International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery - Edition 10, October 2020
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International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery Edition 10, October 2020
Because the nature of the developments surrounding In addition, we take a deeper look at the city-wide
the coronavirus and the measures taken are coronavirus strategy of the City of Helsinki and the
shifting from a crisis to a long-term approach, the impact of COVID-19 on tourism, employment and
international monitor no longer focuses solely on how cities ensure that digitalisation during lockdown
examples of other cities’ approach to COVID-19. is inclusive.
We will now also look at other international
developments that are relevant to recovery in The monitor still focuses on retrieving information
cities. Thus, attention will be paid to both crisis from abroad that is relevant to the urban approach
and recovery. The monitor will be published once a to the coronavirus crisis, and to Amsterdam in
month from now on. particular. Various domains are included. Previous
editions can be found here.
In this edition, we focus extensively on the new
European funds, which can play an important role in This document also contains overviews of EU measu-
the approach to and recovery from the corona crisis. res and of sources of information relevant to cities.
Contents
New measures against spreading of corona virus 5
City-wide coronavirus approach in Helsinki 9
Balanced tourism: The impact of corona and recovery 12
Unemployment: Examples from Catalonia and Munich 16
EU-funding
All about applying for funds 18
Funded by the EU: Resilio 23 What does this mean for Amsterdam and the MRA? 34
Energy-positive neighbourhoods in Amsterdam 24 Multiannual Financial Framework 35
Exchanging knowledge migrants and refugees 28 Next Gen EU budget / European Recovery Fund 36
Structural funds 37
The new European grant system Theme-based funds 38
Interview with Andor Urmos, European Commission 30 What exactly is the ‘Green Deal’? 40
Support initiatives in Europe 31
Better access to funds for cities 32 Overview of relevant resources 41
More information or questions: ■ Want to find out more about an example in this monitor? ■ Do you need more expert knowledge or do you want to get in touch with specific cities or international organisations? ■ Do you want to receive this monitor in your inbox from now on, or do you want to unsubscribe? If so, please send an email to internationaloffice@amsterdam.nl For more information about the way that Amsterdam is dealing with the coronavirus pandemic, go to this website. You can find the previous editions of the monitor here.
New measures against spreading of corona virus
Like Amsterdam, many cities are experiencing an increase in the number of infections. National and local measures
are being taken to combat the spread of the virus. Below is an overview of the measures taken.
City Increase in infections / Group sizes Face masks Catering
Number of tests (indoors/outdoors/working from home) and cultural sectors
Helsinki • Increase in number of infections: • Local recommendation ‘to be • Recommended in • Alcohol may only be sold between
48 per 100,000 inhabitants in a careful’ with private meetings, public spaces, including 09.00 and 00.00
week especially at home universities, secondary • Bars and restaurants open between
• Percentage in Helsinki of the schools, and public 04.00 and 01.00
number of infections nationwide: transport
• Decision every two weeks on whether
33.6% regional measures should be tightened
• Finland tests around the same • At local level, checks carried out to see
number as the Netherlands, per which restaurants are not observing the
inhabitant rules; could lead to closure
Boedapest • 8,077 in Budapest • Events of more than 500 people • Compulsory (from age 6) • Must close at 23.00 and employees must
14,206 nationwide are forbidden nationwide in public wear a face mask
• Deaths: 420 in Budapest • Family gatherings and weddings spaces, also inside cinemas
402 nationwide with fewer than 200 people and theatres
• 1 test per 1,000 inhabitants allowed (social distancing must be
(NL: 1.5 observed)
Stockholm • Sweden: Around 4 deaths a day • Recommended that people work
since August. from home (nationwide)
• Has fluctuated between 200 and • Local: Meetings of more than 50
500 infections a day since July. people forbidden
Madrid • In Madrid: • Local: Travel in and out allowed • Compulsory in public • Local: bars and restaurants close at 23.00
Past 2 weeks: 48,700 infections, only with a valid reason (decision spaces
average 3,400 per day by national government)
• In the whole of Spain: • Max. 6 people in- and outdoors
between 50 and 200 deaths • Locally, all parks close between
per day 22.00 and 06.00
• More than 2 tests per 1,000 • Funerals: max. 10 people indoors
inhabitants per day and 15 outdoors
International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery | Edition 10, October 2020 Page 5 of 42
City Increase in infections / Group sizes Face masks Catering
Number of tests (indoors/outdoors/working from home) and cultural sectors
Istanbul • Since late August, big increase • Private gatherings such as • Face masks compulsory • Social distancing, including in bars and
in infections in Turkey (1,500 per weddings, no limits on group sizes, throughout Turkey for restaurants. No system for leaving your
day) and deaths (75 per day), out must end on time, social distancing several months now, name, etc. Social distancing not very
of a population of 82 million. observed. outdoors and in public strictly observed. No enforcement.
• Possible explanation is that older • NGOs may not organise spaces. • Provincial governors must be informed
people were allowed outside in any physical meetings until • You may be fined, but of any public events. Includes cultural or
the summer for only a few hours 1 December, including enforcement is limited. business events. Much now not permitted.
a day. demonstrations.
• Istanbul and Ankara are hotspots. • No guidance for working from
• Extensive testing, comparable home
to NL. Registration of number of
infections doubtful; only people
with symptoms are registered.
Prague • Daily infection rates in Prague • Public spaces: there was a • Face masks on public • Closing time at 22.00 (same discussion as
have recently fluctuated above maximum group size for parks transport and in every in NL effectiveness).
200 per 100,000. in the spring, during the state of building, except in • Restaurants may not admit more people
• 30 deaths per day in the Czech emergency. Groups of 2 permitted, people’s own homes. than there are available chairs.
