Defending Democracy from the Ground Up

Last week in Leipzig, I joined Mayors, City Leaders and Councillors from across Europe at the EuroCities Conference to discuss one of the most pressing issues of our time: how we protect and strengthen democracy in the digital age.

I had the opportunity to contribute to both the opening plenary and separate breakout sessions on how can build a resilient local democracy in a digital age as well as fighting disinformation and strengthening local leadership. I outlined how Dublin City Council has been intentional about building more inclusive pathways into decision-making, through our Integration strategy the establishment of issue-based forums with young people. Furthermore, I highlighted how Dublin City Council has built a world-leading Smart Dublin Programme which collaborates with universities, businesses and other cities, to digitally enable our city and our communities.

My key message to the gathering was that local leaders are trusted voices. We must use that trust to challenge falsehoods, support local journalism, and promote transparency – both online and offline.

Together, we support the Leipzig Declaration on Local Democracy, reaffirming our collective commitment to inclusive, participatory, and resilient local governance.

The conversations in Leipzig reminded me that the challenges we face in Dublin are shared across Europe — and so are the solutions. I’m proud that Dublin is already taking action, and I look forward to working with communities, colleagues, and partners across the continent to build stronger, more inclusive local democracies.