Future-proof territories: How provinces turn Cohesion into Resilience

Europe’s resilience starts locally. While territories face escalating climate risks, economic shocks, widening inequalities, demographic challenges, provinces act as a vital bridge between local needs and strategic investments. They play a key role in changing pressures into opportunities and ensuring an effective 'right to stay.' However, to fully act, they must be empowered by a strong EU Cohesion Policy. The discussion will explore how place-based governance, multi-level cooperation and smarter use of EU funds can strengthen social, economic and environmental resilience, helping territories anticipate change, adapt more quickly, and build a more balanced, future-proof Europe.