European Alliance member Andries Gryffroy took part in a high‑level panel on 19 March 2026, organised by the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR), focusing on how to turn EU climate objectives into concrete action on the ground. In his intervention, he underlined the indispensable role of local and regional authorities in delivering an effective and credible climate policy.

Gryffroy reminded participants that around 70% of climate policy must be implemented at local and regional level, stressing that this reality should shape the EU's approach to climate and energy governance. “They are our so‑called boots on the ground," he said. “They are the ones that will need to get the job done."

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Direct access to funding

Gryffroy criticised the European Commission for failing to recognise this pivotal role. He urged the Commission to explicitly acknowledge local and regional authorities as key partners and to reflect this in future climate and energy frameworks. He also voiced particular concern about the renationalisation of funds proposed under the new Multiannual Financial Framework.

“Local and regional authorities need direct access to EU funding," he argued. “That is the only way to ensure they have sufficient resources to take concrete steps to attain our climate goals."

Energy is security and security is energy​

Gryffroy also addressed the impact of the current geopolitical context, noting that rising energy prices have once again highlighted the strategic dimension of climate and energy policy. “These are not only 'green' policies," he said. “They are an essential part of our security too."

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