The city of The Hague is strengthening its collaboration with Europe through a European Strategy, aiming to make this cooperation more targeted and efficient. With this approach, the municipality seeks to exert greater influence on European policy and secure more EU funding for the city and its residents. The strategy focuses on three key themes: sustainability, digitalisation, and a future-proof economy. These align closely with the recently published work programme of the European Commission. Strengthening cooperation at this moment can help advance the city’s ambitions.
European Projects
The city has received EU funding for projects such as the construction of the Urban Water Buffer Cromvlietpark, the provision of reskilling vouchers in the Haaglanden labour market region, and the development of the Smart Electricity Grid in Scheveningen—an innovative energy network that better aligns supply and demand for sustainable energy. Additionally, The Hague’s designation as one of the ‘100 Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities’ by the EU enables the municipality to access further European funding in the coming years.
“In Europe, agreements are made on matters we take for granted in our daily lives, such as clean and affordable drinking water. But also on issues like data protection and sustainability. Strengthening our cooperation with the EU helps keep our city safe and liveable while preparing us for future challenges. At the same time, as an international city of peace and justice, we must take responsibility in these matters.”
Key Focus Areas of The Hague’s European Strategy
The European Strategy aligns with local, national, and European priorities and focuses on:
- Sustainability: Commitment to the energy transition, sustainable mobility, the circular economy, and a sustainable living environment.
- Digitalisation and Security: Digitalisation is a fundamental transformation, and as an international city of peace and justice, The Hague has a unique risk profile. Therefore, the city prioritises municipal cybersecurity and the digital resilience of both the city and its residents.
- A Future-Proof Economy: The Hague’s economy is shaped by cross-border developments, and the EU focuses on fostering a fair and competitive economy. The city is committed to supporting innovative ecosystems, promoting a flexible and resilient workforce, and effectively managing European labour migration.
Urban Agenda
Effective collaboration with the EU is not about quick wins but requires a focused and long-term approach. This includes building strong network relationships, conveying substantive policy messages, and developing successful European funding projects. A prime example of such networking efforts is The Hague’s recent selection for the Urban Agenda Partnership ‘Water-Sensitive Cities’. This initiative brings together a select group of cities, national governments, European institutions, and other key stakeholders to advise the European Commission on urban water management policies and funding in the coming years.
Read more about the European Projects in The Hague
The Hague Awarded EU Mission Label for Climate Neutral and Smart Cities
The Hague Awarded EU Mission Label for Climate Neutral and Smart Cities ...
Beach clubs at Scheveningen powered by a self-regulated electricity grid
Testing of a self-regulated electricity grid at Scheveningen ...
The Hague to tackle water scarcity and water quality challenges
The Hague joins the EU Urban Agenda to tackle water scarcity and quality challenges, promoting sustainable urban water resilience through collaboration.
More of Legal & Policy
How The Hague became the first city in the world to ban fossil fuel advertising
Read article How The Hague became the first city in the world to ban fossil fuel advertising