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DECOURCELLE Elisa
In Environment, FOSTER, Impact community Climate, Latest, Projects and Programmes

FOSTER Local Training

Foster Training News 2025

Building Future-Oriented Governance for Climate Resilience

How can Local and Regional Governments prepare for the environmental challenges of tomorrow? On January 23, 2025, CEMR hosted a FOSTER Local Training, bringing together experts, policymakers, and local leaders to explore innovative governance approaches for a climate-resilient future.

FOSTER—Future Oriented Solutions Towards Environmental Resilience—is a two-year EU-funded initiative that strengthens local and regional authorities’ ability to anticipate and respond to climate challenges. Through participatory governance, strategic foresight, and inclusive capacity-building, the project empowers local actors to shape policies that reflect the needs of their communities.

Key Takeaways from the Training

During the event, participants delved into:

✅ Inclusive Communication – How local governments can make their messages accessible and representative of diverse communities.

✅ Participatory Democracy – Strengthening civic engagement and fostering trust between governments and citizens.

✅ Women in Politics – A CEMR study revealing the barriers women face in leadership and strategies to promote gender equality.

✅ Strategic Foresight & Scenario Planning – Equipping local governments with tools to anticipate future risks and opportunities.

✅ Greening Cities – Exploring sustainable urban solutions through foresight discussions.

The training was not just about knowledge-sharing but about action. It provided local actors with practical tools to co-design policies that anticipate climate risks, engage communities, and ensure long-term environmental resilience.

📥 Download the training materials here

Subscribe to Resonance to stay tuned for more activities on climate resilience and join us in shaping the future of local governments!

For more information, contact:

DECOURCELLE Elisa
In FOSTER, Latest, Projects and Programmes

FOSTER Training on Foresight Strategy

Building Local Resilience: FOSTER Training on Foresight Strategy, Governance, and Gender 

Yesterday, the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) hosted a training session for the FOSTER – Future Oriented Solutions Toward Environmental Resilience project.  

Funded by the European Union’s CERV – Citizens, Equality, Rights, and Values programme, FOSTER aims to strengthen local governance frameworks to address environmental challenges through strategic foresight and inclusive management practices. 

This interactive training brought together local stakeholders, representatives from national associations of local governments, and municipal leaders. Its goal was to equip participants with practical tools to address key issues, such as climate resilience, participatory democracy, gender equality, and inclusive communication strategies. 

Key Highlights 

The event featured a series of workshops and discussions led by CEMR experts: 

  • Inclusive Communications for Local Governments 

Presented by Léa Hetz and Meritxell Parramon Vilè, this session explored ways to communicate effectively while embracing diversity and inclusion. 

  • Participatory Democracy and Local Governance 

Carol Thomas led this module, focusing on how participatory approaches can empower citizens and strengthen governance at the local level. 

  • Interactive Foresight Game 

The training concluded with a collaborative game, where participants applied foresight techniques to urban development scenarios, fostering innovative thinking and practical solutions for future challenges. 

Building Capacity for a Sustainable Future 

The FOSTER training provided participants with a unique opportunity to gain practical knowledge, share insights, and network with peers across Europe. The hands-on approach ensured that attendees were left with actionable strategies to implement within their communities, particularly in advancing climate resilience, gender equality, and participatory governance. 

This initiative is part of CEMR’s ongoing efforts to empower local and regional governments, enabling them to address global challenges while fostering inclusive and sustainable transitions at the local level. 

For more information on the FOSTER project, contact our Project Officer below: 

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

Bridges of Trust Community

Bridges of Trust Community - News 2024

Towards Building the Bridges of Trust Community 

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:  

  1. 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. 
  1. 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. 
  1. 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.  
  1. 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. 
  1. 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.  

BIZARRO Pedro
In Latest, Projects and Programmes, Reference Framework for Sustainable Cities

Local leaders at the World Urban Forum

WuF 2024 - News

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. 

ROSSI Fabrizio
In About CEMR, Bridges of Trust, Impact community Society, International cooperation, Latest, Local democracy, Twinning

Matchmaking Platform

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.

Register to the Platform – here

TARAN Stanislav
In Bridges of Trust, Bridges of Trust, Impact community Society, International cooperation, Latest, Projects and Programmes, Projects and programmes, Publications, Ukraine reconstruction

Funding opportunities for Ukraine 

Ukraine's recovery - News

EU and Member State programmes supporting municipalities in Ukraine’s recovery and cooperation with European partners 

Read full study

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. 

Read the study here 

For more information, contact: 

BANOS DE GUISASOLA Eva
In Energy, Environment, Impact community Climate, Latest, PLATFORMA, Sustainable mobility, Waste, Water

CEMR at COP29

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.

Let’s hope national leaders received the message.

BANOS DE GUISASOLA Eva
In Latest, PLATFORMA

Local Governments at COP 29

COP 29 - Baku 2024

CEMR and PLATFORMA at COP29: Advocating for Local and Regional Government Involvement

As COP29 unfolds in Baku, Azerbaijan, the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) and PLATFORMA have taken a significant stand to amplify the voices of local and regional governments (LRGs). Building on years of commitment to sustainable urban development and climate action, these organizations are once again underlining the indispensable role LRGs play in addressing climate change and achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

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.

Key Messages for COP29

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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?

Get in touch with Eva Banos de Guisaola

TSKHELISHVILI Bella
In Latest, PLATFORMA

Moldova’s path to Europe

Moldova - News 2024

How Local Governments and International Networks Strengthen Moldova’s European Path and why this matters even more after the Referendum 

CEMR Secretary General Fabrizio Rossi offered heartfelt congratulations to Moldova following the results of last week’s referendum on EU accession. Moldovan citizens narrowly approved constitutional changes reflecting a commitment to joining the EU, with 50.46% voting “Yes” and 49.54% voting “No.”   

