European cities are currently facing two major challenges: the changes brought about through globalisation and the extensive changes in demographic development. In concrete terms, this means that immigration is making urban societies increasingly more multicultural and that the number of children with an immigrant background will continue to rise. In addition, the urban population is gradually ageing, whereas for many years, the number of children living in cities has been steadily declining. There is no doubt that without children, cities will not be viable in the future.

With this in mind, urban societies need to become more child-friendly, and to create an environment in which the decision to start a family is made easier for young people. To achieve this we need holistic solutions, which cope better with the wide variety of personal situations encountered. In addition to expanding family policy services at national level, this includes in particular the provision of a broad urban environment, which is both family- and child-friendly. The European city network "Cities for Children" is seeking to promote this.

In order to get the necessary change processes moving as quickly and effectively as possible, we need the support of governments and of partners and patrons at national, European and international level, in addition to the cooperation of individual cities.

Further information about the European City Network is available at:

• Cities for Children