Network of Towns

Topic description

Scope:

Municipalities and associations working together on a common theme in a long-term perspective may wish to develop networks of towns to make their cooperation more sustainable. Networking between municipalities on issues of common interest appears to be an important means for enabling the exchange of good practices.

Twinning is a strong link that binds municipalities; therefore, the potential of the networks created by a series of town twinning links should be used for developing thematic and long-lasting cooperation between towns. The European Commission supports the development of such networks, which are important for ensuring structured, intense and multifaceted cooperation, therefore contributing to maximising the impact of the Programme.

Networks of Towns are expected to:

- Integrate a range of activities around the subject(s) of common interest to be addressed in the context of the Programme’s objectives or multiannual priorities;

- Have defined target groups for which the selected themes are particularly relevant and involve community members active in the subject area (i.e. experts, local associations, citizens and citizens’ groups directly affected by the theme, etc.);

- Mobilise citizens across the Europe: a project should involve a minimum of 30% of invited participants. "Invited participants" are international participants sent by the eligible partners. At least 30% of the projects' participants travel from eligible Programme countries to the country/ies hosting Networks of Towns events. It is possible to have participants to events from countries other than those where project partners are established, provided that they come from eligible countries within the framework of the Europe for Citizens Programme.

- Serve as a basis for future initiatives and actions between the towns involved, on the issues addressed or possibly on further issues of common interest.