City diplomacy

Together with other cities, Tallinn bears global responsibility for shaping the future. As a recognised and trusted partner in global networks, Tallinn can influence international policy trends and decisions that determine the future of Tallinn and other cities in economic, environmental and social contexts.

Increasing Tallinn’s influence and importance in global organisations


Cities are playing an increasingly important role in combating climate change and achieving the SDGs: according to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), 64% of the SDGs can only be achieved through local and regional authorities. The OECD, UN and EU documents (UN Sustainable Development Goals Report, OECD report “Cities and Climate Change”, UN-HABITAT programme “Inclusive Communities, Thriving Cities”) underline the leading role of cities in implementing the green transition and reducing social inequalities. They also stress that the capacity of cities to implement local solutions is critical to adapting to climate change, achieving climate neutrality and ensuring a sustainable and socially just living environment.


This is why Tallinn has two priority focus themes for its participation in global organisations, which relate to global challenges that are important for the development of the city:


  1. Climate change, green technology deployment and fair transition
  2. Sustainable development


Tallinn will strive to achieve a stronger international position and visibility in global fora and organisations related to these issues. Tallinn’s increased participation in global networks will allow it to showcase its success stories and activities, make new contacts, bring new knowledge and skills, cooperation opportunities, projects and investments to the city. All of this in turn improves Tallinn’s competitiveness.



Activities


Ensuring the representation of the city’s leadership in global fora and other cooperation formats

Tallinn’s leadership participates in key international cooperation and representation formats and fora (such as the OECD, ICLEI, UNECE, UN-Habitat, OECD Champion Mayors for Inclusive Growth, UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network UCCN, Bloomberg Philanthropies Mayors Challenge, etc.) on global climate issues, sustainable development, green and digital innovation and cultural heritage.


Developing the Tallinn Sustainability Governance Hub

The Centre will be an important platform to strengthen Tallinn’s international position as a leader in sustainability governance. Through the Centre, Tallinn cooperates and initiates joint projects with international sustainability-related organisations (UN, OECD, ICLEI), other cities, universities, think tanks and other actors.


Effective use of international communication channels

To increase the city’s international visibility, promote its activities and experiences and find new partners, Tallinn actively uses the communication channels of its member organisations and networks.



Strengthening Tallinn’s influence in representing city interests in the EU 


At EU level, long-term policy priorities and development trends are set which have a direct impact on urban development. According to the European Committee of the Regions (CoR), around 70% of EU legislation is implemented at local and regional level.


This underlines the importance of local and regional authorities in the practical implementation of EU policies and laws. As most of the innovation and economic development in the EU takes place in cities and metropolitan regions, Tallinn’s capacity to invest and develop diversified public services has a direct impact on the competitiveness of Estonia as a whole.


Access to EU funds has become increasingly important for Tallinn in recent decades. They help to achieve Tallinn’s climate goals, improve the quality of public services and access to services, increase knowledge and skills, and harness green technologies, thereby enhancing the well-being of the city’s citizens.


As the role of cities in shaping and implementing EU policies becomes increasingly important, Tallinn also needs to build and maintain strong links with national and international partners and EU institutions. This will help to ensure that the interests of the city(s) are effectively represented and defended in EU decision-making processes, particularly on issues related to climate, a fair green and digital transition, and securing the funding needed for sustainable urban development.


To this end, Tallinn will help to promote urban interests in the EU and will be an active and trusted partner in the discussions on EU urban policy and the design of the next generation of funds and instruments.



Activities


Monitoring European Union policies and shaping the city’s position

The City Diplomacy and Communications Department of the Tallinn Strategic Management Office coordinates the development of Tallinn’s views and proposals on EU cohesion policy in cooperation with the city’s adminstration and the City Office. The city agencies monitor and analyse EU policy developments in their areas to ensure that the city’s interests are considered and that it participates effectively in policy-making.


Ensuring active representation in representative European urban organisations

Tallinn’s politicians (and, where appropriate, officials) are systematically and actively involved in strategic European organisations and networks such as Eurocities, ICLEI Europe, the European Committee of the Regions, the European Covenant of Mayors on Energy and Climate. This provides an opportunity to steer and shape processes, to advocate effectively on behalf of urban interests and to ensure access to EU financial instruments. Tallinn will also aim to be part of the governing bodies of representative European cities’ organisations such as Eurocities and ICLEI and actively participate in their working groups.


