CEMR unveils its vision for stronger, inclusive and sustainable territories across Europe
The Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) has launched its political manifesto calling for a more inclusive, resilient, and citizen-driven European Union. With over 41 national associations of local and regional governments behind it, the manifesto sets out a roadmap to bring Europe closer to its citizens, starting from the ground up.
At its heart are six concrete proposals to reinvigorate European democracy: from establishing permanent citizen panels and annual Europe Day debates in schools, to relaunching town twinning and creating an Erasmus-style programme for civil servants.
CEMR also stresses that a strong Europe must leave no one and no place behind. It calls for renewed efforts to tackle territorial disparities, address depopulation, and ensure that public services, from education to health, are accessible to all citizens, no matter where they live.
The manifesto also focuses on key priorities for the coming decade, including:
- Citizen participation through inclusive local democracy;
- Empowered local climate action, as cities and regions lead Europe’s green transition;
- Fair and coordinated migration policies, with strong local support for integration;
- Digital transformation that bridges the urban–rural divide;
- New forms of town-to-town partnerships, especially beyond the EU’s borders;
- And financial means to invest in sustainable local infrastructure and innovation.
CEMR’s proposals emphasise the urgent need for deeper recognition of local and regional governments in European decision-making. This includes a stronger role for the Committee of the Regions, the creation of a local chamber, and systematic consultation of representative associations like CEMR when shaping EU legislation and strategies.
By calling for a Europe that is democratic, sustainable, and close to its people, the manifesto is a bold invitation to reimagine the Union from the local level up, with municipalities and regions playing a central role in shaping the continent’s future.
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Director – Policy & Impact
