Religions-Tolerance at local level

2026-07-22

The main objective of the RETO project (Religions-Tolerance at local level) is to strengthen the capacity of European local authorities to manage religious diversity in a democratic, inclusive and pluralistic way by creating a network of European municipalities in order to share challenges, methodologies and good practices regarding religious diversity governance. The specific objectives of the challenge project are: to make local governments aware of the importance of their role in promoting the conditions necessary to guarantee the effective equality and freedom of religious minorities. To provide local authorities with tools to manage religious diversity in a democratic, inclusive and pluralistic manner. Promote collaboration between municipalities and facilitate the exchange of good practices in the inclusive management of religious diversity. Improve knowledge about the right to religious freedom as a fundamental right of the EU. Strengthen mutual understanding and foster tolerance among citizens. The project is led by the Spanish Federation of Municipalities and Provinces (FEMP) in Madrid (Spain) which brings together a total of 7410 City Councils, Deputations, Councils and Island Councils, representing more than 95% of Spanish Local Governments, and is supported by a strong and balanced consortium, formed by different European cities from Spain, Portugal, Italy, the Netherlands, France and Finland. In addition, universities and human rights centers as well as civil society organizations also participate in the consortium. RETO Project is perfectly in line with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the European Convention on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms and national Constitutions and provides a unique platform to promote the values of dialogue and intercultural understanding, deepening social inclusion and promoting gender equality.

Spain

2025-10-15