ACES board member André de Jeu had the privilege of participating in the 10th European Congress of Local Governments in Mikołajki, Poland (last 3-4 March). This event brought together local and regional leaders, policymakers, businesses, NGOs, and experts to discuss how cities and regions can address global challenges with local solutions. Also through sport and physical activity in All Policies.

As board Member of ACES, Director of Association of Sports and Municipalities in the Netherlands, Chair of the Eurocities Working Group on Inclusive, Sustainable, and Healthy Cities through Sport, and Partner of UNESCO, André de JeuI contributed to a panel discussion on local sports and physical activity policies.

The discussion covered key topics such as the balance between professional, mass, and youth sports; the role of sports clubs in regional branding; sports as a driver of tourism; collaboration between municipalities and sports organizations; investments in sports infrastructure; and the opportunities provided by international sports events. And above all: Sports for all.

André shared insights from the Dutch approach, emphasizing how municipalities integrate sports within broader urban policies, ensuring that investments in physical activity contribute to public health, social cohesion, and sustainability. He also highlighted ACES Best Practices, where European Capitals and Cities of Sport successfully leverage sports achievements to promote regional identity and engagement.

The Congress reaffirmed the importance of collaboration between local governments, sports organizations, and international networks in shaping the future of sports policies. Cities and regions play a critical role in fostering healthy, active, and inclusive communities, and events like this are crucial for exchanging best practices and forging new partnerships.

André de Jeu: ” I look forward to continuing the conversation and working with international partners to further promote sports as a key pillar of local and regional development and work on the still growing network of ACES!”