Republic. but people did not observe
• No maximum group sizes.
this. Parks were subsequently
• Czech Republic tests around the • Face masks only to be taken off to eat
evacuated. Weather now getting
same number as the Netherlands. or drink.
worse, so less of a reason.
• No rules for in the home. • Discussion on whether hospitality sector
opening times should be restricted
• Compulsory schooling from home
further, and on possible compensation.
for children in grade 10 and up
(Dutch grade 4). Debate is now • Theatres/cinemas excepted, but no breaks
whether schooling from home for and bars may not open.
children in grade 5 or 6 and up • Football stadiums are empty.
should be compulsory as well. • Large concerts forbidden.
• No rules for working from home.
Many companies have set their own
rules and opted for working from
home completely or have their
employees working in rotation.
Copenhagen • Around 500 infections per day in • Nationally max. 50, no limit • National: Face mask • Bars and restaurants close at 22.00.
Q&A Denmark. On most days, no or outdoors compulsory on public • At least 1 metre between guests.
only a few deaths. • Work from home if possible transport
• Tests 3 to 4 times as many people • Same in bars and restau-
as NL, per inhabitant. rants except when seated
International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery | Edition 10, October 2020 Page 6 of 42
City Increase in infections / Group sizes Face masks Catering
Number of tests (indoors/outdoors/working from home) and cultural sectors
Parijs • 3,500 infections per day • No more than 10 people indoors • Compulsory in public • Local: Bars, cafés and outdoor cafés must
• The number of deaths in France and outdoors spaces (135-euro fine) close (from 6 October)
is fluctuating between 50 and 150 • Restaurants may open, subject to
per day restrictive measures
• Around 2 tests per 1,000 • Local: Swimming pools and sports centres
inhabitants per day closed
• Local: ban on alcohol sales from 22.00
• Libraries may stay open
Tallinn • Estonia has 50 infections per day • Nationally: indoors, maximum • Not compulsory, but • Sales of alcohol banned from 00.00
and hardly any deaths. Slowly 750 participants and max 50% of recommended indoors • Businesses and organisations may open
increasing since mid-August. capacity, with clearly indicated anywhere that is difficult to as long as they meet rules on social
• Tests around the same number as seats. Outdoors: max. 2,000 maintain social distancing, distancing:
the Netherlands, per inhabitant participants. throughout Estonia.
- Museums, theatres, cinemas
• Schools must be prepared for - Restaurants, bars, clubs
remote working or in shifts. - Sports organisations
Teachers must wear masks, as - Spas, saunas, swimming pools at 50%
must all public-sector employees. capacity
Schools in Tallinn are closed more
often than those elsewhere.
Oslo • Norway: around 500 infections • National: max. 200 people at • Compulsory on public • Local: Compulsory registration of guests
per day. indoor events transport • Theatres etc. may apply for an exemption.
• On most days, no or only a few • Working from home recommended
deaths. • Local: Events with more than 50
• Tests as many people as the people and no allocated seating
Netherlands may not take place. Meetings of
more than 10 people in the home
are also forbidden. .
Brussels • There are 502 cases per • Limited interaction with close • Mandatory when it is not • From the 8th of October all cafes, bars
100.000 inhabitants each day in contacts with a maximum of 3 per possible to keep distance and coffeehouses are closed
Brussels. In all of Belgium there month to others • Sports bars have to close
is an increase of infections of • Strongly advised to work at home • There is no audience allowed at amateur
around 2500 each day. Brussels
• Not allowed to receive more than sport clubs
announced new regulations on
4 people at home • Party centers have to close
Thursday 8th of October.
• Use of alcohol not allowed in public areas
• No alcohol can be sold after 10 pm.
International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery | Edition 10, October 2020 Page 7 of 42
City Increase in infections / Group sizes Face masks Catering
Number of tests (indoors/outdoors/working from home) and cultural sectors
Barcelona • 5 October: 1,063 infections • Max. 6 people indoors and • 50% capacity in bars and restaurants
per day outdoors allowed with social distancing
• 7,999 new cases were reported in • Eating and drinking not allowed • Maximum 6 people at any one table
the week from 26 September to when up to 6 people meet in public • Bars and restaurants must close at 01.00
2 October spaces (no guests admitted after 00.00)
• 23 per 1,000 inhabitants • Smoking banned where social dis- • Cultural sector may operate at 70%
(in Amsterdam, 5) tancing is not possible capacity
• Local: metro does not operate
after midnight at weekends
• Weddings/religious meetings at
50% capacity
Rome • 2,030 deaths per day in Italy since • Sporting events, max. 1,000, • Face masks compulsory in • Registration of visitors in bars and
September. indoors max. 200 spectators. public spaces, outdoors restaurants. Penalties, including
• Compulsory tests for travellers • Schools open from 14 September. between 18.00 and 06.00 compulsory closures, may be imposed
from Spain, Greece, parts of Strict protocols, cleaning and in places where 1 metre on organisations that do not observe the
France. Testing areas at airports. testing. distancing is not possible. protocols.
• Enhanced monitoring in 6 regions • In Rome, times for specific business • Face masks compulsory all • Museums open: no maximum number of
from 7 October. sectors have been adjusted; no the time in Lazio since 3 visitors, but with social distancing, fixed
major impact. Local authorities October. walking routes, and door policy.
• Airports on Sicily, Sardinia and
elsewhere carry out compulsory may intervene if any areas get too • Very probably nationwide • Theatres, concert halls, and cinemas
‘rapido’ tests. Local public health busy. from 7 October. Against reopened on 1 August. Maximum 1,000
services enforce quarantine. • Problems with schools. Reopened the wishes of some in open air, max. 200 indoors. With
after being closed for 6 months. regions. reservations and allocated places.
