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OKKALI AKTAS Ayben
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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. 

TARAN Stanislav
In Bridges of Trust, Latest, Projects and Programmes

Bridges of Trust Gathering

Bridges of Trust event - News 2023

Nurturing Resilience and Cooperation: Inaugural Bridges of Trust Gathering Unites European and Ukrainian Municipalities

In the wake of extensive devastation suffered by many Ukrainian municipalities, it has become evident that fostering increased local and regional cooperation between Ukraine and the European Union is essential to aid Ukraine’s recovery.
 
This realisation was at the core of the discussions of the first annual Bridges of Trust Gathering, which brought together representatives from Ukrainian and European municipalities, alongside Local Self-Government Associations, EU institutions, and allied organisations collaborating in the rebuilding of Ukrainian municipalities and forging a path towards EU membership. Attendees included the Solidarity Fund Poland, the Slovenian Centre for European Perspective (CEP), NALAS, and ALDA. Delegates from various countries were present, fostering knowledge exchange.
 
Durmish Guri, Director of External Resources at CEMR, underscored the event’s significance, stating, “It is crucial for European and Ukrainian municipalities to unite and establish trust-based connections, ensuring the sustainable recovery of Ukraine.”
 
CEMR, in partnership with U-LEAD with Europe, has established a support network for Ukrainian municipalities, enhancing cooperation and aid to local communities. Angeliki Mavridou, Advisor to the Programme Director of U-LEAD, stated, “We are very thankful to the mayors who came to Brussels, and we are impressed by the results of these collaborations. Municipal partnerships are currently at the centre of attention, and we see the significant benefits they bring in terms of solidarity and expertise.”
 
Jelka Klemenc, Project Leader at the Centre for European Perspective, added, “Municipalities have enhanced their capacity to provide services and interact with their citizens.”
 
The event, held at the CEMR Secretariat in Brussels, facilitated knowledge sharing and valuable recommendations for successful cooperation. The Bridges of Trust Gathering symbolises solidarity, determination in adversity and hope for the Ukrainian people.

GAUDRON Marine
In Impact community Cohesion, Latest, Territorial development

Rural Development

Rural Development Event - News 2023

CEMR’s “Harnessing Skills in Rural Areas” Event: Shaping the Future of Rural Development

The Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) hosted the “Harnessing Skills in Rural Areas” event to address the pressing need for digitalisation and sustainable development in rural regions. This event aimed to shift the paradigm, considering rural areas not as isolated territories but as integral components of a broader continuum linked to urban centres. It underscored the pivotal role of Local and Regional Governments in elevating the needs of rural areas in the political agenda. During the event, CEMR also announced the launch of the Impact Community for Territorial Cohesion.

The “Harnessing Skills in Rural Areas” event brought together diverse stakeholders interested in rural development. It occurred within the context of the Rural Pact, an initiative launched in 2021 by the European Commission as part of its Long-Term Vision for the EU’s rural areas. The Rural Pact is a collaborative framework, that fosters cooperation among public authorities, civil society, businesses, academia, and citizens at the European, national, regional, and local levels.

ROSSI Fabrizio
In Energy, Impact community Climate, Latest

Smart City Expo

Smart City Expo - News 2023

CEMR Engages in a Vibrant Debate on Europe’s Green Transition at SMARTCITY Expo Barcelona

The Secretary-General of the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) is set to participate in a high-stakes panel discussion at the SMARTCITY Expo Barcelona. The session, titled “Governance-in-Partnership to Achieve an Inclusive Green Transition,” will delve into the pivotal role of local and regional governments in delivering Europe’s green transition goals.
 
Local and regional authorities are at the forefront of Europe’s green transformation, playing an irreplaceable role in achieving autonomy through green energy sources within the EU while reducing dependence on fossil fuels. This ambitious vision is central to the CEMR’s message as they work to create an inclusive, sustainable, and green future that leaves no one and no place behind.
 
The CEMR Secretary-General, Fabrizio Rossi, will discuss Europe’s challenges in garnering widespread support for this green transition. These include the fear of negative social impacts. He will also showcase how region-to-region cooperation and going beyond the traditional urban-rural dichotomy, can lead to more effective solutions for addressing Europe’s challenges in garnering widespread support for the green transition. 
 
