Thematic Round Tables and Parallel Sessions
surrounding region and the shortcomings in the responses offered by multi-lateral organizations. Concerning the question of democracies in transition and construction for the future, members of the panel concluded that local authorities are at the heart of the renewal and construction of democracy. However, the challenges are urgent for local authorities: restoring and maintaining social peace, creating employment and wealth, particularly for the youth, and providing basic services. The cooperation and exchanges among peers should play an important role in the consolidation of effective democratic local governance. Regarding the question of conflict zones in the Mediterranean, speakers concluded that, faced with conflict, the diplomacy of states is inoperable while local and regional authorities can have more political weight. Local and regional authorities are actors in solidarity, in particular in the welcoming of
refugees, reason for which funds should be urgently increased. Overall, speakers concluded that peace was impossible without democracy and that democracy cannot be established without decentralization and quality basic services. What is democracy if not culture to assimilate, decentralization and respect for diversity. Given the importance of preventing crisis for the future, it is vital to implement new cooperation and dialogue initiatives to support local and regional authorities in restoring and maintaining social peace and introducing true democratic local governance. In terms of preventing conflict and managing post-crisis situations, local and regional authorities are key for both diplomacy and development, and for the cooperation they implement directly or through their role in the management of refugees. Their political role should be recognized and more substantial resources should be allocated.
What is democracy if not culture to
assimilate, decentralization and respect for diversity.
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