• Around 1 test per 1,000
inhabitants per day (NL: 1.5) Currently the leading sources • The main reason for • Trade fairs and conferences allowed from
of infection. At least 1 case of making face masks com- 15 August, with local permits
COVID-19 discovered in 1,190 pulsory is that the ban on • Discos and dance halls closed
schools (compared to 429 the week gatherings was being signi-
• From 7 October: Bars and restaurants
before, so exponential growth ficantly ignored. The army
close at 23.00. Max. number of guests at
since schools reopened). No new will probably be deployed
weddings and christenings is 200.
closures, but more online. to enforce the measures.
Israël • Since 25 September, complete
lockdown until 18 October,
including home visitors, but with
exception of religious meetings,
key workers, shopping.
• Not strictly enforced and not
observed at all in some religious
communities.
International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery | Edition 10, October 2020 Page 8 of 42
City-wide coronavirus approach
in Helsinki
Different cities have different ways of dealing with the Helsinki sets out the following conclusions regarding
long-term effects of the coronavirus crisis. In Amsterdam, coronavirus, which guide the approach:
the crisis makes itself felt in all policy areas as well as ■ There is no turning back; society has changed
the new budget agreement. Helsinki has worked with fundamentally. Bear in mind that we will be increasing and
businesses and residents to develop a city-wide strategy decreasing restrictions for a long time.
for recovery from the coronavirus crisis, which involves ■ Information is more important than ever. Only by properly
various domains. understanding the situation can the city strike a balance
between growth and damage limitation and thus make
Like Amsterdam, Helsinki proved to be more vulnerable to progress. It must be possible to shift gears quickly. A
coronavirus than the rest of the country – 40% of Finland’s stronger knowledge position and further digitalisation can
infections and 50% of deaths have occurred in the capital. be helpful in this respect.
It is expected that the financial and social impact of the
coronavirus crisis and the waves of infection will continue for The measures in Helsinki’s recovery plan have
another two years. 3 main features:
Restoring residents’ confidence and vitality
This recovery plan aims to limit damage and work on ■ Making the city an attractive destination again
socio-economic growth by boosting confidence, vitality ■ Improving the availability of services and digitalisation
and commercial activity. The approach should serve as a ■ Ensuring the continuation of work and study
backbone for urban development and extend through all ■ Promoting overall well-being and participation
domains.
International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery | Edition 10, October 2020 Page 9 of 42
Strengthening business activity this group. Research has shown that, during the quarantine
■ Using municipal resources as a platform for new period, 12% of children spent a maximum of one hour a day
commercial activity on school work. In addition, single-parent families that did
■ Helping entrepreneurs and business activities to get back not previously have any difficulties are now in trouble.
on their feet
■ Smoother transactions, implementing a licensing system Young adults
Work and study programmes have been disrupted by the
Maintaining sustainable urban management pandemic and young people find it extremely difficult to
■ Keeping the municipal budget balanced break into the labour market. This can have serious long-
■ Flexible allocation of skills and resources term effects. Young people also suffer more from loneliness,
■ Fluid implementation of digital processes mental problems and general despair.
The approach is linked to the four objectives of the The elderly
city-wide strategy: Elderly people living at home as well as those in institutions
1. Being the most functional city in the world need attention. This group has more mental health issues
2. Ensuring well-being and sustainable growth and experiences loneliness. They also have difficulty
3. Developing services organising their day-to-day affairs.
4. Responsible financial management
People whose first language is not Finnish or Swedish
Helsinki has identified four main target groups This group experiences more financial problems, which
and has chosen to concentrate mainly on employment makes them less able to participate in society, even for
among young people. people who previously had hardly any problems. Some
families are now struggling to keep their heads above water.
Families and children There is also an increased sense of marginalisation and need
EThere are increasing inequality, unemployment, distance for financial, psychosocial and everyday assistance according
learning, financial stress and general insecurity problems in to research among this target group.
International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery | Edition 10, October 2020 Page 10 of 42Helsinki cites a number of examples of successes achieved Education
in recent months: The city supports various forms of guidance, coaching
and educational support for students and teachers. Best
Health practices are collected on a single website. Various informal
■ The City, churches and charities set up a temporary digital meetings are organised with small groups of students
hotline for the elderly. Everyone over 70 years of age and teachers so that they can also continue to see each
received a phone call to see if they needed help with other informally. Based on the model below, education can
grocery shopping or needed someone to talk to. shift gears quickly when infections occur:
■ A service was set up to distribute food to people who ■ Phase 1: ‘The new normal’
were ill, quarantined or ineligible for other support. 2/3 contact learning and 1/3 remote learning
■ Two healthcare institutions were set up with telephone ■ Phase 2: ‘The new normal’
lines dedicated to combating the virus. The hotline 1/3 contact learning and 2/3 remote learning
received 70,000 calls to schedule coronavirus tests. Since ■ Phase 3: Emergency situation
spring, it has also been possible to book tests online. complete transition to remote learning
Economy
Successful digital leap in social ser vices
Being the
world’s most
functional
city
Developing
services ■ In August, the city set up a new Accelerator, NewCo, for
Another example of a fast and agile response to a changing situation
high potential initiatives and finances. This accelerator is
The City of Helsinki made a substantial digital leap in also available for the struggling self-employed and small
businesses.
the provision of social services in particular, as staff
started to reach out to customers remotely, utilising
digital tools in addition to face-to-face visits. Work
programmes and day activities for people with
[add photo here]
■ Information on statistics related to start-ups can be found
disabilities are examples of social services that were
quickly transferred online. on this dashboard.