In the context of the upcoming EU election, it is also crucial to understand that addressing the potential negative social impacts and inequalities is critical for the future of European democracy and social justice.
 
CEMR has recently become a supporting institution of SMARTCITY Expo Barcelona, the world’s largest urban innovation event, guiding cities towards a brighter future since 2011. The event brings together global leaders from innovative companies, governments, and organisations to promote urban innovation and empower cities to confront today’s pressing challenges.

TARAN Stanislav
In Bridges of Trust, Latest, Projects and Programmes

Bridges of Trust 

Bridges of Trust - News 2023

Bridges of Trust Meet at CEMR Secretariat: Forging Strong Municipal Cooperation between Ukraine and the EU

Brussels, November 8th – The inaugural Bridges of Trust gathering is scheduled to take place at the CEMR Secretariat in Brussels. This event will bring together representatives from Ukrainian and European municipalities, as well as Ukrainian and European Local Self-Government Associations, EU institutions, and other relevant organisations which have joined forces since the onset of the conflict.

“In times of adversity, unity becomes our greatest strength. The Bridges of Trust project exemplifies the power of collaboration in rebuilding Ukrainian municipalities and forging a path towards EU membership,” says Durmish Guri, Director of External Resources and Knowledge Strategy at CEMR.

In the aftermath of the extensive destruction suffered by many Ukrainian municipalities, it became evident that fostering increased local and regional cooperation between Ukraine and the European Union is essential to aid Ukraine’s recovery. Through a collaborative effort, CEMR, in partnership with U-LEAD, has established a support network for Ukrainian municipalities, facilitating connections with their European counterparts.

The event will spotlight various reconstruction and modernisation projects and offer valuable recommendations for successful cooperation among all participants. It provides an opportunity to explore potential funding sources available to EU municipalities to build and design the future of the “Bridges of Trust” initiative with a bottom-up and people-to-people approach.

Distinguished participants at the summit include notable organisations such as the Solidarity Fund Poland, the Slovenian Centre for European Perspective (CEP), NALAS – Network of Associations of Local Authorities of South-East Europe, and the European Association for Local Democracy (ALDA). Representatives from Belgium, Ukraine, Germany, Italy, France, North Macedonia, Denmark, Poland, Slovenia, Spain and Latvia will also be present at the event.

TARAN Stanislav
In Bridges of Trust, Latest, Projects and Programmes

Bridges of Trust 

Bridges of Trust - News 2023 2

Annual Bridges of Trust Gathering Celebrates Successful Municipal Cooperation between Ukraine and the EU

The first annual Bridges of Trust gathering is set to take place on November 8, 2023, at the CEMR Secretariat in Brussels. This event marks a significant milestone in the partnership between Ukrainian and European municipalities, bringing together representatives from various organisations, including Solidarity Fund Poland, Slovenian Centre for European Perspective (CEP), NALAS, ALDA, and Mayors from Ukraine, Belgium, Latvia, Poland, France, Denmark, Italy, Hungary, Spain, and Sweden.
 
Bridges of Trust focuses on rebuilding Ukraine through partnerships with EU municipalities and promoting comprehensive municipal development through analytics, dialogue, and international cooperation. Since March 2021, this initiative has involved over 150 municipalities from Ukraine and 17 EU member states, driving recovery, reconstruction, and reform efforts in Ukraine.
 
During the event, the municipalities part of the program will present reconstruction and modernisation-related projects and offer valuable recommendations for successful cooperation. The event will also be a platform to strengthen cooperation between Ukrainian and European municipalities, focusing on sharing good practices, exchanging successful cooperation strategies, and discussing potential funding sources for EU municipalities partnering with their Ukrainian counterparts. 
 
CEMR and Platforma, in partnership with the Association of Ukrainian Cities (AUC) and other local self-government associations, have played a significant role in supporting this initiative. The annual Bridges of Trust gathering serves as a testament to the success, impact, and growing cooperation between Ukraine and the EU.
 

  • Bridges of Trust Gathering’s Agenda here
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