The European Commission has launched a public call for evidence to help shape a new European Strategy for Islands, inviting stakeholders to contribute to the design of a comprehensive framework addressing the specific needs and potential of EU islands.
The forthcoming strategy, announced in the mid‑term review of cohesion policy in April 2025 and highlighted in the European Ocean Pact of June 2025, aims to strengthen resilience, boost competitiveness and address the socio‑economic challenges faced by island territories across the EU.
The consultation is open for four weeks, until 1 April 2026, and invites input from citizens, businesses, local and regional authorities, civil society organisations and experts, with particular encouragement for contributions from those living and working on EU islands. Through this process, the Commission seeks to:
identify key priorities and challenges affecting islands
assess how existing EU policies and legislation address island needs
explore new or improved responses to support sustainable development and long‑term resilience
Special attention will be given to the perspectives of young people, with the objective of ensuring that islands remain attractive places to live and work in the long term.
For the Atlantic Sea Basin, where islands play a vital role in maritime activities, blue economy sectors, energy transition and territorial cohesion, this initiative represents an important opportunity to ensure that Atlantic island’s realities and priorities are reflected in future EU policymaking.
Stakeholders are invited to submit their contributions via the European Commission’s ’Have Your Say’ portal, where further information on the call for evidence is available.