Press Release | INSULEUR Calls for a Dedicated EU Islands Strategy Following High-Level EESC Hearing
On 16 January 2026, INSULEUR participated in a High-Level Public Hearing at the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) entitled "Strengthening Cohesion and Connectivity: Policy Solutions for EU Islands", held under the auspices of the *Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union
The hearing brought together Members of the European Parliament, EU institutional representatives, national and regional authorities, social partners and island stakeholders from across Europe to discuss the structural challenges faced by EU island territories and the need for targeted policy responses.
INSULEUR was represented by its President, Giannis Roussos, who highlighted the long-standing position of island chambers of commerce and SMEs, stressing that EU islands require a systemic and cross-sectoral policy approach, rather than fragmented or sector-specific measures.
A clear and shared conclusion emerged from the discussions:
There is an urgent need for a dedicated EU Islands Strategy, supported by a robust legislative framework, including a European Islands Pact and an Islands Act (or insularity clause), to ensure that the specific constraints of island territories are systematically taken into account across all EU policies.
INSULEUR welcomes the strong political momentum generated by this hearing and reaffirms its commitment to actively contribute to the design and implementation of a future EU Islands Strategy, ensuring that the voice of island SMEs and chambers of commerce is fully integrated into European policymaking.
