Implementation Dialogues

Upcoming Implementation Dialogues

Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen:

• 15 September 2025 (Brussels).
• Cybersecurity policy.
• More information here.

Executive Vice-President Roxana Mînzatu:

• 16 September 2025 (Brussels).
• Fair labour mobility.
• More information here.

Executive Vice-President Raffaele Fitto:

• 18 September 2025 (Brussels).
• EU funding and regional competitiveness.
• More information here.

Commissioner Costas Kadis:

• 24 November 2025 (Brussels).
• Small-scale coastal fisheries.

Past Implementation Dialogues

EVP Séjourné:

• 25 March 2025 (Brussels).
• Chemicals Industry Package.
• More information here.

Commissioner Jessika Roswall:

• 10 April 2025 (Brussels).
• Environmental Assessments and Permitting.
• More information here.

Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas:

• 15 April 2025 (Brussels).
• High-speed rail in Europe.
• More information here. 

Commissioner Andrius Kubilius:

• 19 May 2025 (Brussels).
• EU Defence Industry and Defence Omnibus, discussing the EU non-defence and defence regulatory frameworks.
• More information here.

Commissioner  Ekaterina Zaharieva:

• 25 April 2025 (Brussels).
• Startups and Scaleups.
• More information here.

Commissioner Hadja Lahbib:

• 21 May 2025 (Brussels).
• The humanitarian landscape with Commissioner Hadja Lahbib.
• More information here.

Commissioner Christophe Hansen:

• 3 June 2025 (Brussels).
• Common Agricultural Policy.
• More information here.

Executive Vice-President Roxana Mînzatu:

• 3 June 2025 (Brussels).
• European Education Area.
• More information here.

Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra:

• 5 June 2025 (Brussels).
• Road Transport and Buildings Decarbonisation: Making it Work for People and Businesses.
• More information here.

Commissioner Marta Kos:

• 10 June 2025 (Brussels).
• Private Sector Investment.
• More information here.

Commissioner Dan Jørgensen:

• 11 June 2025 (Brussels).
• Permitting for renewable energy projects and related infrastructure.
• More information here.

Commissioner Magnus Brunner:

• 24 June 2025 (Warsaw).
• Strengthening The EU’s Civil Security Competitiveness and Facilitating Market Uptake.
• More information here.

Commissioner Jozef Síkela:

• 24 June 2025 (Brussels).
• International Partnerships.
• More information here.

Executive Vice-President Raffaele Fitto:

• 24 June 2025 (Brussels).
• Sustainable Urban Development of Cohesion Policy.
• More information here.

Commissioner Glenn Micallef:

• 26 June 2025 (Brussels).
• Youth Policy Toolbox.
• More information here.

Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis:

• 27 June 2025 (Brussels).
• Towards relevant, simplified and cost-efficient European official statistics.
• More information here.

Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis:

• 27 June 2025 (Brussels).
• The Recovery and Resilience Facility reporting and administrative burden.
• More information here.

Executive Vice-President Teresa Ribera:

• 30 June 2025 (Madrid).
• Important Projects of Common European Interest (IPCEIs).
• More information here.

Commissioner Costas Kadis:

• 1 July 2025 (Brussels).
• Implementation of Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP) Directive (Brussels).
• More information here.

Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen:

• 1 July 2025 (Brussels).
• Implementation Dialogue on Data Policy.
• More information here.

Commissioner Maria Luís Albuquerque:

• 10 July 2025 (Brussels).
• EU taxonomy.
• More information here

Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič:

• 11 July 2025 (Brussels).
• EU Rules of Origin: a business perspective

Commissioner Michael McGrath:

• 15 July 2025 (Brussels).
• Consumer protection in the digital environment.
• More information here.

Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi:

• 15 July 2025 (Brussels).
• Biocidal producs
• More information here.

Commissioner Michael McGrath:

• 16 July 2025 (Brussels).
• Application of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
• More information here.

Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas:

• 17 July 2025 (Brussels).
• Renewable and Low-Carbon Fuels in Maritime and Aviation.
• More information here. 

Commissioner Dubravka Šuica:

• 31 July 2025 (online).
• People-to-people initiatives of the partnership with the Mediterranean.
• More Information here.

Executive Vice-President Séjourné:

• 25 March 2025 (Brussels).

• Chemicals Industry Package.
  
  On 25 March 2025, Executive Vice-President Séjourné and Commissioner Roswall held a high-level strategic dialogue on the Chemicals Industry Package. This event served the purpose of an implementation dialogue as it related to current implementation issues and ways to achieve impactful simplification.   The event gathered representatives from companies, trade associations, trade unions and civil society organisations (see the list in annex).
  
  The dialogue aimed to gather stakeholders’ feedback on three key aspects for the sector: 1) how to enhance the level playing field and competitiveness of the EU chemicals industry while ensuring benefits for citizens and the environment; 2) priority measures to simplify the REACH Regulation; and 3) how to protect health and the environment from PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), while ensuring other EU objectives. 

  All stakeholders agreed on the need to keep chemical production in the EU to secure autonomy of key supply chains, safe jobs and sustainable production of safe chemicals. There was also consensus on the need to step up enforcement and compliance with chemicals legislation to ensure a level playing field for companies and better health and environmental protection.

