The CoR gives regions and cities a formal say in EU law-making ensuring that the position and needs of regional and local authorities are respected. Through the adoption of opinions and resolutions, the CoR makes sure that the voice of local and regional authorities across Europe is heard on matters that directly impact them.
Six thematic commissions prepare the opinions of the CoR in response to proposed new legislation by the European Commission. These commissions then submit draft versions of opinions and resolutions for discussion and adoption at every Plenary session (6 per year).
These commissions are:
All the CoR members are elected local and regional representatives from the EU 27 Member States. Members from one country form the National Delegation which reflects the political, geographical, regional and local balance of their country. Members can also join one of the five political groups of the CoR: European People’s Party (EPP), Party of European Socialists (PES), Renew Europe (former ALDE), European Alliance Group (EA), the Greens and European Conservatives and Reformists Group (ECR). Members can also choose to not be part of a political party if they so wish (non-aligned).
The European Union adopts legislation in a number of areas that have a direct impact on Member States and on local and regional authorities.
Established in 1994, the Committee of the Regions (CoR) is an EU advisory body composed of 350 local and regional elected representatives.
To help achieve its various policy objectives, the European Union provides financial support for activities to be undertaken by organisations, including local and regional authorities.
One of the four key functions of the Irish Regions European Office is to enable local and regional actors to make the most of having their own permanent physical presence at the heart of Europe with all that entails in terms of tapping into useful connections.
