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European Week of Regions and Cities

Should I stay or should I go - making small places attractive

The dilemma of the right to remain and the free movement of persons will be the focus of this interactive lab. It will address the issue of balancing European priorities, like decarbonisation and the internal market, with local and regional needs. We will discuss and present findings on participatory methods for involving hard-to-reach and marginalised communities in policy making related to cohesion policy, the internal market and the Just Transition of the European Green Deal.

  • Territorial | Rural | Local and regional | INTERREG | EU/ European | Sustainable | Cohesion | Demographics (depopulation and ageing)
  • Code: 10PL241006
  • Albert Borschette Conference Centre, AB-3B

Speakers

Moderator

Practical information

When
Thu 10/10/2024, 09:30 - 11:00 CET
Where
Albert Borschette Conference Centre, AB-3B
Type of partnership
Partnership
Format
Participary Labs/Hackathon
Theme
Regions got talent
Language
English

Reporting

Session summary

Session Report
“Should I stay or should I go? Making small places attractive”

As part of the EU Week of Regions, multilevel stakeholders convened at this participatory lab to discuss strategies for enhancing the attractiveness of small places. Based on findings from the BOLSTER consortium and the Territorial Agenda 2030 "Small Places Matter" pilot action, the session focused on engaging vulnerable communities, fostering population retention, and implementing place-based solutions within the context of the European Green Deal and Just Transition. Below are the key outcomes from the discussions.

Key Takeaways

1. A Functional Single Market and Cohesion Policy
The discussion highlighted the need for place-based decision-making, where policies are not only adapted to local needs but allow local autonomy in their implementation. Flexibility in EU cohesion policy frameworks was identified as crucial, as rigid structures hinder local initiatives. Participants emphasised that peripheral regions often find it easier to engage with EU authorities than with their national governments, underscoring the need for a "Europe of Regions" that strengthens these direct connections. It was also highlighted that civic engagement should be encouraged, but without overwhelming citizens with bureaucratic details, leaving public authorities to act as effective mediators.

2. Lessons from the “Small Places Matter” Pilot Action
Participants shared varied experiences, such as efforts in Emilia Romagna, Italy, to connect rural hubs to larger cities through shared cultural and industrial services, enhancing the area's appeal. In contrast, remote eastern border regions struggle with basic service provision and assessing local needs. Priorities also differ: some regions aim to attract people to fill jobs, while others rely on jobs to bring people in. Wider networks, including EU and regional collaborations, were seen as crucial for innovation, knowledge exchange, and building local capacity. To ensure resilience, small regions need place-based solutions, alongside strategies to combat community fatigue and foster optimism.

3. Factors Causing Displacement in Just Transition Regions
Economic factors like limited job opportunities and affordable housing were identified as key causes of displacement in Just Transition regions. Participants also highlighted the need for better infrastructure—healthcare, education, transport, and high-speed internet. Cultural barriers, such as resistance to change and distrust of outsiders, further complicate population retention. Public authorities were urged to adopt more locally tailored policies and improve communication about the benefits of EU funding. Tackling displacement requires a coordinated approach, combining enhanced local services, cultural openness, and adaptable policies to address these interconnected challenges.

4. Using Just Transition Mechanism (JTM) to Revitalise Shrinking Regions
Young participants emphasised that the needs of youth are often overlooked in shrinking regions, which leads to outmigration. They identified key challenges including the lack of affordable housing, modern infrastructure, and cultural and social opportunities. To address this, they proposed using JTM funds to enhance the quality of life by investing in housing, infrastructure, and community activities that preserve local cultural heritage. Additionally, creating better conditions for remote work and attracting small businesses were seen as vital strategies for revitalising these regions. Participants suggested conducting a systematic study to better understand the needs of youth in shrinking regions.