INSULEUR has officially submitted its contribution to the European Commissionโs public consultation on the future European Strategy for Islands, an important initiative that could significantly strengthen the recognition of islandsโ specific realities and needs within European policymaking.
This contribution reflects a collective effort bringing together comments, proposals and expertise from INSULEUR membersย across island territories and represents an important opportunity to ensure that the voice of island economies, SMEs and chambers of commerce is taken into account in the development of future European policies affecting islands.ย
In its feedback, INSULEUR highlights among other:
- the need for a dedicated and long-term European policy framework for islands;
- stronger support for island SMEs and entrepreneurship;
- improved maritime and air connectivity;
- increased investment in sustainable tourism and blue economy sectors;
- enhanced support for energy autonomy and circular economy initiatives;
- better access to European funding instruments for island stakeholders;
- and stronger integration of islands into EU innovation and digitalisation strategies.
The submission also stresses the importance of involving island stakeholders directly in the governance and implementation of future EU policies affecting island territories.
Looking ahead
The closure of this public consultation represents only the beginning of a broader policy process. INSULEUR will continue to actively engage with European institutions and partners to ensure that the voice of islandsย is fully taken into account in the shaping of the future European Strategy for Islands.
INSULEUR remains convinced that Europeโs islands should not be viewed merely through the lens of constraints, but rather as strategic territories capable of driving innovation, sustainability, resilience and cooperation acrossย the European Union as a whole.