E-services expanded in several other areas as well
• Omaolo.fi is a nationwide digital platform that
■ From July to August, a food court was set up in Helsinki’s
helps residents assess their need for health and
social care. Visitor numbers to the platform have
Senate Square by issuing flexible permits. 16 restaurants
increased significantly. Helsinki residents have
been able to book a coronavirus test via the
were able to welcome 500 guests in the square at a time,
service since the spring.
Statues at Helsinki’s Central Railway Station
with up to 8,000 visitors in a single •
started wearing face masks in August 2020 10
International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery | Edition 10, October 2020 Page 11 of 42Balanced tourism
The impact of corona and recovery
COVID-19 is having a huge impact on the tourism industry. Cities that, like
Amsterdam, were struggling with the nuisance of overtourism now have to
deal with the fact that hardly any tourists can or want to visit them. There was
no balance before the pandemic, there is no balance now. The economy of
these cities depends heavily on tourism, which means that their businesses are
hit relatively harder than businesses that are less dependent on tourists. The
pandemic is regarded as an opportunity to rethink tourism in these cities.
At the initiative of Barcelona and tourists in the city initially provided its
Amsterdam, a number of cities residents with a sense of relief. This
are currently investigating how to soon changed into the realisation that
attract tourists to the cities again Barcelona is very different without
after the pandemic without the tourists, and not just in a positive sense.
associated nuisance. This requires Shops and restaurants are closed and
good communication with various some areas are very quiet.
stakeholders in the city.
Before the pandemic, Florence was
Due to the reports about Barcelona, working on plans to spread tourism in
there have been hardly any tourists the Renaissance city in order to relieve
there since February/March. Barcelona the pressure on the city centre and
has stated that the absence of popular tourist attractions. In order to
International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery | Edition 10, October 2020 Page 12 of 42achieve this, Florence launched an app international tourism. 50 percent of residents. Unfortunately, coronavirus
called ‘Feel Florence’ which provides Berlin’s tourism comes from Germany has put these plans on hold for the
information on the numbers of people itself, so the dip is not as deep as time being. People in Berlin have
in different areas. in the other cities. Most hotels and similar feelings as the residents of
restaurants are open but there are Barcelona with regard to the absence
This tool is now also used to check measures regarding the number of of tourists. On the one hand, it is nice
whether social distancing is being prac- people allowed in. However, the that there is more space but, on the
tised properly. This app works with a decrease in travel, particularly by other hand, there is an indefinable
virtual mapping system using video business travellers, is felt even in Berlin. feeling about the fact that a number
cameras already installed in the city, of shops are closed and part of the
especially in the city centre. The system Before the pandemic, Berlin had economy is struggling.
measures and estimates the number of started developing a new plan for
people in a certain place at a certain tourism. The first signs of nuisance Prague also had to deal with too
time. These measurements and esti- from tourism were visible and residents much tourism before the pandemic.
mates are based on signals from mo- were beginning to experience nuisance The city attracted 8 million visitors a
bile phones. Florence, too, is suffering as well. Berlin wasn’t struggling year, of which 62% came from Europe.
from the effects of the pandemic: Many with overtourism so much as with During the pandemic, tourism from
shops are closed and the city is in crisis. partygoers in specific neighbourhoods. Europe fell by 28%. Most hotels are still
People are working hard on a plan to Tourists who came to Berlin for its open thanks to German tourists. The
renew tourism in the city. nightlife and partied all night, fuelled measures in Prague are very strict. To
by drugs and alcohol, caused nuisance help the sector stay afloat, campaigns
In Berlin, the number of tourists in in residential areas. have been launched to invite people
the city has decreased by 60 percent to visit Prague and spend a night there
compared to the number of tourists Another negative effect of tourism with substantial discounts for cultural
before the pandemic. The main is that Berlin residents saw house institutions, hotels and places of
difference with the other cities is that prices rise. Berlin started taking steps interest. Prague’s are generally happy
Berlin’s economy is less dependent on to discuss these problems with the that their city is quieter and are pleased
International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery | Edition 10, October 2020 Page 13 of 42that apartments used primarily for but serve as a basis for decisions by hopefully be able to start next year.
AirBnB are now being made available the municipal authorities. This Council This residents’ council will consist of 24
to residents again. is chaired by the mayor and has 60 residents who will be elected from each
permanent members. The minutes of of the city’s districts.
To achieve more collectivity in tourism the meetings can be viewed online.
policy, the various cities are looking In Florence there is already regular
at ways of involving residents and In Berlin, Visit Berlin actively goes cooperation with stakeholders in the
businesses in the formation of policy. into the city and uses information city. The city council has contact with
Barcelona has a Council that serves stands at markets. They actively talk the business stakeholders through a
as a forum where residents, public to Berlin’s residents and users about platform. More recently, the city has
institutions, foundations, businesses how they perceive tourism in their started talks with residents by means of
and politicians can express their city. They also conduct annual surveys a participation programme. The goal of
views and make proposals to improve among the residents of Berlin. Thirdly, all these conversations and cooperation
Barcelona’s tourism policy. These Berlin is working on the development is to make a new plan for Florence
proposals and ideas are not definitive of a residents’ council, which will together. •
International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery | Edition 10, October 2020 Page 14 of 42Digital inclusion
of urban services
Due to the corona crisis, cities and group of elderly residents and residents how to use digital public services.
