Greek MEP Elena Kountoura (The Left) has asked the European Commission whether it plans to establish a permanent European Coordination Platform for islands and create one-stop-shop mechanisms to help island authorities and businesses access EU funding. In a written parliamentary question submitted on 9 June 2026, Kountoura argues that the upcoming EU strategy for islands will require an integrated multi-level governance framework that coordinates European, national, regional and local levels, and that the limited administrative capacity of many island administrations is a major obstacle to using EU financial instruments.
The question cites proposals from the CPMR Islands Commission for a coordination platform that would serve as a permanent mechanism for political dialogue, monitoring and evaluation of the strategy, with participation from the Commission, member states, island authorities and social partners. Kountoura also references the Cyclades Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which warns that small island businesses face complex regulatory requirements and administrative procedures designed for larger firms, leading to their de facto exclusion from EU financing even when they meet formal criteria.
whether the Commission intends to establish the European Coordination Platform, and whether it plans to provide technical assistance and capacity-building for island authorities, including one-stop-shops on the islands to simplify access to EU funds and help bring projects to fruition. The Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks; its answer will signal the policy direction for the forthcoming EU islands strategy.
Stakeholder impact If adopted, the proposed platform and one-stop-shops would benefit island authorities and small island businesses by reducing administrative burdens and improving access to EU funding. However, setting up such mechanisms could require additional resources from the Commission and member states, potentially increasing administrative costs at EU and national levels. Larger businesses and non-island regions may see no direct impact, while the simplification of procedures could reduce the competitive advantage of firms that already have dedicated administrative staff.
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