  Concerning the REACH revision, diverging views were presented on introducing registration requirements for polymers, a mixture allocation factor and extending the use of the generic risk management approach. There was, nonetheless, broad consensus on strengthening enforcement, improving predictability, fully digitalising processes and supporting innovation in safe and sustainable solutions.

  Civil society organisations called for a broad ban of all PFAS with only strict derogations. Representatives from trade unions highlighted that PFAS should be substituted wherever possible, but exceptional continued use under controlled conditions should be ensured where PFAS are still needed. Industry representatives also stressed that PFAS cannot be substituted in all applications.

  Executive Vice-President Séjourné concluded that the objective is to ensure continued chemical production in the EU, simplify where possible without deregulating, and offer more flexibility. Commissioner Roswall highlighted the complementarity of the competitiveness and protection objectives.

  Further discussions took place on 12 May 2025 during a Strategic Dialogue on the Future of the Chemical Industry in Europe hosted by President von der Leyen. Both dialogues have contributed to the Chemicals Industry Action Plan, published on 8 July 2025.

  Annex

  List of companies and associations that participated in the high-level meeting:

  • Syensqo
  • BASF
  • SolvaChem
  • INEOS
  • AkzoNobel
  • Arkema
  • Kemira
  • Safran
  • Merck Group
  • Kiilto Oy
  • Solvay
  • Orlen
  • Cosmoway
  • Cefic
  • Downstream Users of Chemicals Co-ordination Group (DUCC)
  • SMEunited
  • European Consumer Organisation (BEUC)
  • ClientEarth
  • Health and Environment Alliance
  • ChemSec
  • European Environmental Bureau (EEB)
  • CHEM Trust
  • Eurogroup for Animals
  • European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC)
  • IndustriAll

Commissioner Jessika Roswall:

• 10 April 2025 (Brussels).
• Environmental Assessments and Permitting.
  
  The Implementation Dialogue on environmental assessments and permitting was held in Brussels on 10 April. It featured an open and fruitful exchange with several stakeholders, including business and industry, civil society, public authorities and judges.
  All actors expressed the need to balance different interests including the need to advance on decarbonisation objectives, ensure energy security and a high level of protection of the environment and human health. 
  There was broad consensus on the need to step up efforts on implementation of existing EU legislation in this area . In particular, participants underlined the need for digitalisation of environmental assessments and permitting procedures; improving data quality and data sharing on environmental assessments in order to accelerate procedures and save costs. There was a broad call for the Commission to clarify certain aspects of environmental assessment procedures and permits by way of guidance documents, to further support Member States’ capacity building, including where possible through funding, and to facilitate dissemination of best practices across Member States authorities and stakeholders.
  Commissioner Roswall stressed her keen intention to work and deliver on simplification objectives, taking into account the views of stakeholders, in close cooperation with Executive Vice-President Séjourné and Commissioner Jørgensen, and their respective services as concerns the areas of their competence.

Commissioner  Apostolos Tzitzikostas:

• 15 April 2025 (Brussels).
• High-speed rail in Europe.
  
  The Implementation Dialogue on High-Speed Rail (HSR) was held on 15 April 2025. It was attended by high-level stakeholders from rail operators, infrastructure managers, passenger organisations, cities and civil society, trade unions, private investors, rolling stock leasing companies, construction and engineering companies, EIB, ERA, and the EU Rail Joint Undertaking. 
  
  The very constructive exchange covered the question of implementing highspeed rail from a number of different angles, including planning, construction, financing, rail operations and passenger experience. 
  
  There was a broad consensus on the need to overcome capacity bottlenecks with the support of the proposed capacity regulation and new infrastructure investments. Several stakeholders raised the need to reduce permitting delays to improve project delivery. Some operators highlighted the importance of full implementation of EU rail legislation to allow new companies to enter the market. Many stressed the need to simplify and accelerate the process of vehicle authorisations for cross-border train operations and to improve coordination on the deployment of European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) to strengthen interoperability and safety. Standardisation of infrastructure components would help achieve economies of scale and reduce costs. There was a general agreement on the need to reduce unnecessary national technical and operational rules. There was a broad call for long-term funding stability and continued EU-level funding for cross-border infrastructure projects. Some participants suggested to explore possible private finance involvement using various instruments (EU guarantees, blending instruments, green bonds, Regulatory Asset Base model).
  
  Commissioner Tzitzikostas emphasised the significance of high-speed rail (HSR) for connectivity, decarbonisation and competitiveness. Building on the network set out in the 2024 TEN-T Regulation, the Commission will adopt a plan to develop highspeed rail. Participants expressed broad support for the Commission’s preparatory work on this plan.

Commissioner  Ekaterina Zaharieva:

• 25 April 2025 (Brussels).
• Startups and Scaleups.
  
  The Implementation Dialogue on Startups and Scaleups, hosted by Commissioner Zaharieva, Commissioner for Startups, Research and Innovation, took place on 25 April 2025 in Brussels. The dialogue featured an open and constructive exchange with a broad range of stakeholders, including representatives from startups and scaleups, venture capital funds, national investment agencies, industry associations, accelerators, and academic organisations.
  
  The dialogue aimed to gather stakeholder feedback on the key obstacles faced by innovative companies and possible actions to address these issues at EU and Member State level through more simplified and effective implementation of existing measures or the development of new instruments. For that purpose, the discussions focused on the (lack of) progress on innovation policy objectives and past initiatives across the topics of access to finance, reduction of regulatory and bureaucratic burdens, access to markets, skills and talent and improving the access to research infrastructure, data and services.
  
