Bulgaria and Romania Join the Schengen Area: A Landmark Achievement for European Unity
The Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) congratulates Bulgaria and Romania on their historic accession to the Schengen Area, the world’s largest free-movement zone. This significant milestone, marked by border ceremonies at the Kulata crossing and the Friendship Bridge, represents years of dedicated effort and collaboration among European Union (EU) member states.
Strengthening European Integration
With this expansion, Schengen now encompasses 25 EU member states, facilitating the free movement of over 425 million people to travel, work, and reside without internal border controls. This milestone strengthens European unity, promotes economic growth, and fosters cultural exchange.
Celebrating Progress
At midnight on 1 January, Bulgarian and Romanian officials symbolically lifted border barriers, marking the end of land border checks between their countries and other Schengen countries. These celebrations were a testament to the hard work and commitment required to achieve full membership.
The Role of Local and Regional Governments
CEMR, representing Local and Regional Governments across Europe, recognises municipalities and regions’ vital role in fostering cross-border cooperation and facilitating integration. The expansion of Schengen will strengthen local partnerships, streamline mobility for citizens and businesses, and enhance regional development opportunities.
A Stronger Europe
Including Bulgaria and Romania in Schengen is more than a practical advancement; it is a symbolic reminder of the EU’s commitment to unity, collaboration, and shared prosperity. This milestone paves the way for continued progress in European integration and cooperation.
CEMR stands ready to support local and regional governments as they adapt to the opportunities and challenges of a border-free Europe.
At the recent Bridges of Trust Annual Gathering*, held alongside the CEMR Leaders’ Summit, a significant step forward was announced with the launch of the Bridges of Trust Community. This new phase marks a transition from bilateral partnerships between EU and Ukrainian municipalities to a cohesive, long-term framework for collaboration. The goal is to deepen existing connections, mobilise continued support in creating new partnerships, and build a lasting network of cooperation to support Ukraine’s recovery and its path toward EU integration. As part of this effort, CEMR is committed to strengthening the spirit of cooperation and ensuring that every Ukrainian municipality is paired with an EU partner, in line with the objectives of the Ukraine Recovery Conference 2024 in Berlin. The creation of these partnerships will be facilitated by the newly launched Matchmaking Platform.
In the framework of the Bridges of Trust project, a survey was recently carried out to assess the effectiveness of the partnerships and identify areas for further development. In fact, the survey was conducted with participating municipalities across 8 European countries: Poland, Latvia, Hungary, Spain, Slovenia, the Czech Republic, France, and Sweden revealing a promising picture of these evolving partnerships. With 80% of the partnerships demonstrating moderate to high levels of interaction, and 67% having formal agreements in place, these collaborations are already making a significant contribution to a resilient, united Europe. This data underscores the potential of the Bridges of Trust Community as a dynamic, long-term platform for cooperation, one that will grow and adapt to the needs of both Ukraine and the EU local governments in the years ahead.
Focus Areas of Cooperation:
The majority of municipalities are engaged in Youth, Cultural and Educational initiatives. Municipalities such as Kuldīga (Latvia), Bourges (France), Mińsk Mazowiecki (Poland), Tyresö (Sweden), and Budakeszi (Hungary) are emphasising the importance of cultural diplomacy, youth policy, and educational initiatives.
More than half of the municipalities are actively involved in energy efficiency and modernisation efforts. Municipalities such as Česká Třebová (Czech Republic), Budakeszi (Hungary), Puconci (Slovenia) and La Rochelle (France) have prioritised climate action, collaborating on green energy projects, energy efficiency improvements, and sustainable urban development.
A significant number of municipalities are also focused on emergency and humanitarian support. Bourges (France) and Sieradz (Poland) have led efforts in providing emergency aid, while others like Mińsk Mazowiecki (Poland) and Budakeszi (Hungary) have contributed to relief efforts for displaced populations and emergency infrastructure repairs. This includes essential supplies, housing for displaced persons, and rapid infrastructure repairs to ensure the basic functioning of Ukrainian municipalities during the crisis.