their social partners quickly had to with visual impairments and other
offer their services digitally. We saw disabilities. Barcelona has started with The 100% Digital Leeds programme
that possession and knowledge of 10 focus groups of 112 employees focuses on giving everyone in the city
digital resources and the internet was including social workers, and advisors. the resources and capabilities needed
of great importance and that cities The aim of these focus groups is to to live happier and healthier through
made extensive efforts to promote reflect on the changes in the social digital inclusion. The programme aims
digital inclusion. domain as a result of the crisis. to serve all residents and makes an
extra effort to help those who are most
Experiences Digital inclusion difficult to reach. Leeds’ actions during
Digitalisation of services in the social By no means all residents have access the coronavirus can be found here.
domain has a number of positive to digital resources or know how to use
consequences, according to colleagues them. During the corona crisis digital in- Ghent the programme ‘Onbeperkt
in European cities. Residents are often clusion is an important priority for cities. Mediawijs’ (‘Unlimited Media Literacy’)
dealt with more quickly, there is less promotes digital inclusion of residents
fear of using digital services and less In Glasgow, a digital strategy has been with intellectual disabilities.
paperwork. drawn up including specific attention The city is investing in training
for digital inclusion. Actions include programmes to teach them how to
Cities carry out assessments in order providing training for special target work with computers. In addition,
to ensure that digital services serve groups, encouraging businesses to be supervisors and care providers are
all residents and work properly. For active in digital inclusion, and setting made aware of the opportunities that
example, Ghent is advised by a focus up special programmes to teach people digital media offers this group.
International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery | Edition 10, October 2020 Page 15 of 42Unemployment
Examples from Catalonia and Munich
Amsterdam exchanges administrative this approach is that different types of cations programme since 2012. They
and governance knowledge relating young people can be identified, requir- strive to facilitate the recognition of
to unemployment and retraining with ing different kinds of coaching. The foreign qualifications and provide train-
such European partners as Munich, lower availability of work placements ing, in health care – particularly nursing
Barcelona, Stockholm and Helsinki, due to the crisis is another area of at- – for example. They do this together
as well as the regions Catalonia and tention for cities, with a possible role with the Chamber of Commerce and
Flanders. Strikingly, the partners are for government bodies. the Dutch Employee Insurance Agen-
particularly concerned about young cy, continuously responding to chang-
people and the risk of a lost gener- Munich has a special mentoring pro- ing labour market demands. A similar
ation. They all recognise the impor- gramme to combat youth unemploy- programme in Catalonia has already
tance of retraining, and that employ- ment. In this programme, schools, em- helped 6,000 young people find work.
ers play a key role in that retraining, ployers and retired employees of large
but struggle to find instruments to companies work together to support Strict regulations regarding certificates
achieve that. young people on their path from edu- and diplomas for some jobs prevent
cation to employment. Partners of the some German, Belgian and Dutch cit-
Youth Unemployment city also organise an online vocational ies from facilitating retraining. They do
A much-heard challenge is that young training congress where companies can seek to encourage employers to em-
people fly under the radar and have present themselves. ploy people on the basis of their skills
difficulty finding job coaches who could (see also the Amsterdam EUproject
help them. The Catalonia region focus- Retraining House of Skills). The Skill Lab can also
es on small-scale and tailored coach- The city of Munich has had a special be a useful tool that links people to
ing for young people. The reason for retraining, employment and qualifi- vacancies via their skill profile.
International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery | Edition 10, October 2020 Page 16 of 42EU-funding Contributing to local recovery through cooperation
A conversation with Team Europese Subsidies (TES) All about applying for funds Jan Jacob Sikkema Marije Koudstaal Karin Borst Annika Reinds Rob bakker Gerard den Boer Senior Advisor Advisor Senior Advisor Advisor Controller/Project mgt. Team Leader Team European Subsidies (TES) was with a greater chance of success. TES helps set up European projects set up to support city government Projects are submitted integrally by professionally which create added employees. The objective of the establishing relationships between value for the city and further expand TES is to broaden and enhance the the various municipal departments, the European network in the specific priorities of the College of Mayor and City Districts and other relevant field. TES also cooperates with external Alderpersons and the area tasking by partners. The employees also monitor partners and other municipalities in the obtaining subsidies and participating ongoing subsidies and advise on the Amsterdam Metropolitan Area where in European projects. management of the projects. expedient. The services are available to all While the team encourages In short: TES can support city municipal departments and City applications for subsidies from the government officials by preparing Districts of the City of Amsterdam. European Union, it also advises on subsidy analyses (scans) and feasibility They prepare professional applications the feasibility of such applications. studies, writing and submitting International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery | Edition 10, October 2020 Page 18 of 42
applications and project proposals, cooperation, often with businesses and When should and shouldn’t you seek
and advising on project management, universities. EU funding?
administration and disbursement. ■ The advantages of applying for a Gerard: “You shouldn’t apply for a
European subsidy include: subsidy just to obtain ‘free’ money.
On the following slides, three TES ■ Expansion of your international The reason for submitting a subsidy
colleagues (Gerard den Boer, Marije network, also beyond the usual scope application is to support or expand an
Koudstaal and Jan Jacob Sikkema) of the city existing innovative development that
answer questions about how the city ■ Insight into other (cultural) the city is already involved in or has
government can make best use of approaches and solutions plans to initiate. In many cases, the city
European funds in the light of recovery ■ Extra budgetary resources (although will still need to contribute a certain
from the corona crisis and the new that can take more time than amount. So it makes more sense to
system of European subsidies effective budgeted) supplement projects that you wanted
from 2021 to 2027. ■ Learning from other partners, cities to implement anyway with EU funds.”
and officials in your own policy area
What can you expect of a European ■ Increasing name awareness and You must ask yourself whether it’s
project? opening doors money you’re looking for or a network.
