Urban Agenda

The future of Europe passes through the cities

The Atlantic cities adopted the  , which shows that local governments are key for the future of the European project, a fundamental factor for recovery after the COVID crisis and the indispensable link between citizens and European institutions. Therefore, they request that:

  1. In accordance with the principles adopted in the Amsterdam Pact, cities are considered in the decision-making process, as actors, as beneficiaries, but also as spokespersons for citizens.
  2. The European Urban Agenda should have a real translation in the multiannual financial framework 2021-2027, either with a specific program or with a clear alignment. It cannot be limited to a small paragraph of the ERDF Regulation.
  3. The current Urban Partnerships of the European Agenda should be applied practically in the programming of European policies and do not remain as “reports in a drawer”.
  4. The European Urban Agenda must be aligned both with global urban policies and with the United Nations Urban Agenda.
  5. European urban policy shall move from principles to actions, with a pragmatic approach that is that of local authorities:
    • The proximity to citizens and their daily problems.
    • Immediate response to impacts such as COVID.
    • Establishment of networks at the local, regional, national and international levels.
    • Sensitive to social needs.
    • Flexibility, proportionality and empathy.
  1. The Atlantic cities propose the maintenance of initiatives with a strong European added value, such as support for city twinning or international relations. A strong urban dimension in territorial cooperation programs is essential.
  2. The Atlantic cities require a special effort in the drafting of the research program that will allow a broader participation of local authorities.
  3. In the same way, the “Connecting Europe” program should aim to provide efficient connections between remote cities and with the main networks, respecting the principle of territorial cohesion.
  4. The Atlantic cities want to point out that the local level is the most effective in the fight against climate change and that programs like LIFE + will have to take this factor into account.

 

If you want to know more about our commitment to the European urban agenda and sustainable urban development, click here