The Association of Estonian Cities and Municipalities (AECM) is a voluntary union established for representing the common interests and arranging co-operation of cities and rural municipalities. Ensuring development of local governments through joint activities is the main goal of the AECM. The AECM was established on 19 September 1920 as the Association of Estonian Cities. On February 27, 2018, the Association Status has been changed and it became the Association of Estonian Cities and Rural Municipalities. At present, all 79 municipalities of Estonia are the members of the association. The local governments belonging to the association cover the whole population of Estonia and all Estonian regions are represented. The AECM is funded from the membership fees, the amount of which depends on the revenues of a member. Responsibilities of the AECM are:
•Representing the interests and protecting the rights of its members in the governmental and other institutions, including negotiations with the central government;
•Working out the position of the AECM in the issues of local government policy;
•Arranging co-operation between local governments, their associations and unions;
•Enhancing co-operation and twinning with local governments and their associations abroad as well as with international organizations;
•Dissemination of information to local governments and counselling local government officials;
•Providing training for politicians and officials of local governments,
•Informing the public about the activities of the AECM.
The General Assembly, which convenes at least once per election period, is the highest directing body of the Association. The members are represented by delegates whose number depends on the population in the territory of the local government. The General Assembly, which convenes at least once per election period, is the highest directing body of the Association. The members are represented by delegates whose number depends on the population in the territory of the local government. The Council convenes at least once per 3-month period. The members are represented by delegates whose number depends on the population in the territory of the local government. At the time period between the two General Assemblies, the Council of the AECM shall perform the functions of the General Assembly. The Council convenes at least once per 3-month period. The members are represented by delegates whose number depends on the population in the territory of the local government.
