URDICO - Urban Dimension of Cohesion Policy and other EU Programmes: Policy Brief

This policy brief, based on the ESPON URDICO final report, examines how the urban dimension of EU Cohesion Policy has been implemented across eight European cities. It highlights how cities interact with national and regional authorities, align EU funds with local long-term agendas, and contribute to broader EU goals. Cohesion Policy, accounting for nearly one-third of the EU budget, aims to promote balanced territorial development and reduce disparities between regions. Cities play a central role as engines of economic growth and social innovation, yet their influence and capacity vary widely. Over time, the urban dimension has evolved from a marginal concern to a strategic focus, from the early URBAN I and II programmes to the introduction of Sustainable Urban Development (SUD), Integrated Territorial Investments (ITI), and Community-Led Local Development (CLLD) in 2014–2020. These tools enabled cities to develop place-based, integrated strategies, supported by multi-level governance and dedicated funding. The 2021–2027 programming period reinforced these mechanisms, increasing urban earmarking and expanding the focus on climate, digital transformation, and social resilience. Nonetheless, challenges remain, including uneven administrative capacity, varying financial access, and limited autonomy for local authorities. URDICO’s findings illustrate both the potential and the constraints of urban-centred cohesion strategies, offering insights and recommendations to strengthen the role of cities in the post-2027 EU policy framework.