In a rapidly changing environment, cohesion policy remains the key European policy tool for promoting a balanced and sustainable development in the European regions.
The main issue, according to the General Secretary of Public Investments and NSRF, Dimitris Skalkos, as he pointed out at the RGC Regional Conference, organized by the “Peloponnisos” newspaper from March 16 to 18, is to clarify the role of the cohesion policy, that is, we want it to address crises or implement long-term strategies.
For his part, the representative of the Hellenic Foundation for European and Foreign Policy (ELIAMEP) Giorgos Petrakos, we must define the priorities for the planning period after 2027, while to the question of where new resources will be drawn, he answered:
“Europe needs a ‘tax hand’ on large companies that generate huge values and are not taxed”. The following speakers also took part in the discussion: pr. General Secretary of Public Investments and NSRF, Ministry of Development and Investments Giorgos Giannoussis,), Economist and Professor, Department of Public Investments, University of Thessaly Alekos Kritikos. The coordinator was Ioannis Papageorgiou, Director General, Regional Policy Observatory.
Athanasios Katsis, Chancellor of the University of Peloponnese
#RGC #Cohesion #Policy #Future
What specific measures should be prioritized in the post-2027 planning period to promote digital transformation and social inclusion across EU regions?
**Interview with Dimitris Skalkos, General Secretary of Public Investments and NSRF**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Skalkos. At the recent RGC Regional Conference, you highlighted the critical role of cohesion policy in promoting balanced regional development. Can you elaborate on what you mean by balancing the need to address immediate crises versus implementing long-term strategies?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** Thank you for having me. The essence of cohesion policy lies in its flexibility to respond to both urgent challenges, such as economic crises or public health emergencies, and the need for sustainable development in the long run. We must clarify that while short-term responses are crucial, we shouldn’t lose sight of the bigger picture and the long-term strategies essential for resilience and growth across regions.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the need for a clear definition of priorities for the planning period after 2027. What do you see as the most pressing priorities for this future planning?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** Looking ahead, we need to prioritize digital transformation, green energy initiatives, and social inclusion. These areas not only foster economic growth but also address some of the disparities currently seen in various regions of Europe.
**Interviewer:** Giorgos Petrakos from ELIAMEP suggested a ‘tax hand’ on large corporations that are not adequately taxed. How do you perceive the feasibility of this proposal in the broader European context?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** It’s a complex issue. While the idea of taxing large corporations more effectively could provide necessary resources for both cohesion policy and broader EU initiatives, political will and consensus among member states will be critical. We need a collaborative approach to taxation that balances economic competitiveness with social responsibility.
**Interviewer:** In closing, with varying opinions on the future of cohesion policy, what do you think is the biggest challenge we face in achieving sustainable development in European regions?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** The greatest challenge is undoubtedly reconciling regional needs with overarching EU goals while securing sufficient funding. This will require creativity, innovation, and a commitment to unity among member states.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Mr. Skalkos, for your insights. As we consider these important issues, we encourage our readers to reflect on a critical question: How do you think cohesion policy should evolve after 2027 to effectively balance short-term crisis response with long-term sustainable development? Your thoughts could shape an essential debate on the future of Europe.