A more secure Europe hinges on good cooperation with cities and regions

Regional cyber-security contact points, regular audits to test the preparedness of local authorities, and training are among the requests of local and regional leaders.  

In an opinion adopted on 10 December at the plenary session — drafted by Anne Rudisuhli (FR/Renew Europe), departmental councillor of Buches-du-Rhône — members of the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) welcomed the ambition of the new ProtectEU strategy but called on the European Commission and national governments to involve local and regional authorities effectively in its implementation.   

The ProtectEU strategy, presented by the European Commission in April, aims to strengthen the EU’s resilience against emerging security threats through a 'whole-of-society' approach to internal security. This approach mainstreams internal security and also impacts social, educational, digital, economic, environmental and cultural policies. 

While cities and regions cannot fight cross-border trafficking, terrorist attacks, or cyber-threats alone, they must be recognised as essential partners to implement prevention strategies and protect citizens and crucial infrastructures. Local and regional leaders therefore emphasised the need to strengthen cooperation between national and territorial authorities, port authorities, customs, and European agencies such as Europol and Frontex.  

Improving cybersecurity in Europe 

As cyber-attacks on local infrastructures such as hospitals and schools is worryingly increasing, the opinion proposed two new tools: the establishment of a regional cyber-security contact points to coordinate local action, and — with the support of the competent EU agency ENISA — regular audits of local authorities to assess their level of vulnerability and guide their investments. 

Support units for families to prevent and combat radicalisation 

Security begins at local level, where the first signs of radicalisation are often detected in schools, sports clubs or associations. Consequently, local and regional leaders recommended the widespread use of support units for families dealing with radicalisation and the creation of an EU network of these measures, supported by reciprocal training for frontline staff. The European Commission should also provide concrete tools such as training and expert support to implement the security strategy on the ground.  

Quote 

Rapporteur Anne Rudisuhli (FR/Renew E.), departmental councillor of Buches-du-Rhône: “We are facing serious threats to our infrastructure, including organized crime, radicalization, cyberattacks, and the online exploitation of minors. This is why my opinion calls for the recognition of the crucial role played by local authorities in the new European security strategy. ProtectEU must equip territories with practical tools, as they are on the front line — detecting early warning signs and implementing effective preventive policies.” 

Background 

• Video and photos from the plenary session.   

Contact
Matteo Miglietta 
Tel. +32 470895382   
matteo.miglietta@cor.europa.eu