Working with other cities and organisations to influence EU policies

Tallinn cooperates with other capitals and pan-European networks and representative organisations to promote policy dialogue with the EU institutions, share information and develop common positions on EU cohesion policy, its financial instruments and other urban policies. It also establishes and maintains direct contacts with policymakers in other cities to ensure an effective voice in shaping policies that are important for the city.


Use of EU advisory services and technical support

Tallinn is actively using the advisory services, training and know-how provided by EU networks of cities and organisations to obtain technical support for both development activities and applying for funding.


Strengthening Tallinn’s representation in Brussels

To ensure a greater presence of Tallinn in EU-level debates and working formats of relevance to the city, and to foster closer relations with the EU institutions, Brussels-based international organisations such as Eurocities, and the Paris-based OECD, Tallinn’s representation in Brussels will be restored.


The aim is to reinforce strategic relations and cooperation with the EU institutions, the Brussels representations of other cities and regions and the relevant stakeholders and represent the interests of EU urban policy. This will include building coalitions with other cities to increase EU support for cities, improving the visibility of cities in EU urban working groups, and disseminating information on EU legislation, funding instruments and cooperation opportunities.


Cooperation with embassies in Tallinn

At least twice a year, Tallinn organises meetings with representatives of embassies in Tallinn to present Tallinn’s internationalisation activities, discuss cooperation and receive feedback on its activities.



Exchange of experience between cities


City-to-city exchanges allow cities to learn from each other, share and transfer best practices, innovative solutions and technology, and thereby improve the quality of public services. It also helps to strengthen preparedness for crises by enabling a rapid and coordinated response. Tallinn works closely with cities from countries that are important economic partners for Estonia, and which also provide opportunities for Tallinn to acquire new knowledge and experience in the fields of digitisation, mobility, sustainability and innovative governance.



Activities


Development of the Tallinn-Helsinki cross-border functional area

Tallinn cooperates closely with the capitals of neighbouring countries, but a particular priority is cooperation with the City of Helsinki, which aims to develop the Tallinn-Helsinki functional cross- border area.


Cooperation with capitals of the Baltic Sea region on civil protection and crisis preparedness

The Baltic Sea region faces many common challenges, including the need for crisis management, cyber threats, climate change-related disasters and ensuring energy security. Cities are often the first responders in emergencies, which is why cooperation between cities is crucial. As a result, there is a growing need for closer cooperation between Riga, Vilnius, Warsaw, Helsinki, Stockholm and other cities in the Baltic Sea region in the fields of civil protection, crisis management and emergency preparedness.


The aim is to share best practices, streamline crisis management processes and improve preparedness for emergencies. It will also allow for more efficient use of resources, for example to improve civil protection capabilities through joint projects. Closer cooperation between the capitals of the region will not only help to mitigate risks but will also contribute to long-term stability and resilience across the region.


Cooperation with other European capitals

Cooperation with other European capitals is based on common interests and Tallinn’s development needs, primarily through European cooperation projects and thematic partnerships. Tallinn actively promotes its experience and good practices in both bilateral and multilateral cooperation, to find new partners for know-how and cooperation, to participate in major European development and innovation projects and to obtain funding to achieve the city’s development objectives.


Development cooperation with Ukrainian

Ukraine is a priority country for development cooperation in Tallinn. Cooperation includes both humanitarian aid and support to Ukrainian cities in their preparation for EU membership.


Cooperation with remote regions

Tallinn cooperates bilaterally with cities in more remote regions, to support Tallinn’s businesses in these regions, to bring unique knowledge and skills to the city or to increase Tallinn’s international visibility in the global organisations and city marketing focus areas.


Cooperation with historic twin cities

Tallinn’s cooperation with historic twin cities will take place on the same basis as with all other cities in similar regions, if it contributes to the development of areas of importance to the city or strengthens the city’s diplomatic ties. Existing twinning agreements will not be renewed by Tallinn, and this form of cooperation will not be developed separately.


