This white paper sets out a clear vision for renewing Scotland’s democratic settlement by embedding the right to local self-government at the heart of public decision-making and calls for a rebalanced and more respectful relationship between national and local government.

At a time when trust in democratic institutions is under pressure, the paper makes the case that democracy - and especially local democracy - has never been more important. It argues that decisions taken closest to communities have the greatest impact on people’s everyday lives, and that individuals, families and communities must be empowered to shape the choices that affect them most directly.

The white paper calls for a decisive shift in how Scotland is governed, recognising that national ambition can only be fully realised when public bodies are enabled to work in local ways that reflect the distinct needs, priorities and aspirations of people across Scotland.

The passage of the European Charter of Local Self-Government Bill marks a pivotal moment. COSLA believes this is the time to move beyond principle and ensure that the right to local self‑government is fully realised in practice.

While Parliament and government can set the conditions for change, COSLA is clear that local government is best placed to deliver that change on the ground - but only if councils are trusted with the flexibility, autonomy and resources to respond to local need.

Commenting on the launch, Councillor Steven Heddle, Vice President of COSLA, said:

“Democracy is strongest when it is closest to the people.

“At a time when people’s trust in politics and public institutions is being tested, we must recognise a simple truth: the choices made in our communities are the ones that most directly shape lives, opportunities and outcomes.

“We are calling on all parties and on the next Scottish Government to work with local government in genuine partnership, with respect, parity of esteem and a shared commitment to strengthening Scotland’s democracy from the ground up.”

Notes to editors

COSLA serves as the representative voice of Scottish Local Government. COSLA spokespersons do not operate on a party-political basis; instead, they represent the collective views of Scottish Local Government.

White Papers are designed to influence the thinking of all political parties in the lead-up to the Scottish Parliament election. They bring together previously agreed, cross-party COSLA policy positions on specific issues.

Read the white paper.

20th April 2026