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TARAN Stanislav
In Bridges of Trust, Bridges of Trust, International cooperation, Press, 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: 

TARAN Stanislav
In Bridges of Trust, Bridges of Trust, Impact community Society, International cooperation, Press, 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 

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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: 

BENNIS Hamza
In Digitalisation, Digitalisation, Employment, Employment, Impact community Labour, Impact community Labour, Press, Projects and Programmes, Projects and programmes, Publications, Skills, Skills, ,

Local, social, digital – digitalisation impact

Digital transition - News 2022

A joint CEMR–EPSU project explores how digitalisation is transforming local and regional governments across Europe and its impact on workers, services and governance 

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Digital transformation is reshaping local public services across Europe, from how services are delivered to how public employees work and engage with citizens. To understand these changes and support effective responses, the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) and the European Public Service Union (EPSU) launched a joint project: “Local, Social, Digital”, co-funded by the European Commission and implemented between 2023 and 2024. 

This initiative explored the challenges, opportunities and impact of digitalisation in local and regional governments (LRGs), with a particular focus on working conditions, skills development, social dialogue, and inclusive governance. 

At the heart of the project is a comprehensive research report prepared by an independent expert, based on desk research, interviews with national CEMR and EPSU affiliates, and key insights from international conferences and webinars held in Cagliari, Tallinn and online. 

The research revealed a wide range of digital practices and challenges across European LRGs. Digital tools are enhancing flexibility, accessibility and efficiency, but also raising important questions around workers’ rights, surveillance, data privacy, and fair access to training and upskilling. The study also found growing awareness around the gendered impact of digitalisation, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Key themes included: 

  • Telework and hybrid work: The shift to remote working has been widely adopted, but requires clearer frameworks on rights, disconnection, and workplace safety. 
  • Digital skills and employment: There is a pressing need to train and support public employees in using digital tools, with strong involvement from both trade unions and employers. 
  • Ethics and AI: The use of Artificial Intelligence in local governance raises new ethical challenges and calls for stronger social partner dialogue. 
  • Smart cities and services: Digitalisation of public services must remain people-centred, focusing on inclusiveness, accessibility, and transparency. 

Many national and local social partners have already launched strategies, tools and agreements to manage this transformation, including practical guidelines, awareness-raising events and training programmes. 

As Europe enters its Digital Decade, local and regional governments stand at the forefront of this transformation. The “Local, Social, Digital” project reinforces the crucial role of social dialogue in managing digital change, ensuring fair working conditions, and promoting inclusive public services. 

CEMR and EPSU call for continued EU support and structured collaboration among employers, trade unions and institutions to empower local administrations in navigating digital change, sustainably, socially, and with dignity. 

Read the study here

For more information, contact: 

BANOS DE GUISASOLA Eva
In Impact community Climate, Impact community Climate, Impact community Society, Impact community Society, PLATFORMA, PLATFORMA, Press, Publications

Europe engagement in localising SDGs

Localising SDGs study - News

European Mayors strengthening their engagement at UN High-Level Political Forum

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A delegation of European Mayors and councillors is heading to New York to defend the key role of local and regional governments in United Nations intergovernmental bodies during the upcoming High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) (8-17 July).

This year, HLPF will focus on “Reinforcing the 2030 Agenda and eradicating poverty in times of multiple crises” and is held under the auspices of the Economic and Social Council.

Once again, European Mayors and councillors will make they voice heard and present how the local level can deliver sustainable, resilient and innovative solutions.

Among them are:

  • Véronique Bertholle, Vice Mayor on European and International Relations, City of Strasbourg (France), PLATFORMA spokesperson
  • Francine Farrugia, Local Councillor in the locality of Siggiewi (Malta), member of CEMR-PLATFORMA Young Elected Officials Committee
  • Clare Hart, Vice-President Montpellier Métropole, President of Crisis and Rehabilitation Group, Cités Unies France
  • Gail Macgregor, Leader of Dumfries and Galloway Council, Scotland, UK (COSLA), Spokesperson for Environment and Economy, CEMR Spokesperson on SDGs
  • Nicole Unterseh, Mayor City of Bonn (Germany), Deutscher Städtetag
  • …

Mayors and councillors will actively participate in several meetings, including the Local2030 Coalition Special Event “Unlocking transformative change through the localisation of the six SDG transitions” on 10 June, during which Francine Farrugia will officially present the CEMR-PLATFORMA 2024 annual study on SDGs.

