Abstract
The aim of the 2021-22 89 Regions Programme is to “fill the gap” between urban and non-urban areas in Europe and understand how cities and their hinterlands should best be organised to meet the economic, environmental, and social challenges of today and tomorrow. [...]
This report should be understood as a way to give voice to and empower local authorities and to promote their best practices. Prime attention was given to collecting views, opinions, concerns and best practices from mayors and local or regional administrators and public servants. The actors we interviewed are engaged in shaping and implementing policies - often decided at the central level - while also responding to
local needs from those living in their areas. Listening to them is a good way to inform EU policymakers of local realities and nourish the EU policy-making process with examples of local best practice.