28 January 2026
"The growing risks of drought and extreme precipitation, along with our above-average vulnerability, highlight the need for systematic adaptation measures. This project will enable us to modernise the region's adaptation strategy, leverage expert know-how, and engage in meaningful knowledge exchange with partner regions," said Rastislav Trnka, President of the Košice Self-Governing Region in Slovakia.
Europe's fight against climate change has gained powerful momentum. Sixty-two of the continent's most vulnerable regions have just joined Pathways2Resilience, bringing the total number of participating regions and communities to 100, representing over 100 million people committed to adapting to our changing climate.
Since its launch in 2023, this flagship initiative by EU Mission on Adaptation to Climate Change has been equipping local and regional authorities with the tools, training, and support they need to prepare for climate impacts. Now, with the addition of a second cohort, the programme is scaling up its impact across Europe.
"I warmly congratulate all regions selected in the second Pathways2Resilience cohort," said Elina Bardram, Mission Adaptation Manager at the European Commission. "As a flagship initiative, Pathways2Resilience helps the EU Mission on Adaptation deliver on its objectives and advance regional climate resilience together, through tailored support and peer learning."
Tackling the Biggest Climate Threats
The newly selected regions, home to around 55 million people, face urgent climate challenges. They've identified their top three hazards:
- Coastal and river flooding (43% of regions)
- Heat stress (36% of regions)
- Droughts (21% of regions)
These threats are already affecting infrastructure, public safety, and cultural heritage across Europe. But with Pathways2Resilience support, communities are taking action.
"Being selected for Pathways2Resilience is a strong recognition of Worms' long-term work on climate adaptation," said Stephanie Rohr, Mayor of Worms, one of the newly selected German regions.
Real Support for Real Change
The 62 new regions join 38 communities that started the programme in October 2024, creating a powerful network of shared experience and peer support.
Each participating region receives:
- €210,000 in grant funding
- Tailored tools and guidance for climate planning
- Interactive peer learning opportunities
- Expert mentoring throughout the process
- 18 months to develop a robust climate resilience strategy plus action and investment plans
Budapest: Where Climate Leaders Gather
On 11 February, all 100 regions will come together in Budapest for the Pathways2Resilience summit. The choice of location is fitting, Budapest has transformed from fragmented planning to cohesive climate action, implementing green development initiatives, rainwater management, and innovative measures to combat urban heat and flooding.
The summit will celebrate the first cohort's achievements while welcoming the second wave of regions ready to accelerate their adaptation journey.
"With 100 regions now on board, Pathways2Resilience is creating a powerful network of local communities committed to climate adaptation," said Thomas Koetz, Senior Advisor for Climate Resilient Regions at Climate KIC and Pathways2Resilience programme coordinator. "This second cohort brings fresh energy and diverse perspectives, helping us accelerate Europe's resilience journey at a time when climate impacts are intensifying."
Europe is warming twice as fast as other continents. The stakes couldn't be higher, and the need for action couldn't be more urgent. Pathways2Resilience is turning ambition into actionable plans that safeguard people, economies, and ecosystems across the continent.
Learn More
- Download the map and list of selected regions.
