Benefits of being part of the EU Local Councillors network promoted in Malta

Strengthening the European identity at local level and expanding networks are two of the benefits enjoyed by the EU Local Councillors network. These were the main points highlighted during a number of presentations given in Malta about the network in November 2024.

On 15 and 18 November, as part of regional meetings for local councils and NGOs, organised in Malta and Gozo by Servizzi Ewropej f’Malta (SEM) and Europe Direct Valletta, Qrendi Mayor, David Michael Schembri and San Lawrenz Mayor, Noel Formosa gave a short presentation on their roles as members of the EU Local Councillors network and explained their experience with EU funds.

They underlined the importance of strengthening the European identity at local level through networking with European counterparts, both in Brussels and with local authorities in EU countries. Mr Schembri praised the EU Local Councillors network (formerly known as BELC), as one tool through which he expands his networks and exchanges. Mr Formosa urged local council representatives present at the meeting to submit their applications and also be part of this EU-wide network that is open to any locally elected councillors in Malta and EU Member States.

These regional meetings were part of a series of six regional events held across Malta and Gozo.

A separate event, the Local Councils Expo, organised by the Local Councils’ Association, was held on 22 and 23 November 2024. During the expo, local and regional councils, as well as other entities were invited to network and present their organisation and services. During one of the workshops, Joe Sciberras, Head of Communications and Outreach of SEM and Europe Direct Valletta Manager, gave an overview of the EU Local Councillors network and the benefits of becoming a member.