The European Union (EU) has formally joined the Coalition for Ambitious Multilevel Partnerships (CHAMP), reaffirming its belief in the essential role of cities and regions in achieving global climate goals and building resilience. This The landmark decision comes on November 5, 2025, ahead of the COP30 conference.

The formal endorsement of the CHAMP initiative by the European Union highlights the paramount importance of coordinated climate action, which must take place across all levels of governance.

Why multi-level governance is key

Effective multilevel governance is a central element of an effective EU climate policy and of a clean and just transition at the local level. The involvement of local and regional actors is increasingly critical as climate disruptions have a growing impact, particularly on urban areas. It is therefore essential to include them in the design and implementation of national preparedness and resilience plans.

From an economic and emissions perspective, effective multi-level governance could significantly contribute to fully exploiting the emission reduction potential of cities and regions. It is highlighted that it can help significantly reduce the current emissions gap by up to 40 % and support the full implementation of nationally determined contributions (NDCs).

What is CHAMP?

The CHAMP coalition was officially launched at COP28 in 2023. It brings together national and subnational governments to strengthen cooperation in the design and subsequent implementation of national climate plans, including NDCs. The initiative supports structured dialogue, ensures coherent policy implementation, and improves access to climate finance for subnational actors. These principles reflect the Paris Agreement’s emphasis on inclusive and effective cooperation at all levels of governance.

The EU has supported the principles and objectives of CHAMP since its launch. Today's formal endorsement confirms the EU's long-standing confidence in CHAMP as a valuable platform to strengthen cooperation between national, regional and local authorities in the global effort to address climate change.

Linking ambitions with local implementation

Cities, regions and local authorities are seen as key partners in translating political commitments into concrete actions, from supporting the energy transition to building climate resilience. The EU has a rich history of working closely with local actors, not only through its long-standing cohesion policy but also through dedicated initiatives.

Existing partnerships include, for example: Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy (Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy), whose pillar in the EU has become the initiative EU Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy (EU Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy). This initiative brings together thousands of cities and local authorities with common goals, reinforcing the importance of local leadership in achieving broader climate goals. The EU also runs EU mission for climate-neutral and smart cities (EU Mission on Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities), which highlights the key role of cities in innovation and meaningful climate action, while EU Climate Change Adaptation Mission (EU Mission on Adaptation to Climate Change) complements this work, particularly in cooperation with European regions.

By supporting CHAMP, the EU confirms its approach, which unites ambition at European level with innovation and implementation at local level.

Joint efforts for transformation

Executive Vice President for Clean, Just and Competitive Transition, Teresa Ribera, emphasized that „"effective climate action depends on every level of governance moving in the same direction"“ and coordination between national, regional and local authorities is essential to achieve the desired scale and pace of transformation.

Commissioner for Climate, Zero Emissions and Clean Growth, Wopke Hoekstra, added that „Multi-level governance is not just about ensuring everyone has a seat at the table – it’s about delivering results.“ According to him, local and regional authorities play a key role in translating national and European climate targets into real progress on the ground. Their „"energy, creativity and leadership"“ they help realize grand global ambitions.

This step complements existing EU policies and partnerships with Member States, ensuring mutual support and cooperation in pursuing the goal of becoming the first climate-neutral continent by 2050. The European Commission will continue to work with CHAMP partners and Member States to share experiences, exchange good practices and promote integrated approaches to the implementation of the Paris Agreement. JRi