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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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 -
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 to support city governments to decarbonise the sector and meet EU climate targets.
4 minute read -
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.
2 minute read -
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.
4 minute read
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Report on Mental health in cities: Beyond traditional healthcare services
This report focuses on mental health (Principle 16 of the European Pillar of Social Rights – Access to Health). It highlights how cities are creating policies and services that not only target mental health but also address the social factors, such as housing, employment and social inclusion, that greatly impact citizens’ wellbeing.
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For an ambitious EU Framework on Climate Adaptation and Resilience
The Eurocities policy paper “For an ambitious EU Framework on Climate Adaptation and Resilience” lays out a comprehensive vision for strengthening urban resilience against the intensifying impacts of climate change. It emphasises the urgent need for a cohesive and ambitious EU Climate Adaptation and Resilience Plan that aligns with other key initiatives.
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Eurocities Statement: A more sustainable and inclusive culture starts in cities
In the lead-up to the EU elections, cities show how culture has its place in shaping a better Europe and ask for a stronger partnership going forward.
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Joint letter on nature restoration
Eurocities and the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) have issued a joint statement in response to the European Commission’s proposed EU Nature Restoration Law (NRL).
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Cities welcome Nature Restoration Law
Despite push-back from some member states, cities welcome the new Nature Restoration Law, and its legally binding targets for local ecosystems. However, some concerns remain.
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Eurocities Biodiversity Statement
Cities have a leading role in reaching the EU and global biodiversity goals from integrating biodiversity into urban planning, to assessing and reporting on the status of biodiversity on the ground, to raising awareness of the vital role nature plays in our daily lives.
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