Mathias De Clercq, the Mayor of Ghent, has been elected president of Eurocities, a prominent network representing 222 cities across 38 countries. The election took place on Friday in Braga,

Portugal.

Eurocities serves as a key platform for urban cooperation and policy dialogue with the European Union, aiming to influence policy and secure funding for urban development. The organization unites mayors, city officials, and civil servants to strengthen cities’ roles in shaping the European agenda.

De Clercq, who previously served as vice-president of the network, expressed his commitment to amplifying urban voices in Europe. “Now I can have even more influence on the European agenda,” he told VRT NWS following his appointment.

In his new role, De Clercq represents the interests of 150 million urban residents. He emphasized Eurocities' commitment to advocating for increased European investment in affordable housing and climate adaptation. “European cities face similar challenges everywhere: housing affordability, threats to democracy, and the accelerating impacts of climate change,” he said. “Cities must be heard. What’s good for cities is good for Europe.”

He also highlighted cities’ unique ability to respond to societal challenges. “Cities are flexible and resilient — ideal places to test and implement solutions,” he noted. As president, De Clercq plans to maintain close contact with EU institutions, regularly traveling to Brussels to engage with European commissioners and parliamentarians. Photo by Gent09, Wikimedia commons.