Eurocities Shadow Commission champions urban priorities at EU level 

Eurocities, the network of over 200 European cities, has launched its new Shadow Commission College, to raise the voices of city mayors as direct political counterparts to the incoming College of European commissioners.   

The Eurocities Shadow Commission (which you can view and download in full here) mimics the structure of the European Commission College, while highlighting portfolios that reflect the priorities of city leaders throughout Europe, including tackling climate change, protecting democratic values and providing affordable housing. 

Unlike the European Commission, which is still being put together this week, the Eurocities Shadow Commission respects gender equality, with each portfolio being represented by one man and one woman. 

In the months and years ahead, the Shadow Commissioners will enter into dialogue with European Commissioners, ensuring that urban priorities are better recognised at EU level and that cities can partner with the European Commission to build a just, green and prosperous future for the people of Europe. 

"Cities must play a central part in formulating EU policy. The issues we are confronted with, be it through the rise of populism, the effects of climate change, refugee integration, or health threats—all require EU-level solutions that are implemented locally,” says Burkhard Jung, president of the Eurocities Shadow Commission and mayor of Leipzig.  

“As the new leaders of the EU take office, the Eurocities Shadow Commission will ensure our voices are heard. Together, we will build a more inclusive, sustainable and dynamic Europe."  

As Chair of the Eurocities Shadow Commission College, Eurocities President, Burkhard Jung, will be positioned as the direct counterpart of Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.  

In his first action, President Jung has already sent a ‘Mission Letter’ to the five pairs of vice presidents in the Eurocities Shadow Commission. He calls for city leaders to ensure urban priorities are “considered at the highest levels of European decision-making.” This includes driving climate leadership, upholding Europe’s values of cohesion, solidarity and social inclusion, and tackling Europe’s digital divide. 

The Eurocities Shadow Commission is composed of ten vice presidents in charge of the key priorities, along with 13 pairs of commissioners covering the more focused areas.  

The Shadow Commission’s mandate reflects the messages in the Eurocities manifesto which outlines key actions for reimagining and strengthening Europe through urban initiatives. This includes a strong emphasis on social inclusion, climate resilience, digital transformation, and a more coordinated urban policy framework within the EU. 

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