The rEPPorter: December 2019

eppCoR group in the european committee of the regions

December 2019

eppCoR group in the european committee of the regions

eppCoR

The newsletter of the European People’s Party Group in the European Committee of the Regions

eppCoR

eppCoR

group in the european committee of the regions

group in the european committee of the regions

eppCoR group in the european committee of the regions

group in the european committee of the regions

EPP-CoR Local Dialogue and EPP Congress in Zagreb

eppCoR group in the european committee of the regions

Cities and regions taking action to address the climate emergency

This issue:

Foreword

by President Schneider

Foreword by EPP-CoR President Michael Schneider

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Members on the field

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EPP Local Dialogue in Brussels: From brain drain to brain gain in the EU p4 December plenary session p 5 A European Union with the people and for the people p 6 Building together the new political mandate of the European Union p 12

Dear readers, With the current mandate of the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) drawing to an end, I would like to thank each and every Member of our EPP-CoR Group for their dedication, support and valuable contribution during the last five years. In total, the CoR has adopted 107 EPP-led opinions on key policy areas, thanks to your strong commitment and energy to shape European Union’s policy-making to better serve the needs of our cities and regions.

The Croatian Delegation in the EPP-CoR p 14 EPP-CoR Local Dialogue Zagreb: European Investments in Cities and Regions post 2020 p 15

I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on our very successful EPP-CoR Grassroots Engagement, which culminated in our EPP Local Dialogue in Zagreb, Croatia in November on the topic of European investments in regions and cities after 2020. Our event took place at a time when the negotiations on the European Union’s Multiannual Financial Framework for 20212027 are still ongoing. In the presence of European leaders, our local and regional politicians highlighted the impact that EU investments can have on growth, employment and sustainable development in our regions, cities and villages.

Cities and regions taking action to address the climate emergency p 18

With numerous Local Dialogues organised across the EU in 2018 and 2019, we not only took the EPP campaign to our cities and regions, but also continued to make citizens’ voices heard beyond the European elections, contributing to rebuilding people’s trust in democracy.

Sustainable transformation in Europe’s coal regions

Looking ahead to the new CoR mandate starting in 2020, we need to maintain a close dialogue with the people and communicate clearly concrete examples where the EU brings added value to people’s daily lives – in our cities and regions. Europe starts in my city/village/region - with this motto, we continue our EPP Local Dialogues into the new mandate, listening to the voice of our people on issues that matter to them.

Localising the global Sustainable Development Goals p 22

In view of the 25th anniversary of the European Committee of the Regions, the EPP-CoR will continue to strive for a stronger role for regions and cities in EU policy-making and for a new way of working in the EU based on the principle of subsidiarity and an open dialogue with the people.

I am convinced that by working together as one united family, the EPP can translate Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s political guidelines into tangible and long-lasting results on the ground that truly benefit our citizens’ everyday lives.

Michael Schneider President of the EPP-CoR Group 2

December 2019

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Members on the field

Farewell words by Cor Lamers, Mayor of Schiedam, NL and Chair of CoR’s ENVE Commission The Energy Globe Days and the Energy Globe Awards took place in Espoo, Finland, on 12-13 November.

Hosted by CoR 1st Vice-President Markku Markkula, chair of Espoo city board, EPP-CoR members Arnoldas Abramavičius, Csaba Borboly, Sirpa Hertell and Witold Stepien took part in the events, which recognise people and companies from all over the world that implement sustainable projects and products to protect our environment in practice. The city of Espoo’s project involving the use of geothermal energy for district heating and renewable fuels for sustainable transport in cooperation with Finnish energy companies won the Energy Globe Award in the category ‘Air’.

Sirpa Hertell spoke about the European Union’s long term strategy for emissions reduction and the important role of local action at the Climate Alliance International Conference in Rostock on 26 September. “Cities and regions, such as my city of Espoo are already acting to address the ongoing climate emergency. Implementing the UN sustainable development goals locally is the only way forward for the EU”, Hertell said.

Adrian Teban spoke at EuroPCom on 7 November at a session on ‘Cohesion policy to connect the EU and its citizens’: “For a small city such as Cugir, European funds are crucial. It is important to involve citizens in all stages of cohesion policy projects. Local politicians can talk about the impact of the projects in their communities, acting as trusted messengers”, Teban said.

Ricardo Rio, Mayor of Braga was appointed the Treasurer and a new Daily Board member of the Global Parliament of Mayors (GPM). The GPM is a unique governance body of, by, and for mayors from all continents. It functions as a parliament and brings cities to the world fore. The GPM unites, aligns, and amplifies the voices of mayors in global strategy debates with nation states and international organisations, such as the UN.

It was a great honour and privilege to be part of the strongest and the most results-driven group in the European Committee of the Regions, the EPP. Thanks to our unity and political leadership, we have obtained a number of great successes in many policy areas. I am happy to have had the opportunity to represent the values of the EPP in the fields of energy, climate change, and the environment as ENVE Chair.

I have devoted al substantial part of my political career to the improvement of the environment: as a Mayor, within the Netherlands in national politics and at the EU level as a member of the European Committee of the Regions.

I wanted to find and achieve practical solutions to environmental problems as these have an impact on the quality of life of our citizens. I realised that national and local solutions are not enough; you cannot tackle pollution and climate change on your own, in your own city, in your own region, or in a small country such as the Netherlands without considering your European neighbours, and ultimately, without a global approach.

