The future of EU cohesion policy, climate resilience and challenges related to drought, housing and employment were at the centre of the 173rd plenary session of the European Committee of the Regions (CoR), which concluded in Brussels on October 14, with the participation of a Cypriot delegation.
According to a statement issued by the Union of Cyprus Municipalities, discussions highlighted the need to safeguard cohesion policy, strengthen the resilience of local communities and ensure the meaningful involvement of local and regional authorities in shaping EU policies.
CoR President Kata Tutto presented the 2026 Annual Report on the State of Regions and Cities in the EU, which highlighted persistent regional inequalities, increasing poverty and social exclusion, labour market pressures and the depopulation of rural areas.
The report also warned of the growing impact of climate change, estimating the annual economic cost of drought in the EU at approximately pound 9 billion. These challenges are particularly significant for Cyprus and other Mediterranean and island regions, which face increasing pressure on water resources and agricultural production.
Concerns were also raised over the possible concentration of decision-making powers and EU funds at national level, which could weaken cohesion policy and widen existing regional disparities.
During discussions with Kamal Kishore, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Disaster Risk Reduction, participants stressed the importance of disaster prevention, sustainable water management and stronger cooperation between European, national and local authorities.
Social policies, employment and access to affordable housing were also discussed in the presence of European Commission Executive Vice-President Roxana Minzatu, with particular emphasis on young people and vulnerable groups.
Speaking during a debate on the opinion entitled “Skills for the Future”, Stavros Hadjiyiannis, Mayor of South Nicosia-Idalion and a member of the Cypriot delegation, stressed the importance of continuously upgrading citizens’ knowledge and skills, with an emphasis on quality education, practical training and digital skills.
He said investment in skills should leave no one behind, adding that EU policies must ensure everyone can participate in the digital and green transitions.
“Let us create cities and regions that do not merely follow technological change, but have the capacity to shape it for the benefit of all,” he said.
The plenary adopted a total of 19 opinions covering issues including European competitiveness, sustainable urban development, the transformation of the defence industry and social and territorial cohesion.