Maupertuis marks SEArica anniversary with a call for a shift from words to action

Speaking at the 1st anniversary of the European Parliament’s SEArica Parliamentary Intergroup, EA President Nanette Maupertuis highlighted the key work achieved by the group over the past 12 months yet highlighted that this is only the beginning. Speaking on islands, she highlighted that we are at a historical moment in Europe. For too long EU islands have been mentioned in speeches, but very little political action has been taken in helping these regions. In most cases, policies are designed for cities and larger regions and loosely applied to islands with little targeted attention- this must change. Islands have problems, but they are not the problem. It is not special treatment for islands being called for, it is the fair treatment of islands which is needed.

Maupertuis also raised the point that achieving equality in Europe does not mean applying a one-size-fits-all approach to each region or Member State, it means addressing the needs of regions while listening to the voices of LRAs. LRAs, particularly on islands are not just stakeholders, they are on the frontline for innovation in areas such as renewable energy and therefore are essential in ensuring stable sustainable innovation. Therefore, President Maupertuis stated that “If Europe wants to invest in its own future and on the future of cohesion, it must invest in the future of islands”.