With the announcement of the European Green Deal, for the first time, the European Union puts sustainability at the heart of its policies. With our opinions and resolutions, we have pursued efforts towards building more sustainable and more attractive cities and regions, finding a balance between economic, social and environmental development.

Thank you all for sharing the joyful and hard moments over the last 10 years!

I wish you a lot of determination in transforming your cities and regions into more sustainable and more attractive areas, as well as a good continuation at the CoR! We are richer in European experiences, we have learnt a lot from each other and we have made our cities and regions more competitive and greener for the benefit of our citizens. the rEPPorter

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EPP Local Dialogue

5 December, 16h30 - 18h30 European Committee of the Regions, JDE52 With: Emil Boc, Mayor of Cluj-Napoca (EPP/RO), CoR rapporteur on Brain drain in the EU: addressing the challenge at all levels Dubravka Šuica (EPP/HR), European Commission Vice-President responsible for Democracy and Demography Esther de Lange (EPP/NL), Member of the European Parliament Rafał Trzaskowski (EPP/PL), Mayor of Warsaw The aim of this event is to hear stories from people who have left their countries of origin to live, study or work in a village, city or region in another EU member state. In a dialogue 4

December 2019

with the participants, the event will also focus on sharing experiences on how local and regional authorities can tackle brain drain in their areas, while identifying needs and resources to cope with the phenomenon.

Brain drain is a challenge affecting local communities and regions, but also member states and the European Union as a whole.

Every citizen is concerned: from the worker in constructions to the researchers who are able to move within the EU. However, they should do this because they want it, and not because they are pushed by poverty, limited working opportunities or no possibilities to express their talents.

The EPP Local Dialogue will look into what the EU can do for its citizens in order to transform ‘brain drain’ into a ‘brain gain’ - an oppor-

tunity for both the receiving communities and the places of origin in the interest of the people and of better European integration.

The event will not have the format of a conference, but rather of an interactive and open dialogue with citizens coming from the ‘old’ and ‘new’ diaspora. Participants will include people who can share real experiences from their lives with their regional and local elected politicians, as well as representatives from the European Parliament and the European Commission.

#EPPLocalDialogue

December plenary session: CoR celebrates its 25 years

Pascal Mangin (EPP/FR)

The last Plenary of the 2015-2019 mandate of the Committee of the Regions takes place on 4-5 December in the Hemicycle of the European Parliament in Brussels. The Plenary session starts with a debate on the State of the Union from the perspective of regions and cities with David Maria Sassoli (S&D/IT), President of the European Parliament.

The 25-year anniversary ceremony of the CoR will gather former Presidents of the CoR, representatives of the other European institutions and the Presidents of six major European associations of regions and cities. The ceremony will take stock of past achievements and challenges and look forward to the future role of

the CoR and local and regional authorities in European decision-making.

On 5 December, the Members will hold a debate with Frans Timmermans, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission on the European Green Deal.

Under the leadership of ENVE Chair Cor Lamers, the CoR will adopt a resolution on the Green Deal in partnership with local and regional authorities. The Deal should first and foremost be for the people and with the people, not against them. Only in this way, can we guarantee our citizens’ commitment to a transition to more sustainable local societies and achieve real long-lasting changes.

The potential of the rail sector in delivering EU policy priorities Pascal Mangin’s opinion highlights the contribution of the rail sector, and the potential of regional and local rail lines in particular, to several of the European Union’s overarching policy priorities, including decarbonisation and climate change mitigation, the internal market and free movement of persons and goods. It recognises the opportunities offered by the rail sector in terms of skilled and stable employment across the EU’s territory and its positive spill over effects for other sectors of the economy.

Railways are an enabler of territorial and social cohesion, allowing regions to be connected across borders in a sustainable and affordable way. Urban railways can also help connect cities and their surrounding rural areas.

EPP-CoR 2019 opinions during the CoR 2015-2019 mandate

SEDEC

NAT

ENVE

20 opinions adopted 2 active

17 opinions adopted

14 opinions adopted 1 active

ECON

COTER

CIVEX

15 opinions adopted 1 active

23 opinions adopted 1 active

18 opinions adopted 1 active

The opinion will feed into the discussions on sustainable transformation of the mobility and transport systems. The opinion also discusses the attractiveness of railways and the modal shift, opportunities provided by digitalisation in the industry as well as multimodality. It will contribute to the debate on the next MFF through co-financing of sustainable modes of transport.

Total: 107 opinions adopted and 6 ongoing the rEPPorter

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A EUROPEAN UNION WITH THE PEOPLE AND FOR THE PEOPLE

We want a European Union with the people and for the people that starts in our villages, cities and regions. We need a European Union deep-rooted in the territories, based on democratic values. We need a European Union that meets peoples’ expectations. We want a strong and efficient European Union that empowers and safeguards our peace, freedom and prosperity. We wish to be proud of our identity as European citizens belonging to our cities, regions and Member States, united in diversity.

“Regional and local politicians represent a great added value for the EPP family. They are best placed to connect the Union with its people in the places where they live, work and pursue opportunities.

This Grassroots Engagement will allow an honest dialogue with people on areas that are often decided upon in Brussels or in Strasbourg, but actually implemented in Europe’s cities and regions.”

Michael Schneider President of the EPP Group in the EU Committee of the Regions

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"Europe must be present in every city, region or municipality, regardless of its size.

Citizens need not only to hear about Europe, they must see and feel it in their everyday lives, and local authorities have a key role to play here."

