International Conference of Partner Organizations Held in Romania
Marmara Municipalities Union (MMU) took part among the partner organizations of the International Conference. The theme of the inaugural edition of the International Conference was “Local Autonomy: The Foundation of the State”, underscoring the vital role of local governance in building resilient and sustainable communities.
“Local autonomy emerges as a fundamental principle”
MMU Secretary General Mr. M. Cemil Arslan gave a speech on the fundamental principle of local autonomy at the conference. Mr. Arslan said “Local governments are the closest institutions to citizens. They are responsible for providing basic services and meeting local and common needs that directly affect individuals' daily lives. For this reason, it is vital for local governments to have strong institutional capacity and be able to make independent decisions to ensure the sustainability of urban life.” He added “The ability of local governments to make fast and effective decisions is critical to ensuring public welfare and the continuity of public services. At this point, local autonomy emerges as a fundamental principle that enables local governments to act independently within their own jurisdiction.” Referring to the European Charter of Local Self-Government which emphasizes that local governments are fundamental components of democratic systems and should be independent in decision-making processes, Mr. Arslan stated that “The autonomy of local governments shaped within this framework should be seen as one of the cornerstones of citizen-centered, crisis-resilient and sustainable urban management.”
The conference hosted Mr. Christoph Schnaudigel, Co-President of CEMR, Mr. Fabrizio Rossi, Secretary General of CEMR, Mr. Krzysztof Iwaniuk, Mayor of Terespol Municipality in Poland and Member in the European Alliance Group within the European Committee of the Regions as well as mayors and local leaders from many countries such as China, France, Germany, Austria, Moldova, Serbia, Ukraine and Morocco. At the end of the conference, the representatives of partner organizations signed a declaration emphasizing the significance of local autonomy and enhancing the local capacities.
