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ROSSI Fabrizio
In Latest

Louis Le Pensec 

Louis Le Pensec - News 2024

CEMR Mourns the Passing of Louis Le Pensec, a Distinguished Advocate for European Values and City Solidarity

On behalf of President Gunn Marit Helgesen, Co-presidents Philippe Laurent and Christoph Schnaudigel, Secretary-General Fabrizio Rossi, Members and Secretariat, we bid a heartfelt farewell to Louis Le Pensec. An exemplary figure, his tireless efforts championed European values and city solidarity.
 
Louis Le Pensec, former President of AFCCRE, Vice-President of CEMR, and a distinguished former French minister, leaves behind an enduring legacy marked by unwavering commitment and dedication to the European project. His significant contributions have indelibly shaped our community, advancing unity among cities. Twinning, a central tenet of Le Pensec’s advocacy, stands as a testament to his vision for fostering cooperation and mutual understanding among municipalities across Europe.
 
As we reflect on Louis Le Pensec’s impactful journey, CEMR extends its deepest condolences to his family and colleagues. During this difficult time, our thoughts are with those whom his remarkable influence has touched.

BORDELOT Federica
In Gender equality, Impact community Society, Latest

Women in Politics

A Glimpse into the Life of a Women in Politics: CEMR Unveils First Data

The Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) has released the first infographics showcasing critical insights from their latest report, “Women in Politics.”

The data offer a visual snapshot of the representation of women in elected roles across various subnational levels. Additionally, a detailed breakdown of their portfolios at the local level is provided. The second page of the infographics unveils the results of an anonymous CEMR survey involving 2 424 participants from 31 countries. Focused on elected women in local and regional European roles, the survey explores their experiences of violence in the political realm.

Annelies Coessens CEMR Gender and Diversity Officer states the importance of the report findings: “This evidence-based data will contribute valuable insights to discussions and be an important instrument to advocate for improved policies that can foster safer and a more inclusive political environment for women”.

BORDELOT Federica
In Environment, Governance, Impact community Climate, Impact community Society, Latest, Local democracy, Publications

Prague declaration in climate policy-making

Prague Declaration 2023 - News 2023

CEMR Policy Committee in Prague issues a Declaration Advocating Systematic Involvement of Local and Regional Governments (LRGs) in Climate Policy-Making

Read full declaration

Policy Committee of the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) is meeting in Prague on 6 and 7 December, and the first day of its deliberations culminated in the adoption of a landmark document titled “The Prague Declaration: More Trust in and Stronger Voice for Local and Regional Governments”. This significant political act underscores the pivotal role that local and regional governments (LRGs) play in confronting the formidable challenges facing our municipalities and regions.

“The Prague Declaration” sends a clear message about the imperative need for a stronger voice and a more vigorous partnership between the European Union, national governments, and LRGs. It calls for a more active involvement and consultation with LRGs throughout the entire policymaking process.

Fabrizio Rossi, CEMR Secretary General, expressed his gratitude, stating, “We extend our sincere appreciation to the Union of Towns and Municipalities of the Czech Republic SMO CR for their proactive role in initiating the Prague Declaration. This document reflects our shared commitment to effective governance, sustainability, and the well-being of our communities. Together, we are charting a course toward a more resilient and prosperous future.”

This declaration serves as a roadmap for empowering LRGs to effectively fulfil their responsibilities to citizens, highlighting their strategic role in the implementation of both European and national policies. Only in this way will it be possible to achieve the common goals of climate and social sustainability, preserve our planet for future generations, and ensure prosperity and well-being for the citizens of our towns and cities, municipalities, and regions.

CEMR welcomes media coverage and inquiries related to the Policy Committee meeting in Prague. For further information or to arrange interviews, please contact:

Martina Lehmannová
lehmannova@smocr.cz

CEMR is the broadest European association of local and regional governments that brings together one million democratically elected European politicians, in 60 member associations from 40 countries since 1951.

SMO ČR: The Union of Towns and Municipalities of the Czech Republic is a voluntary, apolitical, and nongovernmental organisation. The Union’s activity is primarily based on the efforts of mayors, lord mayors, and representatives who, beyond their duties, dedicate themselves to general self-government issues.

GRIFFON Axelle
In Energy, Impact community Climate, Latest

NECP Report

NECP Report - News 2023

“Empowering the Future: Study Reveals European Local and Regional Governments as Key Players in Climate Policy”

The Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) is proud to announce the publication of a comprehensive study titled “Powering the Future: Driving Europe’s Climate and Energy Policies through Regions and Municipalities.” 

In the wake of ongoing revisions to national climate policies, this study aims to shed light on the critical role European Local and Regional Governments (LRGs) played in implementing sustainable energy and climate policies. The research period, spanning from June to October 2023, has resulted in a wealth of insights and recommendations for the enhanced integration of LRGs into future legislative frameworks.

