INTENCIVE

What are we most proud of?

The European Commission has adopted the first EU strategy dedicated to islands, introducing a coordinated approach to support island territories and help them realise their long-term potential.

Around 17 million people live on more than 4,000 inhabited islands across 16 EU Member States. These territories are an important part of Europe’s economy, culture and natural heritage, but they also face structural challenges linked to their geography. 

Adopted on 10 June 2026, the strategy aims to ensure that the specific needs of islands are better reflected across EU policies and funding. 

It is structured around four pillars:

1. Economic development, connectivity, competitiveness and innovation;
2. Energy security, environmental protection, the green transition and climate resilience;
3. Communities, demography and quality of life;
4. Security and crisis preparedness.

The strategy also promotes stronger cooperation between European, national, regional and local authorities. It includes measures to strengthen institutional capacity, encourage the exchange of good practices and give island representatives a greater role in policy development.

Alongside the islands strategy, the Commission adopted a complementary strategy for resilient, prosperous and liveable coastal communities. Together, the two strategies address the interconnected economic, social and environmental pressures affecting Europe’s islands and coastal areas....asdf