Subnational government is responsible for implementing two thirds of EU laws and is responsible for fifty percent of all public investment in the EU, one third of public expenditure, and one quarter of tax revenue. This subnational level is made up of more than one million democratically elected politicians who are represented at European level by the European Committee of the Regions (CoR). At a time when the geopolitical tectonic plates are shifting rapidly, and Europe is faced with an increasing number of hostile powers who threaten its peace, security, and values, the role of subnational leaders is even more important and makes the actions we take as described below even more essential to protect and strengthen our Union.
As members of the European Committee of the Regions, we play a crucial role in bridging the gap between the European Union, regions and local communities. We ensure that EU decision makers understand how policies impact people on the ground, making European legislation more responsive to real-world needs. At the same time, we communicate EU policy objectives and targets to our local and regional authorities (LRAs), helping them align with the Union’s broader goals. Beyond policy, we strengthen the connection between our citizens and the EU. By engaging with local communities and fostering dialogue, we build trust, raise awareness, and encourage participation in the European project. This document outlines our key priorities in fulfilling these responsibilities effectively.
