Executive Vice-President Raffaele Fitto, on behalf of the European Commission, has declined to introduce a legally binding definition of islands or a mandatory 'island clause' in EU legislation, arguing that existing frameworks and Better Regulation tools already address territorial impacts. In a written answer to a parliamentary question from Elena Kountoura (The Left), Fitto stated that the Commission does not consider introducing further island-specific mandatory impact assessments, despite acknowledging the distinct characteristics of island territories.
The answer, dated 30 July 2026, responds to Kountoura's request for a systematic 'island-proofing by default' approach and the integration of island status as a horizontal parameter in EU policies. Fitto pointed to the Commission's first Islands Strategy, adopted on 10 June 2006, and noted that Eurostat already applies a statistical definition of island regions. He emphasised that existing legal and statistical frameworks provide definitions tailored to policy objectives, and that any future proposals would be considered within the context of sectoral legislation and impact assessments.
Fitto highlighted the Better Regulation Guidelines and Toolbox, which provide for territorial impact assessments, including those affecting islands, where relevant and proportionate. He argued that such analysis can identify place-based risks and distributional effects, and that islands will continue to receive EU support under the new Multiannual Financial Framework (2028-2034). However, he stopped short of committing to the mandatory assessments or a formal island clause that Kountoura had advocated.
The response signals a cautious approach, prioritising flexibility and proportionality over binding obligations. While the Commission acknowledges the need to consider island impacts, it prefers to rely on existing tools rather than create new mandatory requirements. This stance may disappoint island stakeholders and MEPs like Kountoura who seek stronger legal guarantees, but it aligns with the Commission's broader Better Regulation agenda aimed at reducing regulatory burden.
Looking ahead, the Commission will continue to assess whether existing definitions remain fit for purpose, but no immediate legislative proposal is planned. The debate over island-specific measures is likely to resurface during negotiations on the next MFF and sectoral legislation, where the Commission's position may face pressure from the European Parliament and island member states.