Estonia takes over the Presidency of the EU Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region 2025-2026

The Estonian Presidency builds upon the work carried out by previous presidencies concerning the update of the Strategy’s Action Plan, to effectively finalise this process. The overarching goal is to ensure a smooth start of the implementation phase immediately following the approval of the updated Action Plan, which will support the achievement of the Strategy`s three overall objectives: “Save the Sea”, “Connect the Region” and “Increase Prosperity”.

Given the security environment in the Baltic Sea region, particular emphasis will be placed on resilience and sustainability, strengthened cooperation across policy areas is a critical factor in supporting these objectives. The Presidency places a strong emphasis on effective governance and the external communication of the Strategy. Furthermore, ensuring increased Ukrainian involvement in relevant actions and projects remains a key priority.

According to the recent report on implementation of the macro-regional strategies by the European Commission, the macro-regional approach is a valuable tool for addressing shared challenges from demographic change to green and digital transition. In a context shaped by geopolitical instability, macro-regional strategies reinforce resilience at national and regional levels. Quickly after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine started in 2022, the EUSBSR launched the first initiatives for cooperation between the Baltic Sea Region and Ukrainian stakeholders. Today, there are several transnational cooperation initiatives ongoing, both regarding immediate support, sustainable rebuilding, and the road towards full EU membership.

Over the next 12 months, Estonia will lead the work on overall strategic guidance, facilitation of decision-making and coordination of the National Coordinators Group, which is the core decision-making body within the governance structure of the EUSBSR, acting as its executive board. It consists of one National Coordinator from each of the eight contracting states.

The Estonian Presidency of the Strategy will last until 30 June 2026. The term will be concluded with the EUSBSR Annual Forum which will be held on 9-10 June 2026 in Tallinn.