City diplomacy

Together with other cities, Tallinn bears global responsibility for shaping the future. As a recognised and trusted partner in global networks, Tallinn can influence international policy trends and decisions that determine the future of Tallinn and other cities in economic, environmental and social contexts.

Increasing Tallinn’s influence and importance in global organisations


Cities are playing an increasingly important role in combating climate change and achieving the SDGs: according to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), 64% of the SDGs can only be achieved through local and regional authorities. The OECD, UN and EU documents (UN Sustainable Development Goals Report, OECD report “Cities and Climate Change”, UN-HABITAT programme “Inclusive Communities, Thriving Cities”) underline the leading role of cities in implementing the green transition and reducing social inequalities. They also stress that the capacity of cities to implement local solutions is critical to adapting to climate change, achieving climate neutrality and ensuring a sustainable and socially just living environment.


This is why Tallinn has two priority focus themes for its participation in global organisations, which relate to global challenges that are important for the development of the city:


  1. Climate change, green technology deployment and fair transition
  2. Sustainable development


Tallinn will strive to achieve a stronger international position and visibility in global fora and organisations related to these issues. Tallinn’s increased participation in global networks will allow it to showcase its success stories and activities, make new contacts, bring new knowledge and skills, cooperation opportunities, projects and investments to the city. All of this in turn improves Tallinn’s competitiveness.



Activities


Ensuring the representation of the city’s leadership in global fora and other cooperation formats

Tallinn’s leadership participates in key international cooperation and representation formats and fora (such as the OECD, ICLEI, UNECE, UN-Habitat, OECD Champion Mayors for Inclusive Growth, UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network UCCN, Bloomberg Philanthropies Mayors Challenge, etc.) on global climate issues, sustainable development, green and digital innovation and cultural heritage.


Developing the Tallinn Sustainability Governance Hub

The Centre will be an important platform to strengthen Tallinn’s international position as a leader in sustainability governance. Through the Centre, Tallinn cooperates and initiates joint projects with international sustainability-related organisations (UN, OECD, ICLEI), other cities, universities, think tanks and other actors.


Effective use of international communication channels

To increase the city’s international visibility, promote its activities and experiences and find new partners, Tallinn actively uses the communication channels of its member organisations and networks.



Strengthening Tallinn’s influence in representing city interests in the EU 


At EU level, long-term policy priorities and development trends are set which have a direct impact on urban development. According to the European Committee of the Regions (CoR), around 70% of EU legislation is implemented at local and regional level.


This underlines the importance of local and regional authorities in the practical implementation of EU policies and laws. As most of the innovation and economic development in the EU takes place in cities and metropolitan regions, Tallinn’s capacity to invest and develop diversified public services has a direct impact on the competitiveness of Estonia as a whole.


Access to EU funds has become increasingly important for Tallinn in recent decades. They help to achieve Tallinn’s climate goals, improve the quality of public services and access to services, increase knowledge and skills, and harness green technologies, thereby enhancing the well-being of the city’s citizens.


As the role of cities in shaping and implementing EU policies becomes increasingly important, Tallinn also needs to build and maintain strong links with national and international partners and EU institutions. This will help to ensure that the interests of the city(s) are effectively represented and defended in EU decision-making processes, particularly on issues related to climate, a fair green and digital transition, and securing the funding needed for sustainable urban development.


To this end, Tallinn will help to promote urban interests in the EU and will be an active and trusted partner in the discussions on EU urban policy and the design of the next generation of funds and instruments.



Activities


Monitoring European Union policies and shaping the city’s position

The City Diplomacy and Communications Department of the Tallinn Strategic Management Office coordinates the development of Tallinn’s views and proposals on EU cohesion policy in cooperation with the city’s adminstration and the City Office. The city agencies monitor and analyse EU policy developments in their areas to ensure that the city’s interests are considered and that it participates effectively in policy-making.


Ensuring active representation in representative European urban organisations

Tallinn’s politicians (and, where appropriate, officials) are systematically and actively involved in strategic European organisations and networks such as Eurocities, ICLEI Europe, the European Committee of the Regions, the European Covenant of Mayors on Energy and Climate. This provides an opportunity to steer and shape processes, to advocate effectively on behalf of urban interests and to ensure access to EU financial instruments. Tallinn will also aim to be part of the governing bodies of representative European cities’ organisations such as Eurocities and ICLEI and actively participate in their working groups.


