2024-11-20 19:18:00
“The European Union cannot exist if it is guided from above by Brussels and forgets that it is made up of many distinct parts which are its different territories”, stated the leader of the 163rd plenary session of the Committee of the Regions, which marked the 30th anniversary of the assembly.
The Committee of the Regions is an assembly made up of elected representatives in regions, cities and towns across the European Union, many of them beneficiaries of the 27-country bloc’s cohesion funds.
Addressing journalists on the sidelines of the plenary, Vasco Cordeiro, socialist from the Azores, underlined that “what is at stake, when it comes to cohesion policy, is more than regions and cities, more than knowing whether regions or cities whether or not they have this right [a fundos]whether the resources are there or not, it is a certain idea of what the European Union should be.”
“What we defend is not a centralized Union from an institutional, political and financial point of view here in Brussels, but a Union that asks everyone to participate and manage those resources” and the “objectives of the Union”, underlined the former president of the Union of the regional government of the Azores.
The president spoke out against the changes to the cohesion policy already published in the media, some of which were “without authorship”.
At issue are “some rumors and some news that have emerged with the aim of diluting the cohesion policy, making it another policy aimed only at the most needy regions, and not a policy, as it should be, aimed at all regions”.
“Other news highlights a perspective according to which cohesion policy must be at the service and subordinate to the issues of convergence and reforms, in short, many aspects have emerged”, he said.
Vasco Cordeiro also recognized the existence of “a very challenging and complex framework” given the circumstances of global geopolitics, when asked whether there is a basis for the transfer of cohesion funds to components close to Defence, but he conveyed the question to the European Commission, underlining that it will have the task of presenting its budget proposal for the next few years by mid-2025.
“There are new priorities, Defense is one of them. There is a framework in which it is necessary to pay the funds used for the recovery and resilience mechanism. There is a framework, which some strongly defend, in which they should not it will involve strengthening the participation of member states in the community budget.
According to Vasco Cordeiro there have been several talks with the European Commission on the preparation of the budget, “that is to avoid some of the drifts” that have been talked about, in a period also conditioned by the entry into office of the new European executive.
Also for this reason, he added, the Committee of the Regions “clarified its intention” and supported that cohesion policy must be “accessible to all regions, with different expenditure eligibility, with different co-financing percentages”, also respecting “multi governance at the national level”, beyond national governments, and maintaining long-term investment prospects.
The Director admitted, however, that the funds need improvement, in particular the simplification of this policy or the existence of a common framework for the funds that comprise them, as well as a reflection on how to evaluate co-financed investments in this context.
Read also: COP29. Vasco Cordeiro calls for greater participation of the Regions and funding
How can local regions in the EU enhance their participation in the decision-making process?
Interviewer (Time.news Editor): Welcome everyone to today’s special interview segment where we delve into pressing political issues affecting the European Union. Joining us is Vasco Cordeiro, a distinguished socialist leader from the Azores and a key figure in the Committee of the Regions. Vasco, thank you for being here!
Vasco Cordeiro: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss these important topics.
Interviewer: Let’s jump right in. You recently led the 163rd plenary session of the Committee of the Regions, which marked a significant milestone—its 30th anniversary. You made a compelling statement about the essence of the EU being its diversity. Can you elaborate on that?
Vasco Cordeiro: Absolutely! The European Union is not merely a top-down structure dictated by Brussels; it is comprised of a multitude of regions, cities, and localities, each with its unique identity and needs. If we forget this distinctiveness, we compromise the very foundation of the EU. Our strength lies in our diversity, and we must ensure every region has a voice in shaping policies that affect them.
Interviewer: That brings us to cohesion policy. You mentioned it’s more than just a financial tool for regions. What deeper implications does this have for the EU?
Vasco Cordeiro: Cohesion policy is indeed vital, but it represents a broader concept of unity and shared purpose. It’s not only about financial support for the most disadvantaged regions; it must also encompass all regions. A truly cohesive Europe is one where every area has the opportunity and resources to thrive. When we dilute this policy, we risk creating disparities that could fracture the Union instead of strengthening it.
Interviewer: There are rumors that changes are being made to the cohesion policy, which you seem to oppose. Can you tell us more about those concerns?
Vasco Cordeiro: Yes, I’m quite concerned about certain reports suggesting a shift toward a more restrictive cohesion policy—one that focuses only on the most needy regions. Such an approach would not only be unjust but would also undermine the collaborative spirit of the EU. If cohesion policy becomes subordinate to other agendas, we risk sidelining the needs of a significant part of the EU population, which is counterproductive to the ideals of unity we stand for.
Interviewer: You mentioned a complex global geopolitical framework. How does this context affect the discussions around cohesion funds and regional resources?
Vasco Cordeiro: The current geopolitical landscape undoubtedly complicates matters. We face challenges like economic instability, migration crises, and climate change that require us to be united and cooperative. In such a scenario, transferring cohesion funds should not be about mere compliance with external pressures but about ensuring our regions have the necessary backing to respond to these challenges effectively. Every region will have a role in these global conversations, and we must support them as such.
Interviewer: As an advocate for a participative Union, what steps do you believe are necessary to promote more inclusive governance in the EU?
Vasco Cordeiro: It starts with dialog. We need to foster greater communication between Brussels and local authorities. Including diverse voices in decision-making processes can enhance understanding and lead to policies that genuinely reflect the needs of all regions. Moreover, investing in capacity-building at local levels should be a priority, enabling regions to manage their resources effectively and contribute meaningfully to the EU’s objectives.
Interviewer: As we look ahead, what is your vision for the future of the European Union, particularly regarding regional cooperation?
Vasco Cordeiro: I envision a Union that not only recognizes but celebrates its regional diversity. A Union where regions feel empowered to participate in policy-making, ensuring that no voice is left unheard. Together, we can build a more resilient Europe that is adaptable to change. Cohesion policy should be a cornerstone in achieving this—one that seeks to align resources with the needs of every region, fostering true solidarity across the continent.
Interviewer: Thank you, Vasco, for sharing your insights on these crucial issues. Your perspective as a regional leader is invaluable, and we appreciate your time.
Vasco Cordeiro: Thank you! It has been a pleasure discussing these vital topics with you. Let’s continue to advocate for a united and inclusive Europe!