I was delighted to be asked to moderate the main Plenary Session of the 9th Annual Congress on European Local Government in Poland last week to discuss ‘New Ideas of Decentralisation in a Changing World’....
Posted 12 Mar 2024
The UK has gone through a period of turmoil and volatility which has polarised society and degraded institutions. Millions of people feel alienated from official politics, while trust is at an all-time low. There is...
Posted 31 Jan 2024
When citizens come together to make plans about the place they know best, Scotland’s towns, cities and villages can flourish. But what democratic systems would allow this to happen? And is Dunfermline the right place...
Posted 01 Nov 2023
Innovations in Local Democracy: What is the best route to powerful communities? A vibrant and powerful local democracy creates the basis for building strong communities. From the pandemic to the cost-of-living crisis people have shown...
Posted 10 Oct 2023
If you live in Rutherglen and Hamilton West and are registered to vote, tomorrow is the day you can go vote in the long-awaited by-election. That is if you have, and remember to take, photo...
Posted 04 Oct 2023
Thank you to everyone who made it along to hear author and broadcaster, Lesley Riddoch, present the second of our annual ERS State of Scottish Democracy lecture. We are pleased to publish a video of...
Posted 28 Sep 2023
What is the best route to powerful communities? A vibrant and powerful local democracy creates the basis for building strong communities. From the pandemic to the cost-of-living crisis people have shown they are willing to...
Posted 20 Sep 2023
ERS Scotland is proud to host the second annual State of Scottish Democracy lecture. Each year we assess the health of Scottish democracy and institutions at a local and national level. How can decision-making and...
Posted 15 Aug 2023
‘Taking the Road to Renewal’, ERS Scotland presents Alex Cole-Hamilton MSP in conversation with Jonathon Shafi. In what is potentially a pivotal moment in Scottish and UK politics, what are the changes needed to end...
Posted 07 Mar 2023
The deadline for contenders to put themselves forward for the next SNP leadership passed at midday on the 24th February, so it is now confirmed there are three potential future leaders. Humza Yousaf, Kate Forbes...
Posted 24 Feb 2023