Nektarios Kalantzis, President of the European Local Leaders (ELL Group) with Kata Tüttő, President of the European Committee of the Regions
in Brussels
By Elisa Vigil* and Nektarios Kalantzis**
Madrid is setting the stage as a global powerhouse for innovation and youthful energy. The region is buzzing with transformative projects that are reshaping the future. Smart city initiatives are redefining urban living, blending cutting-edge technology with sustainability, while advancements in green tech and renewable energy spotlight Madrid’s commitment to a cleaner, brighter tomorrow. Flagship programs like Madrid Futuro, Invest in Madrid and the Madrid Investment Attraction (MIA) initiative are attracting global investors and nurturing local startups in fintech, edtech, and healthtech—placing Madrid firmly on the global innovation map.
But it’s not just about business; it’s about people. Madrid understands that youth are the architects of tomorrow. The regional government champions young voices, fostering their active participation in shaping policies that matter. This inclusive approach ensures that innovation today reflects the dreams and aspirations of future generations. By empowering youth to lead and innovate, Madrid is building a thriving economy and an inclusive society where everyone has a stake in progress.
In addition to fostering innovation, Madrid is addressing critical needs for younger generations through housing policies and support for families, always with lowering taxes policies. The regional government has introduced housing aid programs tailored to young professionals, making it easier for them to access affordable and modern living spaces. Furthermore, initiatives supporting maternity, including financial incentives and childcare support, are empowering young families to thrive while balancing their personal and professional ambitions.
Madrid isn’t just keeping up with the future—it’s creating it. This is the place where groundbreaking ideas meet empowered youth to drive real, transformative change.
*Elisa Vigil, Regional Deputy of the Community of Madrid
**Nektarios Kalantzis, President of the European Local Leaders – ELL Group
Nektarios Kalantzis, President of the European Local Leaders (ELL Group) with Christina Kitsos, Mayor of Geneva at the Geneva City Hall
Nektarios Kalantzis, President of the European Local Leaders (ELL Group) with Alessandra Todde, President of Sardinia in Brussels
Nektarios Kalantzis, President of the European Local Leaders (ELL Group) with Mato Francović, Mayor of Dubrovnik🇭🇷 at the Dubrovnik City Hall🇪🇺
Nektarios Kalantzis, President of the European Local Leaders (ELL Group) with Aleksandra Dulkiewicz, Mayor of Gdańsk🇵🇱 in Brussels🇪🇺
Nektarios Kalantzis, President of the European Local Leaders (ELL Group) with the Mayor of Reykjavik Municipality Dagur Eggertsson and the President of the Reykjavik City Council at Reykjavik City Hall.
Nektarios Kalantzis, the President of the European Local Leaders -ELL Group visited Brusssels, 13-14 March, 2023 and he met the Vice President of Tirol Parliament, Austria (Vice President of ELL Group) Sophia Kircher at the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) in Brussels.
Nektarios Kalantzis, the President of the European Local Leaders -ELL Group visited Brusssels, 13-14 March, 2023 and he met the General Secretary of EPP- European People’s Party Thanasis Bakolas.
More women in politics and women leaders in Europe tomorrow Laura Danilas, Municipal Councillor of Tartu Municipality, Estonia Vice President of ELL Group This Sunday Estonia made history with an e-voting majority and a record female presence in the new parliament. Since then a record-high number of female representatives, a total of 30 women out of 101 were elected to Riigikogu, two more compared to in the previous elections. Kaja Kallas, the Prime Minister of Estonia secured 31816 votes which is a new record for a single candidate. Women’s participation in policy-making is fundamental to democratic governance. It helps to promote gender equality and influences both the types of policy issues that are considered and the types of solutions that are offered. It is also important to keep in mind that women prioritize more education, health and social welfare than masculine issues. Despite the fact that we have very strong female leaders in defense and economy women are more likely to be engaged in less attractive fields. Also, according to various surveys, increased representation of women helps also to counteract corruption in politics. The participation of women at the national, local and community level has become an important focus of global development. In order to make sustainable decisions we need more women in politics. It is crucial not to have a homogeneous group of policy makers, but men and women from different age groups and walks of life. To make the change we need girls in school to become women in politics – everything starts from the education system. It is clearly seen that political parties and their voters should support more women. In particular, men are more likely to vote for attractive male candidates, and women are more likely to vote for approachable male candidates. Thus, who supports women then? Greater inclusion of women in politics starts with supporting each other As Former British Prime Minister Mrgaret Thatcher said “If you want something said, ask a man, if you want something done, ask a woman.“