Working with other cities and organisations to influence EU policies

Tallinn cooperates with other capitals and pan-European networks and representative organisations to promote policy dialogue with the EU institutions, share information and develop common positions on EU cohesion policy, its financial instruments and other urban policies. It also establishes and maintains direct contacts with policymakers in other cities to ensure an effective voice in shaping policies that are important for the city.


Use of EU advisory services and technical support

Tallinn is actively using the advisory services, training and know-how provided by EU networks of cities and organisations to obtain technical support for both development activities and applying for funding.


Strengthening Tallinn’s representation in Brussels

To ensure a greater presence of Tallinn in EU-level debates and working formats of relevance to the city, and to foster closer relations with the EU institutions, Brussels-based international organisations such as Eurocities, and the Paris-based OECD, Tallinn’s representation in Brussels will be restored.


The aim is to reinforce strategic relations and cooperation with the EU institutions, the Brussels representations of other cities and regions and the relevant stakeholders and represent the interests of EU urban policy. This will include building coalitions with other cities to increase EU support for cities, improving the visibility of cities in EU urban working groups, and disseminating information on EU legislation, funding instruments and cooperation opportunities.


Cooperation with embassies in Tallinn

At least twice a year, Tallinn organises meetings with representatives of embassies in Tallinn to present Tallinn’s internationalisation activities, discuss cooperation and receive feedback on its activities.



Exchange of experience between cities


City-to-city exchanges allow cities to learn from each other, share and transfer best practices, innovative solutions and technology, and thereby improve the quality of public services. It also helps to strengthen preparedness for crises by enabling a rapid and coordinated response. Tallinn works closely with cities from countries that are important economic partners for Estonia, and which also provide opportunities for Tallinn to acquire new knowledge and experience in the fields of digitisation, mobility, sustainability and innovative governance.



Activities


Development of the Tallinn-Helsinki cross-border functional area

Tallinn cooperates closely with the capitals of neighbouring countries, but a particular priority is cooperation with the City of Helsinki, which aims to develop the Tallinn-Helsinki functional cross- border area.


Cooperation with capitals of the Baltic Sea region on civil protection and crisis preparedness

The Baltic Sea region faces many common challenges, including the need for crisis management, cyber threats, climate change-related disasters and ensuring energy security. Cities are often the first responders in emergencies, which is why cooperation between cities is crucial. As a result, there is a growing need for closer cooperation between Riga, Vilnius, Warsaw, Helsinki, Stockholm and other cities in the Baltic Sea region in the fields of civil protection, crisis management and emergency preparedness.


The aim is to share best practices, streamline crisis management processes and improve preparedness for emergencies. It will also allow for more efficient use of resources, for example to improve civil protection capabilities through joint projects. Closer cooperation between the capitals of the region will not only help to mitigate risks but will also contribute to long-term stability and resilience across the region.


Cooperation with other European capitals

Cooperation with other European capitals is based on common interests and Tallinn’s development needs, primarily through European cooperation projects and thematic partnerships. Tallinn actively promotes its experience and good practices in both bilateral and multilateral cooperation, to find new partners for know-how and cooperation, to participate in major European development and innovation projects and to obtain funding to achieve the city’s development objectives.


Development cooperation with Ukrainian

Ukraine is a priority country for development cooperation in Tallinn. Cooperation includes both humanitarian aid and support to Ukrainian cities in their preparation for EU membership.


Cooperation with remote regions

Tallinn cooperates bilaterally with cities in more remote regions, to support Tallinn’s businesses in these regions, to bring unique knowledge and skills to the city or to increase Tallinn’s international visibility in the global organisations and city marketing focus areas.


Cooperation with historic twin cities

Tallinn’s cooperation with historic twin cities will take place on the same basis as with all other cities in similar regions, if it contributes to the development of areas of importance to the city or strengthens the city’s diplomatic ties. Existing twinning agreements will not be renewed by Tallinn, and this form of cooperation will not be developed separately.


