoD) is a non-profit organisation established by The Innovation in Politics Institute, dedicated to strengthening democratic governance and social cohesion across Europe. Under the patronage of European Commission Vice-President Dubravka Šuica and the auspices of the Council of Europe, ECoD empowers citizens and cities to lead democratic innovation. Each year, over 4,500 citizens from the 47 Council of Europe member states select a city to serve as the Capital of Democracy. Through this unique platform, ECoD brings citizens, local authorities, and civil society together to reimagine and revitalize democracy across Europe.
Impact highlights
Engaged over 4,500 Citizen Jurors from over 47 countries
Selected 3 European Capitals of Democracy: Barcelona, Vienna, Cascais
Best practice platform of 200+ curated democracy projects
Organised 20+ webinars with 1,500 citizens and 10+ physical European City Network meetings
Key Activities
Annual selection of the next European Capital of Democracy chosen by a Citizens’ Jury
Year-long Democracy Year Programme of civic events in the title-holding cities
Flagship Events: ACT NOW Mayors’ Conference, The Innovation in Politics Awards, ACT NOW Mayors’ Conference, The Innovation in Politics Awards
Innovative Formats: Art of Democracy; Truth, Lies & Democracy fake news game jam
European City Network of 24 cities from 15 European countries sharing best practices
Scientific & education projects with European Partners: Democracy & You, SCALEDEM, Democratic Odyssey
ECoD x ScaleDem: Scaling Democratic Innovation Across Europe
ScaleDem is a Horizon Europe project focused on transforming successful democratic innovations into scalable, real-world solutions. As a consortium member, the European Capital of Democracy (ECoD) contributes its strong network of cities and practical experience in identifying and promoting democratic innovation. ECoD leads on communication, dissemination, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring that proven solutions reach communities across Europe and help strengthen democratic participation.
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We are proud that our network of best practice exchange among cities is having real impact for their citizens. At the same time, the winning cities’ Democracy Years become ever more abundant when it comes to local and European Democracy initiatives driven by Europe’s citizens.
Helfried Carl
Founder of European Capital of Democracy