Eurocities #100daysEU campaign outlines priorities for a better Europe
Welcome to the first Eurocities newsletter of 2025. As we step into the new year, Eurocities and our members are already taking decisive action to ensure cities' priorities are recognised by the new EU institutions.
Marking the first 100 days of the European Commission, Eurocities #100daysEU campaign is highlighting cites' 10 priorities for a better Europe. Key priorities for city leaders include setting ambitious climate targets, expanding access to affordable housing and promoting zero-emission mobility.
Find out more about our #100daysEU campaign below, along with the results of the latest Eurocities Pulse Survey on city innovation, and an address by Sharon Dijksma, Mayor of Utrecht, to the European Parliament, calling for the next EU budget and future Cohesion Policy to meet cities' ambitious goals.?
We also provide analysis on the high number of MEPS with backgrounds in city government, and we feature articles on our member cities' innovative actions to tackle noise pollution, develop new financing models, and ensure the green and digital transition.?
Enjoy your reading!?
100 days EU: New European Commissioners take their seats
To mark the first 100 days of the European Commission, Eurocities #100daysEU campaign is highlighting 10 priorities for a better Europe. City leaders envisage ways to strengthen democracy, accelerate climate action, and address citizens’ most pressing needs.
And read more of our #100daysEU articles ??
City innovation needs stronger political recognition and long-term investment
The latest Eurocities Pulse Survey, based on responses from 65 cities, finds city governments are increasingly recognising the need to innovative their administrations. However, to tackle urgent challenges such as climate change, they need ambitious political plans and long term innovation investment.
"Cohesion policy must empower cities, not side line them”?
Sharon Dijksma, Mayor of Utrecht and Eurocities Shadow Commissioner on Cohesion Policy, this week addressed the European Parliament’s Regional Development Committee, where she called for a strong Cohesion Policy in the next EU budget, supporting urban transformation and recognising cities’ specific needs.?
New MEPs bring city government experience to Brussels
One in three newly elected MEPs bring experience from city governments, reflecting a growing urban influence in EU policymaking. These 'urban champions' embody cities' vision for EU policies that prioritise local challenges.
Air and noise pollution, a deadly pair
Our cities are too noisy and polluted and it’s a serious health concern, a European Court of Auditors report has found. Cities are taking action but progress at European level is too slow.
Empowering local leadership: A vision for a future-proof EU budget
A new policy paper from the Local Alliance network, which includes Eurocities, is calling on EU leaders to make the next EU budget a powerful tool for a just, climate-neutral and competitive Europe, underlining local government's key role in driving prosperity.
Mastering accessibility – the Viennese inspiration
Vienna has been announced as the winner of the 2025 Access City Award, recognising its ongoing efforts to improve the lives of persons with disabilities.
A country-specific look at Eurocities Pulse Mayors Survey
The Eurocities Pulse Mayors Survey 2024 shows how mayors are tackling urban challenges. While cities share goals on climate and social inclusion, mayors in Germany, Italy, Spain and France are taking different approaches, shaped by unique national contexts.
Digital and green solutions for all?
Espoo, Rotterdam, Turin, Madrid and Lodz present their initiatives to ensure the digital transformation and the green transition leave nobody behind.
EVENT INVITE: Cities' Social Summit
The third Eurocities Cities' Social Summit will take place in Brussels, bringing together city leaders, EU policymakers, and key stakeholders to discuss the crucial role of cities in advancing the European Social Model.
When public money runs low
Cities face funding challenges for climate action. Valladolid’s blend of subsidies, EPC and soft loans shows how innovative financing can drive energy transition, reduce costs, and engage communities.
Madrid’s LEZ clears the air
Madrid’s low emission zone (LEZ) has been a long time in the making. As of January 2025, it’s fully implemented and covers the entire municipal area, but the journey hasn't been without challenges.?