You run a project within an international But beware, there is no such thing as
network. That could be something In addition, you should approach any ‘easy money’; an application is very
small, like setting up a knowledge European project in a professional, time consuming and implementation
exchange network, or something larger matter-of-fact way: are expectations and disbursement also often demand
scale and innovative. These projects realistic? Can we fulfil our promises? extra effort. You can never foresee a
always involve various disciplines Knowing what to expect enables three-year project precisely, especially
within the City of Amsterdam working you to prepare better and avoid when many (often more than ten)
together and with other organisations disappointments later. So sometimes international partners are involved.
(partners) in a consortium. The that also means: abandoning a Jan Jacob: “Where possible, we
quintessence of EU projects is that potential application. always try to consider the desired
they always involve international ambitions of a municipal department
International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery | Edition 10, October 2020 Page 19 of 42and its activities already planned. An Could an application also be for very The team members stress that
application should preferably be in large projects? Or very small ones? you should carefully consider, in
line with both the concrete activities You can contact TES for all sorts of advance, whether you want to
within a project and the strategic applications. The applications usually submit the project: “Is the project
ambitions of the City or municipal vary between €50,000 and 20 million. ‘mature’ enough? Can we meet the
department.”Gerard always advises requirements imposed in the subsidy
people to think practically: “Is the Examples of smaller projects include programme? Do we have partners of
project feasible within the period of projects the main aim of which is to the right quality? What was the chance
time? Is there sufficient capacity? Do exchange knowledge and to build a of success in previous ‘calls’? What
we have to hire in expert knowledge or network around to a specific theme. are our crucial success factors? Do we
do we have enough in-house?” The budget will not always be sufficient, have the capacity to submit a sound
but you take that into account. subsidy application? So large projects
Gerard points out the strategic Sometimes, a project is allowed to cost are risky, but they’re fantastic if they’re
importance of Amsterdam participating money if it results in your acquiring successful!”
in European projects; it increases knowledge or building an international
your visibility with the European network that you could greatly benefit How much time does an
Union. “That in turn enhances the from later. application take?
position of our Deputy mayors Jan Jacob: “Anything between a day
when they visit Brussels to convey a Large projects are often based on the and a year. Seriously though, that
particular message. If the European development or further development really does depend on the size. A small
Commission sees that Amsterdam of specific innovations. The preparation project that is centred on building a
actively participates in EU programmes, is different in these cases, much longer network and involves organising a trip
the Deputy mayor will be able to and more meticulous. A large project, could be completed within a day, so to
conduct discussions with a European in terms of size, can take as long as six speak. Larger applications projects take
Commissioner more effectively.” months to a year to prepare, with many longer; as TES, we spent a year working
coordination meetings and writing on the one for the ATELIER project, for
project documents. example.”
International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery | Edition 10, October 2020 Page 20 of 42It also varies tremendously depending Must you give prior notification How could colleagues make better
on your intended role within the project of your intention to submit an use of EU money, in your opinion?
to which the subsidy application relates. application? Marije: “Better is not the right word;
TES prefers people to contact them at it’s a matter of ensuring that, as an
Marije: “If you are a partner in an early stage, during the initial ideas Amsterdam official, you are aware of
the project, then, on average, the phase, so that we can develop the best the possibilities Brussels has to offer for
application for a large project will take application together. That does not your project or idea. We, as TES, can
between a few weeks to 1-2 months. If always happen in reality and you have then work out what is or is not possible
your role in the project is coordinator, to decide quickly whether or not to in Brussels. There is a tremendous
then it will involve much more work. participate. amount of knowledge and expertise in
Allow for at least a few months.” The Amsterdam. TES tries to bundle and
role of TES in this is: to assist the Jan Jacob: “It’s a matter of interaction, safeguard that, and make it available
process and process administrative in practice. Sometimes, TES notices to all employees, including those in
information, but also to incorporate a relevant subsidy that is due to the Amsterdam Metropolitan Area.
the substantive data supplied into become available for substantive We remain informed of applications,
the application and to coordinate the municipal departments, but the periodically reporting on them to
provision by the relevant partners of substantive municipal departments the International Steering Group/
the appropriate information. of other partners may also identify an Deputy mayors and have databases of
interesting possibility.” He emphasises regulations and successful applications.
To be able to submit an application, that it is important to have a club in TES can assist with the administrative
either as partner or coordinator, you Brussels that keeps an eye on things: implementation and disbursement,
must first obtain permission from an “to avoid simultaneous applications enabling employees to really focus on
official commissioning party. This party from different parts of the City and to the content.”
will have final responsibility for the be able to advise on whether or not to
project and will have to contribute submit a particular application”. When is a European project a success
additional funding from their budget. in your opinion?
Jan Jacob says that a European project
International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery | Edition 10, October 2020 Page 21 of 42“As TES, it is of course important to This enables cities and regions, now
have an application granted, that’s the more than ever before, to support
whole objective. But an alternative their own urban policy through subsidy
should also be offered if an application programmes and/or regulations.
was not successful: could it be Marije: “Now is the time to take action,
resubmitted at a later date? Are there because the resources will become
any other funding possibilities? Could available over the coming years.”
we organise the project differently?”
Projects are also evaluated internally, TES is organising a Roadshow to
to learn what could be improved next show the municipal departments
time. what is and is not possible. Gerard:
“It calls for a tailored, level-headed
What opportunities do EU funds offer approach, because Brussels will want
the City, also with a view to corona? something in return for their money.
