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THOMAS Carol
In Governance, Governance

Better regulation position paper

CEMR calls for stronger governance, placing local and regional governments at the heart of Europe’s competitiveness

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Europe cannot deliver competitiveness with legislation alone. It will only succeed if policies work on the ground.

And that depends on local and regional governments.

Across the European Union, towns, cities and regions implement more than 70% of EU legislation. They finance public investment, deliver essential services, and turn European priorities — from the Green Deal to digital transformation — into concrete results for citizens and businesses.

Yet too often, local and regional governments are brought into the process too late, faced with fragmented rules, overlapping obligations and growing administrative burdens — clear signs of the limits of the current system. Complex legislative packages, inconsistent timelines and layers of guidance have made implementation harder, slower and more expensive, forcing authorities to spend valuable time navigating procedures instead of delivering solutions. At a moment when Europe is striving to boost productivity, resilience and strategic autonomy, this is a luxury the EU cannot afford.

In this position paper, the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) calls for a fundamental shift in how EU policies are designed and implemented: from top-down regulation to genuine multilevel governance.

To make this shift a reality, CEMR calls for:

  • Systematic involvement of local and regional governments throughout the entire EU policy cycle — from design to implementation and evaluation.
  • Structured consultation mechanisms, ensuring meaningful and timely participation of subnational authorities.
  • Territorial and governance impact assessments to ensure policies are realistic and implementable across diverse local contexts.
  • Stronger political recognition of local and regional governments as equal partners in EU decision-making.
  • EU legislation and funding frameworks that reflect territorial realities, avoiding one-size-fits-all approaches.
  • A governance model that prioritises implementability, ensuring policies can be effectively delivered on the ground.

Competitiveness goes beyond regulatory simplification. It requires public policies that are relevant to businesses and communities that they serve and capable of being effectively implemented.

CEMR and its members stand ready to contribute their expertise, data and on-the-ground experience. The time has come to move beyond ad hoc consultation and embed local and regional governments where they belong: at the decision-making table.

Because Europe’s competitiveness will be won — or lost — locally.

Discover CEMR’s full recommendations for a stronger multilevel governance framework in the position paper.

For more information, contact:

GRIFFON Axelle
In Environment, Impact community Climate, Impact community Climate, Latest, Waste, Water, Water

On the EU Water Resilience Strategy

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CEMR priorities on the European Commission Water Resilience Strategy

The European Commission has just published its Water Resilience Strategy, a much-needed step toward safeguarding one of our most vital common goods.

At CEMR, we welcome the Strategy’s alignment with many of our long-standing priorities:
✅ Recognition of water as a public good
✅ Acknowledgement of the role of multi-level governance, cross-border cooperation and stakeholder engagement
✅ Emphasis on nature-based solutions, including the new Sponge Facility
✅ Improved tools for data access, drought management, and awareness-raising

We also welcome the reinforcement of the Polluter Pays Principle, especially for persistent pollutants like PFAS. However, we are particularly concerned by the provision for an updated study on the costs and potential impacts of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme under the Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive.

As addressed in our recent joint letter to President von der Leyen decision risks delaying the deployment of quaternary treatment technologies essential to remove micropollutants and could hinder the timely implementation of the recast Directive.

We strongly believe that local and regional governments are best placed to address water challenges — but to do so effectively, they must be empowered with the tools, flexibility, and funding they need.

The Strategy would benefit from:
🔹 Clear and firm commitment to dedicated funding for water management in the next MFF
🔹 Better access to emergency EU funds for municipalities and regions affected by extreme events
🔹 Stronger legal safeguards and technical support for public sector water services
🔹 Concrete support for urban-rural cooperation in integrated water management

Read our full position paper

These issues will be front and centre at the CEMR Leaders’ Summit in Oslo, 23–24 June, under the theme: “Local Solutions for Equitable and Sustainable Resource Management.”

Let’s ensure Europe’s water resilience starts where it matters most — in our cities and regions.

