“The Brussels Pledge to foster peace by preserving historical memories reinforces co-operation among European cities in mobilising local leaders around shared commitments to defend European values, strengthen unity and engage citizens, particularly younger generations,” underlined Congress Deputy Standing Rapporteur on Human Rights Martine Dieschburg-Nickels (Luxembourg, ILDG) during the event “The Dunkirk Appeal – European Cities Actively Defending Europe’s Citizens and Its Founding Values”, in Brussels on 7 May 2026.
The event was held in the framework of the Cities of Remembrance international network which calls upon the cities to preserve the memories of the past, defend the values and institutions born of the Second World War, and to continue building a peaceful world and societies. Through the Brussels Pledge, adopted at the event, European cities reaffirmed their role as frontline actors in protecting citizens, defending fundamental democratic values and strengthening European unity.
Speaking at the roundtable “European cities and local government organisations: why join the Brussels Pledge?”, the Deputy Standing Rapporteur emphasised the essential role of cities and regions in upholding democracy, human rights and social cohesion across the continent.