Almost half of the municipalities are engaged in governance and capacity-building activities. Such as Radzymin (Poland), Kuldīga Municipality (Latvia), Gulbene (Latvia), Puconci (Slovenia), are committed to strengthening local governance systems. This includes capacity-building efforts focused on crisis management, rebuilding governance structures, and ensuring municipalities can effectively manage their recovery processes.
Over a third of municipalities are active in the economic and business sectors. San Sebastián (Spain), Sieradz (Poland), Puconci (Slovenia), Gulbene (Latvia), and Kuldīga (Latvia), along with other municipalities, have focused on fostering economic ties, supporting local businesses, and creating collaborative opportunities for cross-border trade and entrepreneurship.
Achievements:
Formal Agreement:Half of the municipalities have formalised their partnerships with Ukrainian counterparts through Memorandums of Understanding or cooperation agreements, while another 40% are in the process of doing so. Beyond the survey results, a new cooperation agreement was signed at the Bridges of Trust Annual Gathering by Mayor Saulius Margis of Pakruojis (Lithuania) and Mayor Alla Myronova of Inhulka (Ukraine).
Crisis Response: Several municipalities, such as Bourges and Korosten, provided emergency assistance during the early stages of the war.
Knowledge Sharing: Peer-to-peer learning and exchange of best practices were cited as significant successes by more than half of the participants.
While the difficulties in accessing funds and the ongoing Russian war against Ukraine were identified as significant challenges – an encouraging trend emerges: nearly 80% of partner municipalities have already planned or are in the process of planning activities for the next six months. This demonstrates a strong commitment to maintaining and expanding their cooperation despite the obstacles, highlighting the resilience and determination of local governments to foster meaningful partnerships and drive impactful initiatives even in complex contexts.
The survey results reflect a shared commitment to facing both immediate challenges and long-term goals. In the months and years ahead, the Bridges of Trust Community will be essential in fostering the ongoing exchange of knowledge, support, and innovation between EU and Ukrainian municipalities, reinforcing the collective effort to support Ukraine’s recovery on the path to EU membership.
*Since 2021, the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR), in partnership with the Association of Ukrainian Cities (AUC) and EU national associations, has been implementing the Bridges of Trust project. Supported by U-LEAD with Europe, this fosters connections between EU and Ukrainian municipalities to tackle pressing challenges, including reconstruction, recovery, and institutional modernisation.
World Urban Forum 12 in Cairo: Local governments driving sustainable urban transformation
At the 12th World Urban Forum in Cairo, CEMR’s session brought together representatives from cities such as Tbilisi, Bishkek, Dushanbe, Niš and Vantaa, to share their experiences in advancing sustainable urban development through Voluntary Local Reviews (VLRs). These exchanges underscored the vital role of local governments in translating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into actionable strategies that deliver tangible results.
Co-hosted with UN-Habitat, the city of Tbilisi, the Reference Framework for Sustainable Cities (RFSC), and the European Commission Joint Research Centre (JRC), the session showcased examples of the new generation of action oriented VLRs, innovative tools like the RFSC’s self-assessment platform and EC JRC’s analysis of VLRs published to date. These resources empower cities to align their urban strategies with the SDGs and measure progress with precision.
Moderated by Boris Tonhauser, Director of PLATFORMA, the discussions explored how VLRs enable cities to address pressing challenges, including water management, air pollution, and data gaps while enhancing their strategies through citizen engagement and evidence-based decision-making. By leveraging these tools and processes, cities are not only refining their local plans but also contributing to broader global goals with concrete actions.
The session highlighted the essential role of multilevel governance and cross-sector innovation in addressing sustainability challenges beyond 2030. Key recommendations included revisiting SDG goals with a bottom-up perspective, prioritising cultural and citizen participation, and strengthening partnerships and support for cities engaged in VLR processes.
