EU Unveils Island, Coastal Strategies

The European Union has unveiled two first-ever strategies aimed at bolstering its islands and coastal communities. These comprehensive plans, spearheaded by the International — European Commission and supported by figures like Raffaele Fitto and Costas Kadis, seek to address challenges such as high transport costs, energy isolation, housing shortages, and climate change. Key initiatives include improving transportation links and digital infrastructure, tackling climate change effects, addressing demographic decline, and enhancing security. The strategies also propose diversifying economic activities, creating new jobs, and implementing a blue carbon credit program. Member states like Republic of Ireland, Malta, and Cyprus are expected to benefit, with specific projects to be funded once the new EU budget is unveiled. The European Investment Bank will also collaborate on investments for climate resilience.