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THOMAS Carol
In Governance, Governance, Impact community Society, Impact community Society, Latest, Local democracy, Local democracy, Publications

Mis/disinformation impact on democracy

Local truth study 2025

Empowering cities against mis/disinformation: building capacity, coordination, and trust

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According to CEMR’s latest study, nearly half of LRGs report moderate to significant impacts from misinformation, particularly in areas such as public health, personal attacks on officials, and election interference. During the pandemic, for example, false claims about vaccines and public measures severely undermined public trust. 

The personal toll is also growing. One in four local representatives has faced online abuse or intimidation, and over half report being targeted by false claims about their integrity or conduct. These are not abstract challenges, but rather, they erode both individual safety and democratic trust. 

The evidence of CEMR’s study highlighted how misinformation and disinformation spike during crises, for example, around COVID-19, climate policies like low-emission zones, or housing and migration debates. During moments when emotions run high and public debate intensifies, local and regional governments often find themselves on the frontline of these tensions, but many lack the capacity or tools to respond effectively. CEMR’s findings show that 58% of municipalities still lack a formal strategy to counter misinformation and disinformation, and only a quarter are in the process of developing one. Most rely on reactive measures, 58% monitoring social media to spot emerging issues, around a third run awareness campaigns, and a smaller share (4%) collaborate with fact-checkers or pursue legal action (21%). These are useful but insufficient without proactive planning. 

For CEMR, building resilience requires three key actions: 

  1. Strengthen local capacity and trust. Training staff, protecting targeted officials, and using participatory democracy tools such as citizens’ assemblies can help communities become less vulnerable to false narratives. 
  1. Improve coordination and tools. Shared monitoring systems, partnerships, and national or EU knowledge-sharing platforms can help municipalities act faster and avoid duplication. 
  1. Create an enabling framework. National and EU support, through measures like the Digital Services Act, AI Act, and national counter-disinformation laws, can provide resources, clarity, and legal backing. 

Ultimately, misinformation may be a global issue, but its impact is most visible locally. Empowering local governments with the right capacity, coordination, and frameworks is key to protecting communities, safeguarding democracy, and rebuilding public trust. 

Read the study here

For more information, contact:

THOMAS Carol
In Governance, Impact community Society, Latest, Local democracy

Mis/Disinformation report event

Truth, Trust and Local Democracy in the Age of Mis/Disinformation

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It often starts with a rumour. In Sweden, when a local council proposed using municipal land for newly arrived migrants, the debate should have focused on policy. Instead, misleading narratives took over. Trust in the process collapsed, divisions deepened, and planning stalled—not because of disagreement over the proposal itself, but because confidence in local leaders had been shaken.

Similar patterns are appearing across Europe. In the UK, false claims spread by extremists have fuelled threats against local politicians and disrupted council meetings. In Romania, local authorities report having to divert time and resources away from essential services just to counter persistent rumours.

These cases reveal a broader reality: when facts are manipulated, democratic dialogue falters. Decisions that should serve communities are delayed or derailed, while elected representatives—especially women and members of minority groups—face heightened hostility and intimidation.

“Disinformation doesn’t just mislead — it derails local decision-making, sows division, and erodes trust in our institutions. Local governments must be equipped to counter manipulated narratives, protect credibility, and defend democratic dialogue.” Gunn Marit Helgesen, CEMR President

The new CEMR report “Local Truth, Shared Trust” launched on 13 October 2025 during the event “The Local Self-Government Charter turns 40 | Renewing Democracy in the Digital Age”, draws on a spring 2025 survey of national associations to explore these dynamics. Local and regional governments (LRGs) report a rise in mis/disinformation campaigns aimed at discrediting officials, obstructing policy, and deepening community divisions. By sharing real experiences from towns, cities and regions, the report highlights the significant disruption these campaigns create for effective local governance.

Carol Thomas, Senior Advisor at The Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) during the report “Local Thruth, Shared Trust” presentation.

