What Role for Regions in the EU’s Growth Model?

In her speech to the IIEA, Kata Tüttő, President of the European Commission of the Regions, addresses the European Commission’s proposal for the next EU budget (2028-2034). She argues that the proposals represent an unprecedented attempt to centralise and nationalise EU policies, weakening the role of regions and cities in the European project. Whilst recognizing the emerging challenges of security and competitiveness, President Tüttő speaks about how regional and local leaders can mobilise to promote Europe’s growth model by ensuring that local and regional authorities play a full and inclusive role. Speaker bio: Kata Tüttő is a Hungarian politician, economist, and public servant with over two decades of experience in local government, European policy-making, and urban sustainability. As of February 2025, she serves as president of the European Committee of the Regions (CoR), which represents local and regional governments from across Europe. At the same time, she remains a member of the Budapest City Council. Previously, Ms Tüttő served as the deputy mayor of Budapest from 2019-2024, overseeing climate adaptation, waste and water management, public transport, and utility services. She played a crucial role in making Budapest more sustainable and resilient, advocating for green investments and inclusive urban development.