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 citizens effectively engage with public officials to influence the direction of future cohesion policies?
**Interview with Dimitris Skalkos, General Secretary of Public Investments and NSRF**
**Editor:** Dimitris, thank you for joining us today. At the recent RGC Regional Conference, you emphasized the need to clarify the role of the cohesion policy in the context of current crises and long-term strategies. Can you elaborate on what challenges you think the cohesion policy faces in addressing both immediate and long-term priorities?
**Skalkos:** Thank you for having me. The cohesion policy is indeed a vital tool for promoting balanced development across Europe, especially in a rapidly changing environment. One of the main challenges is finding the right balance between responding to urgent crises—like economic downturns or pandemics—and implementing sustainable, long-term strategies that will benefit regions for years to come. This requires not just clarification of priorities but also adaptability in our approach as circumstances evolve.
**Editor:** You also mentioned the importance of prioritizing resources for the planning period after 2027. What specific areas do you believe should be prioritized in future cohesion policies?
**Skalkos:** It’s crucial to focus on sectors that can drive sustainable growth, such as green technologies and digital innovation. Investing in infrastructure that supports these sectors is essential. We must also ensure that the resources are allocated in a way that addresses the specific needs of less developed regions to avoid widening existing disparities.
**Editor:** Giorgos Petrakos from ELIAMEP introduced the idea of a ‘tax hand’ on large companies. How do you see this concept influencing future funding for cohesion policies?
**Skalkos:** Tax reform could certainly provide additional resources needed for investment. If large corporations that benefit significantly from the European market contribute more through taxation, these funds could be redirected into programs that support cohesion objectives. However, any proposal would need careful consideration of its economic implications to ensure it doesn’t deter investment.
**Editor:** Given these discussions, what are your thoughts on how ordinary citizens can engage with and influence cohesion policy moving forward?
**Skalkos:** Citizen engagement is vital. They can provide valuable input on local needs and priorities during consultations. Furthermore, raising awareness about cohesion policy’s impact on daily life can mobilize public opinion and encourage political accountability. I hope to see more grassroots movements advocating for local interests in this context.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dimitris. To our readers, what are your thoughts on the balance between addressing immediate crises and planning for long-term sustainability within cohesion policy? How should Europe prioritize the taxation of large companies in funding these initiatives? We invite you to share your views and join the debate!
