Under the guidance of the Spanish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, attention is turning towards the pivotal role of small and medium sized cities in fostering balanced territorial development. Recognizing the need to bridge the gap between major urban centers and rural areas, there is a need to establish a new territorial contract.

The ESPON working paper, commissioned by the Spanish EU Presidency, highlights the potential of cities such as Soria, Mérida, and Villena in mitigating existing imbalances. These cities, often referred to as mediators, are seen as crucial links in advancing territorial social justice.

As the EU reaffirms its commitment to cohesion and balanced development, empowering small and medium sized cities emerge as a key strategy in realizing this vision. Through targeted investments and strategic initiatives, the aim is to create a future where every region thrives, leaving no city or rural area behind.

Read the working paper (enclosed below) to better understand the challenges and opportunties ahead, and to support the small and medium sized cities in your territory!

If you would like to have more detailed information, such as a case study on a specific territory, please find the analytical reports below as well.