The core mission of the High-level Level Group on the future of Cohesion Policy is fundamentally about harnessing the full potential of Cohesion Policy to tackle the long-term challenges the European Union faces. By focusing on the less developed and more vulnerable regions, we aim to unlock the economic potential across the entire EU; an economic potential that has very often remained idle or has been overlooked, undermining the position of Europe in the world, as well as hurting the well-being of its citizens. This potential is especially important in the case of areas that are experiencing long-term economic decline and have been far too frequently ignored by policy. Our approach is not about levelling the playing field but rather about raising the dynamism of those areas of the EU that have considerable unused potential, ensuring that every region, no matter its current state, can contribute to and benefit from the EU's growth.
The ultimate goal is to improve opportunities and livelihoods for all Europeans, no matter where they live. By concentrating on the more vulnerable regions of the Union, we are not just addressing regional disparities; we are also creating a more balanced and inclusive economic landscape across the EU. This includes promoting sustainable and inclusive growth, ensuring fair digital and green transitions, and considering the diverse needs of different EU regions. Our work is about more than just policy; it is about making a tangible difference in people's lives, fostering a sense of unity and shared prosperity across the European Union.
The diversity of backgrounds in our group has indeed been both a challenge and a remarkable asset. With members hailing from politics, socio-economic spheres, civil society, and, to a letter extent, academia, we have all been exposed to a wealth of approaches and interests that have significantly enriched our discussions. Each individual member brings a unique perspective, informed by their wealth of professional and personal experiences, which has been instrumental in broadening our collective understanding of development and cohesion issues across Europe and elsewhere.
Crucially, the considerable array of knowledge of our members has been a key factor in navigating the complexities of integrating these diverse viewpoints. This experience has facilitated a deeper understanding and respect for each other's perspectives, allowing us to reach consensus more effectively. We have adopted a collaborative and open-minded approach to discussions, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued.
This inclusive and comprehensive approach has been fundamental in shaping our vision for the future of Cohesion Policy. By harnessing the collective expertise and insights of our group, we are better equipped to develop strategies that are not only innovative but also pragmatic and tailored to the real needs and challenges facing the EU regions. Ultimately, our goal is to ensure that the future Cohesion Policy reflects a balanced amalgamation of these diverse inputs, leading to policies that are equitable, effective, and resonate with all stakeholders involved.
Each meeting of the Group was full of surprises. The diverse backgrounds of our members sparked vibrant discussions on developmental issues across various EU countries and regions. We conducted lively debates, revealing the unique challenges and opportunities each region faces but which also turned out to be the base for wider discussions about how to address bottlenecks and make sure that European guidelines and investment could be used to the maximum benefit of citizens in the EU.
A significant focus of our discussions was on governance and ways to enhance it. These often vigorous conversations explored the intricacies of effective policy implementation and oversight, considering what had been done well and what had gone wrong, taking into account the specific needs and capacities of different regions. We also delved into the relationship between European cohesion policy and other EU policies, uncovering numerous areas where they are complementary and where collaboration between the policies would lead to significant additional benefits. This examination brought to light how Cohesion Policy can be integrated with broader EU strategies, enhancing the overall effectiveness and impact of European initiatives.
In our most recent meeting on the capacity of Cohesion Policy to handle sudden shocks, the group reaffirmed that Cohesion Policy is fundamentally a structural, long-term initiative designed primarily to prevent crises and shocks, insofar as they are predictable and not solely natural occurrences. This makes Cohesion Policy a preventive tool —much like preventive medicine— aimed at enhancing the preparedness, resilience, and sustainability of our societies rather than merely being an emergency response instrument. From this perspective, we consider Cohesion Policy as an efficient and cost-effective form of intervention.
The emphasis within Cohesion Policy is on embedding resilience in Europe. Our approach involves crafting policies that are inherently flexible, enabling them to adapt to unforeseen circumstances while still adhering to long-term objectives. This means developing a framework that, while capable of responding rapidly to immediate needs, does not deviate from the fundamental goals of regional development and cohesion. For instance, many of us consider that funding mechanisms could be designed to allow for adaptability and swift reallocation in the face of emergencies, yet remain guided by the broader objectives of the policy.
In essence, our recent discussions have underscored the need for a dynamic and sturdy Cohesion Policy framework. This framework should be capable of contributing to effectively managing immediate crises, yet remain focused on its enduring goals of promoting unity, development, and prosperity across all European regions.
Our report, with its conclusions and recommendations, will come out in early 2024. I must admit there is a sense of excitement and anticipation within the group. However, we have agreed to keep the finer details of our key aspects and insights closely guarded until the release of the report. This decision is not only to ensure the integrity and impact of our work but also to pique the interest of those eagerly awaiting —as well as those, perhaps, dreading— our findings.
What I can share is that the report will be rich with innovative ideas and strategies that are expected to significantly drive discussion on the future of Cohesion Policy. The insights have been carefully crafted, drawing on the diverse experiences and expertise within our group. We believe that the report's recommendations will not only address current challenges but also provide a visionary approach for the future, ensuring that Cohesion Policy remains a dynamic and effective tool for both regional development and cohesion, as well as a mainstay of the European Union project.
Hence, stay tuned for the report's release some time in February. Hopefully, it will help shape the trajectory of Cohesion Policy in the years to come.
