Johannes Hahn, EU Regional Policy Commissioner is asking EU citizens to share their views on an EU Urban Agenda through a public consultation alongside a formal Communication just published by the European Commission.
The Commission’s Communication “The Urban Dimension of EU Policies” describes the situation of cities across the EU and urban policies in the Member States as well as the global dimension of urbanisation. It stresses that an EU Urban Agenda should reflect the EU’s overall objectives and must also complement national policies in the Member States.
While 72 % of the total EU population live in cities, towns and suburbs, this proportion is likely to reach more than 80% by 2050. The communication states that over two-thirds of all EU policies directly or indirectly affect towns and cities – such as in the fields of transport, energy, and environment. An Urban Agenda would aim for a more integrated approach to policy development, to ensure consistency and avoid contradictions.
The public consultation is open until 26 September 2014.
