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Oceans and fisheries

Commission seeks input to shape new European islands strategy

  • News announcement
  • 6 March 2026
  • Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries
  • 1 min read
Sao Miguel Island and Atlantic ocean from Azores, Portugal © Evgeni / Adobe Stock

The European Commission has launched a four-week public call for evidence to help design a comprehensive new strategy for the EU's islands.

Announced in the cohesion policy mid-term review of 1 April 2025 and highlighted in the European Ocean Pact of June 2025, this strategy will strengthen resilience, boost competitiveness and address the specific socio-economic challenges faced by islands across the EU.

Open until 1 April, this consultation invites citizens, businesses, local and regional authorities, civil society organizations, and experts, particularly those based on EU islands, to share their views on the most pressing issues affecting their communities. Through this consultation, the Commission aims to identify key priorities, assess the performance of existing EU policies and legislation, and explore ways to better respond to the needs of islands.

Special attention will be given to young people, with the objective of ensuring that islands remain attractive places to live and work.

More information

The call for evidence is available via the ‘Have Your Say' portal.

Details

Publication date
6 March 2026
Author
Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries