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Read our latest news, opinion, press releases, publications and events.
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Eurocities survey: Cities drive Draghi’s competitiveness agenda, but need EU recognition to scale action
The first Eurocities Pulse survey on urban competitiveness shows cities are already advancing Mario Draghi’s competitiveness agenda. But to expand this work, they need stronger EU recognition and support to tackle barriers such as land, energy and finance.
6 minute read -
Right to a fair trial and defence for Ekrem İmamoğlu
In a joint statement, Eurocities, Pact of Free Cities and B40 Balkan Cities Network express grave concern over the proceedings against Ekrem İmamoğlu, elected Mayor of Istanbul, and call for his right to a fair trial and defence to be upheld.
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Ukrainian cities stand strong and build for the future
As Russia’s war continues, Ukrainian cities are defending democracy, protecting their people and preparing to rebuild. At the Eurocities Annual Conference, leaders from Kyiv, Kherson and Mariupol shared what this resilience means in practice.
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Food markets: from tradition to transformation
Particularly in Mediterranean cities, food markets are more than places to shop. They are an essential part of daily life, social interaction and cultural identity. But markets’ presence goes beyond Southern countries.
7 minute read
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Survey of European mayors: Democracy is under serious threat, and cities are fighting back
The Eurocities Pulse Mayors Survey, based on responses from 88 mayors, reveals the key priorities and challenges shaping cities in 2026. Climate action and housing remain mayors' priorities, while strengthening democracy has surged in urgency.
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A message from Ekrem İmamoğlu: “Democracy will prevail”
In a letter to accept the City Heroes award at the Eurocities Awards 2026, Ekrem İmamoğlu, Mayor of Istanbul, states that the honour is a powerful message of solidarity with the people of Istanbul and everyone defending democracy in Turkiye and across Europe.
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Ekrem İmamoğlu, Mayor of Istanbul, Oulu and Stockholm win Eurocities Awards 2026
This year’s winners showed exceptional dedication to driving lasting urban improvements, strengthening local democracy and building fairer, greener and more resilient cities for everyone.
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Istanbul’s City Hero: Ekrem İmamoğlu
Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu is one of the shortlisted ‘City Heroes’ at the Eurocities Awards 2026. The winners will be announced at the Eurocities Annual Conference in Utrecht, 8-10 June 2026.
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City Hero: Alessandro Ghinelli, building culture, peace and cooperation
Alessandro Ghinelli, Mayor of Arezzo, has spent over a decade showing how a city can drive change. Through culture, solidarity and city diplomacy, he has turned Arezzo into a place of connection, with Europe, the world, and communities facing crisis.
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How local action can build Europe’s democratic resilience
How can cities work with the EU, civil society and researchers to drive democratic resilience and innovation across Europe? This was the compelling focus of the Nets4Dem Conference in Brussels, organised by Eurocities and TEPSA.
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Mayors for democracy: Let local democracy breathe
A Eurocities and B40 led delegation of European mayors visited Istanbul and Ankara in support of local democracy.
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Cities step up to reconnect young people with democracy
How can Europe’s cities drive new approaches to re-build young people's trust and involvement in democracy? The Nets4Dem Democracy Lab in Bilbao gathered officials from 19 cities to develop innovative solutions.
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100+ initiatives, 60 cities, one commitment: low-carbon and inclusive culture in action
A new Eurocities catalogue showcases 100+ city initiatives putting the Lille Call to Action into practice, demonstrating how culture can drive low-carbon transformation and inclusion, and inviting more cities to join the growing group of 60 signatories.
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Silent nights, bright cities: from Vilnius to Barcelona
Did you know Europe crowns a Capital of Christmas? Vilnius shines this year, and Barcelona is next in line with a festive, sustainable twist.
1 minute read