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ROSSI Fabrizio
In Impact community Climate, Impact community Society, Latest, PLATFORMA, United Cities and Local Governments

Reflections on the Pact for the Future

European Union - News


Local & Regional Governments are in, but still far from where they should be

The inclusion of Local and Regional Governments (LRGs) in the recently adopted Pact for the Future, particularly in Article 83, represents a significant milestone. This article acknowledges their crucial role and calls on the UN Secretary-General to offer recommendations on engaging with local and regional authorities to advance the 2030 Agenda, especially by localising the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

However, this achievement is only the beginning. Realising the full potential of LRGs in global governance requires continued effort. Below are five key takeaways that reflect the pact’s impact on the local leadership community.

Cities and Local Governments on the Global Stage

The adoption of this text reflects widespread recognition of the vital role cities and local governments play in building a sustainable future. The conversation has shifted from questioning their relevance to focusing on collaboration to drive progress across all levels. This shift is crucial for advancing the 2030 Agenda and promoting sustainable development for all.

The Growing Movement for Local Governance

Engagement with the UN Secretary-General and other key stakeholders highlights the increasing momentum behind the movement advocating for LRGs’ unique role. Unlike civil society organisations, local governments have distinct mandates and constituencies, making their contributions essential for shaping a sustainable future.

The Global Task Force Model: A Proven Approach

Global challenges—whether securing peace, reducing inequalities, addressing water scarcity, or reforming food systems—require coordinated action across all levels of government. The Global Task Force of LRGs has proven effective in uniting agendas and coordinating advocacy on issues that transcend borders and jurisdictions.

Recognition is Progressing, But Still Limited

While LRGs’ inclusion in the text is a positive step, their role remains largely focused on implementing SDGs. It is essential that local and regional governments are recognised not only as implementers but also as full partners in shaping policies that affect the future of our communities.

Challenges to Local Democracy

There are growing concerns about the future of local democracy, as autocratic regimes and centralising reforms threaten the autonomy of local governments. Reduced powers and budget cuts jeopardise the sustainability of local democracy. Although the current UN Secretary-General supports local governance, the post-2025 landscape remains uncertain, posing risks to local self-government.

What to watch

While the Pact for the Future marks a crucial milestone, much work is still needed to achieve full recognition and empowerment of LRGs. Now is the time to press forward, ensuring our voices continue to shape global and national agendas for the future of our communities.

THOMAS Carol
In Impact community Society, Latest, Local democracy

MEPs at the European Parliament

European Parliament - News

The Essential Role of Local and Regional Experience in the European Parliament

In the latest composition of the European Parliament, a significant 31.5% (227 out of 720) of the Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have had a local or regional mandate. This highlights the vital connection between local governance and the broader European legislative process.

The European Parliament, composed of 720 MEPs elected from 27 EU Member States, serves as one of the key institutions in the European Union. Since 1979, MEPs have been elected through direct universal suffrage for a five-year term. Their decisions influence laws and policies that have a direct impact on the lives of over 447 million EU citizens.

Local and Regional governance experience equips MEPs with unique insights into the everyday challenges and opportunities faced by citizens. This background allows them to better understand the implications of EU legislation on local communities and ensures that the voices of municipalities and regions are heard at the European level.

Key Functions of the European Parliament:

  • Co-Legislation: The European Parliament shares legislative powers with the Council of the EU. Together, they adopt and amend legislative proposals, ensuring that laws reflect the diverse needs of EU citizens.
  • Budgeting: The Parliament plays a crucial role in deciding on the EU budget, and determining how resources are allocated across various sectors and initiatives.
  • Oversight: The Parliament supervises the work of the European Commission and other EU bodies, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Promoting Democracy Globally: Beyond its legislative functions, the European Parliament is a strong advocate for democratic values within Europe and globally. The Parliament actively supports the fight for democracy, freedom of speech, and fair elections worldwide.

The significant presence of MEPs with local and regional mandates in the European Parliament underscores the importance of local governance in shaping European policy. As the newly elected MEPs take on their roles, their decisions will continue to influence the European Union’s and its citizens’ future.

Learn More: To gain a deeper understanding of the European Parliament and its functions, visit the official website.

GAUDRON Marine
In EU budget, EU budget, Gender equality, Impact community Cohesion, Impact community Cohesion, Impact community Society, Impact community Society, Latest, Migration and inclusion, Publications, Territorial development

X Budgeting – power of subnational finance

Participatory Budget - Youth

Municipalities and regions explore new approaches to budgeting, from participatory and priority-based models to green and SDG-oriented practices

Read full study

Municipalities, cities and regions across Europe are at the forefront of delivering essential services, from housing and health to climate action and mobility. Yet, they face increasing financial pressures, recovering from the pandemic’s “scissor effect” of higher costs and lower revenues, and coping with inflation. In this context, how budgets are designed and allocated has become a powerful political tool.

