Focus Area

Poverty and social exclusion   

Cities reflect the major social challenges of Europe in one space. The trend is of increasing poverty and inequalities, not only between people but within neighbourhoods. Just like ‘Europe’ a city is comprised of many different neighbourhoods and ‘inclusive’ cities aim to make sure people have the same chances regardless of where they live. Raising the quality of life of people across the EU should mean tackling inequalities where they are most visible – i.e. directly in our cities. Our member cities work with many vulnerable groups such as Roma, migrants and refugees, disabled people or senior citizens, towards taking a full and active part in society and to encourage greater social cohesion. Unless long-term EU policy goals are designed around the real needs of local communities, rather than the needs of member states, we will not reach real convergence of living standards across Europe. Our European projects in this area include VALUES, CONNECTION and Trans-Urban-EU-China. Read more on:

 

Contacts

Solene Molard Policy Officer
Marta Buces Eurocities Writer
Michaela Lednova Senior Policy Advisor

Projects

  • Through this work, cities can deliver EU social policy objectives at local level and help mitigate the socio-economic consequences of the pandemic crisis on the most vulnerable people, driving a fair and inclusive recovery and making a tangible difference for...

    About the project

    EaSI – InclusiveCities4All

  • UNITES – UrbaN InTEgration Strategies through co-design, trains and accompanies local authorities to co-design integration strategies with other stakeholders and migrants.

    About the project

    UNITES

  • Putting cities at the heart of food system transformation.

    About the project

    Food Trails

  • The European Heritage Hub is a fantastic opportunity for cities already active in cultural heritage as well as for those eager to transform their heritage policies into more sustainable, innovative, and inclusive ones.

    About the project

    European Heritage Hub