Truth in a democracy has always been a contested space, where facts meet beliefs and political narratives shape understanding. But today’s challenge goes beyond healthy debate: it involves deliberate distortion intended to divide. The result is a public sphere that is more polarised, less participatory, and less capable of performing essential functions, from maintaining public order to managing crises and protecting vulnerable populations.

Towns, cities and regions are among the most exposed to these pressures. As the democratic institutions closest to citizens, they are both highly trusted and highly vulnerable. Their central role in service delivery and daily engagement with residents makes them visible targets for narratives that distort facts, fuel mistrust, and erode credibility.

Claudia Luciani, Director of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities and Federica Bordelot, Director of Advocacy and Impact at CEMR.

Responding effectively to mis/disinformation requires action at the local level. Strengthening local democracy is not only about protecting democratic values, but also ensuring that LRGs can continue providing vital services and leadership for cohesive societies. This includes investing in tools and training for public administrators, supporting independent local media, promoting media literacy, and integrating LRGs into national and EU strategies that reflect on-the-ground realities.

By highlighting these challenges and opportunities, the CEMR report underscores the importance of empowering local governments. Building trust, protecting democratic values, and fostering societal cohesion depends on it. The report’s launch event brought together participants able to share insights, experiences, and expertise—sparking debate and informing concrete solutions to one of democracy’s most pressing challenge.

For more information, contact:

GURI Durmish
In Governance, International cooperation, Latest, Local democracy

Reinforce cooperation in Europe

EU Semester - News 2024

Leaders of the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) and the Network of Associations of Local Authorities of South-East Europe (NALAS) meet to reinforce cooperation

Today, the Secretary General of the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) met with the President and Secretary General of the Network of Associations of Local Authorities of South-East Europe (NALAS) to reaffirm the strong spirit of collaboration between the two organisations.

During the meeting, the CEMR Secretary General highlighted the longstanding partnership and the valuable role that NALAS plays in representing and supporting local governments across South-East Europe. Both leadership teams underlined the importance of strengthening the capacities of local and regional governments (LRGs) and their associations (LRGAs), building on shared membership and joint initiatives.

Looking ahead, CEMR and NALAS exchanged views on how to institutionalise their cooperation so that it is not only continued but also fully embedded within CEMR’s political structures. This step would allow for a more systematic exchange, greater representation of shared priorities at the European level, and stronger support for municipalities, regions, and their associations—particularly in addressing today’s challenges and in the enlargement process of the six Western Balkan countries and the Eastern Partnership Trio.

The meeting was followed by a strategic discussion with representatives of the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Negotiations (DG ENEST) on how to ensure that LRGs and their associations are actively involved in the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans. This major initiative, launched by the European Union, aims to accelerate the region’s economic development and facilitate its integration into the EU’s Single Market. Both organisations stressed the importance of reinforcing cooperation and dialogue with national governments, while also demonstrating the key responsibilities that LRGs should fulfil in the enlargement and negotiation processes.

For more information, contact:

Meritxell PARRAMON VILA
In Bridges of Trust, EU Covenant of Mayors, Governance, Latest, Local democracy, Projects and Programmes

European Week of Regions & Cities 2025

EWRC 2023 - News 2023

CEMR agenda for the European Week of Regions and Cities 

The European Week of Regions and Cities will take place from 13 to 15 October 2025.  

Organised by the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Regional and Urban Policy and the European Committee of the Regions, the European Week of Regions and Cities is the biggest annual Brussels-based event during which cities and regions showcase their capacity to create growth and jobs, implement European Union Cohesion policy, and prove the importance of the local and regional level for good European governance.  

If you are a CEMR member and plan to be in Brussels during this week, please let us know by completing this form so we can contact you regarding visibility opportunities.  

CEMR event organised on the official programme of the European Week of Regions and Cities 

No future of cohesion without representation!

The event will gather high-level representatives of the #CohesionAlliance partners, associations, and the European Committee of the Regions. Together, they will exchange their views on the future of Cohesion Policy and reflect on how far the European Commission’s proposal fosters economic, social and territorial cohesion.

