19/02/2026
How can a city ensure that fundamental rights reach every resident, from the youngest to the oldest? Benalmádena is demonstrating that the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights is a powerful blueprint for inclusive, intergenerational urban development as part of the DeCiDE Project.
The city provided several transformative initiatives:
👶 Youth Civic Engagement: Moving beyond the UNICEF Child-Friendly Cities framework, Benalmádena is preparing new participation initiatives to foster early civic awareness. Through a permanent Children’s Council, young people are transitioning from passive recipients of care to active rights-holders.
🤝 Support for Migrant Populations: In a vital collaboration with the Red Cross, the city is developing a dedicated day centre for migrants. This facility provides the essential guidance and support needed for true community integration, upholding Article 1 (Human Dignity).
👴 Active Ageing & Autonomy: The city is redefining the rights of the elderly through a Comprehensive Support Network. By prioritizing autonomy and social inclusion, Benalmádena ensures that seniors remain vibrant, independent participants in the town’s cultural and social life.
From wellness workshops to transport assistance for those living alone, Benalmádena is showcasing that when human rights are embedded in local policy, they create a stronger, more cohesive society for all.
Read more here:
https://globalparliamentofmayors.org/benalmadena-and-the-eu-charter-of-fundamental-rights/
