Policy and advocacy
Eurocities advocacy efforts reflect positions agreed through our member cities. Cities are where EU policy becomes reality. Read our latest policy positions below to find out how we transform broader ambitions into urban action for a new sustainable, inclusive and prosperous future.
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Eurocities Policy Briefing – The Role of Cities in Achieving the SDGs
The report highlights that no goal is on track to be achieved by 2030, with SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), SDG 15 (Life on Land) and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) particularly off track.
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From EU Policy to Local Action – Building commitment for sustainable Urban Food Systems
The Urban Agenda for the EU Food Partnership has released a new policy statement calling on EU leaders to fully recognise cities as key actors in building fair, sustainable and resilient food systems.
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Eurocities proposals for the future of European Capitals of Culture
Eurocities’ January 2026 submission to the Commission’s call for evidence sets recommendations to strengthen the European Capital of Culture action, based on members’ experience and city input.
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Cities addressing the housing crisis: Innovative and integrated approaches
This thematic report takes a look at how cities across Europe address rising housing costs through innovative governance, financing, and urban planning solutions.
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From crisis to action. A call for an integrated EU Anti-Poverty Strategy led by cities
17% of urban inhabitants in Europe are at risk of poverty. Poverty in the European Union is a multidimensional issue that extends far beyond income levels, affecting individuals’ ability to live with dignity and fully participate in society. Rising living costs have intensified challenges such as food, energy, housing, and transport poverty, particularly in urban
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Making the EU Budget work for cities & regions: Local Alliance’s 10-point action plan
The European Commission’s proposals for the next seven-year EU budget risk side-lining city and regional governments. In response, the Local Alliance has set out a 10-point plan to ensure the next budget delivers tangible results for people in all territories in Europe and beyond.
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Cities and railways unite for a European high-speed rail network
Following the announcement of the EU’s plan for a pan-European high-speed rail network, Eurocities and the Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies have issued a joint declaration outlining recommendations to make high-speed rail a cornerstone of Europe’s sustainable mobility future.
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Cities’ central role in decarbonising EU heating and cooling sector
Europe’s heating and cooling sector uses half the continent’s energy, yet continues to rely on fossil fuels. This Eurocities policy statement calls for the EU’s new cooling and heating strategy to support city governments to decarbonise the sector and meet EU climate targets.
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From corporate fleet to street: Decarbonising urban mobility across Europe
As the European Commission advances its initiative on corporate fleet decarbonisation, Eurocities sees a strategic opportunity to align fleet reform with cities’ climate, air quality, and mobility goals.
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Eurocities contribution to the consultation on the new Action Plan of the European Pillar of Social Rights
Europe is navigating an increasingly complex socio-economic landscape. Rising inflation and the cost of living,
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shifting labour markets, and persistent socio-economic segregation are placing new pressures on communities. -
Empowering cities through Cohesion Policy
In this Eurocities policy statement, city leaders call for a strong, renewed Cohesion Policy in the next EU budget for 2028-2034, placing cities at the heart of EU investment and helping to deliver the upcoming EU Policy Agenda for Cities.
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City diplomacy in times of multiple crises – Trends, structures and opportunities
This policy brief from the City Diplomacy Lab, written by authors from Eurocities, the University of Lausanne, and the University of Melbourne, reveals that city diplomacy in Europe and across the world is becoming increasingly sophisticated, yet structural challenges continue to limit its effectiveness.
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