Cities and towns securing Europe’s future: Join us on 16 October in Brussels

On 16 October 2025, hundreds of European mayors and regional leaders will convene with high-level representatives of the European Commission in the European Parliament for the annual EU Covenant of Mayors Ceremony. Organised back-to-back with the European Week of Regions and Cities and part of the EU Close to You Programme, this Ceremony serves as a crucial forum for bringing local perspectives to the forefront of Europe’s vision and policies.   

The President of the European Parliament, Ursula von der Leyen, will open this year’s Ceremony, addressing for the first time in this mandate such a significant gathering of local and regional authorities.  

The Ceremony comes at a critical moment for Europe. This year marks ten years since the Paris Climate Agreement, an international milestone that has shaped EU policy and on which local governments have long been leading the way. It also marks the first year of a new EU mandate, with fresh priorities and strategies taking shape and gaining momentum.  

The event will shine a spotlight on the essential role of cities and towns in advancing the EU’s path set since the Paris Agreement while delivering on today’s renewed priorities – from achieving energy security through decarbonisation to building a resilient and prosperous Europe that leaves no one behind. 

Why the EU Covenant of Mayors Ceremony matters 

The EU Covenant of Mayors is the European Commission’s flagship initiative for local climate action and the largest movement of its kind in Europe. With more than 10,000 signatories – cities and towns of all sizes – the initiative empowers local governments to drive the EU’s climate and energy ambitions through bold action plans. 

Covenant of Mayors signatories’ commitment to an inclusive and clean energy transition, strengthened local resilience, and active community involvement, has made them indispensable allies in shaping Europe’s vision.  

At a time of mounting geopolitical challenges and increasing climate disasters, the role of Europe’s towns, cities, and regions has never been more vital. On the frontline of crises, local governments act as first reponders but also serve as testing grounds for innovative solutions, preparing for tomorrow’s challenges.  

This year’s Ceremony will highlight how cities and towns are helping secure Europe’s future by providing citizens with clean and affordable energy while protecting them from climate risks – essential to building a stronger, more independent and better prepared Europe. 

What to expect 

The event will open with speeches from the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, and Vice President Raffaele Fitto, as well as President of the European Committee of the Regions, Kata Tüttő, and other distinguished high-level speakers. This opening will set the stage for discussions on a shared vision for Europe’s future, bringing together all levels of governance. 

The first panel will focus on the role of local governments in driving Europe’s energy independence through clean, affordable, and locally produced energy. 

Cities and towns are accelerating the shift to renewables and replacing imported fossil fuels with local, healthy alternatives to heat homes and power businesses. Local governments are working hand in hand with citizens and local stakeholders to reshape their energy landscapes, while safeguarding affordable access for all and protecting communities from price shocks.  

Mayors will join senior representatives of the European Commission, alongside the winners of the 2025 EU Covenant of Mayors Award, who will be honoured for their outstanding leadership and achievements in decarbonising heating and cooling at the local level. 

The second panel will spotlight how local action is key to protecting Europe from climate risks by strengthening resilience on the ground. 

High-level representatives of the European Commission will engage with local and regional leaders to explore how cities and regions can help communities prepare for and respond to the growing impacts of climate change. From mapping risk areas to redesigning urban spaces to withstand disasters like heatwaves and floods, local governments are working to protect citizens and communities during crises. 

The event will conclude with reflections from representatives of different governance levels on how Europe’s security, resilience, and prosperity can only be achieved through close cooperation with its towns, cities, and regions. 

See the full programme here.

Register now 

Bringing together mayors, regional leaders, and key EU decision-makers at the European Parliament, the event on 16 October 2025 will give momentum to Europe’s shared agenda for the years ahead. A promising event with a stellar line-up of speakers, not to be missed.  

Registrations are now open. Secure your spot today!