About the Initiative
The European Capital of Democracy Initiative has built a strong network of Cities fostering participation. Together with citizens, politicians, and institutions we are improving our democracies.
After a most successful start of the first Programme Year in Barcelona 2023/24, the next European Capital of Democracy 2024/25 will be the City of Vienna, opening its doors this November. On 18 March, Cascais (Portugal) has been selected as European Capital of Democracy 2026 by over 4,500 citizens from 47 countries.
Become a Citizens’ Juror to stay informed and select the next Capital of Democracy!
If your city is interested in joining European Capital of Democracy, proceed to How can cities join European Capital of Democracy?
Join us Building the European Capital of Democracy
Apply as European Capital of Democracy & join the City Network.
Your opportunity to play a key role in innovating democratic practice.
Become a part of the European Capital of Democracy initiative.
Contribute financially to build bridges for democratic innovation.
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ECoD NPO is most thankful to the City of Vienna, Council of Europe, the European Commission (CERV Network of Towns, Horizon Europe), the European Parliament, the Innovation in Politics Institute, and the Porticus Foundation for supporting our work.
Furthermore, we appreciate our Democracy Year event partners for event contributions by the City of Barcelona, Generalitat de Catalunya, GIZ / U-LEAD with Europe, Porticus Foundation, Ukraine-Moldova American Enterprise Fund (UMAEF, formerly Western NIS Enterprise Fund.