Boyko Borissov Prime Minister of Bulgaria

“I am very grateful for the collaboration with the EPP Group in the CoR. It is regional and local leaders who better know our citizens.

You are the first point of contact to all. Elections cannot be won without your engagement and support. We need you and we know we can count on you.”

Antonio López-Istúriz White MEP and Secretary General of the EPP

A EUROPE THAT PROTECTS AND CREATES OPPORTUNITIES “A better Europe starts at home, at local and regional level. The fight for a better Europe is our fight, the fight of all those for whom Europe is synonymous with peace, prosperity and liberty of all.”

We hope for a European Union that protects us, our families, our way of life and our planet. We want a European Union that guarantees security by reinforcing its external borders and combatting extremism and nationalism within its borders. We need a family friendly European Union that offers equal opportunities, embraces the less advantaged and promotes a rich and inclusive society; a European Union that enables good education, quality health care, and job opportunities. We want a European Union that invests in local businesses, research and innovation that impacts people’s lives by treating incurable diseases, making our transport cleaner and our buildings more energy efficient.

Sebastian Kurz highlighted the importance of strong regions and remaining united in diversity. Themes such as safety, jobs and competitiveness are sure to be topics, which will benefit people’s everyday lives.

“Politicians should put their focus on issues that truly matter to people.”

Sebastian Kurz Chancellor of Austria

Klaus Iohannis

President of Romania

“Europe and politics must start by listening and taking the concerns of people into consideration. I cannot imagine a better place than the Committee of the Regions.

As mayors, as representatives of the local level, you are every day close to the citizens and to listen to our mayors is the most important thing.”

Manfred Weber

Chairman of the EPP Group in the European Parliament

COHESION BETWEEN THE EUROPEAN UNION’S REGIONS, CITIES AND RURAL AREAS “Since we are today with regional representatives, mayors and local politicians, I would like to add that we are the only party in Europe that gives a clear commitment to the principle of subsidiarity and strong regions.

We think & act together” We need a European Union of solidarity that ensures economic, social and territorial cohesion. We support cohesion as a fundamental European value since it creates opportunities for people from both richer and poorer regions, strengthens the single market and increases the sense of belonging in the European project. We believe it is crucial to reduce disparities between Europe’s territories and increase their competitiveness. We call for a digitalized, user-friendly and interconnected public European, national, regional and local public administration, as a precondition to provide efficient and effective services to citizens and businesses alike.

“The big project “European Union”, which is without any alternative, could be much closer to the citizens with the notion of subsidiarity put to a more practical level. This would mean a stronger involvement of national, regional and local politics.”

Reinhold Lopatka Chair of the EU Affairs Committee in the Austrian National Council

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Manfred Weber

Chairman of the EPP Group in the European Parliament

A EUROPE THAT LISTENS AND DELIVERS “No one better than you, local & regional elected representatives, can talk to Europeans, listen to their expectations, know the problems they face on a daily basis & offer them fair, realistic & ambitious solutions.”

We stand for an efficient and democratic Union closer to its citizens. We believe that ownership and trust make people feel Europe, see Europe, be Europe. We must remember that politics knows no boundaries. This is conveyed through the trust of the people who vote for one European Parliament, 41 national chambers of parliament, 74 regional legislative assemblies, 280 regions and 80 000 local authorities. Local and regional authorities implement 70% of all EU legislation. They represent half of public employment, one third of public spending and two thirds of public investment. Regional and local leaders rely on the highest level of people’s trust so that they can solve local problems with European solutions in fields such as transport, energy, climate change, digitalization, but also migration, security and the fight against terrorism. Therefore, Europe and its Member States need more decentralisation and stronger regions with the necessary competences and resources to deliver results as close as possible to the people. European, national, regional and local politicians must work together for a Europe of proximity in order to respond to the realities of Europe’s territories. Together we must strengthen the Union’s democratic legitimacy in pace with the 21st century.

Joseph Daul EPP President

“We must continually remain in close contact with the citizens and communicate the positive achievements of the EU.”

Nikola Dobroslavić

President of Dubrovnik-Neretva Region, EPP-CoR Vice-President and Rapporteur

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COHESION BETWEEN THE EUROPEAN UNION’S REGIONS, CITIES AND RURAL AREAS

We, the EPP family of national, regional, local and European leaders are responsible for reaching out to all citizens, listening to their voices, meeting their needs and reinforcing the foundations of the European Union. Major reforms were successful and they have undoubtedly improved peoples’ lives. As the EPP family, we shall not limit the European project to Brussels based institutions. We have to communicate with courage and determination both what we have achieved on the ground and what we will achieve in the future, if we want to avoid the EU falling into the hands of Eurosceptics and populists. Together, we want to make our Europe a more dynamic, open and attractive home for its people.

We commit to teaming up with the EPP to work as one, strong, united and responsible political family in the interest of our people.

“We started our journey in Sofia last year in March with Prime Minister Borissov, we have continued in Austria in December with Chancellor Kurz and we are here today with PNL President Orban and President Iohannis. In these three flagship events and in all our EPP Local Dialogues across the EU, one particular force was clear: the strength of elected politicians representing all three levels of politics: local, national and European who have teamed-up together.

This is about the trust of our people in their political leaders. This is how we want to work: together, as a united family, in the interest of our people! This is about subsidiarity and solidarity.”

Michael Schneider President of the EPP Group in the EU Committee of the Regions

“It is our local and regional leaders together with our national and European representatives that have the power to make a change. That is why, we must all unite our forces and fight the populists who want to destroy what we have built and achieved so far. Only together we can serve our citizens, communities and regions, and make them fall in love with Europe again.”

