Reggio Emilia bids for European Capital of Volunteering 2028

On 1 July in Brussels, the Italian city of Reggio Emilia formally launched its candidacy for the European Capital of Volunteering 2028. The bid will be judged against three other cities – Lleida (Spain), Odder (Denmark) and Plzeň (Czech Republic) – with the final decision expected on 1 December.

Reggio Emilia highlights a long tradition of civic engagement, noting more than 400 third‑sector organisations and about 27 000 volunteers – roughly one in six residents – plus additional civic and green volunteers who maintain parks and community groups. The next milestone is the 15 October 2026 presentation to the European Volunteering Centre jury. City assessor Davide Prandi said the candidacy aims to recognise the daily work of thousands of volunteers and the city’s collaborative model of institutions, associations and citizens.