GAUDRON Marine
In Impact community Cohesion, Impact community Cohesion, Latest, Local finances, Publications, Territorial development, Territorial development

CEMR inputs for EU agenda for cities

Matchmaking Platform - Launch

Towards an inclusive EU Agenda for cities of all sizes 

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As the European Union prepares to shape its next urban strategy, CEMR has published a new input paper calling for a truly inclusive EU Agenda for Cities — one that recognises the vital role of Local and Regional Governments (LRGs) in shaping Europe’s future. 

LRGs are the first responders to many of Europe’s most pressing challenges. From tackling the energy crisis to investing in sustainable mobility and managing public services, cities and regions are not just implementing EU policies — they are innovating, adapting, and delivering results on the ground. Their proximity to citizens places them in a unique position to foster trust, ensure inclusive governance, and respond effectively to the evolving needs of their local communities. 

Yet too often, EU policies are developed without fully engaging the very authorities responsible for delivering them. Over 70% of EU legislation is implemented at the local and regional level. Despite this, subnational governments still lack a formal role in shaping that legislation. 

CEMR’s paper sets out a vision for a new EU Agenda for Cities that is not only inclusive of every territory — from smaller municipalities to major metropolitan areas — but also equipped with the governance mechanisms, funding tools, and institutional recognition to deliver real impact. 

Key proposals include: 

  • Establishing a permanent, structured process for multi-level governance consultations for any new EU regulation proposal that could have an impact on LRGs. 
  • Using the “reforms” component of the next EU structural investment policy to ensure LRGs have the capacities (financial, technical, human) to implement EU regulations. 
  • Streamlining and simplifying access to EU funding, and including a 15% earmark for sustainable territorial development in the next EU budget period, CEMR also calls for greater alignment between EU funding opportunities and local realities, simplifying access and strengthening the administrative capacity of subnational governments. As the paper makes clear, the time has come to transition from fragmented engagement to a systemic approach that incorporates local and regional voices at every stage of the EU policy cycle — from design to implementation. 

The new EU Agenda for Cities presents an opportunity to bridge the gap between ambition and implementation. With the right tools and governance in place, LRGs can power Europe’s green and digital transitions, drive economic resilience, and make the promise of inclusive, sustainable communities a reality for all. 

CEMR will present these ideas at the Cities Forum in Krákow, taking place from 17 to 19 June 2025. Our Secretary General, Fabrizio Rossi, will join the discussion on the Agenda with the Executive Vice-President of the European Commission, Raffaele Fitto. 

Read the full input paper here

For more information, contact:

250526-CEMR-Input-paper-EU-agenda-for-Cities-ENGDownload

For more information, contact:

Meritxell PARRAMON VILA
In Impact community Society, Latest, Local democracy, Local democracy, Publications

Op-Ed on local democracy in Türkiye

Turkiye democracy - News 2025

Op-Ed on the local democracy in Türkiye co-signed by presidents of the Congress, CoR, ALDA and CEMR

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The recent arrests and dismissals of democratically elected mayors in Türkiye, and their replacement by appointed trustees, mark a dangerous turning point for local democracy, not only in Türkiye but for Europe as a whole. At its core, democracy is not just about casting ballots; it is about ensuring that those elected by the people can govern freely, without fear of persecution. The replacement of elected mayors through judicial intervention, without full transparency and due process, raises serious questions about democratic standards and political freedom. 

This is not an isolated event. It is part of a worrying trend of democratic backsliding that threatens the fundamental values upon which modern Europe has been built. From the ashes of World War II, Europe emerged with a commitment to decentralization, democracy, and human rights. The European Charter of Local Self-Government, adopted in 1985, was a direct response to past authoritarianism, ensuring that local governments have the autonomy to serve their communities without undue interference from central authorities. This principle of local self-government is a safeguard against the concentration of power and a guarantee that democracy remains rooted in the daily lives of citizens.  

Yet today, these hard-won principles are being undermined. The detention of local leaders in Türkiye is a blatant violation of the commitments the country made as a member of the Council of Europe. It is a direct assault on the principles enshrined in the Charter and an ominous signal to other governments that such actions might be tolerated.  

