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INSULEUR Spring Workshop 2025 Highlights: President Giannis Roussos Calls for Stronger EU Support for Islands
The Network of the Insular Chambers of Commerce and Industry of the European Union (INSULEUR) hosted a high-level workshop at the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) in Brussels, focusing on the pressing challenges of climate change adaptation and economic resilience in island regions. Organized in partnership with the EESC and in cooperation with the CPMR Islands Commission and the European Small Islands Federation (ESIN), the event gathered key stakeholders to discuss how the EU Cohesion Policy can better support islands in building resilience and sustainability. Giannis Roussos Leads the Discussion on Island Resilience The workshop was the first major event presided over by Mr. Giannis Roussos, newly elected President of INSULEUR. In his opening remarks, Mr. Roussos emphasized the urgent need for targeted EU policies and funding mechanisms that recognize the unique vulnerabilities of islands. "Islands face distinct challenges that mainland policies often fail to address. If we want a resilient, sustainable future, we must ensure that European policies truly reflect the realities of island economies," stated Mr. Roussos. He also expressed gratitude to the EESC, the Greek Deputy Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Mr. Stefanos Gkikas, and the Secretary General of the Ministry, Mr. Manolis Koutoulakis, for their continuous support in strengthening island representation in EU policymaking. Workshop: The Role of EU Cohesion Policy in Strengthening Island Resilience The workshop, titled "Impacts of Climate Change on Insular Economies: How the EU Cohesion Policy Can Support Resilience and Adaptation," examined how island communities are disproportionately affected by climate change, particularly in key economic sectors such as tourism, transport, and energy. 🔹 Introductory Remarks: Mr. Ioannis Vardakastanis, President of the EESC ECO Section, and Mr. Stefanos Gkikas, Greek Deputy Minister of Maritime Affairs & Insular Policy, joined Mr. Roussos in the opening session, emphasizing the importance of long-term EU support for islands. 🔹 Keynote Presentation: Prof. Judit Carrillo (University of La Laguna, Canary Islands) presented an analysis of the growing climate challenges facing island economies, including rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and the economic pressures of energy dependency. 🔹 Islanders' Voices: Moderated by Ms. Irene Mikelis (INSULEUR Project Officer), this session brought together key island stakeholders, including:
They highlighted real-life examples of climate change impacts on island communities and called for enhanced digital connectivity, investments in green infrastructure, and dedicated EU funding mechanisms to address these unique challenges.
🔹 European Institutions' Responses: Moderated by Mr. Manolis Koutoulakis, speakers from European institutions included:
Discussions focused on post-2027 EU Cohesion Policy, streamlining funding for island resilience projects, and strengthening collaboration between EU institutions, national governments, and island representatives. INSULEUR's Commitment Moving Forward Under the leadership of Giannis Roussos, INSULEUR remains committed to:
🔗 Watch the full workshop recording
here: View Recording 📸 Access photos & presentations: Photos#mce_temp_url# & Presentations #mce_temp_url# With a renewed commitment to island advocacy, INSULEUR will continue to push for a stronger, more resilient future for EU island economies.
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