As the 2030 deadline for the SDGs approaches, the discussions reaffirmed the transformative power of local governments to lead global efforts. Through collaboration, peer learning, and the use of practical tools such as the RFSC, CEMR and its partners continue to support resilient, inclusive, and climate-neutral cities.
WUF12: Over 25,000 participants from 182 countries.
The 12th World Urban Forum in Cairo set new records, with over 25,000 participants from 182 countries gathering to exchange ideas and solutions under the theme “It All Starts at Home.” The event concluded with the unveiling of the Cairo Call to Action, a document capturing the Forum’s key messages and proposed strategies for addressing urban challenges. By emphasising multilevel governance, citizen engagement, and innovative tools, WUF12 reaffirmed the transformative power of local action in shaping inclusive, resilient, and sustainable cities. As the baton passes to Azerbaijan for WUF13, the momentum from Cairo serves as a powerful reminder of the critical role cities play in tackling global challenges.
CEMR launches a Matchmaking Platform for Twinning cooperation during the Leaders’ Summit in Karlsruhe
CEMR launches a new Matchmaking Platform to promote city-to-city cooperation and international partnerships during the Leaders’ Summit in Karlsruhe, Germany
The Bridges of Trust Community is launched in partnership between CEMR and U-Lead to foster new partnerships and support international municipal cooperation
The CEMR Leaders’ Summit gathered over 200 international leaders from across Europe, emphasising collaboration for sustainable and inclusive development
The Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) unveiled an innovative Matchmaking Platform to enhance city-to-city and local cooperation during its Leaders’ Summit in Karlsruhe. This high-profile event gathered over 200 international leaders, representing towns, regions, and cities from EU and Ukranian countries.
The platform, building on CEMR’s seven-decade legacy of town twinning, allows municipalities, cities, and regions to form partnerships sending a matching request to potential peers across Europe in just a few minutes.
First introduced at the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Berlin and now open to all local governments in Europe, the platform is also meant to strengthen partnerships with Ukrainian municipalities to secure its vital recovery support and advance through its integration into the EU.
Building on its long-standing collaboration with Ukrainian local governments, CEMR in partnership with U-Lead with Europe have announced the creation of the Bridges of Trust Community. The project’s positive impact expanded beyond its initial scope, demonstrating the need for wider engagement and collaboration.
CEMR President Gunn Marit Helgesen underlined the Matchmaking Platform strategic importance: “Local leaders are at the forefront when it comes to adopting the acquis communautaire — the foundational laws of the EU. It is crucial to support them in this process to ensure it is carried out equitably, avoiding future disparities between urban and rural communities”.
Christoph Schnaudigel, CEMR Co-President, RGRE President and Mayor of Karlsruhe, highlighted: “City-to-city cooperation has already shown its power as a tool for post-war reconstruction, reconnecting people divided by war and cultural gaps, and fostering peace. Today, we are committed to putting our network at the service of every town in Europe, small or large, to connect, share experience, and work on their dream projects together.”
Stefano Poretti, Councillor of Arconate, Italy, a city twinned with the Ukranian city of Zlatopil, emphasized the Bridges of Trust impact: “In a time of growing geopolitical uncertainty, local governments remain steadfast in promoting cooperation and solidarity. Thanks to Bridges of Trust, we have exchanged knowledge and experiences that will leave a lasting mark on my political journey.”
Media opportunities: Journalists can interview key participants, including mayors and local leaders, and explore the matchmaking platform in detail.
Vulnerable households risk being underserved by the €86 billion EU Social Climate Fund due to inadequate consultation with local and regional governments, a new Local Alliance report warns.
An exclusive new report from eight major European local and regional government networks reveals that vulnerable households in the EU are at risk of being underserved by the €86 billion Social Climate Fund (SCF) due to inadequate consultation by national governments.