  • Date and time: 15 October 2025, 16:30 – 18:00 CET 
  • Venue: Jacques Delors building, JDE 52

‘Ukraine’s path to the EU: municipalities and partnerships for cohesion and growth’ 

Organised by EasyBusiness, CEMR and the Agency for Recovery and Development, with U-LEAD’s support, this session will focus on Ukraine’s EU accession progress under Chapter 22, municipalities’ pivotal role as ultimate beneficiaries and the power of international municipal partnerships. Acknowledging municipalities’ limited direct experience, the session will highlight how knowledge exchange and collaborative initiatives facilitate vital learning, accelerate EU alignment and crucially contribute to Ukraine’s broader integration and cohesion with the EU, fostering sustainable reconstruction and future growth. 

  • Date and time: 15 October 2025, 16:30 – 18:00 CET 
  • Venue: VMA building – Rue Van Maerlant / Van Meerlantstraat 2, Brussels, VMA23 
  • Register here (until 30 September) 

Other events taking place during the European Week of Regions and Cities (outside the official programme) 

CEMR will also organise or co-organise several events alongside the European Week of Regions and Cities, taking advantage of the presence of numerous local leaders in Brussels. 

Joint event with the Congress – The Charter turns 40: renewing democracy in the digital age 

  • Date and time: 13 October 2025, 14 – 16:30 CET 
  • Venue: ACE events, Avenue d’Auderghem 22, Brussels 
  • Register here 
  • Organisers: CEMR and the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe 

2025 marks 40 years since the European Charter on Local Self-Government was opened for signature (the Charter), a milestone document that anchors local democratic governance. In today’s digital age, local democracy is facing unprecedented challenges from disinformation, misinformation, and deliberate efforts to erode trust in public institutions. That’s why CEMR and the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe are bringing together policymakers, local leaders, academics, and civil society for a vital discussion on how to build democratic resilience.  
 
This event will spotlight innovative local actions, feature the launch of CEMR’s new report on how local and regional governments are confronting the threats of mis/disinformation, and introduce the New Democratic Pact for Europe, a bold initiative to strengthen democracy for the future.   

Local Alliance: Shaping the next EU budget with cities

  • Date and time: 15 October 2025, 18:30 – 20:30 CET
  • Venue: European Parliament

This high-level evening discussion will bring together mayors, city networks, Members of the European Parliament, and EU officials to debate how cities can shape the next EU budget. The event will spotlight local priorities for the post-2027 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), the need for direct access to EU funds, and the importance of ensuring cities and regions are at the heart of Europe’s investment decisions.

Bridges of Trust – Annual gathering 

  • Date and time: 16 October 2025, 13:30 – 19:00 CET 
  • Venue: CEMR, 1 square Meeûs, 1st floor, Brussels 
  • Organisers CEMR, U-LEAD with Europe  

Bridges of Trust’s annual gathering brings together European and Ukrainian municipalities to strengthen cooperation and support Ukraine’s recovery. With local leaders, EU institutions, and partner organisations, the event fosters trust-based partnerships, knowledge exchange, and concrete actions for rebuilding communities and advancing EU integration.   

EU Covenant of Mayors ceremony 2025 

  • Date and time: 16 October 2025, 8:00 – 13:30 CET 
  • Venue: European Parliament 
  • Register here 
  • Organiser: EU Covenant of Mayors 

At a time of mounting geopolitical challenges and accelerating climate risks, the role of Europe’s towns, cities, and regions has never been more vital. This year’s Ceremony will bring together mayors, regional leaders, and top EU decision-makers to discuss how cities and towns are helping secure Europe’s future by providing citizens with clean and affordable energy while strengthening local resilience.   

For over 15 years, the EU Covenant of Mayors has mobilised local leadership across Europe to plan, act and work with communities towards a more resilient, prosperous, and climate-neutral future, making them indispensable allies in shaping Europe’s vision.   

This year’s Ceremony comes at a critical moment for Europe, as new priorities and strategies take shape and gather momentum under the freshly launched EU mandate. The event will shine a spotlight on the essential role of local governments in delivering on these priorities – highlighting how Europe’s security, resilience, and prosperity can only be achieved through close cooperation with its towns, cities, and regions.   

