The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) believes that the challenges faced by EU islands are not adequately addressed by the EU's sectoral policies. Instead of being treated as peripheral territories, islands should be recognised as frontline regions for Europe.

The EU requires a 'systemic shift' to address the needs of islands. This would entail the development of a dedicated EU islands strategy (the Islands Pact), the EESC said in its opinion on The Island Dimension in European Cohesion, Competitiveness and Sustainable Development Policies, which had been requested by the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU.

The Islands Pact should be supported by a clear legislative framework (the Islands Act) containing an 'insularity clause'. This clause would systematically incorporate the specific needs and constraints of islands into EU policies on cohesion, transport, energy, State aid, the environment, and maritime affairs, said the rapporteur for the opinion Ioannis Vardakastanis.

The opinion is seeking to feed into a new strategy for islands and coastal communities, which the European Commission is expected to unveil in 2026.

The EU comprises a variety of island regions spanning the Mediterranean Sea, the Atlantic Ocean, the North Sea and the Baltic Sea. It also encompasses outermost regions in the Caribbean and the Indian Ocean. Finland's Lakeland region, with its thousands of forested islands, is the largest lake region in Europe. 

These island and lake regions play a key role in ensuring Europe’s strategic autonomy with regard to defence, energy security, and access to critical resources. They are vital for the EU’s blue economy and climate resilience. 

However, they continue to be impacted by persistent structural disadvantages, leading to a range of challenges, including isolation, melting ice, high transport and energy costs, housing shortages, labour shortages and excessive dependence on tourism.

Improving connectivity and infrastructure in island territories is essential for territorial cohesion. This means better transport, mobility, digital links and energy grids supporting decarbonisation and autonomy.

Island regions must also diversify through a blue economy based on marine resources, renewable energy, tourism, heritage and the creative industries.

The 'insularity clause' should apply to the National and Regional Partnership Plans under the Multiannual Financial Framework 2028-2034, with measures on housing, transport, water and waste, climate adaptation, healthcare and economic opportunities, the EESC concluded. (mp/ll)