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Joseph Daul EPP President

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BUILDING TOGETHER THE NEW POLITICAL MANDATE OF THE EUROPEAN UNION

Ursula von der Leyen President of the European Commission

Our Union’s democratic system is unique, bringing together directly elected parliamentarians at local, regional, national and European levels with elected Heads of State or Government.

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On 16 July 2019, the European Parliament elected Ursula von der Leyen as the future President of the European Commission. She is the first woman to be President of the European Commission.

Presented in July, von der Leyen’s Political Guidelines set out the priorities and ambitions for the next European Commission 2019-2024. The priorities are centered around six themes: (1) the European Green Deal, (2) Europe fit for the Digital Age, (3) Economy that works for people, (4) Protecting our European way of life, (5) Stronger Europe in the world and (6) a new push for European democracy.

Von der Leyen's Agenda for Europe clearly refers to regional and local authorities: “Our Union’s democratic system is unique, bringing together directly elected parliamentarians at local, regional, national and European levels with elected Heads of State or Government.”

EPP-CoR Members welcome the ambitious and inclusive agenda for Europe’s future path and look forward to working alongside the new European Commission, fellow parliamentarians and Heads of State or Government to bring these critical priorities to fruition over the coming years.

On 10 September, von der Leyen presented the Commissioner-designates and their portfolios. The mission letters reflect and further detail the objectives outlined in the Political Guidelines of July. From the viewpoint of local and regional authorities, the following aspects are of utmost importance when it comes to strengthening our democracy and embarking towards a sustainable future for Europe:

CONFERENCE ON THE FUTURE OF EUROPE Ursula von der Leyen has proposed to give Europeans a say on how their Union is run and what it delivers via a Conference on the Future of Europe beginning in 2020 and running for two years. She has entrusted European Commission Vice-President for Democracy and Demography Dubravka Šuica (EPP/HR) with the task to “Lead the Commission’s work to make the Conference on the Future of Europe a tangible success […] bringing together citizens of all ages from across our Union, as well as civil society and European institutions. We need a wide debate, clear objectives and a tangible follow-up on what is agreed. As a first step, you should work closely with the European Parliament and the Council to agree on the concept, structure, timing and scope of the Conference.”

As they are not only closest to citizens, but also the most trusted, local and regional authorities are best placed to engage meaningfully diverse stakeholders with the Conference on the Future of Europe. In this context, EPPCoR Members are very well positioned to support the planning, organisation and functioning of the Conference of Europe by drawing on their experiences from the EPP Local Dialogues and the Committee of the Regions’ Reflecting on Europe Dialogues. Reconnecting with citizens and fostering wide debates can only happen with the active partnership of local and regional authorities across Europe.

THE EUROPEAN GREEN DEAL One of the overarching political priorities of the new European Commission will be the European Green Deal. von der Leyen announced: “I want the European Green Deal to become Europe’s hallmark. At the heart of it is our commitment to becoming the world’s first climate-neutral continent. It is also a long-term economic imperative: those who act first and fastest will be the ones who grasp the opportunities from the ecological transition. I want Europe to be the front-runner. I want Europe to be the exporter of knowledge, technologies and best practice.”

Reflecting this objective, the Executive Vice-President for the European Green Deal has been asked to present a strategy for the Green Deal within the first 100 days of his mandate.

The CoR members are in a good position to contribute to the debate on these objectives since they have been at the forefront of pioneering and implementing ambitious climate, energy and environment policies in their cities and regions over the last decades. To leverage their expertise, to truly achieve the objectives of the Green Deal, local and regional authorities need to have a central role in shaping the strategy for the European Green Deal.

We wish the very best of luck to Ms von der Leyen and her College of Commissioners in the new mandate and very much look forward to working closely with them for the Future of Europe.

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The Croatian Delegation in the EPP-CoR

“Since demographic change is very much linked to development, and considering the negative population growth in most EU countries, we should put emphasis on solving this problem. Attention should also be paid to economic growth, cohesion policy and climate change, as this major environmental problem is increasingly affecting every segment of our lives.”

Goran Pauk, Prefect of the Sibenik-Knin County

“In the time of great changes for the European Union faced with new internal and external challenges, alongside the new composition of the European institutions, Croatia will have the opportunity to demonstrate its leadership when it comes to European policies in the first six months of next year. In this period we expect progress in negotiations regarding the new seven-year European budget, which will enable the timely implementation of all programmes financed by the European Union - an important instrument for the development of regions and cities.”

Nikola Dobroslavić, President of Dubrovnik-Neretva County, head of the Croatian delegation at the CoR

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“Presidency of the Council of the EU is a big responsibility, but also a great opportunity to show Croatia at its best.

People come first and that is why we want to put citizens, their expectations and needs at the centre of our activities.

We want them to completely feel the benefits of being a member of the European Union, to make them feel safe and to improve their quality of life. Therefore, we will pay particular attention to the balanced, inclusive and sustainable development of all Member States and their regions.” Željko Turk, Mayor of the City of Zaprešić

“EU investments have a significant impact on the economic growth and development in our regions, cities and municipalities. Local and regional authorities are a key element of any democracy, so it is important to establish multi-level governance and provide more funding for the development of regions, cities and municipalities. Special emphasis is placed on cohesion policy, which has proven its added value for the EU, and which is why it must be preserved beyond 2020.”