Local democracy is the first line of defense for our freedoms. When it is attacked, it is not just a city or a region that suffers—it is the very foundation of democracy. As local elected representatives, mayors are the bridge between national governments and citizens, the leaders who turn democratic principles into tangible actions—whether in public services, social cohesion, or crisis response.  

Ignoring the crackdown on local leaders in Türkiye is not just a failure to support our colleagues—it is a failure to defend democracy itself. If Europe allows the erosion of local democracy anywhere on the continent, it sets a dangerous precedent that could spread.  

EU institutions, together with Member states of the European Union and of the Council of Europe, must take a clear and firm stance. The defense of democracy must not be selective or conditional on political expediency. The right of people to choose their leaders—and for those leaders to govern without fear—must be upheld at all costs.  

Democracy in Europe was never guaranteed; it was built through struggle and commitment. In the face of new threats, we must show the same commitment. The free election of representatives is not a privilege; it is the foundation of a just and stable society. If we fail to defend it today, we risk losing it tomorrow. 

Signatories: 

  • President of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe, Marc Cools 
  • President of the Committee of the Regions, Katta Tüttő 
  • President of ALDA: Nataša Vučković
  • President of CEMR: Gunn Marit Helgesen

*****

This opinion article was published on EU Observer on 15 April 2025. You can read it here

Related content:

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GRIFFON Axelle
In Biodiversity, Biodiversity, Climate, Climate, Energy, Energy, Environment, Environment, Impact community Climate, Impact community Climate, Latest, Publications

Renewables with communities first 

Energy - News Section

A European consensus sets guiding principles to accelerate renewable energy and grid deployment while ensuring fairness, transparency, biodiversity protection, and local benefits 

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Europe is at a turning point. To reach climate neutrality by 2050, the EU must drastically expand renewable energy and electricity grids. This challenge is also an opportunity: renewables are cheaper than fossil fuels, can reduce biodiversity risks, and bring local economic benefits. Yet progress remains too slow, hampered by lengthy permits, weak community dialogue, and a lack of perceived value for citizens. 

To overcome these barriers, European stakeholders have united behind a set of baseline principles for fast and fair deployment of renewables and grids. These principles underline that projects must be shaped with communities, not imposed on them. Early engagement with mayors and citizens, transparent communication, and mechanisms for feedback are central to building trust. 

Equally important is ensuring that local communities share in the value of new projects. This means creating jobs, offering benefit-sharing schemes such as funds or co-ownership, and guaranteeing that revenues are used transparently for local improvements, from transport to housing. The principles also commit to nature-positive deployment, applying strategies to avoid or minimise harm and, where possible, enhance biodiversity. 

Finally, the consensus highlights the need to empower community-led initiatives, giving citizens and municipalities fair access to the energy market and the grid. By creating space for local ownership, Europe can ensure that the energy transition is not only fast but also fair. 

Together, these principles form a European consensus: a shared roadmap to accelerate the transition while protecting ecosystems and ensuring citizens see real, tangible benefits. 

Read the position paper here 

For more information, contact: 

BORDELOT Federica
In EU budget, EU budget, Impact community Cohesion, Impact community Cohesion, Impact community Society, Impact community Society, Latest, Publications, Territorial development

Final call for the EU budget

MFF - Position paper News 2025

Local and regional governments’ final call to EU institutions for a real involvement in the design of the EU budget 

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The future of the EU budget is at a crossroads. As the European Commission launches consultations on the post-2027 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), local and regional governments across Europe, represented by CEMR, are calling for a fundamental change: an EU budget that is inclusive, decentralised, and truly aligned with the needs of cities, municipalities, and regions.  

This requires that future national plans and investment priorities in each Member State are not imposed from the top-down, but shaped through meaningful consultations with local and regional governments, just as the Partnership Principle ensures in Cohesion Policy. Only in this way can EU investments be fit for purpose and truly serve the people it is intended to benefit. 

CEMR’s newly released position paper on the post-2027 MFF sets out a clear vision for a reformed EU budget that strengthens multi-level governance and empowers local and regional governments as essential partners for effective spending of the EU budget on the ground. With growing social and economic inequalities, the need to accelerate climate adaptation, and increasing geopolitical instability, Europe cannot afford to sideline local and regional governments—the very actors that implement over 70% of EU policies on the ground. 

