Strong regions for safe Europe. Resilience and growth of EU Eastern border countries

In the context of the EESC opinion on eastern border regions, the debate on ‘’Strong regions for a safe Europe: Resilience and growth of EU Eastern border countries’’ will emphasize to these territories that face a unique combination of challenges: demographic decline, lower investment levels, infrastructure gaps, and heightened geopolitical pressures—particularly in light of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. At the same time, they represent key gateways for trade, energy diversification, and cross-border cooperation.

The ECO Section debate will underline the need for a more targeted and coordinated EU policy approach in the context of the new Communication from the European Commission on the eastern border regions that was presented in February 2026. This includes reinforcing cohesion policy, improving connectivity (transport, energy, and digital networks), supporting local SMEs, and enhancing public services to retain population and attract talent. Participants also stressed the importance of strengthening civil society engagement and multi-level governance to ensure that local voices are reflected in EU strategies.

The event will be webstreamed and open to all interested stakeholders. No registration is needed and participation is free of charge.

Ask your questions to the panelists via Sli.do with the event code: #Cohesionpolicy

Follow us on X: #Easternborder Regions | @EESC_ECO.

Related opinion:
Strategy to support the eastern border regions to address their specific challenges and support them in the reorientation of their local economy