The cities and regions are factors of democracy in Europe. They help to maintain peace and political stability on the continent. They guarantee the protection of historical, political, social and cultural diversity in Europe. They represent an intrinsic part of European integration and globalization. The enhancement of regional democracy is the source of a more human governance, closer to the citizens and implying greater autonomy, responsibility and efficiency.
Following the recommendations of the European Commission to involve all the existing institutions, areas of activity and riparian countries in the implementation process of the European Union Strategy for the Danube Region, the Council of Danube Cities and Regions is a bridge that links European, regional and local institutions to the academic, business, financing networks and other representatives of the civil society, in respect of the European fundamental principles: cooperation, territorial cohesion and subsidiarity.
The key principles which will be mainstreamed throughout the entire structure and activities of the Council are: the respect for democracy and human rights, the rule of law, good governance, the principles of market economy, social and environmental sustainable development, the principles of ethnic and gender equality as well as the principle of regional balance.
Cities and Regions, actors in the construction of Europe
Launched in Ulm by the Deklaration der Donastadte, on July 4, 1998, as a major inter-municipal and interregional network, to become an example of cross-border cooperation in the Danube Region, the Council of Danube Cities and Regions – CODCR represents an essential link in transforming the Danube River in a strategic pivot for the European Union development, targeting a sustainable growth at macro-regional level.
With its political Head Office in Ulm and Operational Headquarters and General Secretariat in Bucharest, the Council of Danube Cities and Regions functions as a liaison office for all the stakeholders interested in implementing the Strategy through creating networks and monitoring projects in the priority areas established by the Strategy: environment, transport and energy, culture, social aspects, civil society, municipal affairs, e-governance, tourism, justice and security.