Republic of Srpska at the ARLEM Plenary in Palermo

The Representation of the Republic of Srpska in Brussels took part in the 16th Plenary Session of the Euro-Mediterranean Regional and Local Assembly (ARLEM), held on 6–7 November 2025 in Palermo, Italy. The session brought together local and regional leaders from across Europe and the Mediterranean region to enhance cooperation, dialogue, and exchange of best practices on key policy challenges.

During the plenary discussions, participants addressed shared challenges such as coastal protection, water management, migration pressures, and local governance reforms. Mayors, regional governors, and civil-society representatives presented practical examples of how local communities are implementing innovative solutions to enhance resilience and support inclusive development.

ARLEM, jointly organised by the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) and partner institutions from southern and eastern Mediterranean countries, serves as a platform for fostering balanced regional development and strengthening relations between European and Mediterranean local authorities. This year’s edition centred on sustainable territorial development, opportunities within the blue and green economies, the empowerment of young people, and strategies for climate adaptatio

The Representation of the Republic of Srpska in Brussels followed the debates closely, with particular attention to the importance of strengthening connections between local authorities in the Western Balkans and Mediterranean partners. Active dialogue in these forums contributes to increased visibility of regional initiatives, encourages decentralised cooperation, and opens opportunities for new project partnerships, including in areas such as youth mobility, environmental protection, and socio-economic development.

The conclusions and recommendations from the Palermo plenary will be transmitted to the European Committee of the Regions and relevant EU institutions. They will support the preparation of new policy proposals, joint projects, and capacity-building initiatives involving European, North African, and Middle Eastern cities and regions.

Participation in the ARLEM Plenary Session reaffirms the commitment of the Republic of Srpska to constructive regional dialogue and cooperation, as well as to promoting the role of local and regional authorities in shaping sustainable development across Europe and the Mediterranean.

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The Euro-Mediterranean Regional and Local Assembly (ARLEM) is an assembly comprising local and regional representatives from the European Union and its Mediterranean partners. Established in 2010 by the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) and various territorial associations, ARLEM aims to sustain political dialogue and promote interregional cooperation.