Madrid’s Low Emission Zone (LEZ) has officially expanded to cover the entire city as of January 2025, marking a significant milestone in the city’s efforts to combat air pollution. This journey began in 2018 with the introduction of Madrid Central, the city’s first LEZ. Despite legal setbacks in 2020, the initiative laid the foundation for … Read more
Rethinking Urban Mobility in Brussels: The Rise of Cargo Bikes In a city where nine out of ten families with children rely on cars, a sustainable alternative is emerging: cargo bikes. These versatile, eco-friendly vehicles are revolutionizing how families, professionals, and entrepreneurs navigate the urban landscape. From school runs to grocery shopping, cargo bikes offer … Read more
A Walk Through HistoryThe concept of shared spaces reappeared in the 1980s, with road engineer Hans Monderman leading the charge in the Netherlands. By removing traffic signs and lanes, Monderman showed that streets could be designed to accommodate all users, not just cars. This idea has since been implemented in various cities, transforming areas previously … Read more
Over 100 million people in the European Union live with a disability, making cities pivotal in ensuring accessible and inclusive environments. However, accessibility isn’t just about removing physical barriers—it’s about fostering inclusivity across urban spaces, digital services, transport systems, and public events to accommodate diverse needs, whether physical, sensory, or intellectual. Vienna exemplifies this holistic … Read more
The year 2025 promises to be decisive for the European Union, with major political, economic, and diplomatic challenges on the horizon. Here are the key dates to watch in the first half of the year: January 2025 February 2025 March 2025 May 2025
The year 2025 marks a crucial milestone for Digital Citizenship Education (DCE). This initiative presents a unique opportunity to enhance its visibility and impact while reaffirming its vital role in an increasingly digital world. A Platform for Collaboration and ExchangeThis special year offers a strategic platform to bring together key stakeholders from the public, private, … Read more
Mental Health in the EU: A Growing ConcernNearly half of Europeans have faced emotional or psychosocial challenges in the past year, making mental health a critical issue across the EU. Cities are uniquely positioned to address these challenges, bridging healthcare gaps and tackling the broader social, economic, and environmental factors contributing to mental distress. Urban … Read more
Nestled in the heart of Styria, Graz is much more than just a regional capital. This thousand-year-old city, recognized as one of Austria’s most beautiful, is a treasure trove of history and culture. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999, it charms visitors with its medieval alleyways, Renaissance facades, Baroque palaces, and bustling … Read more
Kaunas, Lithuania’s second-largest city, transforms into a true winter wonderland during the holiday season. With its unique blend of history, modernity, and local traditions, Kaunas provides an unforgettable Christmas experience in its charming Old Town. The Town Hall Square, also known as the “White Swan Square,” becomes the heart of the festivities. A magnificent Christmas … Read more
A Historic Milestone for European Integration Romania and Bulgaria will officially become full members of the Schengen Area on January 1, 2025, following a landmark decision by European Union member states on December 12, 2024. This decision marks a significant achievement for the two Eastern European countries, which joined the EU in 2007 but had … Read more
*This event is not organized by the French Government. However we have been allowed by the French Government to use the emblem of the French Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