  There was broad consensus on the need to strengthen efforts to improve access to finance. Several stakeholders called for the expansion of existing instruments, such as the European Innovation Council, while emphasising that application and disbursement processes must be simplified. Participants also underlined that public instruments for startups and scaleups should not compete with private funding, but instead focus on mobilising private capital. Stakeholders noted the lack of progress in implementing the EU Blue Card Directive across Member States, highlighting its low and uneven uptake. Some participants proposed EU-wide information campaigns and the establishment of national helpdesks to improve awareness and accessibility. There was also broad support to extend the scope of the Blue Card to include entrepreneurs. Participants also highlighted the importance of simplifying regulatory frameworks in the EU to facilitate cross-border expansion of companies, expressing support for a pan-European law corporate structure (so-called 28th regime).
  
  Commissioner Zaharieva underscored her keen intention to work and deliver on simplification and implementation objectives and underscored her intention to take into account stakeholders’ views for Commission initiatives such as the EU Startup and Scaleup Strategy, which was adopted on 28 May 2025, and the forthcoming European Innovation Act and 28th regime.

Commissioner Andrius Kubilius:

• 19 May 2025 (Brussels).

• EU Defence Industry and Defence Omnibus, discussing the EU non-defence and defence regulatory frameworks.
  
  The Dialogue featured an open and fruitful exchange with 35 companies and organisations from the EU’s Defence Technological and Industrial Base, representing 18 Member States.

  Industry stakeholders emphasised their readiness to speed-up and ramp-up defence production and also that the EU needs to act now, including on investments in innovations to be used on the battlefield as crucial priority. Multiple stakeholders welcomed the simplification efforts of the EDF, highlighting uncertainty of Member States co-financing as a major problem, as well as the need for continuity in funding projects throughout the R&D process. 
  
  For defence legislation: Stakeholders expressed that the Commission should encourage Member States to facilitate transfers, for instance through more and broader use of General Transfer Licences. Stakeholders emphasised that fast procurement is crucial in the current geopolitical context. To speed up procurement, European preference and the Commission to signal demand were emphasised.
  
  For non-defence legislation: Industry stakeholders mostly agreed on the need for fast-track permitting and broad exemptions in environmental and chemical legislations (such as REACH) to give certainty to investors. Also, several stakeholders stated that the interpretation of the existing legislation should be adapted to address the current challenges.
  
  Commissioner Kubilius concluded that the Dialogue brought forward concrete regulatory hurdles the EU defence industry is currently facing and which could feed into the ambitious Defence Simplification Omnibus Proposal. He stressed his keen intention to deliver on simplification objectives in the proposal which the Commission will put forward in June. 

Commissioner Dan Jørgensen:

• 11 June 2025 (Brussels). 

• Permitting for renewable energy projects and related infrastructure.

  “The Implementation Dialogue on permitting for renewable energy projects and related infrastructure was held in Brussels on 11 June in the context of the EU Sustainable Energy Week. Seven stakeholders from across the EU, representing the entire renewable energy value chain and including renewable energy developers, renewable energy installers, DSOs, TSOs, civil society, and public authorities, had an open and rich exchange in the presence of Commissioner Jørgensen. It complemented the implementation dialogue Commissioner Roswall organised on 10 April 2025 with focus on environmental assessments and permitting.

  All speakers raised points about the implementation of legislation on permitting, shared best practices examples, presented the bottlenecks they are still experiencing and potential solutions to address them. Overall, the discussion highlighted a consensus on the necessity to intensify efforts to implement current EU legislation, in particular the Renewable Energy Directive (revised RED), and to further simplify permitting by reducing the regulatory burden, including by introducing exemptions to environmental legislation and for small-scale projects. There was a call on the Commission to further foster the exchange of best practices among Member States. Participants underlined the need to support permitting authorities with more resources and better skills, particularly at local level. The need for further simplifying procedures (in particular for small-scale projects, storage and repowering), extending the overriding public interest principle, targeted exemptions from specific EU legislation, accelerating the digitalisation of permitting processes and improving data availability was also highlighted. 

  Commissioner Jørgensen concluded the exchange with key takeaways on the need to strengthen support to Member States with the implementation of EU legislation, ensure more streamlined procedures and make better use of already existing legislative tools. He stated that developing adequate skills and ensuring adequate staffing levels are important challenges to tackle.”
  
  More information here

Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra:

• 5 June 2025 (Brussels).

• Road Transport and Buildings Decarbonisation: Making it Work for People and Businesses.
  
  The Implementation Dialogue on Road Transport and Buildings Decarbonisation took place on 5 June 2025 in Brussels. The Dialogue brought together 20 diverse stakeholders, from heat pump, micromobility and automative industries, to building renovation experts, fuel providers, and civil society organisations, for an open and insightful exchange on the implementation of the EU Emissions Trading System for buildings and road transport (ETS2) and the Social Climate Fund (SCF).  

  Most participants expressed strong support for the rollout of the ETS2 and called for its timely implementation without delay or revision. In particular, they highlighted the need for predictability and the importance of sending a strong market signal for decarbonisation, while stressing the need to accompany the ETS2 with the Social Climate Fund to protect vulnerable citizens and enterprises, and to ensure visible support for social acceptance.  