To explore this potential, the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) organised a training event on 23 May titled “X-budgeting – the power of subnational finance.” The session brought together experts and practitioners to share knowledge on innovative approaches to local and regional finance.

“X-budgeting” refers to a range of methods that go beyond simple accounting, transforming budgets into instruments for shaping policy and engaging citizens. These include:

  • Priority-based budgeting, aligning spending with political or community priorities rather than repeating last year’s allocations.
  • Process-based budgeting, such as participatory models that involve residents directly in decisions.
  • Green and SDG budgeting, aligning local finances with climate goals and the Sustainable Development Agenda.

Each approach offers opportunities, from fostering transparency and boosting trust to mobilising investment for sustainability, but also poses challenges, such as methodological complexity, resource needs and the demand for strong political support.

By experimenting with new forms of budgeting, municipalities and regions can make financial choices that not only keep services running but also reflect citizens’ voices and accelerate progress towards long-term goals.

Read the study here

For more information, contact:

BORDELOT Federica
In Gender equality, Impact community Society, Latest

EU Equal Representation

Gender Equality News

The Urgent Need for Equal Representation in the European Commission

As the European Union prepares to form its next Commission, a troubling reality emerges, the potential gender imbalance at the highest levels of EU decision-making. The top ranks of the European Commission, composed of one official from each of the EU’s 27 member states, could include as few as seven women. Additionally, the Commission could see a strong presence of members from the European People’s Party (EPP), raising concerns about diversity and representation.

President-elect Ursula von der Leyen has given EU governments until 30 August to nominate candidates for the new Commission. However, as the deadline approaches, it is increasingly clear that gender equality may once again take a backseat in the composition of one of the EU’s most powerful institutions.

Our Stand on Gender Equality:

At the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR), we believe that gender equality is not just a goal but a fundamental right. Women’s representation at all levels of governance is crucial for achieving a balanced and fair society. Unfortunately, the current trajectory of the European Commission suggests that we are far from this ideal.

CEMR has long been committed to empowering women and advancing gender equality. Our initiatives range from supporting women in politics to advocating for equal opportunities across all sectors. We strive to create a world where every woman can thrive, free from any form of threat or violence.

Why Representation Matters:

The European Commission plays a pivotal role in shaping policies that impact the lives of millions of EU citizens. A gender-balanced Commission is essential to ensuring that these policies are inclusive and representative of the diverse population they serve. The underrepresentation of women in all their diversity in such a critical institution not only undermines the EU’s commitment to gender equality but also weakens the legitimacy of its decisions.

Our Call to Action:

As we await the final composition of the new European Commission, we call on all EU member states to prioritise gender balance in their nominations. The EU must lead by example, showing that it values diversity and equality in its highest offices.

CEMR will continue to advocate for gender equality and support initiatives that empower women at all levels of governance. Together, we can create a more inclusive and just Europe.

Read our Call to Action
BANOS DE GUISASOLA Eva
In Impact community Climate, Impact community Climate, Impact community Society, Impact community Society, Latest, PLATFORMA, PLATFORMA, Publications

Europe engagement in localising SDGs

Localising SDGs study - News

European Mayors strengthening their engagement at UN High-Level Political Forum

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A delegation of European Mayors and councillors is heading to New York to defend the key role of local and regional governments in United Nations intergovernmental bodies during the upcoming High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) (8-17 July).

This year, HLPF will focus on “Reinforcing the 2030 Agenda and eradicating poverty in times of multiple crises” and is held under the auspices of the Economic and Social Council.

Once again, European Mayors and councillors will make they voice heard and present how the local level can deliver sustainable, resilient and innovative solutions.

Among them are:

  • Véronique Bertholle, Vice Mayor on European and International Relations, City of Strasbourg (France), PLATFORMA spokesperson
  • Francine Farrugia, Local Councillor in the locality of Siggiewi (Malta), member of CEMR-PLATFORMA Young Elected Officials Committee
  • Clare Hart, Vice-President Montpellier Métropole, President of Crisis and Rehabilitation Group, Cités Unies France
  • Gail Macgregor, Leader of Dumfries and Galloway Council, Scotland, UK (COSLA), Spokesperson for Environment and Economy, CEMR Spokesperson on SDGs
  • Nicole Unterseh, Mayor City of Bonn (Germany), Deutscher Städtetag
  • …

Mayors and councillors will actively participate in several meetings, including the Local2030 Coalition Special Event “Unlocking transformative change through the localisation of the six SDG transitions” on 10 June, during which Francine Farrugia will officially present the CEMR-PLATFORMA 2024 annual study on SDGs.