This year, the study European Territories Localise the SDGs – The time for impact is running out gathers 46 responses from associations of local and regional governments, representing 31 European countries.

In the Foreword, Tengiz Mtvarelishvili, Chair of Telavi City Council in Georgia, and PLATFORMA Spokesperson, warns about delays in implementing the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). “But there’s hope: local and regional governments are on the front lines, closest to citizens, and uniquely positioned to find tailored solutions”, he says.

Eva Baños de Guisasola, PLATFORMA Advisor on SDGs, Global Agendas and Climate, and Federica Bordelot, CEMR Director of Policy and Impact, will moderate several sessions.

To strengthen the voice of local and regional governments, PLATFORMA and CEMR are joining forces with the Global Task Force of Local and Regional Governments (GTF) led by UCLG.

This year, HLPF will be followed by the UN Summit of the Future, also in New York on 22-23 September, where local and regional governments will gather during an Action weekend ahead of the meeting.

Discover the study:

Check the agenda of the Global Task Force of Local and Regional Governments (GTF)

For more information, contact:

TONHAUSER Boris
In Impact community Climate, Impact community Climate, Impact community Society, Impact community Society, PLATFORMA, PLATFORMA, Press, Publications

Study on SDGs localisation

Energy Behaviour Forum - image 1

Discover our new study on progress made by local governments in promoting the Global Goals

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The Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) and PLATFORMA are releasing today (12 July) their annual study on the localisation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at a United Nations special event in New York. The study is presented by CEMR President Gunn Marit Helgesen at the 6th Local and Regional Governments Forum on the 2030 Agenda, organised in the framework of the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF), the United Nations annual event on the SDGs.

The report collects data from 41 associations of local and regional governments from greater Europe and makes seven recommendations. As estimates show, 65% of the 169 targets underpinning the 17 SDGs cannot be achieved without the involvement of local and regional governments.

One more time, this report resonates as a strong call to national and European institutions to further recognise and include in their reports progress made by municipalities and regions in achieving the SDGs. More than ever, decentralised cooperation and partnerships are crucial instruments to achieve the 2030 Agenda at the local and regional levels.

“We are fast approaching the halfway point on the road to the 2030 Agenda and the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), meaning there are only six summers left!” warns Gunn Marit Helgesen, CEMR President, in the foreword of the study.

The 6th Local and Regional Governments Forum on the 2030 Agenda is organised by UN DESA, the Global Taskforce of Local and Regional Governments (GTF), UN-Habitat, UNDP and Local 2030.

Mayors have a say

This year, the European delegation of local and regional governments is composed of several mayors and councillors:

  • Gunn Marit Helgesen, CEMR President and Councillor of Vestfold and Telemark, President of the Norwegian Association of Local and Regional Authorities (KS)
  • Magda Kostava, Member of Kutaisi Municipal Council, Georgia (NALAG), member of the CEMR Young elected officials committee
  • Wim Dries, VVSG President and Mayor of the City of Genk
  • Luisa Salgueiro, President of the National Association of Portuguese Municipalities (ANMP) and Mayor of Matosinhos, Portugal
  • Manueal Alvares, Councillor in the Municipality of Matosinhos, Portugal
  • Stephan Neher, Mayor, City of Rottenburg am Neckar, Germany
  • Anne-Marie Jean, Vice-President of Eurométropole de Strasbourg (CUF)
  • André Viola, Councillor, Department of Aude (AFCCRE)

Fabrizio Rossi, CEMR Secretary General, Emilia Saiz, UCLG Secretary General, Lucy Slack, CLGF Secretary General, Unai Tellería, Delegate of the Basque Government (Spain) in the United States, Leen Verbeek and Mathieu Mori, respectively President and Secretary General of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Congress of Europe are also attending HLPF and parallel dedicated to local and regional governments.

More information:

For more information, contact:

GURI Durmish
In Impact community Society, Impact community Society, IncluCities [closed project], Inclucities [closed project], Migration and inclusion, Migration and inclusion, Press, Projects and Programmes, Projects and programmes, Publications

Inclusion starts locally

Inclusive Migration - News 2023

Key lessons from IncluCities to improve migrant integration through multilevel cooperation 

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The IncluCities project, led by CEMR and funded by the EU’s AMIF programme, has shown how local and regional governments (LRGs) can lead inclusive migration policies when equipped with the right tools and support. Over three years, eight cities and six national associations worked together in a mentoring scheme to improve local integration strategies for third-country nationals. 

