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 Investment, 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
How can cohesion policy effectively respond to both immediate crises and long-term sustainability goals in the current socio-economic climate?
**Interview with Dimitris Skalkos, General Secretary of Public Investments and NSRF**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Mr. Skalkos. At the recent RGC Regional Conference, you emphasized the need to clarify the role of cohesion policy in addressing both crises and long-term strategies. Can you elaborate on why this is so crucial in today’s environment?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** Thank you for having me. In a rapidly changing landscape, especially with challenges like economic instability and climate change, cohesion policy must be flexible enough to respond to immediate crises while also fostering sustainable development over the long term. This dual focus ensures that we not only address current needs but also lay the groundwork for future resilience across European regions.
**Interviewer:** Giorgos Petrakos from ELIAMEP highlighted the need for new resource allocation and suggested a ‘tax hand’ on large companies. How do you see this proposal fitting within cohesion policy?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** His suggestion is significant because it points to innovative ways to finance cohesion initiatives. If we can tap into the revenue from major corporations that currently contribute less than their value suggests, we can enhance our funding for regional development projects. This not only supports cohesion goals but also promotes fairness in our economic system.
**Interviewer:** As we look towards planning for 2027 and beyond, what are the top priorities you believe should guide the cohesion policy strategy?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** Key priorities should include enhancing digital infrastructure, promoting sustainable economic practices, and ensuring equitable social development across all regions. We need to engage with local communities to understand their specific needs and tailor our strategies accordingly.
**Interviewer:** do you think the public is adequately informed about cohesion policy and its impact on their region?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** There’s definitely room for improvement here. Building awareness is essential for gaining public support and participation in these initiatives. Engaging with citizens through workshops and consultations can demystify the policy and show its direct benefits.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Mr. Skalkos, for sharing your insights.
**Call to Action for Readers:** As our regions strive for balance and sustainability, do you believe the current strategies in cohesion policy are sufficient? What changes would you advocate for to ensure a more equitable and effective approach in the future? Share your thoughts and join the debate!
