Citizens rights

The European Charter for Human Rights in the City
On June 27, 2002, the City of Lyon adopted the European Charter for Human Rights in the City. Our town thus joined 41 European cities in signing a text drafted under the joint declaration of cities issued in Barcelona on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Through their commitment to working together in support of shared democratic principles, large cities have become the main arena for new thought on the notion of citizenship. By adopting this charter, Lyon confirms its deeply humanist identity which places Man and the fundamental values of Democracy at the heart of all its actions. Lyon also takes a pragmatic approach to safeguarding the rights of each citizen in the context of an evolving city. Cities can create social ties and solidarity but, all too often, they create exclusion and injustice. In order to encourage widespread involvement in our actions for equal rights, and so that everyone may find the resources to ensure their application, we and Mrs. Sabiha Ahmine, deputy mayor in charge of integration and citizens rights, have launched a communication campaign about the European Charter for Human Rights in the City. Working with associations throughout the metropolitan area, we have set up neighborhood committees in each district as an important first step for encouraging public involvement in matters concerning respect for citizens rights. This collective commitment, in the framework of exchange and cooperation among large cities, allows us to set the stage for a form of local democracy which is more accessible and better attuned to the real needs of our citizens.

Gérard Collomb

Senator and Mayor of Lyon