Introduting DeCiDE: "Boost Democratic Participation in Cities to Recharge Democracy in Europe"
The Human Rights Cities Network and the Global Parliament of Mayors proudly present the innovative DeCiDE project. Our two-year initiative involves municipalities and civil society organizations from selected cities co-creating human rights indicators and monitoring tools. Our aim is to enhance urban democracy and human rights practices in Europe, through community participation in human rights monitoring and knowledge sharing between cities’ networks.
“The DeCiDE project is a testament to our commitment to human rights at the local level. By co-producing a set of indicators and monitoring tools with local administrations and civil society representatives, we are placing people and their rights at the center of public policies and practices.” – Mayor Ricardo Rio GPM Chair & Mayor of Braga
Why DeCiDE?
In a rapidly changing political landscape, cities are at the forefront of tackling unique challenges. The DeCiDE project is driven by the belief that strong, inclusive urban governance is key to a thriving democracy. By prioritizing human rights, cities can not only solve pressing issues but also create vibrant, just communities where every voice is heard.
In 2024, many European mayors selected social inclusion and equity as a priority of the utmost importance. This shows the growing desire to put human rights at the center of local governance.
Our Objectives:
Support ten European cities to improve monitoring capacities of public service delivery with a participatory and inclusive approach;
Strengthen cities and local civil society’s capacity to guarantee democratic participation and access to human rights through enhanced consultation mechanisms with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in the design of public services;
Improve knowledge of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights through capacity building and exchange of experience to translate it into practices at local level, promoting solidarity among citizens and engaging transnational city networks in policy dialogue.
Project duration:
1 September 2025 – 31 August 2027
Scope:
10 cities across 10 European countries
How?
- Methodology Development: Co-create a participatory, inclusive monitoring system with 10 cities.
Training: Equip participating cities with the skills to implement the monitoring system.
Implementation: Roll out the monitoring system across all cities
Best Practices: Standardize and share successful approaches among cities.
Policy Dialogue: Facilitate discussions with citizens, EU institutions, and policymakers.
Raise Awareness: Host high-level discussions to promote the monitoring system.
DeCiDE is more than a project—it’s a call to action. It reflects our belief that cities have the power to reshape democracy and ensure human rights for all.
Project Summary available below:
YOUR CITY CAN STILL JOIN US!
Please reach out to our project coordinator: marshall.wanimo@humanrightscities.net
Project Activities:
Social Inclusion & Housing Projects – Padova (Italy)
Improving Inclusion and Service Access through Measurable Impact The Municipality of Padova is implementing a range of projects aimed at supporting vulnerable populations, including housing initiatives, day and night care centers, and targeted programmes for Roma, Sinti, and Traveller communities. These projects focus on improving access to basic services, fostering inclusion, and strengthening participation
LEJO Youth Support Project – Ghent (Belgium)
Empowering Teenage Parents through Coordinated Social Support The City of Ghent, in collaboration with civil society partners, is implementing a project focused on supporting teenage parents through tailored guidance and empowerment strategies. The initiative provides continuous support across multiple life domains, including education, employment, childcare, and social integration, with the aim of reducing poverty
Youth Participation Framework (“Młody Kraków”) – Kraków (Poland)
Strengthening Democratic Participation of Young People The City of Kraków is implementing a set of youth-focused initiatives under the “Młody Kraków” framework, aimed at increasing the participation of young people in local governance. Through mechanisms such as the Youth City Council, the School Participatory Budget, and the Youth Ambassador Programme, the city creates structured
IN LOCO Project – Braga (Portugal)
Promoting Inclusion and Non-Discrimination through Structured Monitoring The Municipality of Braga is implementing the IN LOCO project, which focuses on promoting the inclusion of migrants through targeted support services and awareness-raising activities. By working with both migrant communities and professionals, the project seeks to reduce inequalities and strengthen social cohesion at the local level. The
WEBINAR – BEST PRACTICES IN MONITORING
The Human Rights Cities Network is thrilled to invite you to our upcoming online event! More than a webinar, through this exchange we aim to: 💪 Encourage local authorities and civil societies to adapt 🤝 Help them to reflect on how they can implement a monitoring system ✍ Share knowledge & experiences on good
Projecto Corresponsables – Benalmadena
Strengthening Equal Access to Socio-Educational Services The municipality of Benalmádena is implementing the Corresponsables Project, a socio-educational initiative designed to support minors and young people, particularly those in vulnerable situations or facing difficulties in school integration. By combining targeted educational support with reintegration mechanisms such as the Expelled Students Classroom, the project ensures that no
This project is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Commission. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.