European Comission Reports: EU Macro-Regional strategies are still a vital tool for cohesion, sustainability and integration
The European Commission adopted its 5th biennial report on EU macro-regional strategies, reviewing progress from mid-2022 to mid-2024 across four key strategies: the Baltic Sea, Danube, Adriatic-Ionian, and Alpine regions. Together, these strategies cover 19 EU Member States and 10 non-EU countries, home to around 360 million people.
The report emphasizes the importance of cross-border cooperation to tackle common challenges such as demographic shifts, green and digital transitions, and geopolitical instability—especially in light of Russia’s war on Ukraine. It also highlights the contribution of these strategies to EU enlargement and resilience building.
Key achievements include stronger involvement of candidate countries, improved delivery on EU priorities like sustainability and digitalization, enhanced governance mechanisms, and increased attention to long-term strategic planning in areas like energy, competitiveness, and security.
The Adriatic-Ionian Region stands out for its dynamic efforts in sustainability, innovation, and youth inclusion. Flagship projects include ADRIONCYCLETOUR, promoting eco-friendly tourism through a cross-border cycling route, and SI4CARE, which pilots telemedicine to improve healthcare for ageing populations. The region also took the lead in maritime sustainability with the Green and Smart Ports initiative in Trieste. Youth empowerment remains central, with a dedicated Youth Council ensuring young voices (ages 18–29) are represented in decision-making processes.
The report calls for greater inclusivity and alignment with EU objectives, stressing the need for active roles from local authorities, youth, academia, and business. Accompanied by a detailed Staff Working Document, it provides a roadmap for enhancing monitoring, funding alignment, and communication in the next strategic cycle.
EU macro-regional strategies remain vital tools for cohesion, sustainability, and integration across the continent.
You are also invited to join the Presentation of the 5th Report on the Implementation of EU Macro-Regional Strategies, published by the European Commission. The event will take place on Wednesday, 11 June 2025, from 11:00 to 13:00 CEST, at European House Budapest and online.
You can register HERE!
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