Across the European Union, cities are where challenges concentrate – yet also where solutions begin. They are centres of growth, competitiveness and scientific advancement, but also face pressures such as housing affordability, the green transition, demographic change and demands for quality public services. Recognising this duality, the European Commission has proposed the EU Agenda for Cities, a new strategic framework to empower cities, simplify access to support, and strengthen collaboration between the Commission and local authorities. At its core, the Agenda acknowledges a simple reality: when cities lead, Europe succeeds.
Three key areas of action
The Agenda centres on three key areas of action. The first is sustained and structured dialogue. For the first time, the European Commission will introduce a formal framework for political and technical exchanges with cities, featuring annual high-level dialogue and ongoing consultations.
The second area is simplification and capacity building. Cities currently navigate a fragmented landscape of initiatives, funding streams and administrative requirements. To address this, the European Commission has launched the EU Cities web portal as a single-entry point for information on opportunities, events, guidance and support. What’s more, a Cities Helpdesk, to be set up in 2026 under the European Urban Initiative, will offer practical advice on funding and implementation.
The third priority focuses on investment. EU Cohesion Policy already channels around € 100 billion into urban projects for 2021–2027, including € 24 billion managed directly by cities for integrated strategies. Additional support comes from programmes such as Horizon Europe, Digital Europe and Global Europe, as well as sectoral tools in mobility, environment and security. Looking ahead, the Agenda encourages Member States and regions to step up their funding their urban strategies so that future partnership agreements better reflect cities’ needs.
Key upcoming milestones include:
- The Innovative Actions 4th call under the European Urban Initiative, will open early 2026;
- The next edition of the State of European Cities report, to be published in 2026, informing policy and investment decisions;
- The launch of the EU Cities Platform for the 2028–2034 period.
More information: Communication on EU Agenda for Cities
Source: European Commission | Regional Policy Panorama