The European People’s Party (EPP) Congress adopted a series of strategic resolutions, shaping the policy direction of the party across core areas of EU governance. A decisive footprint was left by the EPP Group in the European Committee of the Regions (EPP-CoR), whose amendments and advocacy ensured that the voice of Europe’s cities and regions was firmly embedded in the Congress’s resolutions.
Upholding the Rule of Law
In the Resolution on "For an EU that continues to uphold the Rule of Law", the EPP-CoR underlined the importance of safeguarding the interests of final beneficiaries of EU funding—especially cities and regions—when member states fail to comply with rule of law principles. Their contribution led to call for action to ensure that national funding supports local and regional projects, in cases of suspension of EU funding due to breaches of the rule of law at national level.
“Cities and regions must not be punished for the failings of national governments. Local beneficiaries should continue to receive support critical for development and cohesion,” said a spokesperson for the EPP-CoR.
Tackling the Housing Crisis
In the Resolution on "Housing Crisis in Europe", the EPP-CoR emphasized the dual principles of safeguarding private property rights and empowering local and regional authorities with the tools and investment frameworks necessary to respond to housing needs. Their successful input called for municipalities to manage tailored funding strategies and attract long-term investments responsive to local conditions.
Empowering the Agricultural Sector
The Resolution on "A Primary Sector that Ensures Food Security" featured multiple EPP-CoR-driven amendments:
- A reinforced role for local and regional authorities in CAP implementation to ensure responsiveness to territorial realities.
- Ensuring environmental rules remain realistic, while promoting European agricultural competitiveness.
- Boosting youth engagement in agriculture through support mechanisms that revitalise rural areas.
- Recognising local and regional governments as drivers of innovation, ensuring access to digital tools and technologies for all rural communities.
These additions reflect the EPP-CoR’s mission to secure sustainable, competitive, and inclusive growth in rural areas.
Climate Emergencies
The Resolution on "An EU Ready to Respond to Climate Emergencies" included a crucial amendment proposed by the EPP-CoR: the explicit recognition of local and regional authorities as essential actors in climate resilience. Their proximity to communities positions them as leaders in awareness-raising, prevention, and emergency management.
Supporting the Outermost Regions
The EPP-CoR secured language in the Resolution on the Situation of the Outermost Regions that addressed critical challenges:
- Disproportionate pressure from irregular migration.
- Risks from environmental regulation on regional connectivity.
- The strategic importance of energy autonomy and better transport links for territorial cohesion.
These measures ensure the EU recognises the unique vulnerabilities and strategic needs of these regions.
Confronting the Demographic Winter
In the Resolution on "Responding to the Demographic Winter", the EPP-CoR successfully advocated for:
- Support for regions facing depopulation, brain drain, and talent flight.
- Development of family-friendly policies and youth retention strategies.
- Enhanced recognition of non-formal and informal education for workforce adaptability.
- Smart city and smart village solutions to promote digital inclusion and cohesion in underpopulated territories.
These additions reaffirm the EPP-CoR’s strategic focus on long-term territorial, economic, and social sustainability.