Launch of the Democratic Mayors’ Network in Rome

Twelve mayors and local leaders from seven European countries discussed the common challenges they face in the 21st century in Rome on 14 October 2002.

Held alongside the European Democratic Party (EDP) Congress, the first Democratic Mayors Network meeting was convened by François Decoster, Renew Europe President in the Committee of the Regions with Sandro Gozi, a member of the European Parliament and Secretary General of the EDP.

Mayors shared at the mid-afternoon meeting best-practice on a diverse set of challenges, including sustainability, EU funding, city to city cooperation, citizen participation, refugee crisis and democracy. The two-hour meeting included mayors calling for greater cooperation in advancing local and regional agenda and support for smart conditionality when it comes to EU funds. Mayors also agreed to establish a Democratic Mayors Network and start preparations for Europe Day 2023 and the next European elections.

Attendees

The 12 mayors and local leaders from seven countries were: François Decoster (Saint-Omer), Jean-Marie Beaupuy (Former Deputy Mayor of Reims), Istvan Serto Radics (Former Mayor of Uszka), Birgit Kreß (Mayor of Markt Erlbach), Helmut Kinkel (Mayor of Groß-Gerau), Juan María Aburto (Mayor of Bilbao), Ander Añibarro (Mayor of Llodio), Maria Ubarrechena (Mayor of Mondragon), Monika Shaw Salajová (Councillor Prague 5), Giuseppe Varacallli (Former Mayor of Gerace), Sergio Ravier Rodriges Fernnades (Mayor of El Paso), Filipe Sousa (Mayor of Santa Cruz).

Why the summit matters

The role of city mayors is becoming increasingly important in building the European Union and in helping the EU to successfully manage the challenges of the 21st century. The group is set to also contribute to the EDP’s 2024 manifesto preparations taking place between now and summer 2023.