“We understand how significant this is for you and your daily efforts. Please know that we at CEMR have been standing by your side and advocating for it from the beginning, and we share in your joy. “- stated Mr.Rossi.  

In response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and Moldova’s accelerated reform efforts, the EU granted Moldova candidate status in June 2022. By December 2023, the European Council decided to open accession negotiations, and the first intergovernmental conference in June 2024 officially commenced the process, signifying Moldova’s significant progress toward EU membership. 

CEMR engagement with Moldovan Local Government and the Association CALM: 

Local and Regional cooperation has played an important role in this process. Indeed, since 2015, the Congress of Local Authorities from Moldova (CALM) has partnered with PLATFORMA to strengthen Moldova’s role in the European landscape and build local resilience through sustainable governance. CALM has become a trusted and engaged ally, representing Moldova’s local governments in development discussions and promoting international collaboration within the Neighbourhood East cluster.  

“The role of local authorities in this context is essential, and the membership support processes must guarantee them the means to ensure with responsibility, integrity, and autonomy the provision of local public services to their citizens” – continues CEMR Secretary General Fabrizio Rossi.  

In this perspective, technical cooperation, and exchanges of experience between communities in the EU and candidate countries, or among the candidate countries, constitute an essential tool to enable adapted and pragmatic implementation of the regulatory framework and local public services in compliance with EU standards.  

CEMR and PLATFORMA, since 2015, have delved into critical themes for Europe’s future exploring issues of democracy, sustainable development, and the EU enlargement process. For instance, under the Eastern Partnership programme, our members have longstanding decentralised cooperation activities with Moldovan counterparts.  

PLATFORMA and CALM partnership:  

In August, Lithuania’s association ALAL organised a local-to-local seminar in Moldova promoting youth participation in governance, aiming to build leadership capacity through international cooperation. Similarly, in September, leaders from France and Moldova gathered in Grenoble for the first forum on decentralised Franco-Moldovan cooperation. Organised by the French Association of the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (AFCCRE) under the PLATFORMA Eastern Neighbourhood programme, the event, “Choosing Europe: Decentralisation as a Driving Force Behind the Franco-Moldovan Partnership,” brought together around forty elected officials, reinforcing the links between both nations and highlighting decentralisation’s role in Moldova’s EU accession process. 

On 28 November, local leaders from Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine will join the EU-Eastern Neighbourhood Local Leaders Seminar in Brussels. This event, organised with SALAR International (part of the Swedish Association of Local Authorities and Regions) and PLATFORMA, will offer a critical opportunity for dialogue with the European Commission and other leaders on the challenges facing local governments across Europe. You can register for the seminar here. 

Local and regional governments, supported by associations such as CALM, play a vital role in Moldova’s EU journey. Their commitment to decentralised cooperation and alignment with EU standards strengthens Moldova’s democratic institutions and helps meet citizens’ aspirations for a European future. 

Why does this matter?  

On 3 November, Moldovan citizens will return to the polls for the second round of the presidential election. Pro-European candidate Maia Sandu led the first round with 41% of the vote, while her opponent, Aleksandr Stoianoglo—backed by the pro-Russian Socialist Party—surprised many with 26%. Sandu now faces a challenging runoff as opposition forces may rally around Stoianoglo. This election could overturn the results of the 20 October referendum, committing local leaders even more crucial to safeguard the hard-won progress achieved so far to bring Moldova closer to the EU.  

Interested in CEMR and PLATFORMA’s work in the Eastern Neighbourhood countries?  

You may want to check the PLATFORMA SGA4 2023-2026 Eastern Partnership Cluster, a hub of collaborative action and regional growth and see how you can get involved! 

Our activities include: 

  • Thematic Cluster Meetings: Regular sessions to set strategies, share updates, and align priorities for Eastern Partnership policies and initiatives. 
  • Advocacy and Policy Work with EU Institutions: Engaging with EU bodies to shape policies, advocate for local government interests, and support integration efforts. 
  • Country Coordination Meetings: National meetings to align activities, share best practices, and strengthen cooperation among local authorities. 
  • Study Visits: Exchange programs where local leaders can learn from peers, enhancing skills and building capacity for effective policy implementation. 
  • Seminars: Workshops to deepen knowledge, foster partnerships, and tackle challenges in local governance. 

Get in touch to learn more about how you can be part of this initiative!

DECOURCELLE Elisa
In Environment, FOSTER, Impact community Climate, Latest, Projects and Programmes

Public Conference on environmental resilience

Environment - News section

“Managing the Future for Environmental Resilience”

CEMR and ALDA are pleased to announce the Public Conference “Managing the Future for Environmental Resilience”, organised on October 9th, from 11.00 to 17.00. The conference will be a chance to exchange in an interactive way how to overcome the preference for short-term solutions when it comes to local management of climate change and planning for more prepared and participatory environmental governance.

The conference provides an interactive platform to explore how to overcome short-termism in local climate management, with a focus on future-oriented and participatory environmental governance. It will begin with a keynote speech from the European Environment Agency, followed by a panel debate titled “Local and Regional Policy Making for a Sustainable Future,” featuring institutional speakers discussing the challenges facing European cities and innovative approaches to addressing climate change. In the afternoon, experts will share insights on strategic foresight and key elements for future-oriented climate policies, including decentralised cooperation, participatory policymaking, and non-formal education.

Register here and join us on the 9th of October!

The FOSTER project aims to contribute to the development of governance frameworks that can effectively and inclusively address future environmental challenges at the local level, by fostering strategic foresight and preventative local management of climate change-related phenomena. It is a two-year project funded by the CERV – Citizens Equality Rights and Values programme of the European Union

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