European Observatory for the Defence of Democracy at the Local Level
Protecting democracy at the local level
Across Europe, online harassment, disinformation, and, even, physical violence are increasingly threatening democracy, with a particularly strong impact at the local level.
The European Observatory for the Defence of Democracy at the Local Level seeks to strengthen local communities by protecting the quality of democracy and its values.
The Observatory works to raise awareness of this growing challenge by generating reliable data and evidence, sharing best practices in good governance, promoting coordinated institutional action, and fostering collaboration among local and regional elected representatives.
The Observatory is a partnership between the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR), Bocconi University, the Municipality of Bilbao, the Association of Basque Municipalities (EUDEL), with the support of the Basque Government.
Why democracy is being challenged
- Local leaders are the level of government closest to citizens.
- Harassment and violence are increasingly forcing local representatives to resign or step back from public service.
- When mayors and councillors are threatened, trust in democracy is.
By focusing on local and regional leaders, the Observatory addresses the frontline of democracy, helping ensure that Europe’s democratic institutions remain resilient from the ground up.
The Observatory contributes directly to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly:
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Goal 16
Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels.
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Goal 17
Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalise the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development.
Objectives
The Observatory works through research, advocacy, and peer support to:
- Monitor and analyse threats against local and regional democracy.
- Identify root causes and emerging trends (social media, organised crime, polarisation).
- Collect and share effective responses developed by local governments.
- Produce evidence-based insights to guide European and national policymaking.
- Highlight the value of local political engagement and public service.
- Offer safe spaces for solidarity, exchange, and mutual learning.
- Develop preventative tools for governments, parties, and institutions.
Partners
Contact us
REVAULT Martin
Attaché
to the Secretary General
