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Impact Community Cohesion

Our mission: foster territorial cohesion and enhance systemic approaches that can break urban-rural silos

CEMR works to make sure that every part of Europe, whether it be cities, towns, or rural areas, can grow and thrive together. To do this, we want to strengthen the links between different territories and encourage cooperation instead of competition. Whether it’s about transport, housing, digital access, climate action, or public services, policies should be designed together so that no area is left behind.

City councils, municipalities, and regional authorities play a central role in making this happen. They know their communities best and are closest to people’s daily lives. With the right support and coordination, they can turn European and national goals into real improvements for citizens: better services, good jobs, and sustainable local economies.

CEMR promotes collaboration between local leaders, regional governments, and communities to build strong, fair, and connected territories. By working together and sharing ideas between urban and rural areas, we can create more balanced growth, reduce inequalities, and ensure that everyone, no matter where they live, has access to opportunities and a good quality of life.

Thematics included under the Impact Community Cohesion

Housing
Local finance
Public services
Territorial cohesion

CEMR expert group working on this themes

Our cohesion expert groups bring together specialists from our members to shape our positions and exchange practices on these themes.

1. Task force on housing

Brings together housing specialists from CEMR member countries to exchange on national and local solutions to the housing crisis. The task force contributes to debates on affordable housing and supports CEMR’s input to the upcoming EU Affordable Housing Plan. 

2. Expert group on local finances

Monitors the impact of European regulations on local and regional finances. The group works on European Accounting Standards, VAT regime changes, local taxation, and the broader financial environment for municipalities and regions. It also contributes to developing comparative knowledge on local finances across Europe. 

3. Expert group on public services

Covers key areas affecting local and regional service delivery, including public services regulation, public procurement, state aid, and international trade negotiations. 

4. Expert group on territorial cohesion

Monitors EU cohesion policy and the implementation of European Structural and Investment Funds. The group promotes dialogue between local/regional governments and EU institutions, and shares expertise on territorial development, sustainable urban development (including the EU and global Urban Agendas), rural development, and demographic transitions. 

CEMR projects and programmes working on these themes

Meet CEMR spokespersons of the Impact Community Cohesion

News related to the Impact Community Cohesion

Our team working under Impact Community Cohesion