  Stakeholders also emphasised the need for a level-playing field across Member States to avoid market distortions, particularly in ETS2 implementation. Many advocated for earmarking ETS2 revenues to fund decarbonisation within the covered sectors. For example, one participant highlighted the importance of reinvesting these funds in transport infrastructure and public mobility, ensuring a viable transition for both end-users and workers. Additionally, participants raised concerns about the distortive impact of high electricity prices relative to gas in several Member States, urging corrective measures to address this imbalance. All agreed that ETS2 implementation alone will not be sufficient. It must be complemented by supportive policy packages and clear regulatory frameworks, particularly through alignment with other key initiatives such as the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, the Energy Efficiency Directive and the Innovation Fund.

  Commissioner Hoekstra emphasised the importance of ETS2 and the Social Climate Fund, underscoring the need to stay the course to ensure stability for both businesses and society. He also supports stakeholders’ calls for greater clarity, transparency, and simplification.

  More information here.

Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis:

• 27 June 2025 (Brussels).
• Towards relevant, simplified and cost-efficient European official statistics.
  
  The Implementation Dialogue on European official statistics ‘Towards relevant, simplified and cost-efficient European official statistics’ was held in Brussels on 27 June. It featured an open and fruitful exchange with EU business community and representatives of national statistical authorities. 
  
  The objective was to gather feedback on challenges with current statistical reporting and identify simplification and burden reduction measures in the field of business and trade statistics while considering unmet user needs. Exchanges also addressed the opportunities in terms of simplification and burden reduction offered by the implementation of the recently revised Regulation (EC) 223/2009 on European statistics, notably through re‑using already collected data, enhanced data sharing, and innovative approaches.
  
  There was broad consensus on the need to step up efforts towards simplification and burden reduction in the production of European official statistics but also on the opportunities created by the new digital environment in that respect. Participants called for an increased digitalisation of the entire statistical process, including data collection from businesses and use of artificial intelligence. Stakeholders from the business community stressed the importance of combined efforts to encourage public authorities for wider re-use of already available data that are suitable to produce European official statistics, which in practice will implement the ‘once-only’ principle. Reality checks could also be organised by Eurostat to help identifying further areas for improvement regarding the collection of data from businesses. Concerning the re-use of privately held data for statistical purposes, participants highlighted the necessity to establish sustainable partnerships between statistical authorities and data holders based on trust and open dialogue, and the need to prioritise those areas with the most promising potential in terms of burden reduction.
  
  Commissioner Dombrovskis concluded the Implementation Dialogue by stressing his firm resolve to work and deliver on simplification objectives and his intention to consider stakeholders’ views, notably in the context of the forthcoming evaluation of the legislative framework on business and trade statistics and of the implementation of the revised Regulation on European statistics
  
  More information here.

Commissioner Christophe Hansen:

• 3 June 2025 (Brussels).
• Common Agricultural Policy.
  
  The Implementation dialogue on the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) for 2023-27 was held in Brussels on 3 June 2025 with the participation of stakeholders implementing and affected by the CAP. Commissioner for Agriculture and Food, Mr Christophe Hansen, chaired the meeting. The dialogue focused on the implementation of the instruments to support farmers’ income, including support for generational renewal and of the payments in favour of environment and climate, and explored potential for simplification in the implementation.
  
  The participants expressed concerns about the complexity of the CAP implementation, particularly regarding the aid application process, which often requires farmers to use advisory support services. This complexity poses challenges, especially for small and diverse farms, in engaging in the schemes in favour of environment and climate. There were also calls to simplify paperwork requirements and eliminate sanctions for minor administrative errors, and to better support small farmers, including through digital solutions and streamlined online portals. Examples were mentioned of incentive models in which the level of support is aligned to the environmental efforts carried out by the farmers.
  
  At the same time, a more harmonised approach for environmental schemes was advocated. Participants called for greater coherence across Member States in the design and implementation of eco-schemes, and for better alignment between EU-level objectives and national implementation practices. The participants also stressed the importance of facilitating the transfer of farms to young farmers, and of investing in the education and training of young people. There is also a need to address the definition of an active farmer, to ensure that those who do not engage in farming do not receive CAP payments. Disparities in the enforcement of social conditionality were highlighted, with stakeholders calling for clearer and more consistent implementation standards across Member States.
  
  Commissioner Hansen concluded the exchanges with key takeaways on the need for support in the implementation of the CAP, the need for effective farm business models, highlighting the importance of generational renewal, of targeting support towards farmers who need it most, of creating stronger incentives for the provision of eco-system services and giving further responsibility and accountability to Member States.
  
  More information here.

Commissioner Marta Kos:

• 10 June 2025 (Brussels).
• Implementation Dialogue on Private Sector Investment.
  
  On 10 June 2025, Commissioner Kos held her first Implementation Dialogue, with a focus on private sector investments. It took place in Brussels with the participation of business support organisations and representatives from the private sector.
  
  The dialogue aimed to gather feedback on the implementation of the EU’s policies and programmes in the areas of economic development, private sector, and investments, and to identify the main opportunities and constraints for private sector investment in the Enlargement and Eastern Neighbourhood regions.
  
