PES: Cohesion Policy must deliver social convergence for and with communities at all levels

Ambitious Cohesion Policy is essential for upwards social convergence and the long-term success of the European Union - this was the conclusion as socialist and social democratic ministers met virtually today.

Gathering online this morning, ministers underlined the need for a place-based and bottom-up approach to EU Cohesion Policy which continues to work in full partnership with national, regional and local authorities.

Deputy Secretary General of the Party of European Socialist (PES) and meeting chair, Yonnec Polet, said:

"As the PES family, we will work to protect Cohesion Policy and its defining tenets. Namely, its central role in promoting social and territorial convergence across the EU, delivered for and with communities at all levels.

"It is clear that national, regional and local authorities know the needs of their communities best, so they must continue to play a full and meaningful role in Cohesion Policy in the coming mandate. The place-based and bottom-up approach, and the partnership principle, is essential for the long-term success of the European Union. As we said at our last meeting in Luxembourg, Cohesion Policy is a strategic imperative for Europe."

Building from the excellent work of European Commissioner for Cohesion and Reforms Elisa Ferreira, the PES 2024 Election Manifesto and the S&D Key Demands for this mandate underline the importance of a strong Cohesion Policy for upwards social convergence, simplification, social conditionality, and a long-term perspective.

Deputy Secretary General Polet added:

"On behalf of the PES family, I would like to
thank Elisa for her dedication over this mandate. From the Just
Transition Fund to support a greener future, to the vital use of EU Cohesion
funds during the pandemic and the fight against brain drain, and so much more,
life is fairer for citizens and Europe is stronger thanks to your leadership.
We trust the next Commission will make use of this strong legacy and continue
your good work in the next mandate."

Participants of the meeting further exchanged on other
priorities for Cohesion policy, including demography, the labour market,
infrastructure and access to essential and social services. The PES family believes
that everyone in Europe - from the biggest city to the most remote region -
should enjoy a good quality of life.

The meeting was also attended by:

• Aleksander Jevšek, Slovenia
• Ángel Víctor Torres, Spain
• Adrian Câciu, Romania
• Marcos Ros Sempere, S&D Group
• Christophe Rouillon, PES Group in the Committee of the Regions

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