At a time when Europe is facing historic challenges, from the climate crisis and geopolitical instability to growing inequalities and democratic backsliding, progressive local and regional leaders have a vital role to play in building a fairer and stronger European Union. On 2 April 2025, the PES Group in the European Committee of the Regions adopted its new political priorities for the mandate 2025-2030 with a clear focus: responding to people’s fears and expectations, protecting the planet and our values, strengthening citizens’ trust, by promoting cohesion, safeguarding democracy, and improving quality of life.
These are not abstract goals. They are about building a Europe that works for everyone, wherever they live.
Cohesion – "A Europe that leaves no people and no places behind"
Cohesion means more than just reducing economic gaps between and within regions. It is about making sure that wherever you live, in a remote village or a big city, you can enjoy the same opportunities and quality public services.
We, as socialist and social democratic local and regional leaders, are pushing for a renewed commitment to EU cohesion policy. With the green and digital transitions reshaping our economies, we must ensure these changes benefit everyone, not just a few. We want the European Union to invest in affordable housing, bridge the digital divide, strengthen support for rural areas, and make sure structural funds are accessible to all communities.
Across Europe, progressive leaders are already creating good jobs, improving schools, vocational training and other educational offers, investing in hospitals and care services, and supporting families and local businesses. A stronger cohesion policy for all regions is essential to deliver on the objective of a European Union that leaves no people and no places behind.
Democracy – "A Europe made by everyone, for everyone"
Democracy is at the heart of the European integration project, but our democracy is under threat, from both within and beyond our borders. Far-right movements, authoritarian regimes, and disinformation campaigns are undermining trust in democratic institutions. When people feel ignored, they lose trust. When decisions feel distant, people disengage, and democracy becomes fragile.
That is why we believe the EU needs a new push to develop its own mechanisms to promote its values and principles and ensure transparent, accountable, and more democratic decision-making. Democracy in the EU starts at the local level and must build on cooperation between and across all levels of government. Local and regional authorities are closest to citizens and also the most trusted by them. This is why they must be empowered, and, with them, the European Committee of the Regions must be given a stronger voice in EU policymaking.
For democracy to thrive, it must be visible in everyday life. That’s why we support citizens’ participation in decision-making, including the most vulnerable groups, we fight for equal rights for all and gender equality, we support migration policies based on solidarity, and we reinforce our connections across the world in support of democracy. Democracy cannot be taken for granted — it is the foundation of our future.
Quality of Life – "A Europe that cares"
What does “quality of life” really mean? For us, it is about having a decent job and earning a decent living which allows everyone to participate in society, living with decent jobs, access to affordable housing, clean energy, good healthcare, healthy food, and safe public spaces. It is about feeling secure in your community and for your future.
The EU’s transition to climate neutrality by 2050 must go hand in hand with social justice. A just transition is possible, where workers and communities are supported through change, and where public services are strengthened. We must harness the opportunities of the transition and ensure that they result in an improved quality of life for everyone.
As PES members, we are committed to putting solidarity at the centre of EU policies. That means more investment in health systems, decent conditions for care workers, and stronger regional action on clean energy and the circular economy. We are promoting sustainable farming, healthier school meals, greener urban spaces, and sustainable and affordable public transport which also connects urban and rural areas. We are demanding gender-responsive planning and budgeting to put women’s needs at the centre of our action.
A Progressive Vision for Europe’s Future
The coming years will be decisive for the European Union. With wars on our borders, rising living costs, and climate emergencies, citizens are rightly asking: what kind of Europe do we want to live in?
Our answer is clear. We want a Europe that stands up for people and that gives hope. A Europe of solidarity, equality, and sustainability. A Europe that listens, protects, and empowers every person wherever they live. This is why the PES Group in the European Committee of the Regions is choosing cohesion, democracy and quality of life as its core priorities, to make them a reality for all. Because now more than ever, Europe needs local leadership. And local leaders need Europe too. Together, we can build a a future that truly cares for people, for communities and for the planet.
