The EU’s first Regional and Local Barometer gives an overview of the state of regions and cities during this COVID-19 crisis, as they have been on the frontlines of dealing with this unprecedented situation. The evidence-based report, produced by the European Committee of the Regions, shows how they are key to the economic recovery, and highlights the impact and measures taken. The Barometer will help regions and cities make their voice heard in the EU decision-making process, backing their claims with evidence and data.

The first edition of the Barometer of Cities and Regions gives EU decision-makers, national governments, regions, cities and stakeholders a clear understanding of what this crisis means on the ground, and what its consequences are for our communities. The Barometer, which will be annual report, also aims to help guide policy choices for recovery.

The publication highlights some successful measures taken by some Committee of the Regions members in their regions, who were confronted with health, economic, social, environmental and local democracy and governance impacts.

The report includes these members of the Renew Europe in the European Committee of the Regions (Renew Europe CoR):

• Province of South-Holland: Jeannette Baljeu

In cooperation with other private and public institutions such as The Hague or Rotterdam, has launched a platform called “Resilient Society” where innovative companies can provide solutions for COVID-related challenges.

• Region of Île-de-France: Frank Cecconi

Île-de-France established emergency equipment fund of 10 million euros to purchase equipment for healthcare professionals. It has financed a digital platform (COVIDom) for the home monitoring of COVID-19 patients and arranged for the provision of accommodation in high schools (9 200 beds and 45 individual rooms) for health professionals as well for non-COVID-19 hospitalised people to relieve hospitals. 50 million euro will be made available for the health sector, including measures to boost telemedicine in the region and financial support for healthcare volunteers and students who provided valuable assistance during the crisis.

• City of Zwolle: René De Heer

A temporary “brigade” made up of members of public administrations and private stakeholders has been created in order to support employers in the continuity of their businesses. The brigade has been proactively in contact with entrepreneurs through online and offline channels and has implemented a joint communication and monitoring strategy on the national and regional aid actions. All these initiatives, the existing aid support schemes and other useful links have been included on a new dedicated website, which employers can use as a platform to share experiences and tips.

• Istria: Valter Drandric

In Istria the education system has been giving a hand to the health sector. Primary and high school students from Istria county, along with their teachers, principals and other school staff, helped to produce protective visors for medical staff using the 3D printers at the schools’ disposal.

For more information on local and regional action(s) taken by our members at the start of the pandemic and still ongoing, visit the COVID-19 updates page maintained by Renew Europe CoR

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