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 are the key challenges facing cohesion policy in Europe as mentioned by Mr. Skalkos during the interview?
**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 emphasized the need to clarify the role of cohesion policy in Europe. Can you elaborate on what this means for both immediate crises and long-term strategies?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** Absolutely. The cohesion policy is designed to promote balanced and sustainable development across EU regions, especially in times of crisis. We must ensure it is flexible enough to address urgent challenges while also guiding long-term strategies that foster resilience and growth. The question is how best to achieve this balance.
**Interviewer:** Giorgos Petrakos from ELIAMEP highlighted the need to set priorities for the planning period after 2027. What kinds of priorities do you think should be at the forefront, and how can we secure the necessary funding?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** We need to focus on sustainable investments that tackle social disparities, environmental challenges, and technological advancements. To fund these priorities, we should explore innovative financing mechanisms, including potential taxation on large corporations that are currently under-taxed. This could provide a significant revenue stream for cohesion projects.
**Interviewer:** There seems to be a growing consensus on the importance of taxing large corporations. How do you think this will affect public sentiment towards large businesses and their role in society?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** It’s a critical issue. If large companies contribute fairly to public finances, it can enhance their legitimacy in the eyes of the public. However, it’s essential that this approach is communicated effectively to avoid backlash. We must frame it as a way for these businesses to reinvest in the communities they benefit from.
**Interviewer:** Considering the challenges ahead, what is your vision for the future of cohesion policy in Europe?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** I envision a cohesive Europe where policies are responsive to both existing inequalities and emerging challenges. The cohesion policy must evolve to incorporate more stakeholder input and adapt to changing environments while ensuring that no region is left behind.
**Interviewer:** what would you say to our readers who might have mixed feelings about the effectiveness of cohesion policy?
**Dimitris Skalkos:** I encourage them to engage in the conversation. The success of the cohesion policy depends on public support and feedback. By discussing its effectiveness, we can refine our strategies and ensure that cohesion policy truly meets the needs of all European citizens.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing your insights with us, Mr. Skalkos.
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**Discussion Question for Readers:** With the proposed emphasis on taxing large corporations to fund cohesion policy, do you believe this approach would strengthen or undermine public trust in businesses? How should we balance the need for corporate contributions with their role in the economy? Share your thoughts!