  Participants confirmed that accession-driven reforms are bringing tangible benefits and improving business climate by increasing predictability, transparency, and competitiveness. These conditions are enabling companies to scale operations and invest with greater confidence.
  
  To accelerate progress, stakeholders identified the following key areas requiring strengthened action. Addressing corruption (particularly in procurement), reducing the size of the informal economy, and harmonising standards remain critical to levelling the playing field. Strengthening the rule of law and improving cross-border connectivity were also highlighted as immediate priorities to unlock economic potential and enhance regional integration.
  
  Capacity building emerged as a central theme. Local partners often lack experience in managing complex, long-term investments, especially involving public-private partnerships. Thus, support in knowledge transfer to the Governments would significantly support the development of a robust pipeline of impactful projects. Stakeholders also stressed the importance of focusing not only on infrastructure development but also on effective management and maintenance, a frequently overlooked aspect of major infrastructure projects.
  
  Additionally, it was suggested to explore diversifying the EU's financial tools through options such as direct equity in large-scale projects.
  
  Commissioner Kos stressed that to enhance European competitiveness, we need to foster stronger economic ties with our enlargement partners and Eastern neighbours. She expressed her readiness to continue the dialogue with the private sector, with a view to further support gradual market integration and facilitate business-friendly reforms. Europe's strength lies in working together with the private sector, both in the EU and among the future members.
  
  More information here.

Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis:

• 27 June 2025 (Brussels).
• The Recovery and Resilience Facility reporting and administrative burden.
  
  The implementation dialogue on the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) was held in Brussels, in hybrid format, on 27 June 2025. It featured a constructive exchange, where high-level representatives from national authorities discussed the administrative and reporting burden experienced by Member States during the implementation of the RRF. 
  
  Participants generally agreed that, in the implementation of the recovery and resilience plans (RRPs), the most significant challenge was the workload related to gathering the evidence required to prove the satisfactory fulfilment of milestones and targets. Several Member States mentioned the lack of detailed guidance and standardised requirements at the time RRPs were negotiated which led to an element of unpredictability. Many representatives advocated for proportionality and risk-based approaches in the assessment of milestones and targets and called for simplified audit structures to avoid duplications. Synergies with national audit authorities should be fostered. 
  
  Commissioner Dombrovskis concluded informing that some of the feedback collected by the representatives could still be reflected in the upcoming simplification of RRPs, following the Commission’s Communication “NextGenerationEU- the road to 2026” and that the insights would be taken into account in the ex-post evaluation of the RRF. 
  
  More information here.

Commissioner Jozef Síkela:

• 24 June 2025 (Brussels).
• Implementation Dialogue on International Partnerships.
  
  Participants highlighted the importance to tailor simplification efforts to the local context in partner countries, avoiding a one-size-fits-all approach. They stressed that engaging civil society and local authorities in partner countries early in project design and establishing direct communication channels can reduce bottlenecks and enhance participation. Participants further emphasized that simplification efforts should focus on flexible, context-appropriate funding mechanisms, including adjusting eligibility criteria to reflect regional economic realities and promoting partnerships. There was broad consensus that simplifying application and reporting processes, while harmonizing these across Directorate-Generals, will minimize bureaucracy. Moreover, they agreed that dedicated focal points and improved accessibility through user-friendly platforms and capacity-building initiatives can empower local actors, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), ensuring funding mechanisms are practical and inclusive. Lastly, the dialogue confirmed the value of a strong multi-stakeholder platform that brings diverse actors together and which connects local communities in global discussions.
  
  Commissioner Síkela underscored his commitment to work closely with civil society and local authorities in all stages of EU programme implementation, including Global Gateway. He valued especially their expertise to ensure EU projects are connected to and supported by the communities they serve.
  
  More information here.

Executive Vice-President Raffaele Fitto:

• 24 June 2025 (Brussels).
• Implementation Dialogue on Sustainable Urban Development of Cohesion Policy.
  
  The Implementation dialogue on Cities was held on 24 June 2025, from 11h – 13h, with the participation of Mayors, Deputy Mayors, and other elected representatives of local authorities:
  The open and constructive dialogue set the ground for working more closely with local authorities on implementation bottlenecks deriving from the Cohesion Policy regulatory framework in the area of sustainable urban development, to liaising better with cities and supporting them to deliver results. 
  
  There was broad consensus on the importance of the EU support to cities of all sizes. Participants emphasised the spillover effects of urban strategies and investments on surrounding regions and highlighted their role and actions on climate change adaptation and mitigation, on social and integration policies, or infrastructural, competitiveness and defence challenges. 
  
  Participants underlined the relevance of direct funding for sustainable urban development, as well as the need for a pragmatic and integrated approach for funding allocations to cover several policy areas and meet local needs. The participants asked for increased and predictable funding for cities, notably through urban chapters and the possibility to set up mission-driven approaches involving public and private funding. Multi-level governance and place-based approaches remain essential tools to account for cities differentiated needs, and supporting EU, national and local priorities. Participants provided further insights on flexibility, simplification and cross-sectoral collaboration to improve policy implementation. Finally, city representatives called for a regular and structured dialogue with the European Commission. 
  
  Executive Vice-President Fitto underlined the importance of cohesion policy in reducing disparities and reiterated his commitment to partnership and multi-level governance. He stressed his intention to continue working directly with cities to address common challenges, simplify and modernise Cohesion Policy and to develop the new EU policy agenda for cities.
  