Articles 4 and 5 of the SCF state that Member States must engage with local and regional governments in developing their national Social Climate Plans. However, the report finds that many governments are failing to fulfil these obligations, often reducing consultations to empty gestures or bypassing them entirely.
A missed opportunity to address local needs
The SCF is a flagship initiative under the European Green Deal, aimed at supporting vulnerable households. But the findings show a troubling disconnect between national decision-makers and their local governments.
The survey, covering cities and regions across 14 Member States, including Belgium, Finland, Germany, Greece and Spain, paints a stark picture of delayed consultations, inadequate dialogue, and missed opportunities to incorporate local expertise.
“The €86 billion Social Climate Fund holds the potential to transform lives and build a more equitable Europe, but only if the voices of local and regional governments are at the table. These governments are on the frontlines of addressing energy and transport poverty, yet too often, their expertise is overlooked. National governments and the EU Institutions must recognise that meaningful consultation isn’t just a legal requirement — it’s a necessity for effective and inclusive action.”Fabrizio Rossi, Secretary General of CEMR.
Local governments: Key partners for effective action
Local and regional governments are uniquely positioned to ensure that EU funds address the specific needs of their communities. They bring expertise, proximity, and an understanding of local priorities, which are crucial for tailoring measures to effectively support vulnerable households.
The absence of meaningful consultation not only undermines the legislative requirements but also jeopardises the effectiveness of the SCF just six months before Member States are due to submit their plans in June.
Recommendations for national and EU decision-makers
To ensure the Social Climate Fund effectively supports vulnerable households, the Local Alliance urges Member States, amongst others, to prioritise meaningful collaboration with regional and local governments, through locally developed plans such as SECAPs and Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans.
This will provide EU investments that are aligned with local needs to address energy and transport poverty, ensuring measures that target the needs of vulnerable groups like women, older people and single-parent households. For more information, download the full report here.
In the face of Russia’s invasion and its devastating social and economic consequences, European Union and Member State funding programmes have become lifelines for Ukrainian municipalities. These mechanisms provide not only financial support but also technical expertise and institutional backing, helping local authorities address urgent needs, rebuild services, and strengthen community resilience.
This guide was developed by the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR), in cooperation with the U-LEAD with Europe Programme and CEMR’s National Associations, under the Bridges of Trust initiative. It brings together key funding opportunities available to both Ukrainian and European municipalities, offering a practical starting point for collaboration and joint recovery projects.
The initiatives highlighted stem from training sessions organised with Ukrainian and European partners. These covered project design and development, EU funding instruments, and the implications of Ukraine’s EU accession process. By leveraging existing EU programmes, municipalities can reinforce partnerships, promote local growth, and deliver tangible benefits for their citizens.
Recognising Ukraine’s strategic path towards EU membership, the European Commission has committed to extending funding mechanisms to Ukrainian municipalities, ensuring they can access resources alongside their European peers. In addition, the Ukraine Facility Programme (2024–2027) is being developed as a central financing instrument for recovery and development.
To support applicants, the guide provides practical resources:
CEMR’s Guide on 2021–2027 EU Funding, explaining how to use the Funding and Tender Portal and submit strong project proposals.
The PLATFORMA Handbook for local leaders and civil servants, offering step-by-step guidance on preparing applications, managing partnerships, and implementing EU-funded projects.
As a living document, this guide will continue to be updated with new funding streams and opportunities. It seeks not only to provide access to financial resources but also to strengthen trust and cooperation between Ukrainian and European municipalities, laying the foundations for a shared European future.
New EU Mandate: Navigating a Crossroads in European Funding and Governance
With the confirmation of the European Commissioner College, the second mandate of Ursula von der Leyen is ready to start. If you are wondering on the direction the EU will turn, especially when it comes to what is coming next for local governments, the hearings of Commissioners-designate provide valuable insight into the mindset, priorities and challenges of the next EU Executive. It is evident that addressing these challenges – boosting European competitiveness and improving citizens’ lives – will require more than ambition. Vision needs to be translated into action through effective policy implementation and ensuring funding meets the Europeans everywhere. It will also be crucial to avoid learning the wrong lessons from past experiences, especially when it comes to fund management and policy implementation.
