Office for International Relations

More and more Europeans live in cities – and these cities are becoming increasingly influential in international decision-making processes. Dortmund is actively involved in European politics and serves as best practice example for cities across the world, e.g. for successful structural change. Through its work in regional and international networks, local issues are put on the international agenda.

A Europe close to its citizens ensures the participation of Dortmund’s citizens in European politics. With a variety of events, the city sets a focus on European topics and offers a forum for information and discussion.

Dortmund seizes the opportunities which the European Union offers. European funding is being raised for a wide range of projects. In this way, intelligent and sustainable growth can be promoted – locally and for everyone.

Picture (Licence/photographer/designer): Stadt Dortmund / Roland Gorecki

Magazine: "Dortmund in Europe - Europe in Dortmund"

On the occasion of Germany’s EU Council Presidency (July - December 2020) the Office for International Relations has published the magazine "Dortmund in Europe - Europe in Dortmund" [pdf, 14.3 MB] .

In addition to Mayor Thomas Westphal, German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas, the European Minister for North-Rhine Westphalia, Dr. Stephan Holthoff-Pförtner, and MEP Prof. Dr. Dietmar Köster talk about the importance of the Council Presidency, especially for local authorities. Prof. Dr. Ulrike Guérot offers a well-founded insight into the importance of the European Union. Moreover, several teams from Dortmund’s city administration, student and youth organisations as well as schools present and inform about their commitment to the European Union.