This year, the study European Territories Localise the SDGs – The time for impact is running out gathers 46 responses from associations of local and regional governments, representing 31 European countries.

In the Foreword, Tengiz Mtvarelishvili, Chair of Telavi City Council in Georgia, and PLATFORMA Spokesperson, warns about delays in implementing the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). “But there’s hope: local and regional governments are on the front lines, closest to citizens, and uniquely positioned to find tailored solutions”, he says.

Eva Baños de Guisasola, PLATFORMA Advisor on SDGs, Global Agendas and Climate, and Federica Bordelot, CEMR Director of Policy and Impact, will moderate several sessions.

To strengthen the voice of local and regional governments, PLATFORMA and CEMR are joining forces with the Global Task Force of Local and Regional Governments (GTF) led by UCLG.

This year, HLPF will be followed by the UN Summit of the Future, also in New York on 22-23 September, where local and regional governments will gather during an Action weekend ahead of the meeting.

Discover the study:

Check the agenda of the Global Task Force of Local and Regional Governments (GTF)

For more information, contact:

BAIER Jessica
In Impact community Society, International cooperation, Latest, Projects and Programmes, Twinning

Twinning – REALISE 2024

Twinning REALISE - News 2024

CEMR Announces Grant Recipients for REALISE 2024 Twinning Programme

The Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) is pleased to announce the recipients of its grant scheme established under the REALISE project. Funded by the European Commission’s CERV programme, the initiative aims to bolster subnational government Twinning endeavours.

The grant scheme not only supports the promotion of Twinning arrangements but also empowers national associations to undertake related initiatives that address specific challenges. Proposals with merit are eligible for funding of up to €30,000.

CEMR expresses its delight in selecting the following Local and Regional Government Associations for the REALISE 2024 grant programme:

Twinning serves a leading role in fostering connections between Local and Regional Governments. This collaborative approach facilitates the tackling of a wide range of pressing issues, encompassing urban development, climate change, service improvement, social inclusion, and migration.

Additionally, Twinning initiatives promote peace and solidify European values and belonging.

Since its inception in 1951, CEMR has been an advocate for Twinning, recognising its potential to connect communities, cultivate mutual understanding, and drive collaborative efforts. Today, these programmes extend beyond cultural exchanges, encompassing the sharing of best practices and the joint development of solutions to shared challenges.

CEMR extends its sincere gratitude to all associations that participated and submitted compelling proposals. We encourage you to stay informed of forthcoming updates on these exciting projects.

BORDELOT Federica
In Gender equality, Impact community Society, Latest

Looking for Proposals

Looking for Proposals WiP - News 2024

CEMR is currently looking for an agency to design, publish and print our study on Women In Politics

CEMR is calling for proposals for external services to design and produce a publication on our study “Women in Politics”. 

For more information, you can access our Terms of Reference here.

THOMAS Carol
In Impact community Society, Latest, Local democracy

COR-CEMR Consultation 

A follow-up consultation from the CoR and CEMR on the RRF implementation

Since its launch, CEMR has monitored the European Union’s Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) to assess the experiences of local and regional governments in navigating this crucial funding instrument aimed at revitalizing the EU’s economy post-COVID-19. In collaboration with the Committee of the Regions (CoR), CEMR conducted a targeted consultation in 2021, engaging with associations of local and regional governments. The objective was to examine the involvement of these bodies in both the design and execution phases of the RRF. Initial findings revealed a very limited engagement of local and regional governments in the process.

This year, CoR and CEMR conducted a follow-up consultation to assess any changes in the situation. Despite the RRF being halfway through its implementation, local and regional governments express continued frustration at being sidelined from National Recovery and Resilience Plans (NRRPs). The results of the CoR-CEMR survey confirm a trend of highly centralised management of the RRF by Member States.

On April 16, CEMR hosted a high-level panel debate featuring representatives from EU institutions, where the key findings of the consultation were unveiled. The results of the CoR-CEMR consultation can be accessed here.

BORDELOT Federica
In Gender equality, Impact community Society, Latest

European Charter For Equality

German Association of CEMR (RGRE) Hosts 5th National Conference on European Charter for Equality

Celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Basic Law (Grundgesetz) for the Federal Republic of Germany, the German Association of the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (RGRE) is set to host the 5th National Conference on the Implementation of the European Charter for Equality.

