Feasibility study on the institutionalization of the Dresden region
Selection of a suitable legal form for the establishment of a municipal association in the Dresden region
The planned Dresden Regional Association is intended to strengthen intermunicipal cooperation in the region and better coordinate joint efforts to address challenges in various areas, such as housing, transportation, and commercial land. The goal is the sustainable and successful development of the entire Dresden region, which currently comprises 96 cities and municipalities.
The feasibility study recommends establishing a registered non-profit association (e. V.) starting in 2028. This legal structure offers cities and municipalities a flexible and voluntary framework for cooperation on an equal footing. The association is primarily intended to bring together shared interests, promote dialogue, and serve as a platform for political communication and advocacy.
The focus is not on governmental functions or commercial activities. Instead, the association of municipalities is intended to facilitate coordination among municipalities and support regional projects. Members can actively participate through the association’s structure, while the board of directors and the administrative office organize the day-to-day operations.
The study highlights that an association can be established and expanded with relatively little organizational effort. Furthermore, successful examples from other regions of Germany show that this form of city-suburban cooperation is particularly well-suited when the primary focus is on pursuing common strategic goals.
The feasibility study in german was completed in June 2025 and is available at the following link: Feasibility studY