The event will feature high-level speakers, including Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission; Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament; Kata Tüttő, President of the European Committee of the Regions; Raffaele Fitto, Executive Vice-President for Cohesion and Reforms, European Commission, along with mayors and regional leaders from across Europe.   

The Ceremony will also honour the winners of the 2025 EU Covenant of Mayors Award, celebrated for their outstanding leadership and achievements in decarbonising heating and cooling at the local level. 

For more information, please contact:

SKAZLIC Ivana
In Governance, Governance, Latest, Mindcraft, Mindcraft, Projects and programmes, Projects and Programmes, Publications

Country profile #2 – Germany

Mindcraft - Germany publication

Country Profile on decentralised development cooperation: the case of Germany

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The country profiles offer a short overview of national models of (decentralised) development cooperation frameworks in selected EU Member States. The aim is to provide insights into specific mechanisms and modalities of analysed national frameworks and identify enabling factors as well as challenges related to practical implementation, focusing on the role and opportunities for local and regional governments and their associations.   
 
Based on the study, the German framework for DDC is characterised by:  
 
1. German federal states and municipalities maintain lasting partnerships with their counterparts abroad, generating sustainable impact. Recent German-Ukrainian solidarity partnerships underline DDC’s role in development policy and open paths for trilateral and multilateral cooperation.  

 2. Service Agency Community in One World – SKEW of Engagement Global is the main advisory and grant-providing platform for German LRGs in DDC, supporting project planning, implementation, and international exchange.  

 3. The variety of funding programmes (mainly financed by the Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development – BMZ, managed via Service Agency Community in One World – SKEW and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internaztionale Zusammenarbeit – GIZ), designed for specific purposes, enable project-based, thematic cooperation and long-term partnerships. 
 
This article is part of a series of 7 Country Profiles examining decentralised development cooperation frameworks across Europe. The thirs edition, focusing on Spain, will be published in December. Stay tuned!  
 
Read the Country Profile, available in four languages: 

CEMR encourages German authorities to strengthen the role of LRGs in development policy, not only as implementers, but also as strategic partners helping shape a more resilient, inclusive and effective development agenda.  

This publication is produced within the Bridging and Mapping Knowledge Gaps in Decentralised Cooperation (Mindcraft), funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and supported by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ). 

For more information, contact:

SKAZLIC Ivana
In Governance, Governance, Latest, Mindcraft, Mindcraft, Projects and Programmes, Projects and programmes, Publications

Country profile #1 – Poland

Poland services - News 2022

Country Profile on decentralised development cooperation: the case of Poland 

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The country profiles offer a short overview of national models of (decentralised) development cooperation frameworks in selected EU Member States. The aim is to provide insights into specific mechanisms and modalities of analysed national frameworks and identify enabling factors as well as challenges related to practical implementation, focusing on the role and opportunities for local and regional governments and their associations.  
 
Based on the study, Poland’s approach to DDC is characterised by: 
 
 1. Focusing on cooperation with Eastern European countries – with Ukraine, Georgia, and Moldova. Polish local governments actively support partners through strategy development, peer learning, and implementation support. 
 
2. Highlighting the vital role of direct local-level partnerships in times of crisis, including twinning and hands-on collaboration despite the ongoing war. 
 
3. Polish municipalities have developed strong expertise in accessing EU funds and designing effective local strategies, which they can use in their partnerships. 
 
This article is part of a series of 7 Country Profiles examining decentralised development cooperation frameworks across Europe. The second edition, focusing on Germany, will be published in September. Stay tuned! 
 
Read the Country Profile, available in four languages:

CEMR encourages Polish authorities to strengthen the role of LRGs in development policy, not only as implementers, but also as strategic partners helping shape a more resilient, inclusive and effective development agenda. 

This publication is produced within the Bridging and Mapping Knowledge Gaps in Decentralised Cooperation (Mindcraft), funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and supported by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ).