City diplomacy

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Together with other cities, Tallinn bears global responsibility for shaping the future. As a recognised and trusted partner in global networks, Tallinn can influence international policy trends and decisions that determine the future of Tallinn and other cities in economic, environmental and social contexts.

  • Published

  •  

  • Author

  •  

Increasing Tallinn’s influence and importance in global organisations


Cities are playing an increasingly important role in combating climate change and achieving the SDGs: according to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), 64% of the SDGs can only be achieved through local and regional authorities. The OECD, UN and EU documents (UN Sustainable Development Goals Report, OECD report “Cities and Climate Change”, UN-HABITAT programme “Inclusive Communities, Thriving Cities”) underline the leading role of cities in implementing the green transition and reducing social inequalities. They also stress that the capacity of cities to implement local solutions is critical to adapting to climate change, achieving climate neutrality and ensuring a sustainable and socially just living environment.


This is why Tallinn has two priority focus themes for its participation in global organisations, which relate to global challenges that are important for the development of the city:


  1. Climate change, green technology deployment and fair transition
  2. Sustainable development


Tallinn will strive to achieve a stronger international position and visibility in global fora and organisations related to these issues. Tallinn’s increased participation in global networks will allow it to showcase its success stories and activities, make new contacts, bring new knowledge and skills, cooperation opportunities, projects and investments to the city. All of this in turn improves Tallinn’s competitiveness.



Activities


Ensuring the representation of the city’s leadership in global fora and other cooperation formats

Tallinn’s leadership participates in key international cooperation and representation formats and fora (such as the OECD, ICLEI, UNECE, UN-Habitat, OECD Champion Mayors for Inclusive Growth, UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network UCCN, Bloomberg Philanthropies Mayors Challenge, etc.) on global climate issues, sustainable development, green and digital innovation and cultural heritage.


Developing the Tallinn Sustainability Governance Hub

The Centre will be an important platform to strengthen Tallinn’s international position as a leader in sustainability governance. Through the Centre, Tallinn cooperates and initiates joint projects with international sustainability-related organisations (UN, OECD, ICLEI), other cities, universities, think tanks and other actors.


Effective use of international communication channels

To increase the city’s international visibility, promote its activities and experiences and find new partners, Tallinn actively uses the communication channels of its member organisations and networks.



Strengthening Tallinn’s influence in representing city interests in the EU 


At EU level, long-term policy priorities and development trends are set which have a direct impact on urban development. According to the European Committee of the Regions (CoR), around 70% of EU legislation is implemented at local and regional level.


This underlines the importance of local and regional authorities in the practical implementation of EU policies and laws. As most of the innovation and economic development in the EU takes place in cities and metropolitan regions, Tallinn’s capacity to invest and develop diversified public services has a direct impact on the competitiveness of Estonia as a whole.


Access to EU funds has become increasingly important for Tallinn in recent decades. They help to achieve Tallinn’s climate goals, improve the quality of public services and access to services, increase knowledge and skills, and harness green technologies, thereby enhancing the well-being of the city’s citizens.


As the role of cities in shaping and implementing EU policies becomes increasingly important, Tallinn also needs to build and maintain strong links with national and international partners and EU institutions. This will help to ensure that the interests of the city(s) are effectively represented and defended in EU decision-making processes, particularly on issues related to climate, a fair green and digital transition, and securing the funding needed for sustainable urban development.


To this end, Tallinn will help to promote urban interests in the EU and will be an active and trusted partner in the discussions on EU urban policy and the design of the next generation of funds and instruments.



Activities


Monitoring European Union policies and shaping the city’s position

The City Diplomacy and Communications Department of the Tallinn Strategic Management Office coordinates the development of Tallinn’s views and proposals on EU cohesion policy in cooperation with the city’s adminstration and the City Office. The city agencies monitor and analyse EU policy developments in their areas to ensure that the city’s interests are considered and that it participates effectively in policy-making.


Ensuring active representation in representative European urban organisations

Tallinn’s politicians (and, where appropriate, officials) are systematically and actively involved in strategic European organisations and networks such as Eurocities, ICLEI Europe, the European Committee of the Regions, the European Covenant of Mayors on Energy and Climate. This provides an opportunity to steer and shape processes, to advocate effectively on behalf of urban interests and to ensure access to EU financial instruments. Tallinn will also aim to be part of the governing bodies of representative European cities’ organisations such as Eurocities and ICLEI and actively participate in their working groups.


