This series focuses on The Future of Cities report which　identifies challenges influencing the future of　cities　in Europe and beyond. It also presents several perspectives from which to look at resolving these issues.　It is an initiative of the　Joint Research Centre　(JRC), the science and knowledge service of the European Commission (EC), supported by the Commission's　Directorate-General for Regional and Urban Policy　(DG REGIO).

By taking stock of current knowledge and understanding of city systems, the report highlights potential pitfalls　cities　should avoid, and defines broad principles they should lean towards. It aims to foster discussion and help policy makers, individual　cities　and their citizens choose the best way forward.