COSLA's Manifesto for a Stronger Scottish Democracy

On May 5, Scotland goes to the polls. It’s a pivotal opportunity to think about the changes that could make a real difference in communities.

That’s why we’re contacting you about a plan that can transform Scotland.

COSLA, the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities, wants to harness the power of a more locally democratic way of doing things, and overhaul participation in decision making across the country.

A local revolution is within the grasp of the next Scottish Parliament, and we’ve produced a manifesto setting out how to start that process right now. It’s already been endorsed by local politicians from across the spectrum.

Download our Manifesto
We’re excited about what can be achieved, but we know that this won’t be possible without commitment from across all spheres of government.

That's why we’re asking every parliamentary candidate to sign up to 5 key pledges that can put local democracy on the map. All can be delivered within the first 100 days of the next Parliament and all will help set a course towards better and more equal outcomes for all of our communities.

We want to work with anyone who is similarly interested in that task, and we'd be delighted to hear your views.

Together, let's #chooselocal this May.