Eurocities Conference 2025 Braga: Stronger cities, fairer Europe

Braga, 4 – 6 Juni 2025

How can cities lead the way in shaping a fairer, more sustainable and prosperous Europe? That’s the key question for debate at the Eurocities conference, being hosted by the Portuguese city of Braga on 4-6 June 2025.

As the new EU institutions roll out their policy agendas, our annual conference – focusing on the theme ‘Stronger Cities, Fairer Europe’ – will be a pivotal opportunity to discuss how cities and the EU can work together to build a just future for everyone.

Taking place eight months after the appointment of the new College of EU Commissioners,’ this flagship event will be a key opportunity to evaluate how cities’ priorities have been incorporated into the EU’s work programme and budget framework.

Register now and view the full programme on the conference website.

Cities key role in building a better Europe

Cities, as the level of government closest to citizens, have an essential role to play in tackling the biggest challenges facing Europe, including climate action, competitiveness and the housing crisis. However, they often face limited resources and a lack of recognition at national and EU levels of government.

Eurocities 2025 Braga will dive into solutions, focusing on how cities can secure the funding and skills they need to meet growing demands, while also ensuring they have a say in decision-making at EU, national and regional levels.

Discussions will centre on strategic investments, enhancing city leadership, and using cities’ purchasing power to drive sustainable growth.

Spotlight on urban challenges

Alongside the main plenary sessions, the conference will feature several important side events tackling critical urban issues, including:

• Our dedicated political track: with sessions on the next EU budget and discussions with the Young City Shapers, as well as a Women Leaders lunch.
• Thriving Cities – Investing in homes, investing in Europe: How cities and the EU can collaborate to address rising housing challenges.
• Open Cities – Unlocking public spaces for all: Why cities must prioritise high-quality, vibrant and inclusive public spaces.
• Ambitious Cities – Shaping public procurement to boost competitiveness: How cities can drive sustainable growth and innovation through new approaches.

Celebrate city excellence, share ideas, and shape the future

We also have several exciting and engaging events and sessions planned for the Eurocities conference, including:

Eurocities Awards 2025: This year’s re-imagined awards will spotlight not only trailblazing urban initiatives but also the people driving change. Don’t miss the unveiling of the new ‘City Heroes’ award and the annual ‘Inspiring City’ Initiative. View the shortlist.

Young City Shapers: Young leaders aged 18–29 will take centre stage, working on a real-world policy challenge: fostering Roma inclusion in Braga. These inspiring participants, nominated by their cities, are already making an impact in public life, and now they will shape tomorrow’s cities. Registrations are still open, but be quick, the deadline is today, 9 April.

Learning Loop – Resilience in action: Failure isn’t the end – it’s how cities grow stronger. In this candid session, participants will share lessons from tough calls, setbacks, and successes, in the spirit of Stronger Cities, Fairer Europe. Registrations are open, but the deadline is 9 April.

Speednetworking sessions: Fast-paced, focused and fun, these sessions are a great way to connect with peers, exchange insights and showcase your best practices. Any topic is welcome, especially those aligned with the conference theme. Registrations are open until 9 April.

Eurocities Academy – Building Safe Digital Cities: This session will explore how cities can tackle online harms like hate speech and misinformation. Run with Nordic Safe Cities, it provides cities with practical strategies to enhance digital resilience and protect people from harmful content.

Study visits: Participants will take part in study visits showcasing Braga’s commitment to social innovation, culture, scientific research and innovation. Visits will be also organised to Porto and Guimaraes to explore these cities’ drive for green, digital and social change.  

Don’t miss out – register now!

Eurocities 2025 Braga is your chance to be part of a defining moment for urban Europe. Register today on the Eurocities 2025 Braga website to secure your place.

The website also includes programme highlights, accommodation tips, travel guidance and cultural experiences to enjoy in Braga and other Portuguese cities.

Please note for registration: Online credit card payments are not yet available. For now, participants can pay via bank transfer. Online payment will be activated soon.

Register and learn more at www.eurocities2025.eu. Let’s shape Europe’s future – together.