What did the interviews with College candidates at the European Parliament reveal?
Yet the hearings offered little reassurance for local governments. The centralisation intentions clearly outlined in Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s political guidelines, which propose replacing the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) with “fewer programmes and a plan for each country linking key reforms with investment”. The RRF, the centrepiece of the EU’s €800 billion NextGenerationEU recovery package, revealed the pitfalls of the performance-based, cash for reform approach. From the outset, CEMR, in partnership with the Committee of Regions (CoR), has closely monitored the RRF’s rollout, consulting with stakeholders to assess local and regional governments participation. The findings are clear: the exclusion of those closest to understanding local needs has hampered the RRF’s effectiveness. The lack of involvement of local governments has led to misaligned priorities, with some reforms and investments failing to address local needs or capitalise on the unique insights and expertise of regional authorities. With the risk of not only missing the RRF community targets but also displacing other essential funding streams, such as cohesion funds, further compromising the EU’s territorial cohesion goals.
Data from CCRE-COR consultation on the RRF implementation.
The hearings of the Commissioner-designates echoed these concerns. Commissioner-designate Valdis Dombrovskis faced sharp criticism for the RRF’s shortcomings, with Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) expressing frustration over the performance of the RRF to date. Mr Dombrovskis conceded that stronger partnerships with local governments are essential for the RRF to have a transformative impact, and this needs to be addressed as we go forward. In his hearing Commissioner-designate for Budget Piotr Serafin backed the idea, expressed in von der Leyen political guidelines, of single national plans for investment and reforms but also emphasised the central role that regions should play in the elaboration of these plans. On the other hand, Vice-President and Commissioner-designate for Cohesion and Reforms Raffaele Fitto did not substantively address MEPs concerns regarding the risks of centralisation. However, he expressed that a single national plan would not be problematic, provided that local and regional governments are consulted – demonstrating at least a recognition of multi-level governance.
We need to make room for learning complex lessons
Designed to foster a greener, more resilient, and innovative Europe, the delays in implementing national recovery plans have worsened the governance conversation surrounding the RRF, casting doubt on its ability to meet its goals. However, the proposed cure risks misusing EU resources and undermining the critical green and digital transitions essential for towns, cities, and regions.
CEMR is committed to promoting evidence-based evaluations of funding performance, ensuring that critical development policies are not subject to hasty adjustments. Local governments, which implement 70% of European legislation—including key policies for the green transition—cannot be excluded from these discussions. They are on the frontlines of delivering climate action, digital innovation, and social transformation. Their unique territorial knowledge ensures that EU funding aligns with real, localised needs rather than blanket national strategies that often overlook regional disparities. As we learnt from the RRF, neglecting this level of expertise risks inefficiencies, missed opportunities, and a failure to meet citizens’ expectations. Discussions on the next major EU funding package must acknowledge the lessons from the RRF’s shortcomings. Decentralising funding management will not only enhance transparency but also ensure resources are channelled where they can make the most significant long-term impact.
From the roundtable: Local and Regional Perspectives on the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF)
As the new Commission takes office, CEMR will continue pushing for transparent monitoring of the RRF’s performance, emphasising the need for territorial expertise to shape EU funding policies. Ensuring that those with the greatest knowledge of their localities have a say in how resources are allocated is not just a matter of fairness—it is the key to delivering sustainable, transformative outcomes across Europe.
Local Governments Driving Climate Solutions on the Global Stage
At the 29th UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku CEMR showcased the indispensable role of Local and Regional Governments (LRGs) in global climate action. Through advocacy, strategic dialogue, and direct engagement with Ministers, Governors, Parliamentarians, Multilateral Development Banks, and UN agencies, CEMR cemented its position as a key player in advancing sustainable urban development and combating climate change.
