For the ECR Group, Europe’s cities need greater freedom to shape their own development and the practical means to create jobs, provide essential services and give young people a reason to stay.

Following the unanimous adoption of his own-initiative report on how cohesion policy can better support Europe’s cities with a view to the next Multiannual Financial Framework, ECR Rapporteur Denis Nesci said:

“The right to stay must mean giving people a genuine choice. Young people should not feel forced to leave their communities because they cannot find housing, services or opportunities there. We need to create the conditions that allow them to believe they can build their future at home.

“This requires stronger local decision-making and a simpler route from EU funding to concrete projects on the ground, particularly for small and medium-sized cities.

“Europe must start from its territories. We need less bureaucracy and a system that helps cities turn available funding into real projects instead of forcing them to spend time and resources navigating complex procedures.

“The European platform for cities should become a genuine one-stop shop, bringing together information on EU funding opportunities, technical assistance and support for project development, helping cities turn their ideas into concrete projects.”

The report backs investment aimed at making cities more attractive places to live and do business, including urban regeneration, infrastructure, digitalisation and innovation.

“Cities need the conditions to attract investment, support businesses and retain skilled people. Cohesion policy should strengthen local economies and help create the jobs and opportunities that allow families and young people to build their lives locally,” Nesci said.

Another key element is ensuring that cities are equipped to respond to crises and emergencies.

“Preparedness is part of good local government. Cities must be able to protect critical infrastructure, maintain essential services and respond effectively when faced with emergencies, border pressures or hybrid threats,” Nesci said.

The report is expected to be put to a vote in the European Parliament’s October II plenary session.