In the lead-up to the Cohesion Forum, European Commissioner Elisa Ferreira discusses the anticipation surrounding the , a point of departure for the discussions aimed at assessing the past performance of Cohesion policy, as well as its margin for improvement, in the face of future challenges.
The forum, taking place in Brussels on the 11 and 12 April, presents a unique opportunity to engage with a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including representatives from regions, member states, and academia, to collaboratively reflecting the future direction of Cohesion policy in the EU.
Commissioner Ferreira emphasises the strides made in reducing economic disparities within the EU, pointing out that the GDP per capita of newer Member States has risen from half to 80% of the EU average since the last enlargement. This progress is a testimony to the success of cohesion policy, particularly its investments in the green economy and renewable energy sources, in fostering competitive and balanced growth across the single market.
Cohesion policy has been instrumental in facilitating convergence, solidarity, and redistribution among EU regions. By supporting the development of infrastructure and enabling conditions for growth, it provides the necessary bases for regional growth, exemplified by the dynamism of places like Cluj in Romania and areas transitioning from emission heavy industries to cutting-edge new clean technologies thanks to instruments like the Just Transition Fund.
Despite these achievements, challenges remain, including development and talent development traps, demographic shifts, and skills shortages. The Cohesion policy's forward-looking approach, as Ferreira highlights, is crucial for addressing these challenges proactively, with the 9th Cohesion Report employing advanced models to predict future needs and interventions.
The upcoming Cohesion Forum and the discussion of the 9th Cohesion Report provide a platform to step outside the policy bubble, engage with the public, and demonstrate the tangible benefits of Cohesion policy on citizens' quality of life. In reflecting on the recent COVID-19 crisis, Ferreira reiterates the value of solidarity, which has been vital for Europe's resilience and recovery, echoing the foundational principles of Cohesion policy in fostering a more cohesive, competitive, and resilient Europe.
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