A question in which he supports the need to create a European Insularity Fund, given the increasing pressures that the islands face, due to water scarcity, energy crisis and demographic shrinkage, was submitted to the European Commission by the MEP of the ND and the EPP and member of the Regional Development Committee, Fredis Beleris.

The Fund will support, in a targeted manner, investments in sustainable transport, energy autonomy, digital connectivity and demographic development, as it notes, stressing that “despite their importance, (the islands) still face serious difficulties due to geographical isolation, increased transport and energy costs, limited access to basic services and dependence on seasonal economic sectors”.

Mr. Beleris underlines that “the creation of a European initiative for islands and coastal regions, included in the Commission’s Work Program for 2026, is a positive development”, however, as he underlines, “without a special financial tool, there is a risk that this strategy will remain theoretical and will not bring tangible results for island communities”.

In conclusion, Mr. Beleris asks the European Commission if it intends to consider the creation of a European Insularity Fund, in the new MFF 2028-2034, or to integrate the principles of insularity in the existing financial instruments and in what way it will ensure the support of “micro-islandity or double insularity”.