The ICLEI European Membership Assembly, held during the EU Open Days in Brussels (Belgium) on 15 October 2015, proved to be an excellent opportunity for ICLEI members to engage with policy makers on the latest European and global policy frameworks. Generously hosted by the Rhône-Alpes Region, the event saw an engaging discussion on how the local level could benefit from these policies.

Mikel Landabaso, Director for Inclusive Growth, Urban and Territorial Development from DG Regio, gave an insight into the latest developments of the EU Urban Agenda. He emphasised that cities' involvement is vital to translate policies into real change on the ground. Several financial instruments by DG Regio, particularly the upcoming calls for Innovative Actions will support that. With the Urban Agenda the EC wishes to not create yet another framework, but intends to come to a coordinated policy approach related to all urban issues. Sustainability is seen as a focus area throughout the twelve themes. Stefanos Fotiou, Head of UNEP’s Cities and Lifestyles Unit, updated the ICLEI members on the Sustainable Development Goals indicating that the local level has become more important for UNEP. He stated that cities are the areas with unparalleled potential for climate change mitigation, which proves promising for the COP21 discussions.

ICLEI and its members called for a coordinated approach between the current frameworks on a European and global level. Cities need a combined approach for sustainability and economic agendas and clear means of communicating these crucial messages locally. ICLEI offered continued support in the further development and implementation of the European and global frameworks. As a good example of regional transformation, Mr Iosu Madariaga, Deputy Minister for Environment and Territorial Policy of the Basque Government presented on the transformation of the Basque Country from an industrial economy to a service-based one. This transformation provides excellent grounds for hosting the 8th European Conference on Sustainable Cities and Towns, as shown by this video.

For more information, visit the event listing.