The European Charter of Local Self-Government (ECLSG) is marking its 40th anniversary in 2025. It was opened for signature in October 1985 and entered into force three years later. It has since been ratified by all 46 Council of Europe member states.
The charter lays down standards for protecting the rights of local authorities and requires states which have ratified it to comply with a number of conditions, principles and practices. It guarantees decision-making and financial independence of local authorities, enabling them to fund services, meet citizens' needs and invest in community development. States undertake to respect a core of basic principles to which no reservation is possible - such as the right of citizens to participate in managing public affairs, the key rights of communities to enjoy autonomy and self-government, elect their local bodies and to have their own structures and financial resources.
Affirming the primary role of local communities in the exercise of democracy, the charter has played a key role in making Europe the world's most decentralised region. The Congress of Local and Regional Authorities monitors the application of the charter in all 46 member states.