Bruno Hranić, Mayor of the municipality of Vidovec

“The main priorities of the Croatian Presidency - growing and developing Europe, have a strong economic dimension. My colleagues from the CoR and myself stand for an equal and balanced regional development.

It is necessary to reduce development gaps among regions and EU member states so that all of them can become economically stronger. We want to build a more satisfied and better society, taking into account the needs of all generations, by developing policies that create better working and living conditions. Making use of the full potential of infrastructure and human resources depends on the level of interconnectedness of our economies.”

Danijel Marušić, Prefect of Brod-Posavina County

EPP Local Dialogue in Zagreb, Croatia Spotlight on the added value of European investments in our cities and regions with citizens at heart On 20 November, regional and local leaders of the European People’s Party from across the European Union welcomed Andrej Plenković, Prime Minister of Croatia, and Johannes Hahn, European Commissioner for Budget and Administration to an EPP Local Dialogue dedicated to European investments in regions and cities post 2020 in Zagreb, Croatia.

Given that around 60 per cent of the European Union’s budget is implemented at the local and regional level, the leaders discussed the added value and impact of European investments on the sustainable development of our cities and regions. They also exchanged views on ways to strengthen the citizens’ faith in European democracy, knowing that local and regional politicians enjoy the highest level of citizens’ trust and can act as a bridge between the European Union and their local communities.

“We can see the impact of EU investments in our regions and cities improving the daily lives of our citizens in areas such as transport, infrastructure or renewable energies. Regions and cities play a crucial role in the implementation of EU policies, sharing knowledge on European investments on the ground, maintaining a dialogue with the citizens.” Joseph Daul, EPP President.

“We are committed to and we facilitate the dialogue with our regional and local politicians on a daily basis. Your biggest added value is making the EU tangible to the citizens. We are determined to take on board the views of our regions and local communities in shaping national priorities and policies,” Andrej Plenković.

Michael Schneider, President of the EPP Group in the European Committee of the Regions (EPP-CoR) said: “I am in no doubt that you will continue to achieve many positive developments in Croatia thanks to your strong and stable political leadership, which tackles the issues most important to the citizens. I trust that Croatia will bring the EU forward during its Presidency in 2020. For us it is essential to reach a timely agreement on the next MFF, which will provide the much needed planning certainty for regional and local authorities and other beneficiaries of European funding.”

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strate European added-value.” Markku Markkula “Recent challenges have proven our European family can and have done the big ticket things brilliantly – Now we need to focus on getting the little things right in collaboration with regions, cities and the Committee of the Regions.” Deirdre Forde

“Local politics is everything. You are the ones close to the people, you can speak to our citizens about Europe. We need your input as the bridge between Brussels and local policies.” Antonio López-Istúriz White, Secretary General of the EPP, MEP Rafał Trzaskowski, Mayor of Warsaw, EPP Vice-President joined the debate with Markku Markkula, President of Helsinki Region, CoR 1st Vice-President and Deirdre Forde, Councillor of Cork City Council, Member of EPP-CoR, to present concrete examples on how to engage with the citizens locally and to inform them on the benefits of the European Union in their daily lives.

An EU long-term budget that invests in people Johannes Hahn and Members of the European Parliament Siegfried Mureșan and Jan Olbrycht talked about the future long-term budget for the Union and how to invest in people in partnership with regions and cities:

“Each municipality should nominate a Councillor as a contact point for EU affairs. This would enhance our two-way communication and increase the understanding of regions and their needs in EU policy making. The EPP should extend this format to its local and regional authorities to close the gap between the EU and its citizens.” Johannes Hahn “The important thing is being close to the people: I have created a successful programme based on my talks with Varsovians from all city districts. Use the right language, be on the streets, talk to and with the people. This is a winning strategy.” Rafał Trzaskowski “A Europe of the citizens is a Europe of the future. The EU will gain credibility and trust when it delivers for the people. This means moving towards a more ambitious, efficient and performing European Union.

The local level is where the real action happens. Public service quality being a key determinant of trust, our citizens need to see strong positive changes and have access to services which demon-

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“The EU budget is the main tool of the EU to implement its priorities. A strong EU budget means that the EU will continue to generate growth in our regions, create jobs for our young Europeans, develop our infrastructure and support our farmers.

It will also contribute to enhancing our security and help us invest in our future by addressing issues such as climate change. The EPP is committed to defending these principles and will fight for a strong EU budget which delivers on what the European citizens expect.” Siegfried Mureșan “Local and regional authorities should not wait for the final decisions concerning the future EU budget. In contrary, they should be actively involved in the work on the

next Multiannual Financial Framework, as their experience is needed in the preparation of EU priorities and instruments.

Representatives of local and regional authorities in the European Committee of the Regions can be very successful in shaping the future EU budget,” Jan Olbrycht, European Parliament’s rapporteur on the MFF 2021-2027 The event was hosted by Nikola Dobroslavić, President of DubrovnikNeretva Region, EPP-CoR rapporteur on the Multiannual Financial Framework package for the years 2021-2027. It was co-organised by the EPP-CoR and the Croatian Democratic Union Party (HDZ) in the context of the 2019 EPP Congress in Zagreb.

“We should all strengthen our contacts with our citizens. The impacts of European investments are most visible at the local level. Without a strong cohesion policy, the EU will not reach is goals.” Nikola Dobroslavić The local dialogue was followed by a study visit to an EU co-funded project on the production of organic food from locally sourced cereals creating employment and well-being in the local community. The visit was organised upon the invitation of Željko Turk, Mayor of the Municipality of Zaprešić and Member of the EPP-CoR.