Marlon Hilden, CEMR Energy, Climate, Sustainable Finance Officer, emphasised the study’s significance: 

“The findings underscore the critical role of local and regional governments in energy and climate policy implementation. This highlights the imperative need for consulting regions and municipalities throughout the policymaking process.”

  • To access the full report “Powering the Future: Driving Europe’s Climate and Energy Policies through Regions and Municipalities,” click here.
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 

Read full study

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: 

OKKALI AKTAS Ayben
In Latest

Policy Committee Meeting

Policy Committee Meeting - News 2023

CEMR Policy Committee Shaping the Future of Local and Regional Governance in Prague

The Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) will gather in Prague for its Policy Committee meeting on the 6th and 7th of December 2023. Hosted by the Union of Towns and Municipalities of the Czech Republic (SMO ČR), the event will take place at the historic New Town Hall of Prague.
 
The Policy Committee meetings stand as a cornerstone of CEMR’s annual calendar, offering a platform for constructive dialogue, collaborative decision-making, and strategic planning among local and regional elected representatives. The Committee’s proceedings will commence with opening addresses from Mrs. Gunn Marit Helgesen, President of CEMR; Richard Vereš, CEMR Vice-President and Executive member of SMO ČR and Mayor of Slezská Ostrava; and Bohuslav Svoboda, Mayor of Prague and Honorary President of SMO ČR.
 
Fabrizio Rossi, Secretary-General of CEMR, emphasises the importance of the event:

“The Prague Policy Committee meeting holds special significance as it precedes the upcoming European Elections, adding an extra layer of importance to our discussions and resolutions. Our sincere gratitude goes to the Union of Towns and Municipalities of the Czech Republic for hosting this event.”


At the core of the gathering will be the two debates of December 7th:
Political Debate: “Pairing European Green Deal & Democracy: What Path for the Local Level?” – The first debate will address the democratic and inclusive transition towards a green future. Opened by the study findings of Italo Colantone, Associate Professor at Bocconi University, it will be followed by a panel discussion moderated by Federica Bordelot, CEMR’s newly appointed Director of Policy and Impact, on how to deliver the green transition while taking into consideration the specific needs of different territories.
Powering the Future: Driving Europe’s Climate and Energy Policies through Multi-Level Governance – The second debate of the day will showcase critical findings from the CEMR and E40 Communications report: “Powering the Future: Driving Europe’s Climate and Energy Policies through Regions and Municipalities – Multilevel Governance, Exemplary Policies, and Financial Dynamics”. Marlon Hilden, CEMR Energy, Climate, Sustainable Finance Officer, will set the scene for a dynamic panel discussion on the decentralisation of green policies, and open debate featuring prominent figures from the European Commission, local and regional governments, energy policy research and stakeholders.
Fabrizio Rossi states: “The Prague Policy Committee is instrumental in dismantling urban-rural silos, fostering a transition that truly improves the lives of everyone. Our debates on the role of local and regional governments in harmonising the green transition with democracy and preserving social cohesion have the potential to shape our collective future.”
 
The event will culminate in the Signature Ceremony of the Prague Declaration at the Residence of the Mayor of Prague, underlining the commitment of local and regional governments to drive positive change in Europe.
 
CEMR welcomes media coverage and inquiries related to the Policy Committee meeting in Prague. For further information or to arrange interviews, please contact:
 
Lina Aburous
CEMR Head of Communications
lina.aburous@ccre-cemr.org
 
 
Martina Lehmannová
SMO ČR
lehmannova@smocr.cz
 
 
CEMR is the broadest European association of local and regional governments that brings together one million democratically elected European politicians, in 60 member associations from 40 countries since 1951.
 
SMO ČR: The Union of Towns and Municipalities of the Czech Republic is a voluntary, apolitical, and nongovernmental organisation. The Union’s activity is primarily based on the efforts of mayors, lord mayors, and representatives who, beyond their duties, dedicate themselves to general self-government issues.

OKKALI AKTAS Ayben
In About CEMR, Latest

Policy Committee in Prague

Policy Committee in Prague - News 2023

Charting Future Paths: CEMR Policy Committee Gathers in Prague

We are delighted to announce that the upcoming CEMR Policy Committee meeting is set to take place in the enchanting city of Prague on the 6th and 7th of December 2023. The Policy Committee meetings stand as one of the most important moments of the year at CEMR, providing a platform for constructive dialogue, collaborative decision-making, and strategic planning among local and regional leaders.

