Networks and cities' news

From newcomers to neighbors: the importance of welcoming and integrating new residents

With declining birth rates and population migrating to large urban hubs, mid-sized and small cities all over Europe strive to survive by attracting new residents. Bringing new people in is a great first step, but there’s a bigger challenge ahead: making sure they feel at home, accepted by local community. 

City branding and marketing: Tools to attract visitors, investments and new residents

In an era where small and medium-sized cities face the challenges of depopulation, city branding and marketing emerge as crucial strategies to attract people to visit, work, study, and live in these areas. This was the key focus of Mr. Carlos Brito’s lecture during the URBACT APN "Residents of the Future" meeting in Mangualde, Portugal. As an expert in city branding, Mr. Brito emphasized that branding transcends promotional efforts - it is a strategic framework for enhancing visibility, retaining communities, and attracting newcomers.

Rethinking housing policies in order to fight depopulation: Saint-Quentin’s Approach

One of the key strategies to address depopulation lies in rethinking housing policies. Ensuring high-quality, affordable housing that meets the needs of diverse population groups—especially young people—is essential to reversing the trend of outmigration. By fostering vibrant neighborhoods and improving living conditions, housing policies play a pivotal role in halting the exodus of residents and revitalizing the urban fabric.

From Decline to Growth: Mantova's Journey to Reclaiming Its Future

For the first time in 30 years, Mantova, a historic city in northern Italy, has surpassed 50,000 residents. This milestone, officially confirmed on December 19, 2024, demonstrates that reversing depopulation trends is not just a distant dream but an achievable reality. The city’s experience, supported by the URBACT "Residents of the Future" network and its goal to create sustainable and inclusive solutions to population decline, offers valuable lessons for other mid-sized towns facing similar challenges.

Your Future Lives Here: Addressing Population Decline in Mantova, Italy

URBACT stands out as a dynamic hub for collaboration, enabling cities across Europe to share inspiring practices and shape brighter futures together. At the recent transnational meeting of the Residents of the Future network in Mangualde (Portugal), the City of Mantova (Italy) showcased an excellent example of how cities can learn and grow through this vibrant exchange of ideas.

Thanks to Caterina Salvo and Emanuele Salmin for contributions on article.

Housing Challenges in Shrinking Cities

For the first time in European history, a dedicated Housing Commissioner has been appointed to the European Commission, reflecting a growing recognition of housing as a critical issue across the continent. While much attention is focused on the housing crisis in rapidly growing cities, the challenges faced by shrinking cities often remain underexplored.

Written by Liat Rogel - URBACT Expert
Edited & published by Krešimir Grubić