11–12 May 2026 · Estoril Congress Center, Cascais, Portugal
The European Public Law Organization (EPLO) participated in the ACTNOW Mayors’ Conference, held on 11–12 May 2026 at the Estoril Congress Center in Cascais, Portugal. The conference brought together policymakers, academics, civil society representatives, youth leaders, and international organizations to address contemporary democratic challenges and explore innovative approaches to governance.
A central theme of this year’s conference was the designation of Cascais as the European Capital of Democracy 2026, highlighting the municipality’s commitment to democratic innovation, citizen participation, sustainability, and international cooperation.
EPLO Institutional Presence
EPLO was officially invited to take part in the conference and was represented through an institutional stand, where the Organization showcased its academic activities, educational programs, and international initiatives in the fields of governance, rule of law, democracy, and human rights.
The stand served as a meeting point for participants interested in EPLO’s work and its contribution to strengthening democratic institutions in Europe and beyond.
Youth Engagement and Academic Contributions
Two students of the European Law & Governance School (ELGS) represented the academic community of EPLO through active contributions to the conference program:
Spark Talk by Mildred Nasirumbi
ELGS student Mildred Nasirumbi delivered a Spark Talk titled “The Future of Human Rights from a Youth Perspective.”
Her intervention emphasized the role of younger generations in shaping future human rights frameworks, focusing on youth participation, digital rights, social justice, and inclusive democratic engagement.
DW Interview with Indira Santos
ELGS student Indira Santos gave an interview to Deutsche Welle (DW), sharing her perspectives on the impact of the European Union on immigrant communities in Portugal. She discussed issues related to integration policies, social inclusion, opportunities arising from European cooperation, and the challenges faced by migrants within European societies.