  More information here.

Commissioner Magnus Brunner:

• 24 June 2025 (Warsaw).
• Strengthening The EU’s Civil Security Competitiveness and Facilitating Market Uptake.
  
  The Implementation dialogue on Strengthening the EU’s Civil Security Competitiveness and Facilitating Market Uptake was held on 24 June 2025 in Warsaw (Poland), in the context of the Security Research Event (SRE). The participants were stakeholders from the civil security sector representing large corporations, small and medium enterprises and startups, infrastructure operators, researchers and innovators, also from a diverse range of security areas and covering a wide geographical range (9 Member States) in Europe.
  
  The dialogue was structured around two sections: (1) bilateral discussions with security innovators and researchers, and (2) a structured dialogue in a panel format with security industry representatives. The dialogue aimed at discussing the main obstacles and challenges that the EU civil security industry sector is facing, mainly with regards to competitiveness and market uptake of innovation. The participants were also asked to express their ideas for potential solutions. The conversation culminated in an exchange of best practices.
  
  The stakeholders agreed on the main obstacles identified in the security sector: a fragmented regulatory framework, and a lack of funding opportunities to support the whole innovation journey from research to commercialisation of technological/innovative solutions. 
  The participants (both industry and practitioners) emphasized the obstacles related to access to data. The industry representatives underlined the importance of addressing the constraints brought by the GDPR framework when it comes to developing innovative solutions and the necessary use of operational data for that purpose. When it comes to acquisition of solutions by end-users, the participants called for a revision of the procurement directives to properly include security provisions in key areas. Finally, participants welcomed the harmonised legal framework at EU level as a result of the transposition of some directives such as CER - Critical Entities Resilience Directive  or NIS2 - Network and Information Security Directive 2 , while also stressing the need of a sufficient regulatory flexibility to be maintained in the sector, to be able to adapt to evolving security threats.
  
  Several ideas were exchanged that could strengthen the industry’s competitiveness and market uptake of innovation in the security sector. When it comes to EU funding, the participants called for a revision of the funding structure to support civil security, possibly through the creation of an EU Secure Europe Facility. Such a fund would put together the diverse funding schemes in the security domain. They equally underlined the need to consider launching a European industrial security policy to address the specific obstacles that the industry faces when entering and operating in the EU security markets.
  
  Commissioner Brunner concluded by stressing that the discussion had clearly illustrated the pressing challenges that the industry is facing. The rich exchange on potential solutions and best practices will be highly useful for the simplification and improvement of security policies and programmes.
  
  More information here.

Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen:

• 1 July 2025 (Brussels).
• Implementation Dialogue on Data Policy.
  
  Executive Vice President Henna Virkkunen held an Implementation Dialogue on data policy on 1 July 2025 in Brussels. Participants included a broad range of stakeholders, including innovative SMEs in the data economy, providers of public sector data, key European companies in the automotive and mobility sectors, operators of data spaces, leading European tech scale-ups, consumer protection and trade associations.
  
  This exchange gathered feedback on obstacles to the implementation of EU data rules, with a view to identifying solutions to streamline and simplify the existing framework. The input from this high-level discussion will contribute to the preparations of the digital package on simplification planned for later this year. Relevant feedback will also inform the European Data Union Strategy
  
  There was broad consensus on the importance of improving access to data to foster innovation, avoid duplication of the data and reports requested by companies and create new business opportunities. Participants acknowledged that the EU has strong foundational data regulations. Representatives of both SMEs and larger companies welcomed horizontal legislation such as the Data Act in laying uniform rules and reducing legal complexity 
  
  At the same time, they highlighted a few implementation challenges. Stakeholders emphasised that fragmented enforcement across the EU and overlapping digital legislation create complexity. Industry representatives underlined that they face issues related to interoperability and quality of data. They stressed the importance of transparency, clearly defined access rights for internet-of-things data, the need for incentives to use existing data intermediation mechanisms, and for having better access to public sector data. Regulatory support and sandboxes were mentioned as tools to allow, in particular smaller companies, to better navigate different regulatory regimes. 
  
  Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen emphasised her commitment to supporting companies - especially SMEs - in complying with data legislation in a practical and proportionate manner, and to providing clear guidance in close cooperation with national authorities. She thanked participants for sharing their views and invited them to also contribute to the public consultation on the Data Union Strategy. Building on these inputs, the Commission will work to improve and simplify the current legal framework to unlock the full potential of the European data economy.
  
  More information here.

Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič:

• 11 July 2025 (Brussels).
• EU Rules of Origin: a business perspective
  
  The Implementation Dialogue on the application of EU Rules of Origin was held in Brussels on 11 July 2025. The dialogue featured a lively and open exchange of views from a broad range of stakeholders including representatives from several sectors and entities implementing these rules. More than 25 representatives came together in Brussels to meet with Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič and share their experience and feedback.
  
  The Dialogue offered the opportunity to discuss the main challenges in the implementation of the current rules of origin, which create complexity due to their  fragmentation (different rules apply across different arrangements) administrative burden and substantial compliance costs.
  
