European Commission announces new strategy for ultraperipheral regions

The European Commission has announced a new strategy and regulatory package designed specifically for the nine ultraperipheral regions (RUP) of the European Union, which include the Azores and Madeira. The initiative aims to adapt EU legislation to better reflect the unique geographic, economic, and social realities of these territories, which span the Mediterranean, Atlantic, Caribbean, Indian Ocean, and South America.

The strategy focuses on several key pillars: leveraging geostrategic potential to improve connectivity and maritime security, increasing competitiveness in sectors such as the blue economy, renewable energy, biotechnology, and space research, and addressing environmental challenges like climate change and disaster response. Additionally, the plan emphasizes protecting critical infrastructure, including ports and submarine cables.

On a social level, the Commission intends to promote socioeconomic development by tackling poverty, improving access to education, affordable housing, healthcare, and clean water, and supporting the right of residents to remain in their home regions through job creation and social inclusion.