Local and Regional Governments: A Cornerstone of Climate Action
Local and regional governments are uniquely positioned to address climate challenges. Managing 68% of public climate investments, they are on the frontlines of adaptation and mitigation efforts. Yet, these governments often remain excluded from key international decision-making processes. At COP29, CEMR sought to change this by advocating for LRGs to be fully integrated as strategic partners in shaping climate policies.
CEMR also underscored the importance of multilevel governance. This approach, combining local, regional, and national collaboration, ensures that climate strategies are both inclusive and effective. By engaging in over 170 events, CEMR and the LGMA Constituency showcased how cities and regions lead innovative climate solutions, including sustainable infrastructure, green financing, and community resilience initiatives.
CEMR Delegation in Action
CEMR’s political leadership took centre stage during COP29. Marianne Overton, Vice President of CEMR, and Clifford Galea, a member of our Young Elected Officials Committee member, participated in high-profile sessions, emphasising local governments’ role in climate justice and finance. Key moments included:
Panel on Multilevel and Multistakeholder Climate Solutions: Clifford Galea highlighted the urgency of channelling direct funds to local governments, stating, “Efficient climate action starts with empowering those closest to the communities impacted.”
Roundtable on Financing Urban Climate Action: Marianne Overton called for innovative financial mechanisms to ensure accessible funding for sustainable urban projects and ecosystem restoration
“Efficient climate action starts with empowering those closest to the communities impacted.”
Advocating for Loss and Damage Response
One of the summit’s most critical topics was the establishment of an effective framework for addressing Loss and Damage. CEMR, together with the LGMA Constituency, endorsed the Call to Action on Loss and Damage, initiated by United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG). This initiative demands equitable resource distribution, North-South collaboration, and the inclusion of subnational governments in funding mechanisms. Notably, the call prioritizes the needs of marginalized communities and the integration of local knowledge into global climate strategies.
CEMR’s endorsement reflects its commitment to securing direct access to the Loss and Damage Fund for local governments, particularly in vulnerable regions. This advocacy reinforces the message that addressing climate crises requires collaboration at all levels of governance.
Why Local and Regional Governments Matter
The urgency of including LRGs in climate governance cannot be overstated. As the level of government closest to communities, they have the knowledge and capacity to implement tailored solutions that address local realities. This perspective aligns with the broader recognition at COP29 that achieving the Paris Agreement’s goals requires the active involvement of all governance levels.
Looking Ahead: COP of Cities
The outcomes of COP29 mark a significant step forward with greater recognition for the work of cities in the COP process, but the journey toward equitable climate governance is far from over. While COP29 is about to end, hope is there for cities to play a central role next year in Belem (Brazil). All traffic lights are green: “COP30 has to be the COP of the cities, because climate is central in connecting people”, said Ambassador Antonio Da Costa e Silva, chief international adviser at the Brazilian Ministry of Cities.
How does the European Semester impact your local government and the public services they provide?
The European Semester, the EU’s vital mechanism for coordinating economic and social policies among Member States, is steadily growing in scope and impact. As it increasingly shapes investment and reform priorities across Europe, it’s essential for local governments to understand its direct consequences on their work.
The Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) invites you to an exclusive event on December 2nd, where we will unveil our latest publication, “Top-Level Decisions – Local Consequences: The European Semester Explained.” This breakfast session will provide an engaging platform for policymakers, local leaders, and stakeholders to explore the report’s findings and share perspectives.
Event Programme:
8:30 – 9:00 | Welcome and networking breakfast
9:00 – 9:10 | Welcome remarks by CEMR Secretary General Fabrizio Rossi
9:10 – 9:20 | Presentation of EU Semester’s study findings by CEMR Secretariat
9:20 – 10:20 | Panel debate Moderation by Federica Bordelot, CEMR Director for Policy and Impact, on:
How does Cohesion Policy link with the EU Semester?
