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A major discussion on the future of Europe’s islands took place in the Hellenic Parliament following an initiative by Dodecanese MP Manos Konsolas, who brought the new European Island Strategy before the Parliamentary Subcommittee on Island Regions.
The strategy is based on an OECD study commissioned after a joint request submitted by Greece, Sweden and Croatia to the European Commission. Its objective is to provide a comprehensive policy framework that will strengthen island economies while accelerating both the green and digital transition across Europe’s island regions.
During the session, Konsolas presented a series of policy proposals aimed at boosting competitiveness and sustainable growth. His recommendations included energy-efficiency projects in tourism facilities, wider use of renewable energy sources, environmental certification systems, and investments in advanced digital infrastructure for tourism businesses.
A key point of the discussion was the need for new indicators to measure island development and resilience. According to Konsolas, factors such as high transportation costs, geographic isolation and regional inequalities must be taken into account, rather than relying solely on GDP as a measure of economic performance.
The Dodecanese MP outlined five strategic priorities for island policy: strengthening regional development, promoting sustainable growth, accelerating digital transformation, creating high-quality jobs, and establishing stronger multi-level governance mechanisms to support island communities.
The new European Island Strategy is expected to be officially presented in Cyprus next month, a development that could significantly shape the future of island regions across Europe and provide new opportunities for Greece’s island communities.