  There was a broad consensus among stakeholders on the need for harmonization and simplification of Rules of Origin, the strengthening of sector-specific approach on origin, and the increase of the support provided to SMEs in this area. Stakeholders also emphasized the need for digitalization and standardization for origin certification and a wider approach when addressing Rules of Origin with trading partners. Several stakeholders suggested using existing instruments to improve supply chain traceability and enhance data sharing. They also called on the Commission to coordinate closely between the involved Directorates-General the different policies linked to Rules of Origin to efficiently address the challenges to support and increase the competitiveness of EU industries, including through the implementation of trade defence instruments and other policy measures.
  
  Commissioner Šefčovič acknowledged these challenges and emphasized the importance of ensuring that EU Rules of Origin remain effective and adaptable to new trade realities. The outcome of this Dialogue will be used in the ongoing evaluation of rules of origin and the broader Commission reflection.
  
  More information here

Executive Vice-President Teresa Ribera:

• 30 June 2025 (Madrid).
• Important Projects of Common European Interest (IPCEIs).
  
  On 30 June, EVP Ribera held her first Implementation Dialogue on Important Projects of Common European Interest, a State aid instrument designed to support large integrated projects in sectors and technologies of strategic importance for the EU.  The in-person dialogue involved national implementing authorities and businesses representatives from large companies and SMEs.  All participants had been directly involved in IPCEIs.  It was an opportunity to collect feedback from Member States authorities and companies and learn what has worked and what requires further efforts.
  
  Most participants recognised IPCEIs’ transformational potential for European industry and their capacity to: i) attract research and development to Europe and promote EU-wide breakthrough innovation in key sectors; ii) foster public-private partnerships; and iii) boost Europe’s competitiveness.  SMEs’ access to IPCEIs was a special focus of the debate.  Participants took the opportunity to identify areas of improvement, the most recurrent of which were the synchronisation at the level of Member States to speed up the projects’ actual financing, the overall length of implementation processes, flexibility, and the need for a regulatory framework supporting innovations.
  EVP Ribera took good note of the views and suggestions offered by stakeholders.  She mentioned the measures the Commission already implemented to streamline IPCEI processes such as the Joint European Forum for IPCEI and the IPCEI Design Support Hub; and the Commission’s recent proposal to expand opportunities of EU co-financing of IPCEIs.  In closing, she stressed her commitment to keep honing the instrument to streamline it and make it more agile and effective.
  
  More information here.

Commissioner Hadja Lahbib:

• 21 May 2025 (Brussels).
• Implementation dialogue on the humanitarian landscape with Commissioner Hadja Lahbib.
  
  The Implementation Dialogue on Humanitarian landscape was held on 21 May 2025 (12:30 to 14:30) in Brussels, with active participation of 16 stakeholders representing 141 EU Humanitarian partners. 
  
  The dialogue aimed at an open and constructive exchange with stakeholders regarding the current challenges faced by the humanitarian landscape and possible actions to address them. In particular, the dialogue addressed the reset of the humanitarian system, including simplification and better coordination, and the enhanced European Commission’s support for key enabling services, fragility, localisation and International Humanitarian Law (IHL). 
  
  Regarding the humanitarian reset that aims at addressing the challenges linked to global funding cuts and to uncertainty on delivery of principled humanitarian aid by enhancing operational efficiency and bolstering the humanitarian principles that underpin humanitarian actions multiple EU humanitarian partners expressed concerns about the current humanitarian landscape and the push to prioritise certain sectors at the expense of others that are equally important. Commissioner Lahbib stressed that the European Commission has stepped up support for key enabling services that are essential to the functioning of the system, including data collection and needs assessments, safety and security services, and supply chain and logistics.
  
  Regarding fragility, Commissioner Lahbib reiterated her commitment to develop an EU integrated strategy on fragility to be presented in 2026 and underscored her intention to take into account stakeholders’ views during the preparation of this strategy. 
  
  Regarding localisation, some partners inquired about the European Commission’s targets and goals. Commissioner Lahbib emphasised the existing EU’s commitment to promoting equitable partnerships and stressed that the EU would soon publish a roadmap on localisation and is committed to allocating at least 25% of funds to local entities by 2027.
  
  Commissioner Lahbib concluded that the exchange with partners had been very fruitful. She noted that the dialogue brought forward important discussions and that concrete deliverables would follow, including the upcoming adoption of a roadmap on localisation, the development of a fragility strategy, and enhanced European Commission support for key enabling services such as data collection and needs assessment.
  
  More information here.

Commissioner Glenn Micallef:

• 26 June 2025 (Brussels).

• Youth Policy Toolbox.
  
  The dialogue took place on 26 June 2025 at the premises of DG EAC in Brussels. Commissioner Micallef met with 16 youth stakeholders to discuss the implementation of the "Youth policy toolbox". The discussion focused on two questions:

  • How effective is the EU Youth Strategy 2019-2027, including its instruments such as the EU Youth Dialogue, in reflecting young people’s views and priorities in EU policy making? Please illustrate with examples.
  • The youth strand of Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps provide EU funding for youth activities under the current 2021-2027 budget. How easy are they to understand and access? What barriers to participation exist and how can they be addressed? Please illustrate with best practices and possible improvements. 

