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 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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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.
3 minute read
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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 calls for fast and high-quality passenger train connections across Europe
Eurocities is calling on the European institutions to support the development of a comprehensive high-quality rail network that links all European major cities and urban centres.
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Policy brief on advancing charging infrastructure
Recommendations for European, national and local policy that are necessary to facilitate massive adoption of electric charging infrastructure across Europe’s cities.
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Cities to the EU: help enforce traffic rules on foreign vehicles
In a joint letter, 20 cities call on the European Parliament to help municipalities fine foreign drivers breaching local traffic rules.
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Time for the EU to press ahead on the cycling declaration
The European Commission’s landmark cycling declaration takes on board many of Eurocities’ recommendations. But only tangible actions will pave the way for a real, much-needed shift in sustainable mobility.
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Cities urge the EU to pedal away from polluting vehicles
In a new policy paper, Eurocities members tap into their long-standing experience to advice the European Commission on the key steps to make its upcoming cycling declaration successful in cities.
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Paving the way for zero-emission buses in cities
CO2 emissions from heavy-duty vehicles are disproportionately high; this although their number in cities is low compared to other means of transport. In a new position paper, Eurocities provides recommendations to EU policymakers that focus on the decarbonisation of buses, the most common form of urban public transport.
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Could new EU targets melt into air?
How would you rate air quality legislation that will have difficulty improving overall air quality, will not be acted upon in time, and is contradicted by other regulations? If we don’t close loopholes now, this could be what the EU’s revised Ambient Air Quality Directive leaves us with.
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Bringing urban mobility to the next level
A Eurocities policy statement provides key recommendations to EU policymakers to ensure that cities can make the most out of the EU Commission’s upcoming ‘Efficient & Green Mobility Package.’
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Full stop: fossil-fuelled mobility in cities
The transport sector needs to cut its emissions drastically to meet Europe’s climate ambitions. A new position paper from Eurocities set out top recommendations for how to get there.
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