This edition of the Policy Committee meeting holds special importance as it sets the stage just before the next European Elections, adding an extra layer of significance to our discussions and resolutions. Our heartfelt gratitude goes to the Union of Towns and Municipalities of the Czech Republic, who will be hosting the event.

We look forward to coming together, sharing insights, exchanging ideas, and strengthening the bonds that make CEMR a force for positive change in Europe.

BORDELOT Federica
In Gender equality, Impact community Society, Latest

Violence Against Women

Violence Against Women - News 2023

Breaking the Silence: International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

In a world that strives for progress and equality, violence against women remains a pervasive and deeply rooted issue that affects women across the globe. The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, observed annually on November 25th, serves as a poignant reminder of the collective responsibility to eradicate the scourge of violence that continues to plague countless lives.

In recent days, Italy has been shaken by the tragic death of 22-year-old Giulia Cecchettin at the hands of her boyfriend. Close to the World Day against violence against women, Giulia was yet another victim of femicide, the 105th since the start of 2023 in Italy. However, as Silvia Baraldi, CEMR Spokesperson for Gender Equality, poignantly reminds us, Giulia cannot be reduced to a mere statistic and “none of these women should be”.

“It is urgent to give a voice to Giulia and all women, to the victims and to those who, in the silence, can tear it apart in the next few hours,” says Baraldi. On average, one woman dies every 72 hours as a victim of femicide, a chilling statistic that highlights the severity of the issue. “Violence against women is a real social plague, born from the depths of patriarchy, and it can only be combated with joint and interconnected actions between institutions, politics, schools, the family, civil society, and a vast network of men and women committed to cultural change.”

Silvia Baraldi’s call to action is a stark reminder that each woman lost to violence represents a unique life, a story, and a potential future. As we observe the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, let us echo her plea to start the change now.
 

The battle against violence targeting women transcends a single day; it necessitates continuous dedication. At CEMR, we advocate seizing this moment to contemplate our shared responsibility and strive for a future where every woman can thrive with dignity, equality, and, most crucially, devoid of violence.

OKKALI AKTAS Ayben
In About CEMR, Latest

Biannual SGDs meeting

Biannual SGDs meeting - News 2023

CEMR Members’ Associations Meet in Bursa, Türkiye for Secretaries General and Directors Meeting

CEMR Secretaries General and Directors (SGDs) will convene in Bursa, Türkiye, on 16th and 17th November. The agenda of the meeting will be followed by two days of intensive roundtable discussions covering key topics such as Statutory affairs, preparations for the Policy Committee meeting on 6th-7th December in Prague, and Calendar activities. Delegates will delve into Achievements and Progress in CEMR Policy, share updates, and discuss ongoing and upcoming projects integral to CEMR’s vision.
 
The gathering includes a cultural immersion with a visit to Bursa’s old town and a meeting with the Mayor of Bursa Metropolitan Municipality at the iconic Historical Building in the Orhanbey district, offering an additional platform for networking and collaborative discourse. This SGDs meeting serves as a crucial milestone preceding the Policy Committee meeting in Prague, where political leaders will discuss the outcomes of the Bursa meeting, shaping the trajectory of European local governance.
 
The biannual SGDs meetings bring together Secretaries General and Directors of CEMR members, fostering a sense of unity and collaboration across European local and regional governance.

GAUDRON Marine
In Impact community Cohesion, Latest, Territorial development

Housing and Urban Development 

Housing and Urban Development - News 2023

Addressing Europe’s Housing Crisis: an Open Letter to EU Ministers

Amidst Europe’s deepening housing crisis, characterised by a scarcity of suitable, reasonably priced, and sufficient housing, CEMR, Eurocities, Housing Europe, the International Union of Tenants, and SOLIDAR have come together in an open letter directed at the European Union Ministers overseeing the dossier. These ministers are convening on November 13-14 in Gijón to discuss Housing and Urban Development, and to adopt the Gijón Declaration on sustainable, healthy, and inclusive housing.

The housing crisis gripping Europe is not confined to vulnerable groups. It now engulfs middle-income households, including essential workers like police officers, teachers, and nurses, who are priced out of the market. The challenges extend to young adults unable to leave their parents’ homes and those confronted with sudden housing needs due to life changes. Against this backdrop, CEMR and the other signatory organisations emphasise the urgency for EU action, advocating for increased investment in the housing sector to address the pressing issues affecting citizens, the economy, and the environment.

The recommendations in the open letter underscore the need for comprehensive reforms, particularly the revision of the Services of General Economic Interest (SGEI) Decision 2012. The signatories welcome the call to redefine social housing, aligning it with a modern concept of affordable housing for all. As advocates for local and regional authorities, cities, housing providers, tenants, and social welfare organisations, CEMR and the other signatories stress the imperative for continued monitoring of EU policies relevant to housing. 

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