European Committee of the Regions concludes 173rd plenary session in Brussels

The 173rd Plenary Session of the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) concluded on October 14, 2026, in Brussels. Held concurrently with the European Week of Regions and Cities, the session saw the adoption of 19 opinions covering critical areas including European competitiveness, sustainable urban development, defense industry transformation, and social and territorial cohesion.

During the event, CoR President Kata Tutto presented the 2026 Annual Report on the State of Regions and Cities of the EU. The report identifies urgent challenges facing member states, specifically noting rising poverty levels, social exclusion, regional inequalities, and demographic shrinkage. Representatives, including a delegation from Cyprus, emphasized the necessity of protecting European Cohesion Policy, addressing water scarcity and climate change, and improving local access to housing and employment.

The discussions highlighted the importance of strengthening the resilience of local communities and ensuring that regional authorities have a substantive role in shaping future EU policies. Concerns were also raised regarding the long-term future and stability of European funding mechanisms in the face of these socioeconomic pressures.