Future Local Lab
Local Government ExplainedElections & civic participation
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Civic leadership in uncivil times: the countervailing force
Rising levels of abuse, intimidation and threats are making it harder to attract and retain local representatives, reflecting a broader international decline in civic culture that risks undermining democratic participation and democratic resilience. This piece argues that civic leaders can play a vital countervailing role, helping to strengthen democratic resilience, rebuild trust and cultivate civility.
“Digital engagement and participatory democracy: lessons emerging from the CIVITEC Project”
This briefing reports on the CIVITEC project, an EU interregional cooperation initiative, and the May 2026 partners’ meeting hosted by Donegal County Council, exploring how civic technology can enhance local democracy, particularly in rural and peripheral areas.
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The future is still local: insights from five years of Ipsos polling
Councils face greater scrutiny than ever before. Yet, public opinion illustrates that the future is still local. Since 2022, LGIU and Ipsos have partnered to conduct polling on public perceptions of local government in England, providing key insights into its role in modern society.
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