* The content of this publication is the responsibility of its author(s) and does not reflect the views of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

For more information, contact: 

THOMAS Carol
In Governance, Governance

Better regulation position paper

CEMR calls for stronger governance, placing local and regional governments at the heart of Europe’s competitiveness

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Europe cannot deliver competitiveness with legislation alone. It will only succeed if policies work on the ground.

And that depends on local and regional governments.

Across the European Union, towns, cities and regions implement more than 70% of EU legislation. They finance public investment, deliver essential services, and turn European priorities — from the Green Deal to digital transformation — into concrete results for citizens and businesses.

Yet too often, local and regional governments are brought into the process too late, faced with fragmented rules, overlapping obligations and growing administrative burdens — clear signs of the limits of the current system. Complex legislative packages, inconsistent timelines and layers of guidance have made implementation harder, slower and more expensive, forcing authorities to spend valuable time navigating procedures instead of delivering solutions. At a moment when Europe is striving to boost productivity, resilience and strategic autonomy, this is a luxury the EU cannot afford.

In this position paper, the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) calls for a fundamental shift in how EU policies are designed and implemented: from top-down regulation to genuine multilevel governance.

To make this shift a reality, CEMR calls for:

  • Systematic involvement of local and regional governments throughout the entire EU policy cycle — from design to implementation and evaluation.
  • Structured consultation mechanisms, ensuring meaningful and timely participation of subnational authorities.
  • Territorial and governance impact assessments to ensure policies are realistic and implementable across diverse local contexts.
  • Stronger political recognition of local and regional governments as equal partners in EU decision-making.
  • EU legislation and funding frameworks that reflect territorial realities, avoiding one-size-fits-all approaches.
  • A governance model that prioritises implementability, ensuring policies can be effectively delivered on the ground.

Competitiveness goes beyond regulatory simplification. It requires public policies that are relevant to businesses and communities that they serve and capable of being effectively implemented.

CEMR and its members stand ready to contribute their expertise, data and on-the-ground experience. The time has come to move beyond ad hoc consultation and embed local and regional governments where they belong: at the decision-making table.

Because Europe’s competitiveness will be won — or lost — locally.

Discover CEMR’s full recommendations for a stronger multilevel governance framework in the position paper.

For more information, contact:

BAIER Jessica
In Governance, Governance, Impact community Society, International cooperation, Latest, Publications, Twinning, Twinning

Analysis of twinning in Europe 

Twinning Report - News

CEMR survey highlights evolving practices, challenges and opportunities for town twinning in Europe 

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Town twinning has long been recognised as a bridge between communities, fostering cultural exchange and mutual understanding. Since 1951, the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) has championed this practice, helping municipalities and regions across Europe build partnerships that transcend borders. 

A new CEMR survey, with 315 responses from 27 European countries, reveals how twinning is adapting to today’s challenges. While cultural exchanges remain important, local and regional governments increasingly view twinning as a tool for practical cooperation, from joint projects and workshops to exchanges of best practices. Nearly 80% of respondents expressed their intent to further develop twinning activities, with national associations showing particularly high engagement. 

At the same time, the study identifies three persistent barriers: limited financial resources, shortages of staff, and gaps in knowledge or experience. Respondents highlighted the need for more structured support to help municipalities realise their ambitions. 

Looking to the future, municipalities and associations are especially interested in using twinning to: 

  • Build sustainable networks that go beyond one-off exchanges; 
  • Access and manage EU funding opportunities for joint projects in areas like economic development, agriculture, and new technologies; 
  • Strengthen local capacity through training and guidance. 

CEMR concludes that twinning remains a relevant and powerful practice, but unlocking its full potential requires a multifaceted approach: more funding, better information on financing opportunities, and dedicated training programmes to empower municipal staff. 

With its long-standing commitment to twinning, CEMR is uniquely placed to drive this renewed agenda, helping towns and regions use partnerships not only to connect communities, but also to advance shared European priorities, from innovation to the localisation of the Sustainable Development Goals. 

