Putting nightlife on the European Agenda
Last Wednesday, 14th of October, marked an important step for Europe’s night-time economy: an amendment recognising its value was integrated into the opinion of the European Committee of the Regions. A step towards greater recognition of nightlife at EU level.
Following meetings initiated by BBN with the European Committee of the Regions (CoR), and as part of our ongoing advocacy for increased funding opportunities for nightlife within EU programmes, an important step has been taken ahead of the adoption of the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF).
The CoR has incorporated an amendment in favour of the night-time economy into its opinion submitted to the European Commission. It recognises nightlife as a vital, yet often under-recognised, driver of European identity, cultural vibrancy, tourism, employment, SME growth, youth engagement and the creative economy.
The amendment calls on the European Commission to better integrate the night-time economy into EU instruments, including the future EU Cities Platform, the State of European Cities Report, the Urban Agenda for the EU and the 2028–2034 MFF. It also highlights the need for comparable data, stronger knowledge-sharing and structured exchanges on night-time governance.
This is an important step, but the work is far from over. BBN will continue pushing for concrete EU programmes and dedicated funding that recognise nightlife across urban planning, culture, the economy and public health. Stay tuned as we work towards turning this recognition into real opportunities and support for the sector across Europe.