​Magdalena Czarzynska Jachim, EA Group CIVEX coordinator and Mayor of Sopot, Poland, delivered a keynote address during today's CIVEX debate on the 'Mid-term review of the EU Strategy to strengthen the application of the Charter of Fundamental Rights in the EU'.

Ms Czarzynska Jachim stressed the essential role of local and regional authorities (LRAs) in implementing the EU Charter at the local level. She noted that LRA-led initiatives in Poland have increasingly embedded fundamental rights principles into urban development strategies and budgeting processes. This has contributed to more inclusive and sustainable growth and ensured fairer distribution of resources at the local level.

She accordingly outlined opportunities for strengthening the capacity of LRAs to implement fundamental rights more effectively. Firstly, institutionalising grass-roots initiatives aligned with Charter will ensure they can access legislative and financial resources necessary for promoting fundamental rights in their communities. Secondly, promoting cooperation and partnership amongst LRAs will foster inter-communal capacity-building and exchange of best practices, thus supporting more effective Charter implementation. Finally, collaborating with academic researchers to develop diagnostic tools and training resources will help LRAs tailor implementation efforts to local realities.

Ms Czarzynska Jachim concluded that support is further needed for municipal gender budgeting and for the maintenance of community-building projects combatting hate speech and fostering respect and tolerance. 'We need to feel safe and dignified' she emphasised, highlighting the importance of equality within diversity. 'We are not the same, but we are equal, and this is the most important thing'.