Launch of Communities for Future

Scope and objectives

This online event will explore the potential of communities to revive local economies as we emerge from the pandemic, in a way that takes account of the deepening climate and ecological emergency and the urgent need for a deeper societal transformation.

Within the context of the Covid-19 pandemic and the commitments towards the Paris Agreement, the European Green Deal and the Sustainable Development Goals, this online event will bring together representatives of:

  • the European Parliament (MEPs);
  • the European Commission;
  • the European Economic and Social Committee;
  • the Committee of the Regions;
  • national, regional and local governments;
  • community-led initiatives;
  • NGOs. 
Communities for Future

Communities for Future - a new, integrated Europe-wide programme to inspire, empower and enable local community-led responses to the climate and ecological emergency - recognises that there is no one solution fits all,  so engaging citizens locally, and bridging divides, creating cohesion between rural and urban, young and old, North and South and East and West Europe, are an essential part of the missionCommunities for Future values and puts communities and citizens at the centre of the conversation.

Context

The Covid-19 pandemic showcased the role and importance that communities and citizens initiatives play in finding solutions when faced with adversities; but also, how quickly they can mobilise themselves and devise tailored local responses. This is first-hand evidence that bottom-up approaches are an essential complement to top-down approaches. However, the pandemic also put on display the various barriers and taught us what is needed to achieve lasting transformative change.

European Day of Sustainable Communities

All across Europe communities are responding creatively to the global challenges of our time. The European Day of Sustainable Communities, on 19th September 2020, is a time to applaud and celebrate the local communities taking action for a more regenerative, just and inclusive Europe. You can find relevant events near you here.

Do you have a question?
Contact us