Cohesion is one of three major key priorities of the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) for its 2025-2030 mandate, along with Resilience and Proximity.
Economic, social, and territorial cohesion are fundamental objectives of the European Union. Genuine cooperation among EU, national and regional actors is essential for achieving these goals as local and regional authorities are best placed to respond to the specific needs of their communities. Improved competitiveness, an ambitious EU budget, robust support for a just transition, and sustainable and affordable housing policies are the key elements of a more cohesive Europe that leaves no one behind.
Through its own activities and through those carried out with the #Cohesion Alliance the EU-widest joint movement for a strong Cohesion Policy beyond 2027 – the CoR is committed to making sure that economic, social and territorial cohesion is fostered and respected in all EU policies.
Competitiveness
European competitiveness requires a well-developed territorial dimension and enhanced multi-level governance structures for the coordination of industrial policy. There cannot be competitiveness without competitive regions. Since its creation in 2010, the European Entrepreneurial Region label has rewarded regions and cities that pursue an outstanding and innovative entrepreneurial policy strategy.
EU budget
The EU must be equipped with sufficient financial means to deliver so that highly important new objectives do not endanger long-standing priorities and Treaty goals, such as economic, social and territorial cohesion. An effective post-2027 long-term budget, the Multiannual Financial Framework, must be developed in coordination with cities and regions as strategic partners.
Just transition
A comprehensive and holistic strategy with a targeted place-based approach is crucial to manage the socio-economic impacts of the triple transition green, digital and demographic. Through the Automotive Regions Alliance, a political network bringing together over 35 regions, the CoR works to promote a just, fair and successful transition in Europe's automotive regions.
Sustainable and affordable housing
Everyone has the right to a decent and affordable place to live. Many EU citizens struggle to access the property and rental markets, impacting EU cohesion, the quality of life and urban planning, as well as the accessibility and safety of cities. There is an urgent need to address the severe housing crisis in many parts of the EU and to eradicate homelessness by 2030.
