The Interreg Atlantic Area Managing Authority sent last month the Harvesting Report for the Post-2027 Consultation to the European Commission’s Directorate General for Regional and Urban Policy (DG Regio), covering the recommendations received not only from stakeholders but also from citizens on how to improve the lives of those living and working in the Atlantic Region.
Based on the results of both consultations, a set of recommendations was made around several topics. Blue and Green are the primary targets pointed out, with the green transition highlighted in strict connection with the need for a healthy Atlantic Ocean and where digitalisation appears as a fundamental tool. Youth citizens shared worries about youth unemployment and education, with citizens also highlighting a topic related to the social inclusiveness of the youngest living in peripheral areas, which the Programme could explore since the priority "A Europe closer to citizens," is not currently a policy priority.
The report also includes other recommendations like simplifying access to funding and reducing bureaucracy, namely, to encourage broader participation from SME, and smaller beneficiaries like startups and civil organisations, as well as global partnerships with non-EU countries (e.g., Canada, the UK, and ultra-peripheral regions in the Atlantic).
Stakeholders also refer to the theme of legacy phases for projects, ensuring the results continue to deliver value beyond the project timeline, and avoiding redundancies. On the other hand, young citizens talk about empowering young people in the Atlantic Region, contributing to the creation of a Young Atlantic Council.
In the upcoming weeks DG Regio will analyse recommendations from all Interreg programmes’ harvesting reports. In 27th and 28th March, at Interreg Go!, the procedure will be completed by sharing and debating the main conclusions.