Fostering Integrated and Sustainable Urban Development in the Future EU Cohesion Policy

The EUKN co-organised a conference in Brussels on Fostering Integrated and Sustainable Urban Development in the Future EU Cohesion Policy, in cooperation with Germany’s Permanent Representation to the EU, the German Federal Ministry for Housing, Urban Development and Building (BMWSB), and the German Association for Housing, Urban and Spatial Development (DV), bringing together around 100 key stakeholders from governments, cities, EU institutions, and regional organisations.

Discussions focused on urban development’s role in Europe’s competitiveness, the successes and gaps of Cohesion Policy, and priorities for post-2027 reforms.

Participants explored how cities drive transformation but require strong financial support in order to do so, as well as how the decentralisation of funds and collaboration among different levels of government is crucial for effective policy implementation. Discussions also revolved around the need for post-2027 Cohesion Policy reforms, especially in terms of reducing bureaucracy and improve funding flexibility.