From needs assessments to action plans and training academies, IncluCities focused on real collaboration between cities and their associations, guided by CEMR. The project clearly demonstrated that peer exchange and coordinated support lead to more effective and sustainable policies. 

Turning Practice into Policy 

Based on the project experience, CEMR outlines seven key recommendations: 

  1. Adopt a Whole Community approach – Integration policies should benefit all residents, not just newcomers, and promote active local citizenship. 
  1. Promote inclusion over adaptation – Inclusion must be a two-way process involving the whole community, not just the integration of migrants. 
  1. Train entire ecosystems – Sustainable action requires collaboration across municipal services, civil society, and migrant communities. 
  1. Guarantee meaningful participation – Participation must be recognised as a basic right and embedded in local governance structures. 
  1. Support migrant women – Women play a key role in communities and should be at the centre of local inclusion efforts. 
  1. Improve multilevel governance – Stronger cooperation between EU, national, and local governments is vital, along with direct access to funding. 
  1. Create local support networks – Clustered partnerships help cities share knowledge and raise their voice in national discussions. 

Conclusion 

Local and regional governments are essential in managing integration, yet they remain underrepresented in EU policymaking. As the New Pact on Migration and Asylum moves forward, CEMR calls for the full inclusion of local voices in shaping migration policy, especially those of small and medium-sized cities, which are closest to the ground. 

Read the position paper here 

For more information, contact:  

TARAN Stanislav
In Bridges of Trust, Bridges of Trust, Governance, Governance, Local democracy, Local democracy, Press, Projects and Programmes, Projects and programmes, Publications

War on Ukraine first declaration

European local and regional leaders reaffirm solidarity with Ukraine and call for peace, justice, and reconstruction.

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On the first anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, local and regional leaders across Europe renew their strongest support for Ukraine, its people, and its democratic institutions. 

Condemning Aggression 
The war has brought devastation to civilians, elected representatives, and essential infrastructure. The abduction of Ukrainian mayors and the ongoing detention of five of them highlight the assault on democracy and the rule of law. These acts are condemned in the strongest terms, with urgent calls for the immediate release of the detained leaders. 

Solidarity and Support 

Local and regional governments across Europe stand firmly by Ukraine. Partnerships such as the Bridges of Trust project, the Eastern Partnership programme, and the European Alliance of Cities and Regions for the Reconstruction of Ukraine are mobilising resources, expertise, and cooperation. These initiatives are not only helping communities recover but also preparing Ukraine for its future as a full member of the European Union. 

Shared Values 
This declaration is a reminder that Europe’s foundations rest on peace, democracy, and respect for international law. As the war continues, European leaders join the international community in reaffirming Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and in urging the Russian Federation to end its illegal war. 

A year into this unjustified conflict, the commitment of Europe’s municipalities, cities, and regions is unwavering: to stand with Ukraine, to defend shared values, and to contribute to rebuilding a peaceful, democratic future. 

Read the declaration here 

For more information, contact: 

GURI Durmish
In Bridges of Trust, Bridges of Trust, Circular Cities and Regions Initiative, Circular Cities and Regions Initiative, EU Covenant of Mayors, EU Covenant of Mayors, Green City Accord [closed project], Green City Accord [closed project], IncluCities [closed project], Inclucities [closed project], Living-in.EU, Living-in.EU, PLATFORMA, PLATFORMA, Press, Projects and Programmes, Projects and programmes, Publications, Reference Framework for Sustainable Cities, Reference Framework for Sustainable Cities

CEMR projects overview  

CEMR’s externally funded projects foster cooperation, innovation, and sustainability across Europe 

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Through its externally funded activities, the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) brings local and regional leaders together to exchange ideas, test solutions, and build stronger communities. These projects are more than initiatives: they are platforms where municipalities and regions collaborate on Europe’s most pressing challenges, from climate action to equality, from digitalisation to democratic participation. 

Overview of Projects 
CEMR’s portfolio of externally funded projects reflects its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and inclusion: 

  • Reference Framework for Sustainable Cities (RFSC) – Supporting sustainable cities with a practical tool to plan and assess policies. 
  • IncluCities – Advancing migrant integration through peer learning among municipalities. 
  • Circular Cities and Regions Initiative (CCRI) – Driving circular economy solutions for cities and regions. 
  • Green City Accord – Helping European cities commit to ambitious environmental goals. 
  • Covenant of Mayors – Uniting local leaders in climate and energy action. 
  • PLATFORMA – Strengthening international partnerships and decentralised cooperation. 
  • Bridges of Trust – Building ties between Ukrainian and European municipalities. 
  • EPSU (Local Digital) – Supporting local administrations in navigating digital transitions. 
  • EPSU (Third-Party Violence) – Tackling violence against public service workers. 
  • Go.Li.EU – Promoting youth engagement and European citizenship. 

