The European Parliament launched the project Building Europe with local councilors whose goal is to build an EU network for locally elected representatives from all member states whose goal will be to communicate EU topics on the ground. 

As part of the project in question, the European Commission has issued a call for applications for local authorities (municipalities, provinces, departments or regions) that wish to become partners of the Commission in EU communication on the ground by appointing a locally elected representative as a member of the network - Building Europe with local councilors . 

The partnership aims to help and encourage local representatives in objectively presenting EU policies, actions and initiatives to their constituents and promoting discussions and debates about these policies, actions and initiatives. A local authority wishing to enter into a partnership in the context of the Building Europe project with local councilors should complete an online application form. Attached to the form is a signed declaration expressing interest and commitment to become a partner in Europe's communication on the ground by appointing a locally elected representative.

The partnership begins with the acceptance of the application form by the European Commission.The European Commission communicates such acceptance in a letter sent by e-mail to the partner and sends the local authority a metal plate recognizing this strategic alliance.The European Commission particularly welcomes the appointment of women or members of underrepresented groups as members of the network. The partnership is valid for the entire duration of the network. It is currently estimated that the duration of the network, established as a pilot project, lasts at least two years. Its further extension will depend on the results of the project in the initial phase, after the evaluation.Both the local authority and the European Commission may terminate the partnership by written notice sent 3 months prior to the date of termination or with immediate effect in the event of non-compliance by the local authority with its obligations hereunder.

 The local authority, as a partner of the network - Building Europe with local councillors, appoints one locally elected councilor as a member of the network and, together with the member, signs a declaration in which the local authority undertakes the following obligations:

• In the event that a member is no longer available to continue within the network for any reason, the local authority is obliged to ensure continuity by appointing a new member. The new member must immediately submit a new statement with clear reference to the initial application and initial letter of acceptance.

• After a duly justified request by the European Commission and after giving the member the opportunity to be heard, the appointment of that member can be terminated if it is determined that its actions have threatened the entire scope of the network or are clearly incompatible with the values ​​established by the Union. In that case, a new member will have to be appointed. 

The locally elected representative (member of the network - Building Europe with local councilors) signs a statement in which the member undertakes the following obligations:

• Regularly engage in debates and discuss with members of their constituencies or local media about general political initiatives and measures implemented by the EU. The overall goal is to encourage citizens to get involved in discussions about the future of the EU and other EU-related topics.

• Objectively present EU policies, actions and initiatives based on accurate and reliable information.

• Participate in the daily work of the network by participating in the online platform, attending seminars and visits offered by the European Commission (depending on availability). Additional duties include participating in surveys conducted approximately twice a year and providing feedback on activities undertaken in the context of the network. The commission appoints a locally elected representative (member of the network - Building Europe with local councilors) and provides the following materials and resources:

• Communication materials and regular information updates to help them engage with citizens on EU issues.• Depending on the availability of resources, access to priority visits to the European Commission Visitor Center in Brussels, physical or digital, organized when possible in their language.

• Access to an interactive platform to encourage interaction with other members of the network• Information on other EU initiatives dedicated to local councilors and local authorities, including in particular the activities of the Committee of the Regions and its Network of EU Regional and Local Councilors and the possibility to follow and contribute to their activities. 

Application form

Source: European Commission