Assembly of European Regions

The Assembly of European Regions (AER) is an independent network of regional authorities in Europe. It was established in 1985 and serves as a platform for regional cooperation and dialogue at the European level. AER aims to promote the interests of its member regions and contribute to European integration.

The organization brings together more than 200 regional authorities from 35 European countries, including both regions within European Union (EU) member states and regions from non-EU countries. AER provides a forum for regional leaders, officials, and experts to exchange knowledge, share best practices, and collaborate on various regional policy areas.

The main objectives of the Assembly of European Regions include:

Advocacy: AER represents the interests of its member regions, promoting their concerns and priorities to European institutions and other international bodies.
Interregional cooperation: AER facilitates cooperation and partnerships between regions, encouraging the exchange of experiences, expertise, and innovative approaches to regional development.
Policy development: AER actively participates in shaping EU policies and programs, particularly those that impact regional development, cohesion, and governance.
Capacity-building: AER supports its member regions by providing training, resources, and opportunities for knowledge-sharing to strengthen regional governance and administration.

AER organizes various events, conferences, and working groups to address regional challenges and opportunities. It covers a wide range of policy areas, including economic development, innovation, social affairs, culture, environment, education, and more. The organization also fosters collaboration with other European institutions, networks, and stakeholders to enhance regional cooperation and influence policy decisions.

In summary, the Assembly of European Regions plays a vital role in promoting regional interests, fostering interregional cooperation, and contributing to the development of effective regional policies in Europe.