Cities at the Core: celebrating 10 years of the Urban Agenda for the EU

Cities at the Core: celebrating 10 years of the Urban Agenda for the EU

European Urban Initiative organises 'Cities at the Core: 10 Years of the Urban Agenda for the EU and the way ahead', taking place on 17–18 November 2026 in Rotterdam and Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

Marking a decade since the signing of the Pact of Amsterdam and the launch of the Urban Agenda for the EU (UAEU), the event will bring together cities, regions, EU institutions, researchers and urban practitioners to reflect on ten years of multi-level cooperation and to discuss the future of EU urban policy.

Since 2016, the Urban Agenda for the EU has strengthened collaboration between local and regional authorities, Member States, the European Commission, academia and stakeholders through 21 thematic partnerships addressing key urban challenges. These partnerships have contributed to improving EU regulation, facilitating access to funding opportunities and enhancing knowledge exchange across Europe.

The two-day anniversary conference will take place across Rotterdam and Amsterdam, reflecting the collaborative spirit of the Urban Agenda:

  • Day 1 (17 November, Rotterdam) will focus on the role of cities in driving innovation and competitiveness, featuring plenary sessions, thematic discussions and site visits showcasing local urban development initiatives.
  • Day 2 (18 November, Amsterdam) will celebrate the achievements of the Urban Agenda while exploring future priorities, including links with the emerging EU Agenda for Cities and broader European policy developments. Participants will also have the opportunity to visit a dedicated exhibition highlighting ten years of the Urban Agenda for the EU.

This event offers a timely opportunity to reflect on how European urban cooperation can continue to support cities and regions in addressing pressing challenges, from climate neutrality and affordable housing to competitiveness, resilience and social inclusion.

More information, the preliminary programme and registration are available on the event webpage.