Jan Jacob: “As we know, the EU is That doesn’t alter the fact that as the
approaching a new budget period with City of Amsterdam, together with
unprecedented amounts (1.800 billion the other municipalities, businesses
is only successful if the following two euros) to cope not only with the corona and knowledge institutions in the
criteria are met: crisis, but also with climate change. Amsterdam Metropolitan Area, we
■ Project is completed on time and on Both have a significant impact on the must do our very best to participate in
budget and with successful results city, something of which the European European programmes.” •
(so has really meant something for Commission is also aware.”
the residents of Amsterdam, however
indirectly that may be). The new programmes in Brussels offer
■ Commissioning party and colleagues many opportunities for cities, research, If you wish to know more about
involved are satisfied and have acqui- economic support, projects on social European subsidies please contact
red good international experience. inclusion and circular demo projects. internationaloffice@amsterdam.nl
International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery | Edition 10, October 2020 Page 22 of 42Funded by the EU
In RESILIO, 10,000 m2 of smart blue- basis of the weather forecast. The in order to enable the roofs to antici-
green roofs will be constructed, of innovative aspect of the project is that pate extreme weather conditions. This
which 8,000 m2 will be constructed the technology of blue-green roofs creates a micro water management
on social housing in five Amsterdam is being applied in a smart network system with water buffers on the roof
neighbourhoods. Rainwater will be for the first time. The existing control landscape of the city.
collected under the layer of plants technology with valves for blue-green
on the roof. This water is retained or roofs is being improved and expan-
discharged by a smart valve on the ded with new data and functionalities
Website RESILIO>
International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery | Edition 10, October 2020 Page 23 of 42Funded by the EU
Energy-positive neighbourhoods in Amsterdam
Amsterdam participates in a multi- complexes (a mixture of homes for sale
tude of European projects. One of and rental homes and a utility building,
those projects is ATELIER, which will such as an office, hotel and restaurant)
run from 2020 to 2025. Amsterdam have been designed in Buiksloterham
is working on this project in coope- and will be constructed with these
ration with seven European cities innovative elements at the beginning of
and around 30 parties. ATELIER next year. A similar neighbourhood is
builds energy-positive neighbour- being constructed in the Spanish city of
hoods: neighbourhoods where a large Bilbao with other innovative solutions,
amount of sustainable energy is ge- including a central geothermal loop for
nerated and the energy surplus can heat-cold storage.
be supplied to the surrounding neigh-
bourhoods. Amsterdam is transforming the
former industrial neighbourhood of
The project consists of a number of Buiksloterham into a largely fossil-free
components. Various buildings and their neighbourhood. The buildings will
energy systems are linked together in be constructed in an energy-efficient
a neighbourhood via a so-called smart manner and the power grid in the
grid. The project is therefore actually neighbourhood will be set up in such a This really creates an independent and
focused on the organisation of physical way that energy can be shared between local energy balance. This is not only
space. In Amsterdam, two large different buildings and households. a technological innovation, but also a
International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery | Edition 10, October 2020 Page 24 of 42policy and legal innovation, because it Amsterdam and Bilbao are the only substantial alignment with many
deviates from the normal energy supply cities in the project to physically different parties, both internally and
laws that normally do not allow these implement such an extensive externally. Creating support for a
types of systems. Multiple innovations development. The other cities in project also takes a substantial amount
are applied in Buiksloterham: ATELIER will mainly learn from the of time. After all, the project should not
■ Green roofs and the use of recycled experience of these two cities be isolated, but instead be part of the
raw materials in buildings broader policy of the municipality.
■ Large-scale application solar panels The funding application process was The Amsterdam core team for the
■ A local power grid in which energy initiated in 2018 and the project itself ATELIER project – part of the Planning
is generated, stored and used. started on 1 November 2019, after the & Sustainability department – consists
Because of the storage, the grid first project application was rejected. of five people, some of whom have
can relieve the national power grid The total budget for the project is 20 been hired especially for this project.
when necessary and does not require million for five years for all partners. In addition, other employees are also
excessive consumption at peak times Amsterdam has received a working involved by means of the project
■ Residents and other users are not budget of 2.2 million for five years. The budget.
only able to trade energy with each advantage of European subsidies is
other via the energy platform, but that the money is guaranteed as soon Amsterdam is also the coordinator of
also with the rest of the power grid as it is awarded to a project. Factors this project. Frans Verspeek coordinates
■ Hub with 15-20 electric shared cars such as the coronavirus crisis do not with the EU on behalf of Amsterdam
and charging points for electric affect it. This makes the funding and and is responsible for quality control,
bicycles continuation of this project a lot more
■ Local waste processing by means of certain.
converting organic waste into biogas
■ Residents are involved in shaping With such a large European project,
the physical public space and energy it needs to be taken into account
cooperation that both the application and the
coordination of the project require
International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery | Edition 10, October 2020 Page 25 of 42the financial implementation and within various departments (such hoc, but the capacity – which is always
general coordination with the partners. as the consultation on international limited – can be used more strategically,
sustainability projects within the R&D efficiently and effectively to acquire
The EU project and the funding are department), this process can be such projects”.
useful, Frans explains: “The funding greatly improved. The response to
can significantly expand the municipal calls from the EU and applications from Would you like to know more about the
budget, because there are many third parties can therefore be less ad ATELIER project? Please visit their site.
different funds that we can use. This will
enable us to make a real contribution
to achieving the sustainability goal
of the city. By participating in such
projects, Amsterdam also creates
inroads within the EU for collaborating
on policy developments and future
funding developments. These resources
enable you to remove many obstacles
within the organisation and use more
brainpower within the municipality”.