Read the study here 

For more information, contact: 

TARAN Stanislav
In Bridges of Trust, Bridges of Trust, Governance, Governance, Latest, Local democracy, Local democracy, Projects and programmes, Projects and Programmes, Publications

War on Ukraine first declaration

European local and regional leaders reaffirm solidarity with Ukraine and call for peace, justice, and reconstruction.

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On the first anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, local and regional leaders across Europe renew their strongest support for Ukraine, its people, and its democratic institutions. 

Condemning Aggression 
The war has brought devastation to civilians, elected representatives, and essential infrastructure. The abduction of Ukrainian mayors and the ongoing detention of five of them highlight the assault on democracy and the rule of law. These acts are condemned in the strongest terms, with urgent calls for the immediate release of the detained leaders. 

Solidarity and Support 

Local and regional governments across Europe stand firmly by Ukraine. Partnerships such as the Bridges of Trust project, the Eastern Partnership programme, and the European Alliance of Cities and Regions for the Reconstruction of Ukraine are mobilising resources, expertise, and cooperation. These initiatives are not only helping communities recover but also preparing Ukraine for its future as a full member of the European Union. 

Shared Values 
This declaration is a reminder that Europe’s foundations rest on peace, democracy, and respect for international law. As the war continues, European leaders join the international community in reaffirming Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and in urging the Russian Federation to end its illegal war. 

A year into this unjustified conflict, the commitment of Europe’s municipalities, cities, and regions is unwavering: to stand with Ukraine, to defend shared values, and to contribute to rebuilding a peaceful, democratic future. 

Read the declaration here 

For more information, contact: 

THOMAS Carol
In EU budget, EU budget, Governance, Governance, Impact community Society, Impact community Society, Latest, Publications

Recovery & Resilience Facility funds 

RRF Consultation - News

Local and regional governments warn of weak involvement, risks of fund misallocation, and limited ownership of recovery plans 

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The Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) is the EU’s largest ever economic support plan, launched in response to the COVID-19 crisis. While national governments designed National Recovery and Resilience Plans (NRRPs) to guide investments and reforms until 2026, a new consultation by the Committee of the Regions (CoR) and the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) highlights a persistent problem: local and regional authorities (LRAs) remain sidelined in the process. 

Weak involvement in preparation and governance 

The survey, conducted in early 2022 among 26 associations across 19 EU member states, shows that most LRAs had little to no influence on defining objectives, reforms, or investments. Compared with 2021, dialogue with national governments slightly improved, but respondents stress that these consultations had minimal impact on final plans. Governance of the process remains largely top-down. 

Mixed views on the plans’ content 

Respondents were broadly positive about the NRRP’s contribution to the green (37% earmark) and digital transitions (20% earmark). However, they expressed doubts about the plans’ ability to advance territorial cohesion, one of the RRF’s six pillars. The interplay between NRRPs and other EU funds such as the ERDF or Cohesion Fund also remains unclear and inconsistent, raising fears of overlaps and inefficient spending. 

Implementation: low ownership, high risks 

When it comes to implementation, optimism is scarce. Only a handful of LRAs reported having a meaningful role in monitoring, adapting, or co-managing projects. Ownership is strikingly low, despite LRAs’ frontline role in pandemic response and recovery. The main barriers identified were a lack of political will at the national level and tight or unsuitable formats and timelines, rather than a lack of local capacity. 

These shortcomings translate into serious risks: 

  • Failure to meet milestones and targets 
  • Misallocation of funds 
  • Increased territorial disparities 
  • Public distrust in the EU and national institutions 

Calls for stronger EU-level monitoring 

To improve outcomes, respondents strongly supported enhanced dialogue between the EU and local/regional representatives and the creation of an early warning mechanism to flag delays or problems in implementation. 

Conclusion 

Two years after the pandemic outbreak, Europe’s recovery is underway, but its governance remains overly centralised. The CoR-CEMR consultation warns that without meaningful involvement of local and regional governments, the RRF risks missing its objectives, weakening both recovery efforts and citizens’ trust in the European project. 

Read the study here 

For more information, contact: 

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