Initiated by CEMR in 2006, the Charter aims to empower European municipalities in their efforts to promote gender parity within their communities. It has received endorsements from over 2,000 municipalities spanning 36 European countries, with Germany contributing more than 60 signatures alone.

The two-day Conference, organised on the 25th and 26th of April, under the theme “Women – Truly equal?”, delves into the evolution of gender equality in Germany, addressing contemporary challenges amidst resurgent anti-feminist sentiments in Europe.

The conference will examine Germany’s progress and explore the broader European landscape of gender equality policies within EU institutions, focusing on gender equality-related amendments in 1994 to current anti-feminist challenges throughout Europe.

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

Unfair recovery fund distribution

Post-COVID Recovery Fund: centralisation and unfair distribution of resources risk harming cohesion in Europe

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A new CoR-CEMR consultation shows that the territorial allocation of funds from the Recovery and Resilience Facility is widely perceived as unbalanced on the ground.

On the eve of a crucial meeting of European heads of state and government focused on competitiveness, the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) and the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) unveil the results of their third joint survey on the implementation of the post-pandemic Recovery and Resilience Facility (RFF), which is worth €648 billion.

While the implementation of the RRF is at the halfway point, regions and cities still feel left aside from National Recovery and Resilience Plans (NRRPs). A new consultation conducted jointly by CoR and CCRE-CEMR confirms the highly centralised management of the RRF by the Member States.

Key findings

  • The territorial allocation of RRF funds is broadly perceived as unfair. Nearly half of respondents rate territorial fairness as “poor or very poor” while only a few see it as “good or very good”. And the degree of ownership at local and regional level is also unsatisfactory with significantly more respondents seeing it as “poor or very poor” than “good or very good”.
  • The green and digital transitions stand out as the two objectives supported effectively by the NRRPs, according to respondents in the consultation.
  • Conversely, fully one-third of respondents state that NRRPs do “not at all” effectively contribute to enhancing territorial cohesion, despite this being the legal basis and general objective of the RRF.
  • The involvement of local and regional authorities remains inadequately weak in the various phases of preparation, implementation or monitoring of NRRPs. The specific provisions of REPowerEU to improve the involvement of LRAs do not seem to have yielded concrete results.
  • Almost all respondents encounter barriers to their involvement in the NRRP. The main barrier identified is the national government providing an inappropriate framework for involvement.
  • The share of respondents who consider limited capacity or expertise within their region or city to be a barrier is significantly higher than in the previous consultation. This is likely linked to the higher-than-expected administrative burden of the RRF.
  • Potential overlaps and lack of coordination with cohesion funds remain the highest risk perceived by local and regional governments in the implementation of the RRF.
  • While the overall impact of projects funded by the RRF is rated positively by respondents, they are rather divided regarding its synergies with other funds, its additionality and flexibility.

Christophe Rouillon (FR/PES), Mayor of Coulaines and CoR’s rapporteur on the Mid-term evaluation of the Recovery and Resilience Facility said: “The results of the joint consultation underscore that the RRF is not the silver bullet it was claimed to be. The RRF was the appropriate response in a multi-crises context and will probably have had a positive macroeconomic impact. However, the centralisation it brought about as well as the deficiencies of the performance-based mechanism cannot be extrapolated to the future Cohesion Policy post-2027 if we do not want to put at risk that this policy remains the most efficient EU policy for delivering fair transitions throughout all EU regions.“

Kamila Bláhová, Vice-president for European Affairs, Union of Towns and Municipalities of SMOCR (CZ), stated: “The RRF and the national recovery plans of the Czech Republic have a huge potential to support the efforts of local and regional governments aimed at revitalizing the local economy and green infrastructure investments at the local level. However, the issue of administrative capacity and poor synergies between the RRF and other EU funds present significant challenges. It’s crucial to optimize how subnational governments can maximise the use of this substantial funding source and that we address any shortcomings as the RRF moves forward.”

Background

The consultation was conducted between January and March 2024, collating the views and experiences of 36 organisations representative of a variety of subnational government levels across 22 EU Member States. The respondents were from Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Spain, and Sweden. The geographical composition of the respondents was not identical to that of previous consultations.  Responses received from individual local and regional governments were also taken into account.

Results of the previous CoR-CEMR joint consultations (January 2021 and April 2022). 

Read the study here

Contacts:
Matteo Miglietta – CoR
Tel. (+32) 470 895382
Matteo.miglietta@cor.europa.eu

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