ABSTRACT
This chapter shows that the extent to which the "benign neglect" by European Community (EC) personnel has both allowed and required urban leaders to experiment creatively, be more flexible in searching out opportunities, to "stretch the limits of possibilities," and seek to develop local initiatives as well as attempt to establish extended networks with other urban entities. It analyses the development of urban networks — usually in many directions and at all levels simultaneously — rivalry also occurs and can exist between those who, in other contexts, are actual or potential partners. The Eurocities Association is both typical of the thrust toward urban networking and atypical because its organization and processual strength shows a steady progression. Urban leaders find the association's potential for coordination and cooperation offers an important fulcrum for moving the EC away from this rural/regional emphasis and towards addressing what are seen as ubiquitous and intensifying urban problems.
