Local power, global impact l Your PES Group newsletter
As the debate over the EU’s next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) heats up, one thing is clear: the decisions we make now will shape the future of our cities and regions.
This month, we dive into the urgent need to invest in people and communities, making sure that no city or region is left behind. Reclaiming our space means reimagining how EU funds foster progress, fight inequality, and build a more inclusive Europe. 👇👇👇
💬 Cohesion Policy: “We Don’t Like Being Lied To!”
Speaking in the COTER Commission on Cohesion Policy and EU Budget, Chair Vasco Alves Cordeiro delivered a powerful reminder of what is at stake for Europe’s regions. The shift towards national-only programmes, he warned, risks cutting the EU off from its local and regional roots, the level of governance most trusted by citizens. The message is clear: weakening multilevel governance means weakening the EU itself. True European cohesion begins where citizens live their daily lives in the smallest street of the smallest neighbourhood of the smallest city. 👉 Watch the full intervention on Instagram
💜 Make Your City a Feminist One!
Cities should work for everyone and that means adopting feminist policies that ensure equality, safety, and inclusion in every street, school, and workplace. Our “Make Your City a Feminist One!” toolkit offers practical ideas and inspiration for local leaders to bring gender equality to urban life. Join the movement and take action in your city! 👉 Discover the toolkit
🗳 Standing for Democracy: nominate Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu
More than 8,900 citizens, politicians and NGOs have already joined our call to stand for democracy by supporting Istanbul’s Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu. We are proud to officially nominate Mayor İmamoğlu for the Mayor Paweł Adamowicz Award, in recognition of his courage, democratic values, and commitment to freedom and justice. 👉 Read more and stay tuned for the results!
🌍 Our Young Local Leaders were in town!
During the European Week of Regions and Cities, we were delighted to welcome 35 Young Elected Politicians (YEPs) for a special gathering organised by PES Group President Luca Menesini and Vice-President Antje Grotheer. The meeting offered a valuable space to exchange ideas, connect, and strengthen the network of young local leaders across Europe.
📊 The State of Regions and Cities 2025
The EU Annual Report on the State of Regions and Cities offers a clear picture of how Europe’s local communities are doing: their challenges, successes, and priorities for the future. From green transitions to digital innovation, this year’s report highlights the crucial role of regions and cities in shaping a fairer Europe for all. 👉 Find out more
❤️ Progressive Local Stories ❤️
🗿 Mothers belong in public space - London
A new statue in the city of London, led by socialist mayor Sadiq Khan, honours the beauty and strength of motherhood, depicting a postpartum woman in all her strength and vulnerability. This powerful work reminds us that women’s bodies and experiences deserve recognition and respect in public spaces.
🐾 Love for Animals and Cleaner Cities! - Collado Villalba
In Spain, Sara Sánchez, local councillor in Collado Villalba, is leading a campaign for responsible pet ownership. Her proposal calls for more checks and awareness-raising efforts to make sure everyone cleans up after their pets. Let’s show love for animals and for the cities we share! 👉 See Sara’s campaign 🐶💚
📅 What’s Next?
🕊 EU–Ukraine Progressive Summit on 6–7 November 2025
The first edition of the EU–Ukraine Progressive Summit will take place in Kyiv! European and Ukrainian progressives will unite to discuss Ukraine’s post-war recovery, EU accession and social justice. With PES Group President Luca Menesini attended in person. 👉 Discover the full programme and register here
☀️ Mark your calendar: 15 January 2026
The PES Group is heading to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria for an extraordinary meeting and citizens’ debate dedicated to shaping a Europe of solidarity, equality, and progress. At a pivotal moment for Europe’s future, leading progressive MEPs will join us to discuss how to strengthen European investments, public services and affordable housing.
🙏 © Photo credits of the header: Miguel Bruna from Unplash