| Author (Corporate) | European Commission: DG Regional Policy |
|---|---|
| Publisher | EU |
| Series Title | Factsheet |
| Series Details | February 2012 |
| Publication Date | February 2012 |
| Content Type | Overview |
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The European Commission adopted legislative proposals for cohesion policy for 2014-2020 in October 2011. This factsheet is one in a series highlighting key elements of the future approach. Cities are the engines of the European economy and can be considered as catalysts for creativity and innovation throughout the EU. Some 68% of the EU population lives in a metropolitan region, and these regions generate 67% of the EU’s GDP. However, they are also the places where persistent problems such as unemployment, segregation and poverty are at their most severe. The policies pursued in relation to urban areas therefore have a wider significance for the EU as a whole. The various dimensions of urban life – environmental, economic, social and cultural – are interwoven and success in urban development can only be achieved through an integrated approach. Measures concerning physical urban renewal must be combined with measures promoting education, economic development, social inclusion and environmental protection. In addition, the development of strong partnerships between local citizens, civil society, the local economy and the various levels of government is a pre-requisite. Such an approach is especially important at this time, given the seriousness of the challenges European cities currently face. These challenges range from specific demographic changes to the consequences of economic stagnation in terms of job creation and social progress, and to the impact of climate change. The response to these challenges will be critical for achieving the smart, sustainable, inclusive society envisaged in the Europe 2020 Strategy. |
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| Source Link | http://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/sources/docgener/informat/2014/urban_en.pdf |
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| Subject Categories | Geography, Politics and International Relations |
| Countries / Regions | Europe |
