How can municipalities improve the quality of life of their populations in concrete terms? And what role do local authorities play in this in the Alpine region? These questions were addressed at the first online seminar on 3 February 2026 as part of the GOVQoL project. Numerous representatives of municipalities and partner organisations from the Alpine region took the opportunity to exchange ideas and inspire each other.
A key finding of the webinar was that local communities are the most important level when it comes to quality of life. This is where services are organised, meeting places are created, mobility is enabled and social services are established. At the same time, many communities – especially in the Alpine region – face similar challenges: limited financial resources, demographic change, the exodus of young people and vacant town centres. This makes it all the more important to share good solutions and learn from each other.
Several practical examples showed how municipalities can act successfully despite limited resources. The Austrian municipality of Moosburg presented how it has created new momentum through intensive citizen participation, creative repurposing of existing buildings and targeted revitalisation of the town centre. Workshops with citizens helped to develop a shared vision for the municipality. Vacant buildings were converted into multifunctional meeting places, local businesses were involved and cultural activities were promoted. Continuous support for the projects was crucial to ensure that initiatives did not peter out, but had a long-term impact.
From France, the municipality of Veynes reported on its experiences with citizen participation. Through opportunities for discussion at the weekly market, campaigns in public places and new forms of cooperation between the administration and the population, community engagement is gradually being built up. Small, visible measures help to build trust and try out new uses for public spaces.
Another project from France, Ville à Joie, showed how important services can remain accessible even in very small communities. A mobile team organises village festivals, at which public services are also offered – such as advice on administrative issues, health services or support with digital applications. This combines socialising, entertainment and practical help in everyday life. Especially in small towns without their own infrastructure, this concept makes it easier for people to access important services while also strengthening community life.
Italy presented the project ‘Vieni a vivere e lavorare in montagna’, which encourages people to return to live and work in mountain communities. Interested families can get to know the region during short stays and are supported in finding accommodation and integrating. Several families have already settled there permanently. At the same time, the project works with the local population to identify what constitutes quality of life in the area and how new residents can be welcomed.
Another inspiring example came from South Tyrol, where a former barracks was converted into a so-called ‘third place’. Today, BASIS offers space for co-working, events, workshops and young companies. Such places create encounters, promote innovation and support the local economy.
The Slovenian project Prostofer provided a particularly practical example of concrete support in everyday life. Here, municipalities organise voluntary transport services for older people. Anyone who needs to go to the doctor, the post office or the shops, for example, can book a ride by telephone. Volunteer drivers take on these trips with municipal vehicles. The project helps older people to remain mobile and independent, while at the same time strengthening voluntary work in the community. More than a hundred municipalities in Slovenia are now participating in this model.
Social support was also an important topic. The Austrian municipality of Nenzing presented its concept of family case management. A dedicated team looks after families and people in difficult life situations. Services range from support with school challenges and advice on financial problems to help with everyday life. At the same time, the municipality organises numerous opportunities for families and older people to meet, such as joint events, counselling services and meeting places for exchange. The aim is to offer support at an early stage and to better reach people who would otherwise often not turn to the municipality.
The webinar made it clear that many challenges in the Alpine region are similar – and that exchanges between municipalities provide valuable inspiration. The event therefore not only offered insights into successful projects, but also provided an important platform for networking. Further meetings and collaborations between municipalities are already planned.
Together, they will continue to work on sustainably improving the quality of life in the Alpine regions.
On 3 March, another webinar will take place as part of the Interreg AlpineSpace project GOVQoL – the focus will be on certifications as a tool for municipalities to improve quality of life. Click here to register.