Brussels, Bruxelles-Capitale (BE), 28 February 2014

On behalf of the Assembly of European Regions (AER), its President, Dr Hande Özsan Bozatli, would like to congratulate the prize winner of the 16th edition of the Emperor Maximilan Prize, Dr. Herwig Van Staa for his outstanding work to promote local and regional democracy in Europe.

Indeed, today, the Land of Tyrol and the City of Innsbruck (AT) awarded the annual European Prize Emperor Maximilian, aimed at honoring politicians and institutions for their efforts to promote the principle of subsidiary and the charters of local and regional self-government. The prize-winners are chosen by an international jury consisting of delegates from regional and local European bodies and associations and representatives from Tyrol.

Dr Özsan Bozatli who was also running for this prize, wishes to thank all the regions which supported and encouraged her. “Congratulations to Mr Van Staa as well as to all the other candidates to this prize, for their hard work and continuous dedication to defending the regional cause in Europe!” stated AER President.

“I am very happy to have been a contender for this award, as it allowed AER and its regions to learn more on this prestigious prize, highlighting this great initiative by one of AER’s Austrian member regions, Tyrol. Indeed, it honors the city of Innsbruck’s long-term commitment to promoting the principle of subsidiarity and local democracy. Because AER takes this prize and the values it stands for seriously, I am delighted to announce my wish to be a candidate for next year’s edition of the Emperor Maximilian Prize and will continue to promote Europe and its regions”.

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