On 22nd February took place the first Board of Governors (BoG) of the Anna Lindh Foundation (ALF) and the Senior Officials Meeting (SOM) of the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) of 2024, these meetings were the first of such gatherings since the tragic escalation in the Middle East. 

Against the background in the region, the meetings reflected the success of both Euro-Med organisations and the willingness of its members to continue working in the policy dialogue and sectorial cooperation, as well as reinforcing ALF and UfM roles. An overwhelming support was manifested by all stakeholders, also by Israel, highlighting that the UfM and ALF are more needed than ever, including in the ‘day after’ and the necessary reconstruction and reconciliation efforts in the region.

During the ALF BoG, the Annual Work Programme and Budget 2024 was approved by Governors and the participants agreed on the important role of ALF and its apolitical approach, aiming at peacebuilding, reconciliation, mutual understand living together, inclusive dynamics and tackling misinformation/disinformation element of distortion, such as hate speech.

On UfM, Senior Officials discussed also the current reform process and further steps. In 2023, on the occasion of UfM 15th anniversary, a reform process was launched to enhance the role, functioning and impact of the UfM in the region. The first package of measures adopted last year should be implemented this year, including the streamlining of working methods and UfM platforms; new elements regarding the mandate and resources of the organisation will be discussed in the following SOM.

Additionally, a joint presentation by ALF and UfM was delivered on preparations after nomination of the first-ever Mediterranean Capitals of Culture and Dialogue, Alexandria and Tirana.