However, he does think we can do
much more with the funds. “Effectively
tapping into the right funds does
require more streamlining within the
organisation. Despite the presence of a
central team (TES) and points of contact
International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery | Edition 10, October 2020 Page 26 of 42Impression of the ATELIER project and what the neighbourhood in Buiksloterham will look like. Website ATELIER> International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery | Edition 10, October 2020 Page 27 of 42
Funded by the EU Exchanging knowledge migrants and refugees Niels Tubbing is a policy advisor on The international project group paid a visit to Amsterdam Noord residence permit holders and deals as part of the exchange of knowledge within the project. with integration, contact with the national government and education for residence permit holders, among other matters, and is chairman of the EUROCITIES Migration & Integration working group. He has already participated in several European projects and has also submitted applications. Niels’s department, together with Education for Adults, is currently active on behalf of Amsterdam in the VALUES project, for which he submitted the application together with EUROCITIES. This project started in February 2019. EUROCITIES is the coordinator of the project and Amsterdam is one of the partners. This results in a workload that is lighter than it would be if International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery | Edition 10, October 2020 Page 28 of 42
Amsterdam had the role of coordinator. can also experiment with a project takes more time and effort than you
The project aims to develop four just outside your policy framework or might think)
best practices related to the different with another target group, broadening ■ Formulate a clear goal and check
themes to promote the inclusion of your outlook. Successful partnerships whether it is compatible with the
migrants and refugees in the city. This open doors in the Commission and administrative priorities
is done in collaboration with voluntary European institutions, which is good ■ Consider whether you really need the
organisations and relevant partners in for the position of Amsterdam within money and whether you can achieve
the city. Europe. Furthermore, other European something that would otherwise be
actors often regard Amsterdam as an out of reach
Niels sees great added value in attractive partner for jointly applying ■ Consider carefully why and with
cooperation in a European context, for a European subsidy, says Niels. which partners you want to
although he sometimes finds it difficult collaborate
to make the European interest clear to The experience that Niels has had with ■ Your director is the official
other colleagues. This added value lies, applying for and participating in EU- commissioning party and must be
for example, in broadening your view funded projects taught him that it is involved on time
of your own policy and the exchange important to take a number of matters ■ Ensure proper cooperation with
of concrete knowledge and action into account when submitting an your colleagues and substantive
perspectives. For example, it can be application: departments
interesting to enter into collaborations ■ You must have knowledge of the ■ As the coordinator of a project, you
with partners or organise knowledge subject and make sufficient time to will spend more time on a project
exchanges at the European level. You complete the application (this often than you would as a partner •
International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery | Edition 10, October 2020 Page 29 of 42Interview with Andor Urmos, European Commission
What will change in the new European funding system?
Andor Urmos, a policy officer in the Andor Urmos argues that the support He envisions a role for cities in many
European Commission, explains what for cities with European funds is chang- different areas: “The coronavirus crisis
will really change for cities in the new ing in the new framework. “The mul- is obviously the most urgent problem.
system of European funds, the multi- ti-annual financial framework will offer How can people protect themselves
annual financial framework (MFF). This more flexibility. The system is also be- against the virus, and how can we im-
framework runs from 2021 to 2027. coming simpler and more transparent. prove healthcare and provide informa-
There will be fewer headings, which will tion about the virus as effectively as
Andor works for the Directorate- make it easier to find the right funding possible? Long-term issues also remain
General REGIO, which is responsible resources.” important, especially in the area of cli-
for the European policy for cities and mate change.”
regions. Cities are also involved in how the mon-
ey is spent. “Partnerships with cities Andor emphasises the importance of
This includes the details of new funds and local governments will be even cities making themselves heard. “Na-
for cities and regions, but can also in- more essential than they were before tional governments are now setting
volve facilitating the dialogue between when submitting projects. For example, up the structure for the recovery plan
cities and the European Commission European targets and funds for CO2 funds. I encourage you to participate
within the so-called partnerships of the reduction must also be translated to by entering into a dialogue with the
European City Agenda. One of those the local level. To achieve this reduction national government. Amsterdam is
partnerships – the one for migration – local governments must formulate their already doing very well, of course; you
is coordinated by Amsterdam and the own requirements and priorities, but have acquired a good reputation in Eu-
European Commission. they must also have access to the right rope due to your innovative and proac-
funds.” tive approach.” •
International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery | Edition 10, October 2020 Page 30 of 42Support initiatives
in Europe
There are many opportunities for relevant, practical answers that respond
cooperation at European level, but to the needs of local and regional
municipalities are not always aware authorities.This means that those
of or able to access them easily. authorities do not have to reinvent the
A variety of initiatives have been wheel by searching for the knowledge
launched to provide support in this themselves, and other municipalities
regard.This is something that we can also benefit from the information.
can also benefit from in Amsterdam. Examples of topics addressed include
Interested to find out more and the impact of Covid-19 on European advice for each city and query, and
explore one of the possibilities? regulations and policy and the can be applied in any sector.URBIS
procedures for state aid and public has already carried out research in the
One of the key platforms for finding procurement, in which the centre has areas of migration, the economy and air
information is the Europa Decentraal. legal expertise. quality. Examples of situations in which
knowledge centre.Europa Decentraal URBIS can be used:
aims to increase local and regional A second tool is URBIS, onderdeel ■ During the development of an
authorities’ knowledge of and expertise van which is part of the European investment strategy, feasibility
on European legislation and policy, as Investment Advisory Hub and a studies
well as the correct application thereof. collaboration with the European ■ For the assessment of investments for
Municipalities can use these services Investment Bank.The network mainly current or future large-scale projects
free of charge. The centre conducts provides support for large-scale ■ Consultancy on large-scale financial
research based on the enquiries projects and investments.The tool is applications and issues
it receives and translates this into free to use, can provide tailor-made
International Urban Monitor on Corona Crisis and Recovery | Edition 10, October 2020 Page 31 of 42You can also read
