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
**Interview with Dimitris Skalkos, General Secretary of Public Investments and NSRF**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Dimitris. At the recent RGC Regional Conference, you spoke about the need to clarify the role of cohesion policy in addressing crises as well as implementing long-term strategies. Can you elaborate on why this clarification is crucial in a rapidly changing environment?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** Certainly. Cohesion policy is vital for fostering balanced and sustainable development across European regions. In times of crisis, we must ensure that our policies are adaptable and responsive, addressing immediate needs while also laying down long-term strategies that ensure resilience. Clarifying this dual role helps policymakers prioritize actions that are effective both now and in the future.
**Interviewer:** Your colleague Giorgos Petrakos mentioned the importance of defining priorities for the planning period after 2027. What do you see as the most pressing priorities for the next phase of cohesion policy?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** As we look ahead, priorities should focus on sustainability, digitalization, and social cohesion. It’s essential to create a framework that not only supports economic recovery but also enhances environmental sustainability and social equity. This comprehensive approach will encourage diverse regions to thrive.
**Interviewer:** There’s an urge for new resource generation, particularly through higher taxation on large companies. How do you perceive the balance between fostering a business-friendly environment and ensuring sufficient funding for cohesion initiatives?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** It’s a delicate balance. On one hand, we must encourage businesses to grow and innovate, but on the other, they should contribute fairly to the communities they benefit from. A tax reform that targets larger corporations, particularly those that are profiting significantly without a comparable tax contribution, could provide a substantial resource for public investments while maintaining a competitive environment.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, how can citizens engage with this conversation and influence the future direction of cohesion policy?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** Public engagement is critical. Citizens can participate in local discussions, provide feedback on proposed policies, and advocate for their communities’ needs. It’s important that they understand how these policies impact their daily lives and that their voices are heard in the decision-making process.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dimitris. Your insights will surely encourage more people to think about the role of cohesion policy in shaping our future.
**Debate Prompt for Readers:** As we consider the future of cohesion policy, do you believe that focusing on long-term strategies outweighs the need for immediate crisis response? How should Europe balance these priorities to ensure effective development across all regions? Share your thoughts!