The next programming period wants to create a stronger link between investments and reforms: what does this mean for local and regional governments?
How does the EU economic governance impact local finance and investments?
Is the EU Semester compatible with multi-level governance? examples and reflections on needed changes.
10:20 – 10:30 | Q&A and discussion
10:30 – 10:45 | Wrap up with panel speakers and conclusions
Why attend?
Discover Practical Insights: Gain an in-depth understanding of how the European Semester impacts local governance, from taxation and public services to territorial administration and cohesion investments.
Hear from Experts: The event will feature detailed country case studies and commentary from CEMR members who have firsthand experience navigating these challenges.
Engage in Forward-Looking Discussions: With the European Commission under President Ursula von der Leyen emphasizing the link between reforms and future investments, learn how local governments can advocate for principles of partnership, subsidiarity, and multi-level governance.
As we move into discussions about the EU’s next long-term budget, this event is your chance to ensure your voice is part of the conversation.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to shape the dialogue around the European Semester and its implications for subnational governments.
Local and regional governments have sent more than 100+ political leaders and mobilized more than 500 delegates to advance city and regional climate goals at COP29. The delegation of the LGMA Constituency will be one of the largest at COP29. Delegates will participate in more than 170 events across the negotiations space, plenary sessions, Pavilions and Green Zone.
On Monday 18 November 15-16:30 local time CEMR and PLATFORMA will gather local leaders for a political meeting where they will think about the most urgent steps following September’s Summit of the Future.
On Tuesday 19 CEMR spokesperson on climate Marianne Overton and Young Elected Official Committee member Clifford Galea will take the floor during an official side event co-organised with PLATFORMA, the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) and the SDG Academy on “Combating climate change across generations: reinforcing global to local policy action for education”.
On Wednesday 20 Clifford Galea will take part in the Roundtable on Nature, Health and Agriculture in Cities, while Marianne Overton will attend the roundtable on Financing Urban Climate Action.
Why Local and Regional Governments Matter
LRGs are at the forefront of climate action, managing approximately 68% of public investments related to climate and energy. Their unique positioning allows them to efficiently respond to local needs, implement innovative climate strategies, and foster community resilience. Despite this, CEMR and PLATFORMA note that these governments often remain excluded from critical international climate discussions and decision-making processes.
CEMR and PLATFORMA stress the importance of multi-level governance that integrates LRGs into global frameworks. Their participation at COP29 aims to shift the perception of LRGs from mere implementers to strategic partners capable of co-designing and executing climate and sustainability policies.
Enhanced Multi-Level Governance: Effective climate action requires structured dialogue, diplomacy, and accountability mechanisms involving LRGs. Without their inclusion, policies risk being disconnected from the realities on the ground.
Resource Allocation and Support: CEMR and PLATFORMA advocate for an enabling fiscal framework that recognizes the diversity of LRGs and supports tailored solutions for decarbonization. This is vital to unlock the full potential of local governments in climate adaptation and mitigation.
Capacity Building and Cooperation: To foster impactful climate action, LRGs must have access to capacity-building programs, technology transfer, and collaborative opportunities. Platforms like the Covenant of Mayors and EU Development Education programs are essential for promoting vertical and horizontal partnerships.
SDG Localisation: The localisation of SDGs is integral to reaching climate objectives. With only 17% of SDGs on track globally, CEMR and PLATFORMA emphasize that local-level engagement and tailored public policies are critical for accelerating progress.
Looking Ahead
CEMR and PLATFORMA’s advocacy at COP29 aims to pave the way for more robust, inclusive, and effective climate policies that recognize LRGs as pivotal partners. Through strategic dialogue and collaboration, these bodies are committed to ensuring that local and regional perspectives are not just heard but actively integrated into climate and sustainable development strategies.
Are you in Baku and want to meet CEMR and PLATFORMA members?
