The Department of Economic Promotion and Local Development held a commemorative event this Tuesday to mark the 40th anniversary of the European Charter of Local Self-Government and Law 7/1985, two cornerstone regulations adopted in 1985 that have shaped the structure and operation of local authorities.

The event, conceived as a forum for training and reflection, brought together more than 130 participants at the Parc Bit auditorium and focused on the current challenges facing local administrations, as well as the reforms required to respond effectively to today’s social needs.

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Mallorca marks forty years of local autonomy and the legal framework governing municipal administration

The opening session was led by President Llorenç Galmés, alongside the Councillor for Economic Promotion and Local Development, Pilar Amate, and the Island Director for Municipal Assistance, Beatriz Camiña. The conference was organised with the support of the Federation of Local Authorities of the Balearic Islands (FELIB) and the Association of Local Government Secretaries, Treasurers and Auditors (COSITAL).

In his address, Galmés highlighted the decisive role played by both regulations in consolidating local self-government, advancing institutional modernisation and strengthening democratic systems at the municipal and provincial levels. He also stressed the importance of close cooperation with town councils to ensure the effective delivery of public services.

The President reviewed several initiatives promoted in recent years within this legal framework, including road safety improvements, increased investment in social services, greater financial support for municipalities, the use of European funds, water infrastructure projects and administrative simplification.

Councillor Amate emphasised the strong attendance at the event and pointed out the need to reflect on whether the longevity of these laws represents a clear success or whether updates are required to address the profound changes society has undergone over the past forty years.

The programme featured seven technical presentations and a round-table discussion, with contributions from university professors, senior judges and local government officials. Topics included municipal public service management, legal developments in local governance, citizen participation and the role of supramunicipal institutions.