Working with other cities and organisations to influence EU policies

Tallinn cooperates with other capitals and pan-European networks and representative organisations to promote policy dialogue with the EU institutions, share information and develop common positions on EU cohesion policy, its financial instruments and other urban policies. It also establishes and maintains direct contacts with policymakers in other cities to ensure an effective voice in shaping policies that are important for the city.


Use of EU advisory services and technical support

Tallinn is actively using the advisory services, training and know-how provided by EU networks of cities and organisations to obtain technical support for both development activities and applying for funding.


Strengthening Tallinn’s representation in Brussels

To ensure a greater presence of Tallinn in EU-level debates and working formats of relevance to the city, and to foster closer relations with the EU institutions, Brussels-based international organisations such as Eurocities, and the Paris-based OECD, Tallinn’s representation in Brussels will be restored.


The aim is to reinforce strategic relations and cooperation with the EU institutions, the Brussels representations of other cities and regions and the relevant stakeholders and represent the interests of EU urban policy. This will include building coalitions with other cities to increase EU support for cities, improving the visibility of cities in EU urban working groups, and disseminating information on EU legislation, funding instruments and cooperation opportunities.


Cooperation with embassies in Tallinn

At least twice a year, Tallinn organises meetings with representatives of embassies in Tallinn to present Tallinn’s internationalisation activities, discuss cooperation and receive feedback on its activities.



Exchange of experience between cities


City-to-city exchanges allow cities to learn from each other, share and transfer best practices, innovative solutions and technology, and thereby improve the quality of public services. It also helps to strengthen preparedness for crises by enabling a rapid and coordinated response. Tallinn works closely with cities from countries that are important economic partners for Estonia, and which also provide opportunities for Tallinn to acquire new knowledge and experience in the fields of digitisation, mobility, sustainability and innovative governance.



Activities


Development of the Tallinn-Helsinki cross-border functional area

Tallinn cooperates closely with the capitals of neighbouring countries, but a particular priority is cooperation with the City of Helsinki, which aims to develop the Tallinn-Helsinki functional cross- border area.


Cooperation with capitals of the Baltic Sea region on civil protection and crisis preparedness

The Baltic Sea region faces many common challenges, including the need for crisis management, cyber threats, climate change-related disasters and ensuring energy security. Cities are often the first responders in emergencies, which is why cooperation between cities is crucial. As a result, there is a growing need for closer cooperation between Riga, Vilnius, Warsaw, Helsinki, Stockholm and other cities in the Baltic Sea region in the fields of civil protection, crisis management and emergency preparedness.


The aim is to share best practices, streamline crisis management processes and improve preparedness for emergencies. It will also allow for more efficient use of resources, for example to improve civil protection capabilities through joint projects. Closer cooperation between the capitals of the region will not only help to mitigate risks but will also contribute to long-term stability and resilience across the region.


Cooperation with other European capitals

Cooperation with other European capitals is based on common interests and Tallinn’s development needs, primarily through European cooperation projects and thematic partnerships. Tallinn actively promotes its experience and good practices in both bilateral and multilateral cooperation, to find new partners for know-how and cooperation, to participate in major European development and innovation projects and to obtain funding to achieve the city’s development objectives.


Development cooperation with Ukrainian

Ukraine is a priority country for development cooperation in Tallinn. Cooperation includes both humanitarian aid and support to Ukrainian cities in their preparation for EU membership.


Cooperation with remote regions

Tallinn cooperates bilaterally with cities in more remote regions, to support Tallinn’s businesses in these regions, to bring unique knowledge and skills to the city or to increase Tallinn’s international visibility in the global organisations and city marketing focus areas.


Cooperation with historic twin cities

Tallinn’s cooperation with historic twin cities will take place on the same basis as with all other cities in similar regions, if it contributes to the development of areas of importance to the city or strengthens the city’s diplomatic ties. Existing twinning agreements will not be renewed by Tallinn, and this form of cooperation will not be developed separately.