National plans must include mandatory consultations to local and regional governments 

The roadmap on the next MFF confirmed the European Commission’s ambition to establish single national plans for reforms and investments based on priorities defined at European level. The European Commission mentions the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) as a good example of an instrument linking investments and reforms and points out that two thirds of the EU budget (Cohesion Policy funds and the Common Agricultural Policy) could in the future be implemented according to the RRF approach. In this context, CEMR issues a final warning to the European Commission: the RRF model failed to ensure effective multi-level governance. CEMR found that, since consultation with local and regional governments was not mandatory, it simply did not occur in most of the Member States.  

The European Commission must ensure that national plans and the definition of investment priorities in each Member State are developed through meaningful consultations with local and regional governments, similar to the Partnership Principle in Cohesion Policy. This is the only way to guarantee that EU investments are fit for purpose and meet the real needs of the population.  

“The EU is more than its institutions and the 27 states—it belongs to its people, municipalities, cities, and regions. Decisions based solely on macroeconomic trends risk disconnecting it from citizens” — Gunn Marit Helgesen, CEMR President. 

CEMR key priorities for the post-2027 EU budget 

CEMR’s position paper, backed by national associations of local and regional governments across Europe, contains concrete proposals to reform the post-2027 EU budget and enhance its effectiveness: 

  • Empowering municipalities, cities and regions not only as implementers but also as planners 
    The Partnership Principle should be made mandatory across all EU-funded programmes to ensure that the funds effectively reflect the actual needs of local and regional governments. 
  • Decentralising the Cohesion Policy 
    Strengthening the capacity of local and regional governments to manage EU funds will ensure that investments address real local needs and promote balanced territorial development. 
  • Diversifying EU instruments as part of the ambitious policy agenda for cities 
    From shared management funds to increased direct funding, it would allow EU investment to reach local and regional authorities of all sizes, from all types of territories, both urban and rural.   
  • Simplifying and easing EU funding mechanisms  
    to reduce administrative burdens for both Managing Authorities and beneficiaries. CEMR proposals for simplification include: a single set of rules for beneficiaries across the different funds; flexibility in thematic concentration to allow place-based definition of priorities, hence accelerating funds disbursement; and a labelling of auditing processes as compliant with EU rules to avoid multiplication of auditing.
  • Enhancing synergies among EU funds. 
    The next MFF must improve coordination between different EU funding instruments to maximise impact at the territorial level. 

Take part in the public consultation 

Local and regional governments must not be sidelined in shaping the post-2027 EU budget. The European Commission’s consultation must not be reduced to a bureaucratic exercise or a mere checkbox. Consultations alone are not enough. The next EU budget regulations must include a mandatory requirement to involve local and regional governments in defining the investments that will meet the real needs of the population. 

Use this public consultation —open until May 7 2025— to demand a real seat at the table and a budget that truly serves our communities. A stronger, more inclusive Europe starts from the ground up. Speak up before it’s too late. 

Read the full CEMR position paper here

Contribute to the public consultation on the future EU budget here: https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_25_486 

For more information, contact: 

TARAN Stanislav
In Bridges of Trust, Bridges of Trust, International cooperation, Latest, Projects and Programmes, Projects and programmes, Publications

Declaration on three years of war in Ukraine

Ukraine Declaration - News 2025

CEMR issues a declaration reaffirming support and urging international action 

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After three years of Ukraine’s resistance to Russia’s full-scale invasion, local and regional elected representatives from the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) reaffirm their unwavering support for Ukraine and its people.  

CEMR has issued a formal declaration condemning the war launched by Russia and calling for decisive international action. 

Call against attacks on Ukrainian mayors 

Local and regional elected representatives are on the frontlines of this war, ensuring that essential services continue despite difficult conditions. Yet, they have also become targets of aggression.  

