Europe has 23 cities with more than a million people and 325 cities with a population of around 100,000. Two thirds of us live in cities, generating 67% of Europe’s GDP. If we add those numbers up, it is clear that urbanisation is important. To better understand this issue, Euronews produced a video that explores urbanisation and the growth strategies of various types of cities and towns, including Venice and Lisbon.
This round-up of cities and towns was conducted while the European Commission is to come forward with a a strengthened profile of the urban dimension within EU policies. Johannes Hahn, EU commissioner for regional policy, told Euronews: “In the previous period (2007-2013), the share of the structural fund money for cities was 40% of our budget. In the new one (2014-2030), I expect up to 60% to be spent in urban structures in order to improve quality of life.”
In this context, the mayor of Venice and CEMR co-president, Giorgio Orsoni, explained: “Cities are joining forces to get their voices heard and to demand not only funding and resources, but a share in the decision-making.”
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