EPP Congress in Zagreb elects Donald Tusk as new EPP President The EPP Congress 2019, co-organised with the Croatian Democratic Union Party (HDZ), was held in Zagreb, Croatia 20-21 November under the slogan “One Europe, our planet, your party”.

The delegates overwhelmingly elected Donald Tusk as the next EPP President.

His Presidency will start on 1 December 2019.

gratulating President Tusk. Schneider also thanked the outgoing EPP President Joseph Daul for the close cooperation and productive partnership between the EPP and the EPP Group in the CoR over the past years as well as for his firm commitment to the values of freedom, subsidiarity and solidarity during his leadership.

The Congress re-elected Antonio López-Istúriz White (ES) as Secretary General of the EPP. The newly elected Vice-Presidents of the Party are:

“People have a need for order, harmony, and understanding the world around them. That is why we all need to be deeply rooted in our traditions, understandable cultural codes, and in places we call ours.

And which are somehow distinctive from others.” – said Donal Tusk in his speech right after his election.

Mariya Gabriel (BG), David McAllister (DE), Helen McEntee (IE), Johannes Hahn (AT), Esther De Lange (NL), Antonio Tajani (IT), Siegfried Mureșan (RO), Franck Proust (FR), Paulo Rangel (PO), Petteri Orpo (FI).

“I am convinced that the EPP family under President Tusk’s leadership and vision will reinforce our unity and will strengthen the trust of the people in the EU. Dear Donald, on behalf of all EPP regional and local leaders, you can count on us!” said EPPCoR President Michael Schneider con-

In his speech at the Congress, EPP-CoR President Michael Schneider underlined the importance of a strong and united EPP family that strengthens the trust of our people in the EU and in the European democracy and that brings concrete results to people’s lives. “We commit to reaching out to our people.

We will continue to organise EPP Local Dialogues across the EU’s regions, cities and villages in order to listen to the voices of our citizens, communicate the benefits of the EU to their daily lives and bring peoples’ ideas to Brussels”

The Congress saw a panel debate on Western Balkans and EU: Common Challenges and Shared Responsibilities.

The delegates also debated how the EPP can take the lead in the fight against climate change by implementing sustainable policies and adopted a resolution on climate action entitled ‘EPP vision for a sustainable planet’.

More information: zagreb2019.epp.eu

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Š European Union 2019

Cities and Regions taking action to address the climate emergency

In line with the European Union’s 2030 climate and energy framework, the global Paris Agreement and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), cities and regions across Europe are working towards a climate-friendly and more sustainable Europe for the benefit of our citizens.

Local and regional leaders of the EPP, given their responsibilities in the field of energy, climate change, environment, circular economy, waste management, spatial planning, transport, or management of public budgets, are best placed to identify local needs and to provide tailor-made solutions in partnership with national and European leaders to improve the quality of life of citizens in the places where they live or work.

With ambitious, yet realistic targets and actions, they convert climate-related challenges into opportunities to build more sustainable communities, foster competitive low-carbon local economies and boost investments in innovation, while protecting our natural resources and the environment.

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A European Green Deal that puts citizens at its heart Following the announcement of the European Green Deal by EPP President Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission is for the first time expected to propose a strategy that puts sustainability at the heart of EU policy-making. The Committee of the Regions believes that the Green Deal should adopt a place-based approach that proposes concrete solutions to our diverse territories in a coherent manner, based on multi-level governance and active subsidiarity.

Cities and regions are ready to contribute to the Green Deal proposing measurable objectives and targeted actions. They call for tailor-made funding, especially for those regions that are lagging behind in the transformation to a low-carbon economy. The European Green Deal is unachievable without the right financial framework. Therefore, the EPP-CoR, in its resolution to be adopted in December, calls for additional resources under a new Just Transition Fund that would complement the resources available via cohesion policy. The share

of the budget allocated to cohesion policy in the next EU budget should remain the same while earmarking 30% for climate mainstreaming. Public and private partnerships should be further strengthened.

Finally, the benefits of the Green Deal to the daily lives of the citizens should be widely communicated, so that they can become active participants of a transition to a healthier planet, a healthier economy and healthier people.

EPP local and regional leaders acting for the climate Andalusia investing in renewable energy Juan Manuel Bonilla Moreno (EPP/ES), President of the Junta de Andalucía The Andalusian regional administration has an estimated energy demand of 950 GWh, similar to half of the consumption rate for some countries across Europe, as is the case of Ireland.

Increasing the green areas with high quality trees and parks is on the strategic agenda of the administration and within the next 10 years more than 120 hectars of parks and 100 000 trees will be added to the local urban landscape. Cluj belives in acting daily and locally to achieve the global goals.

Andalusia’s regional administration is the largest one in Spain, accounting for the highest amount of employees and public buildings and infrastructures.

The region is aware of the enormous impact that certain energy production sources have on our climate and of the region’s responsibility to serve as a reference to our society.

With this in mind, the Andalusian Government has recently signed a new centralised electricity supply contract that guarantees that the electricity consumed throughout its regional administration facilities is 100 per cent renewable.

“We are convinced that this decision not only benefits our region, which is amongst the main renewable energy producers in Europe, but our planet as well”, says President Juan Manuel Bonilla Moreno.

