Membership in European Structures

Bratislava’s status as the capital of a member state of the EU offers it the role of a full-fledged partner in European strategic platforms. Bratislava is represented in the Committee of the Regions, it participates in dialogues with the European Commission, and it is involved in relevant European policies and initiatives.

By actively participating in European structures and engaging in selected activities and relationships, Bratislava has the opportunity to influence the shaping of common European policies in support of the city’s priorities. At the same time, it is able to strengthen its visibility in the wider competitive environment and gain access to European projects.

Cities – and especially capital cities – are perceived as engines of growth and development as well as solvers of economic, social and environmental challenges.

Responding to the problems and challenges of cities is therefore essential for sustainable development and stability. One solution may be the EU’s strong regional policy instruments, which make it possible to successfully finance strategic projects. Thanks to the EU, Bratislava is making progress on key infrastructure projects.

The European Committee of the Regions

The European Committee of the Regions is an EU advisory body that has representatives from all twenty-seven member states who have been elected at a local and a regional level.

This is a political assembly that enables local and regional authorities to take an active part in the functioning of the EU and the development of European legislation. It also enables closer contact between the EU and the public because local elected representatives are closer to citizens.

The European Committee of the Regions encourages involvement at all levels – from regional and local authorities, associations, experts, academics and individual citizens – through a variety of channels. Bratislava is represented on the European Committee of the Regions by its mayor.