CITE is a dynamic and international alliance for constructive exchanges and cooperation between cities in transition.

About

The European alliance
for Cities in Transition.

Europe is undergoing profound change. Climate pressures, geopolitical shifts, and technological advances are rapidly reshaping how our economies and societies function.

Mid-sized cities are often where this transformation becomes most tangible - in industry, labour markets, and everyday life. Yet these cities rarely have a shared platform to connect and learn from one another.

Cities in Transition Europe (CITE) brings together a small group of cities actively managing this change. Each city represents a different trajectory of transformation, offering practical insight into how transition can be navigated in real time.

CITE creates a space for exchange, reflection, and joint learning - with the aim of strengthening both local action and European collaboration.

The first meeting will take place in Skellefteå, Sweden, on 9–10 June 2026.

The founding cities

The six founding cities form the core of CITE. Each has undergone significant transformation and brings a distinct perspective shaped by its own context and pathway.

Together, they represent a diverse yet aligned group of cities committed to learning from one another and shaping the future of the network.

More information and presentation of the cities coming soon.

Our mission

Connect and strengthen mid-sized cities undergoing major societal transformation.

By bringing together cities with first-hand experience of change, CITE enables direct exchange of knowledge, approaches, and lessons learned. The focus is practical: what works, what doesn’t, and how to move forward.

By bringing together cities with first-hand experience of change, CITE enables direct exchange of knowledge, approaches, and lessons learned. The focus is practical: what works, what doesn’t, and how to move forward.

CITE aims to:

  • Share concrete experiences from cities in transition

  • Support better decision-making through peer learning

  • Create lasting connections between leading cities

  • Increase visibility and influence of mid-sized cities in Europe

  • Strengthen the role of mid-sized cities as a key voice in European policy and decision-making

Through this, CITE contributes to a stronger and more connected European landscape
of cities navigating change.

Contact

CITE is open to dialogue with mid-sized European cities engaged in transformation.

If your city is navigating similar challenges, we welcome your interest. The network will gradually expand during 2026 and 2027, inviting additional cities to join the exchange.

Please reach out to start the conversation.

The Cite Secritariat

Anders Lindgren, Head of....

© Skellefteå kommun 2026

© Skellefteå kommun 2026