A New UBC Strategy

A new UBC strategy will be adopted by the UBC General Conference in Klaipeda. The present strategy document was adopted at the UBC General Conference in Stockholm four years ago. Very much has changed since then, so this revision was necessary.

The strategy has been worked out by a working group consisting of Anita Boje, Juhan Janusson, Tonu Karu, Mikko Lohikoski, Pawel Zaboklicki. J. Janusson has been secretary to the working group.

The starting point of the strategy is a discussion on the reason for being of UBC. Cities as political and administrative authorities have a very similar "business idea", which is to cater for the well-being of its citizens by providing basic services and utilities, and to cater for the future generations by spatial, economic and strategic planning. This is done by providing schools, social services, planning, utilities like water and waste handling, and so on. These tasks are similar in all cities regardless of size, wealth, location or role in the urban system.

We all share a common history and destiny; cities have a common role, and common values.

All this serves as a basis for a strategy for the future where the role of UBC in Europe is described. UBC and its member cities want to play a role in a future Baltic Sea Region, characterized by peace and stable economic, democratic and environmental development. We want to be

• a strong voice on regional and European affairs,
• a meeting place for exchange of ideas and contacts,
• a framework for to facilitate, carry out and disseminate co-operation projects and activities,
• a key partner in the Baltic Sea Region co-operation, promoting our region, together with other organizations and authorities, and
• a part of the European co-operation, promoting local authority voice and opinions.

All this brings to the mission of UBC. UBC shall be a spokesman for its members in Baltic Sea Region issues and a platform for BSR cities to meet and work together.

UBC shall support Sustainable Development, balanced democratic, economic, environmental and social development. We shall also promote Local Level Governance in Europe and in the Baltic Sea Region but also be watchdog regarding EU policies that affect cities in the BSR

Doing that, UBC shall also seek cooperation partners all over Europe and globally and provide information and promote awareness rising.

The strategy text has been sent to all member cities and all organs of UBC so that everybody can give their opinion on the matter before the General Conference. The strategy will be printed in an easy-to-read 8 page booklet after adoption.

by Juhan Janusson