Cluj Napoca: electric buses to achieve climate goals Emil Boc (EPP/RO), Mayor of ClujNapoca Cluj-Napoca is the first city in Romania to use electric buses. With more than 100 million euros from European and Swiss funds invested in the public transport fleet between 2014 -2020, the city decided to address climate change by completely switching the public transport to run on electric and sustainable energy sources by 2030.

In the same time, Cluj has a spatial and urban planning strategy to promote the use of clean forms of mobility such as cycling, using electric cars or investing in a walkable city.

Coastal plan with specific focus on climate variability and change Goran Pauk (EPP/HR), Prefect of ŠibenikKnin County The Šibenik-Knin County, Croatia, is the first to have an ‘Integrated coastal zone management’ plan, developed through a holistic approach and showing the way for others. Built through a participatory approach with a strong focus on coastal flooding and water as a key resource, this coastal plan has been developed in partnership with the Priority Actions Programme/Regional Activity Centre.

Other climate change impacts are increasingly taken into account in the county’s planning activities:

A model farm for growing organic vegetables Rastislav Trnka (EPP/SK), Chairman of Košice Self-Governing Region The Košice self-governing region in Slovakia and AgroCircles have created a partnership to support sustainable development in the region.

Focusing on education and innovation, the cooperation is built upon a model school farm cultivating biologically valuable food commodities using the AgroCircles technology. The project aims to extend this model of a sustainable family farm so that it can be used by students as well as by the general public.

The project has multiple direct benefits: the innovative training programme will attract young people who are looking for more sustainable jobs and increase their interest in education in organic and sustainable agriculture and food production. It will also support the local economy, reduce the dependence on imported food and improve its quality.

The project will also indirectly help improve the health of the population of the Košice self-governing region and provides a more responsible approach to the environment.

• Fire protection (in collaboration with Croatian Forests) through surveillance cameras, covering 95% of the county territory • Development of an irrigation system for agriculture (in collaboration with Croatian Waters) • A maritime spatial plan focusing on the impacts of climate change is also under development.

The plan’s strong participatory approach has contributed to a raising awareness.

For this pilot plan, the Šibenik-Knin County has received the financial support of GEF (80 000 USD) and the administrative support of the regional administration including human and technical resources, securing premises and equipment for meetings and workshops as well as a boat for field visits.

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© European Union 2017

Sustainable transformation in Europe’s coal regions

Europe’s coal mines employ around 185 000 people across 41 regions, and a further 52 000 people work in coalfired power plants. The coal industry is also indirectly linked to various other economic sectors, such as the production of equipment, services and consumer goods. According to a European Commission study, 160 000 jobs could be lost by 2030 as a result of current plans to phase out coal mining and coal use for power generation.

Building up new industries in regions is a lengthy business that requires considerable financial resources. Local and regional authorities in coal regions need support in this, particularly since they will initially lose revenue as a result of coal production and coal-powered electricity generation being phased out. A large portion of the investment for economic development must come from public funds from the Member States concerned or by attracting new private investments.

The call by local and regional leaders combines backing of special measures to aid several dozen regions with strong support for an adequate EU budget for regional development, which some EU national leaders wish to see cut substan20

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tially. The European Commission has proposed both a reduction in cohesion funds for regional development, and the creation of a Just Transition Fund for coal regions. The incoming president of the Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, has not said how the Fund would be financed.

Structural change should also be supported by the future cohesion policy and by European funds such as the

European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund, Horizon 2020 and the resources of the European Investment Bank.

Outcomes of the October Coal Regions Summit A high-level conference organised during the 2019 European Week of Regions and Cities – ‘Coal Regions in Transition’ – included national ministers and regional leaders from 11 coal regions

in eight member states, together with Günther Oettinger (EPP), the European Commissioner for Budget and Human Resources.

“Support for new socio-economic perspectives in coal regions has to start now – it is too late to act when the economic situation in coal regions has deteriorated,” the event’s moderator Mark Speich (EPP-CoR/DE) said, opening the event.

The representatives of the coal regions sent a clear message of unity and concluded that only with new financial resources and a strong cooperation between the EU, national, regional and local levels, engaging civil society and citizens we will be able to achieve longterm solutions for the socio-economic transformation of Europe’s coal regions.

Günther Oettinger, Commissioner for Budget & Human Resources highlighted the need for “fresh money, to ensure co-financing through European resources until the end of the year. Now is the time to open the door for change”.

Europe’s 41 coal regions want to be sure that the new fund will not simply be repurposed from other income streams in the EU budget, resulting in cuts to their allowances from structural or agricultural programmes. Representatives of these regions also agreed that EU’s rules on state aid, which are due to expire in 2020, should be revised to “ensure that coal regions have sufficient flexibility to enable them to phase out coal in a socially and economically viable way” as stated in Mr. Speich opinion adopted at the CoR plenary in October.

“Regions, cities and local authorities are places where climate actions can be most effective, where the most energy can be saved, where innovation can be implemented. Climate challenges are also a job for coal regions. Regions need financial and legal tools which make it possible to really deliver climate protection on a large scale.”

“Climate change is a challenge for the whole of Europe and the transformation of coal regions is a crucial contribution to achieving our climate goals.”

Witold Stepien, EPP-CoR rapporteur on Implementing the Paris Agreement through innovative and sustainable energy transition at regional and local level

Mark Speich, EPP-CoR rapporteur on Socioeconomic structural change in Europe’s coal regions the rEPPorter

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Localising the global Sustainable Development Goals

The United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development includes a set of 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and 169 associated targets.

