Policy Statement by the President of INSULEUR - Giannis Roussos
As the newly elected President of the INSULEUR Network, I assume this role
with a deep sense of responsibility and commitment to promoting the interests
of Europe's island communities, with a focus on sustainable development,
resilience, and social cohesion.
The EU Policies must fully reflect the specific needs and potential
of island territories. To this end, I am setting forth the following strategic
priorities:
- Institutional
Recognition of Island Territories
We advocate for fair and full representation of islands in European
policymaking and the horizontal integration of "insularity clause" as a guiding policy
principle.
- Tailoring
Cohesion Policy to Island Needs
We call for a revision of existing funding frameworks to ensure
flexibility and responsiveness to the unique challenges and opportunities
of islands, with particular focus on:
- - Preserving
and restoring fragile island ecosystems,
- - Developing
sustainable infrastructure for climate adaptation,
- - Enhancing
digital connectivity and fostering innovation,
- - Advancing
the transition to renewable energy, and
- - Protecting
biodiversity across island environments.
- Efficient
Funding and Policy Implementation
We commit to advocating for innovative funding mechanisms and the
simplification of access procedures to accelerate the implementation of
sustainable projects on islands.
- Inclusive
Dialogue and Policy Co-Design
We prioritize the meaningful engagement of all stakeholders - local
communities, institutional partners, the scientific community, and private
sector actors - in shaping and executing policies that address the real
needs of island territories.
- No
Island Left Behind
Our vision is for Europe's islands not to be perceived as disadvantaged
regions, but as models of green transition, innovation, and social
resilience.
I call on all members of INSULEUR to contribute actively. Your insights
will be vital in shaping impactful policies and strategic initiatives.
Together, we can ensure that no island is left behind and that Europe's
islands lead the way toward a sustainable and inclusive future.
Giannis Roussos
President of INSULEUR
