We are pleased to announce the introduction of the Hague Academy for Local Governance as the newest member of the Dutch Network of the Anna Lindh Foundation. This esteemed institution plays a crucial role in advancing democratic local governance on a global scale. The Academy offers a range of practice-oriented training programs designed for civil servants at various levels of government, elected officials, civil society organizations, community-based organizations, and development professionals.

Through its short courses and multi-annual training initiatives, the Hague Academy enhances the capacity of individuals involved in local governance, empowering them to become effective change agents within their communities.

One key program offered by the Academy is the Urban Governance: Resilient and Smart Cities course, which will be held from 9 to 20 June 2025 in The Hague. While this course addresses urban resilience, it is primarily focused on strengthening local governance structures and fostering inclusive development in cities. In light of the complex challenges cities face—from climate change impacts to rapid urbanization—this program provides an essential platform for participants to engage with global experts and practitioners. For a fee of €3,895, attendees will gain insights into urban governance systems, smart city technologies, data-driven innovation, and sustainable urban management. The course emphasizes enhancing local governance capacity to recover from shocks, create inclusive environments, and leverage technology to improve urban management at the local level.

The course will explore the frameworks and strategies necessary for local governments to thrive amid ongoing changes. Key experts involved include Forbes Davidson, an expert in urban planning and management; Gala Camacho, a mathematician and data scientist; and Sara-Hoeflich de Duque, who leads decentralized cooperation at United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG). These distinguished thought leaders will guide participants through interactive exercises, case studies, and site visits to cities such as Rotterdam, Amsterdam, and Delft.

The mission of the course aligns with the Hague Academy’s broader vision to strengthen local governance worldwide. By offering access to cutting-edge knowledge and fostering international cooperation, the Academy equips local governance professionals with the tools needed to drive meaningful change in their communities.

For those interested in attending or seeking further information, the Academy offers personalized consultations.

Please contact them at info@thehagueacademy.com or 070 3738 695.

For more information, please visit their website.

This program is an excellent opportunity to deepen your understanding of local governance and the innovative strategies shaping communities worldwide.