An estimated 65 % of the 169 targets will not be reached without the engagement of local and regional governments.

Cities and regions represent a third of public spending and two-thirds of public investment in Europe. They have competences in many policies underlying the sustainable development goals and targets, such as health and education, housing, transport, infrastructure, water, waste, land use, energy or climate change.

Cities also account for 70% of world greenhouse emissions, with local governments being responsible for more than 70% of climate change reduction measures and up to 90% of climate adaptation actions. The CoR therefore calls for integrated, inclusive local goals and targets, implementation actions and indicators in line with the principle of multi-level governance.

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It stresses the importance of defining the new European strategy “Towards a Sustainable Europe by 2030” as a basis for a long-term European Future and calls for a holistic, systemic climate change policy for the EU as opposed to the current fragmented approach.

EPP rapporteurs Arnoldas Abramavicius and Sirpa Hertell have led the CoR’s work on two key opinions on the SDGs:

„Local governments cannot be mere implementers of a national SDG agenda: they should be partners in defining policy responses, and in the implementation and monitoring of progress towards the goals. Translating the SDGs into local and regional realities would enable us to take into account the real socio-economic potential and specific characteristics of territories. This would lead to economic, social and territorial development for regions and cities - ensuring no one is left behind.”

Arnoldas Abramavicius, CoR rapporteur on Sustainable Development Goals: A basis for a long-term EU strategy for a sustainable Europe by 2030.

Renovating multi-apartment buildings in Zarasai municipality, Lithuania Arnoldas Abramavicius, deputy Mayor of Zarasai: The Lithuanian government is actively committed to investing in the reno-

Finland’s second-largest city Espoo goes carbon-neutral by 2030 Sirpa Hertell, city councillor of Espoo:

vation of public buildings in order to improve their energy performance and contribute to the EU’s objectives of reducing energy consumption by 20% by 2020.

members of society who still live in old block houses to save money.

It has made available a programme with the aim to increase energy efficiency of the country’s soviet-style multi-apartment buildings that currently have the highest level of heat energy consumption and housing maintenance costs.

It aims to ensure that the cumulative annual heating costs and return on investment cost after the renovation do not exceed the heating costs before renovation.

Zarasai municipality recognised the importance of such investments and benefited from innovative financing schemes such as JESSICA to improve the energy efficiency of buildings and contribute to job creation locally. Following the renovation of the public buildings, the municipality saved between 40-50% on energy consumption, which translated into a reduction of 40% of its total energy bill. All public municipal premises and half of the local multi-apartment buildings have been renovated by 2019.

The programme also contributes towards achieving the SDG targets: it saves consumed energy and helps the poorest

The City of Espoo, Finland is implementing its sustainable development goals on a long-term basis. In 2016–2017, an international comparison study rated Espoo as the most sustainable city in Europe. The city tackles its biggest strategic challenges with four cross-administrative development programmes, one of which is the Sustainable Espoo programme. It aims to promote emission-free energy production and clean and smart solutions for the city and mobility through cooperation with different stakeholders.

Espoo’s goal is to become carbon neutral by 2030. Through its own actions, the city can influence less than 10 percent of the overall emissions in the area, as households and transport generate the majority of emissions. This is why partners need to get involved.

“Europe needs a strong strategy based on the SDGs. The young generation expects us to take immediate measures. Failing to take climate action will make it impossible to ensure Europe’s sustainable development. Cities and regions need localised targets and indicators in order to reach these goals. Implementing the SDGs locally is the only way forward.”

Sirpa Hertell (FI), CoR rapporteur on Sustainable Europe by 2030: Follow-up to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, ecological transition and the Paris Agreement on Climate Change

Espoo is committed to finding solutions which reduce greenhouse gas emissions and save resources as well as improve the everyday life of the city’s residents.

In addition to new energy solutions, Espoo relies on its newly extended metro line and a fleet of quick-charging electric buses to support the city’s sustainable growth.

Espoo’s cooperation with a group of Finnish companies (St1, Fortum, Neste and HSY) was awarded the Energy Globe World Award in November 2019 in the category Air. The winning project uses geothermal energy for district heating in Espoo and renewable fuels for sustainable transport.

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Upcoming events EPP Local Dialogue: From brain drain to brain gain in the EU, Brussels, – 5 December 2019

Ongoing opinions ECON

CIVEX Commission Meeting, Brussels – 9 December 2019

Implementation of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs): The regional and local perspective – Michael Murphy – Adoption foreseen in May 2020

JCC North Macedonia, Skopje, Macedonia – 11 December 2019

CIVEX

Regional and local cooperation with Africa to counteract migration – Robert Zeman – Adoption foreseen in February 2020

ECON Commission meeting, Brussels – 13 December 2019

ENVE

COTER Commission meeting, Brussels – 16 December 2019

Towards sustainable neighbourhoods and small communities: environment policy below municipal level – Gaetano Armao – Adoption foreseen in February 2020

CFAA meeting, Brussels – 21 January 2020

SEDEC

CoR Plenary Session, Brussels – 11-12 February 2020

Brain Drain in the EU: addressing the challenge at all levels – Emil Boc – Adoption foreseen in February 2020 Demographic change: proposals on measuring and tackling its negative effects in the EU regions - Janos Adam Karácsony – Adoption foreseen in February 2020

CoR Plenary Session, Brussels – 25-26 March 2020

Secretary General: Heinz-Peter Knapp epp@cor.europa.eu CMYK / .eps

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