CEMR denounces the abduction of Ukrainian mayors and supports the call of the Association of Ukrainian Cities demanding the immediate release of those still detained: 

  • Oleksandr Babych – Mayor of Hola Prystan (Kherson region) 
  • Ihor Kolykhaiev – Mayor of Kherson 
  • Anatolii Siryi – Starosta of Novi Borovychi (Chernihiv region) 

CEMR also condemns arbitrary imprisonment, torture and murder of Ukrainian people in Russian captivity including: 

  • Yevhenii Matvieiev – Mayor of Dniprorudne (Zaporizhzhia region) 
  • Oleksii Vynnychenko – Starosta of Hrebenykivka (Sumy region) 

Call for Ukraine’s full EU membership 

A victory for Ukraine and a just peace that will allow its reconstruction requires the full engagement of the European Union and its member states.  

CEMR is committed to fostering resilience, recovery, and democratic governance in Ukraine. In its declaration, CEMR reaffirms its dedication to: 

  • Supporting the reconstruction of Ukraine’s municipalities and regions through partnerships and exchanges. 
  • Advocating for Ukraine’s full integration into the European Union to ensure long-term stability and prosperity. 
  • Sustaining cooperation between European and Ukrainian local and regional governments through key initiatives, including: 
  • The Bridges of Trust Community, Strengthening democratic governance, fostering partnerships, advancing recovery, and supporting Ukraine’s EU integration.   

A call for action 

As the war continues, it is time for European institutions, national governments, and local and regional authorities to intensify their support for and to Ukraine. The path to peace and reconstruction requires decisive action, sustained cooperation, and a commitment to justice. 

CEMR urges the international community to stand firm in defending democracy, peace, and the rule of law. We call for Ukraine’s victory and a just peace that will allow its cities, regions, and people to rebuild their brighter future. 

Read the full CEMR declaration: 

For more information, contact: 

BENNIS Hamza
In Employment, Employment, Impact community Labour, Impact community Labour, Latest, Publications, Skills

Public procurement to local realities

European Union - News

CEMR Releases New Position Paper on Public Procurement: A Call for More Flexibility and Less Bureaucracy

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CEMR has officially released its position paper on public procurement, outlining key changes needed to ensure a procurement system that truly works for local and regional governments.

As the largest public investors and contracting authorities in the EU, local and regional governments (LRGs) play a crucial role in delivering essential public services. However, the current public procurement framework remains too complex, rigid, and burdensome, limiting their ability to act efficiently and effectively.

CEMR’s position paper highlights three key areas for reform:

  • Greater flexibility to adapt procurement to local needs
  • Simplified rules to reduce administrative burdens
  • Stronger support for SMEs to foster local economic growth

The document serves as a clear call to action for EU policymakers, urging them to shape a procurement framework that respects the autonomy of local governments while ensuring efficient public service delivery.

CEMR Position on Public ProcurementDownload

For more information, contact:

GRIFFON Axelle
In Impact community Climate, Impact community Climate, Latest, Publications, Water, Water

EU water resilience strategy

Recommendations for the EU water resilience strategy

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As Europe faces increasing water challenges—ranging from severe droughts to devastating floods—CEMR is calling for action. In its recommendations for the upcoming European Water Resilience Strategy, CEMR outlines how local governments can lead the way in protecting water as a public good, addressing regional needs, and strengthening collaboration across all levels of governance. 

Access to water is a fundamental right, yet climate change and urbanisation pose increasing challenges to this vital resource. The drought that hit Europe in 2022, one of the worst in 500 years, left rivers like the Rhine and Po at record-low levels, disrupting ecosystems, agriculture, and transport. Meanwhile, frequent and severe flooding in Northern Europe has highlighted the urgent need for better water management systems. CEMR is taking a stand with its recommendations for the upcoming European Water Resilience Strategy.  

A bridge over the Po River completely dry due to the drought that has been affecting Piedmont for more than a year. Revello, Italy – April 2023 – MikeDotta/Shutterstock

In fact, the European Commission has announced its plan to develop a comprehensive Water Resilience Strategy as part of the 2024–2029 guidelines. This initiative aims to map risks, identify preparedness needs, and align with the ongoing revision of EU water directives. These discussions highlight the urgency of ensuring sustainable water management across urban and rural areas, addressing both immediate climate risks and long-term infrastructure needs. 