Together, these projects illustrate how CEMR channels external resources into meaningful action. By bridging local realities with European priorities, they not only empower municipalities and regions but also shape a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient future for all. 

Read the study here 

For more information, contact: 

GAUDRON Marine
In EU budget, Impact community Society, Press, Projects and programmes, Publications

How to unlock EU funds

EU financing opportunities - News

A guide to help local and regional governments navigate 2021–2027 funding opportunities and prepare successful proposals 

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Accessing European Union funding can be complex, especially for municipalities and regions unfamiliar with project management procedures. To address this challenge, the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) has developed a guide within its new External Funded Activities (EFA) Platform. The guide provides practical support for members, including information on funding opportunities, thematic priorities, and tips for writing strong proposals. 

The current Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2021–2027, boosted by Next Generation EU, represents the EU’s largest-ever budget, totalling €2 trillion. More than half is dedicated to research, innovation, digitalisation, and climate action, while one-third supports cohesion policy. For local and regional governments (LRGs), this translates into significant opportunities to finance projects across diverse fields. 

The guide outlines how to navigate the Funding and Tenders Portal, the central entry point for EU calls. It explains how applicants can: 

  • Search funding opportunities and partners; 
  • Check eligibility; 
  • Submit proposals online; 
  • Manage reporting and compliance requirements. 

It also provides advice on preparing successful project proposals. Key recommendations include aligning projects with EU policy goals, ensuring sustainability and impact, and selecting experienced, committed partners. Strong project teams, clear narratives, and realistic budgets are critical for success. 

Finally, the guide emphasises capacity-building. CEMR encourages municipalities to build internal expertise, engage with partners early, and take advantage of available training and support services. 

By simplifying complex procedures, the CEMR guide aims to empower local and regional authorities to fully tap into EU funds and deliver projects that advance Europe’s priorities, from green transition to digital innovation. 

Read the study here 

For more information, contact: 

REVAULT Martin
In Bridges of Trust, Bridges of Trust, Impact community Society, Press, Projects and Programmes, Projects and programmes, Twinning, UCLG, Ukraine reconstruction, United Cities and Local Governments

Escalation of war against Ukraine

Escalation of war against Ukraine Declaration

European local leaders condemn renewed Russian attacks and pledge solidarity with Ukrainian cities and communities

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Meeting in Daejeon at the 7th UCLG World Congress and Summit of Local and Regional Leaders, European mayors and councillors expressed their deepest indignation at the recent escalation of Russia’s war against Ukraine. The renewed wave of violence continues to bring devastation to civilian populations and destruction to Ukrainian municipalities. 

Condemning Targeted Attacks 
The declaration strongly denounces deliberate strikes on civilians, including women and children, in violation of the Geneva Conventions. Equally condemned is the destruction of essential urban infrastructure, which deprives communities of the basic services needed to survive in wartime. 

Solidarity with Ukraine 
Local and regional leaders across Europe reaffirm their solidarity with Ukraine’s people, mayors, councillors, and associations of local governments who continue their work under extreme conditions. These partnerships are vital to ensuring communities can endure today’s challenges and prepare for tomorrow’s recovery. 

Shared Values 
The declaration recalls the core values upon which Europe is built—peace, democracy, justice, equality, inclusion, and dialogue. By standing with Ukraine, Europe also defends international law and human rights. 

A Call to Action 
European municipalities are invited to strengthen ties with Ukrainian peers through partnerships, twinning, and reconstruction efforts. The declaration also appeals directly to local leaders worldwide, and especially in Russia, to condemn the war and join the call for peace. 

Reconstruction will require joint efforts. The declaration highlights the need for European institutions to support rebuilding Ukrainian infrastructure through city-to-city cooperation, aligning with Ukraine’s Fast Recovery Plan. European local and regional leaders reaffirm their readiness to work hand-in-hand with Ukrainian communities, ensuring that from the ruins of war, democracy and peace prevail. 

Read the declaration here 

For more information, contact: 

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