But water is not just a resource—it is a public good. This is why CEMR and its member associations emphasize the need for robust legal frameworks to ensure it is not treated as a commercial product and to guarantee universal access, calling for public sector-led water management to provide transparency and prioritize community welfare. 

But a one-size-fits-all approach will not work. Across Europe, water challenges range from droughts in the south to flooding in the north. That is why CEMR advocates for place-based solutions tailored to local realities, underpinned by nature-based strategies like wetland restoration and innovative urban planning. 

Achieving water resilience also requires financial investment. CEMR urges the EU to increase funding for ageing water infrastructure, climate adaptation measures, and innovative technologies, while streamlining access to emergency funds for regions affected by water-related crises. 

Finally, achieving water resilience requires stronger involvement from local and regional governments. As the level of governance closest to citizens, they are best positioned to design and implement water management strategies tailored to local realities. Whether it’s cities like Paris and Berlin successfully remunicipalising their water services to improve quality and affordability, or regions in the Netherlands pioneering flood prevention through integrated urban planning, local governments have proven their ability to manage water efficiently when given the right tools and resources. 

Ensuring that municipalities and regions have the necessary funding, decision-making power, and support to lead on water resilience is crucial for tackling interconnected challenges across urban and rural areas. CEMR calls for a governance framework that empowers local authorities to take proactive action, secure long-term investments, and foster cooperation with civil society and the private sector. Strengthening their role will be key to building a Europe where water systems are robust, adaptive, and sustainable. 

Ready to dive deeper? Explore the full CEMR policy paper for detailed insights and actionable recommendations. 

CEMR Policy paper – Water Resilience 2024 (EN) _Download_

For more information, contact:

GAUDRON Marine
In Impact community Cohesion, Impact community Cohesion, Publications, Territorial development

Is the European Semester important?

EU Semester - News 2024

Top level decision – Local consequences
The European Semester explained

Discover the EU Semester study

Just as the EU Commissioners were officially starting their new mandate – which includes the responsibility to put forward by mid-2025 a proposal for the next EU long-term budget -, CEMR was releasing a timely publication in view of the “cash for reforms” debate: “Top level decision – local consequences: The European Semester explained”.

The release event organised on 2nd December attracted participants from several institutions: European Commission, European Parliament, Permanent Representations of Member States to the EU, in addition to CEMR own members and representatives of cities and regions in Brussels.
On this occasion, CEMR’s Secretariat presented the publication which aims at informing local and regional governments about the functioning and process of the European Semester, how it has evolved over the year and how it is likely to become the next overarching policy coordination framework of the EU.

The study also includes some case studies demonstrating that most of the recommendations included in the EU Semester Country Specific Recommendations have either a direct or indirect impact on local and regional governments. This impact can be on their budget and investment possibilities: the study recalls that subnational finance is included in the national government budget deficit and expenditure efforts monitored by the EU Semester. But it also reveals that some recommendations touch upon areas of competences of local and regional governments in different Member States.

For instance, in Germany, subnational public administrations are the ones targeted by the 2024 Country Specific Recommendation (CSR) to speed up the digitalisation of public administration. For Spain, the 2024 CSRs call for improving water management where water supply is a competence of local governments. In the Netherlands, urban planning and (social) housing is a shared competence between municipalities and national governments, who are therefore both concerned with the recommendation to ensure the affordability and availability of housing.

The event allowed for a multi-level discussion between Joao Nogueira, Head of Unit for Policy coordination at the DG ECFIN of the European Commission, Thomas Prorok, Managing Director at KDZ – Centre for Public Administration Research in Austria, and Michael Schmitz, Deputy Head of the Brussels Office of the German County Association (DLT) who debated on the impact and (lack of) involvement of local and regional governments in the European Semester. The speakers were all invited to react to the recommendations included in the CEMR study, which created a lively discussion and also engaged participants in the room.

This report will be an important piece for CEMR and all representatives of local and regional governments in the coming months to build the narrative on the importance of involving subnational governments in the decisions on investments and reform priorities to be financed by the EU instruments.

Read the study here

For more information, contact:

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