  Participants came from a range of youth-led organisations, many being part of the EU Youth Stakeholders Group.
  Most organisations praised the EU Youth Strategy and welcomed new participatory tools like the Youth Stakeholder Group and Youth Policy Dialogues. Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps were recognised as strong promoters of Union values and solidarity. Mentioned challenges included low prioritisation of youth work at national/local levels and complex administration. Better access, simpler procedures, and more structural funding were requested to improve inclusiveness. There was a call for more systemic support and funding for youth civil society. 
  
  Commissioner Micallef confirmed the Commission’s aim to strengthen Erasmus+,  simplify access to EU funding, and enhance youth participation, especially for those with fewer opportunities.
  
  More information here

Executive Vice-President Roxana Mînzatu:

• 3 June 2025 (Brussels).
• European Education Area.
  
  The Implementation Dialogue on the European Education Area (EEA) was held in Brussels on 3 June 2025. It featured an open and constructive exchange with representatives from EU Member States, social partners, European stakeholder associations and civil society organisations. Participants emphasised the added value of the EEA for supporting important reforms to create quality education in Europe and meet the evolving needs of our society and economy. They highlighted education and training as the DNA for Europe’s competitiveness, security, resilience, democracy, and cohesion.
  
  To strengthen the EEA’s impact, participants highlighted the need for better coordination between education, training and skills policies, calling for breaking down silos and fostering a shared language across sectors. Supporting basic skills including digital skills, STEM skills, the teaching profession, lifelong learning, up/re-skilling and inclusion were considered as key priorities. The Union of Skills was highlighted as a fresh political momentum to elevate education and skills policies to the top of the political agenda, including through leveraging the European semester, and help deliver faster, more ambitious and impactful results.
  
  Participants called for stronger stakeholder representation and a smoother and stronger governance, addressing the fragmented nature of education and training policymaking, too often isolated from other strategic political priorities such as competitiveness, growth and innovation, employment, economy and finance. They stressed the need to leverage the European Semester to support reforms and unlock complementary EU funding. Participants advocated for building on existing governance structures, while better aligning EEA governance bodies with the EEA’s strategic priorities and Member States’ needs (such as teachers, basic skills, advanced STEM skills, lifelong learning, up/re-skilling, inclusion), and ensuring synergies between the EEA and the Union of Skills.
  
  They called for adequate investment, including through the Erasmus+ programme, and for better alignment between EU funds and reforms, simplification and stronger monitoring to address implementation gaps across Member States.
  
  Executive Vice-President Roxana Mînzatu thanked participants for their valuable contributions which, alongside the EEA evaluation, will inform the Council’s review for the second (2026-2030) EEA cycle.
  
  More information here.

Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi:

• 15 July 2025 (Brussels).
• Biocidal producs
  
  The Implementation Dialogue on the Regulation on Biocidal Products was held in Brussels on 15 July 2025 with the participation of stakeholders representing businesses (active substance manufacturers, product formulators and downstream users) and civil society.
  
  The dialogue aimed to gather feedback from companies on the main challenges faced in bringing biocidal active substances and products to the market and their ideas on how to address them and, more in general, on how to simplify the regulatory framework for biocidal products and encourage innovation. At the same time, it aimed to obtain views of non-industry stakeholders on the implementation of the Biocidal Products Regulation and on its contribution to a high level of safety for humans, animals and the environment.
  
  The discussion highlighted a broad consensus on the need to have a clear, stable and predictable regulatory framework and to reduce the delays that affect approval and authorisation processes, in particular to complete the review programme of existing active substances. The long time-to-market process for both active substances and products, coupled with high regulatory costs and complex procedures were highlighted by companies as main factors that stifle innovation in the biocides sector. At the same time, most participants acknowledged the importance of the ambitious goals set by the Biocidal Products Regulation to ensure a high level of safety for humans, animals and the environment, which will only be fully achieved with the completion of the review programme of existing active substances, and the fact that that the current rules have allowed to achieve a certain degree of harmonisation. Participants also stressed the need to ensure appropriate data protection as a way of protecting investments by companies and indirectly driving innovation. Additionally, participants raised concerns about frequent changes in technical guidance during ongoing evaluation procedures as well as inconsistent interpretation and application of technical guidance and data requirements in the 27 Member States. Some stakeholders called for a tiered approach to generation of data needed for the assessment of active substances depending on the volumes placed on the market and for a need to increase reliance on non-animal or computational methods for data generation to limit testing on vertebrate animals. Several participants advocated for a strengthened role of the European Chemicals Agency in the system.
  
  Commissioner Várhelyi concluded that the Dialogue provided a good overview of the hurdles that companies are currently facing as well as expectations from civil society. He reassured that the issues raised will be considered in the context of the evaluation of the Biocidal Products Regulation that will start this year and that possible solutions for the issues raised in relation to data protection could be considered in a forthcoming simplification package.
  
  More information here.

Commissioner Michael McGrath:

• 15 July 2025 (Brussels).
• Consumer protection in the digital environment.
  
  The Implementation Dialogue on consumer protection in the digital environment was held in Brussels on 15 July 2025, chaired by Commissioner Michael McGrath [List of participating stakeholders in the Annex].
  
  Overall, stakeholders recognised the relevance of the horizontal EU consumer law framework and the importance of upholding the high standards of EU consumer protectionalso in the digital environment. Some stressed the importance of striking the right balance between consumer protection and competitiveness. The following aspects where highlighted during the Dialogue in terms of ensuring better implementation and simplification:
   
• Participants emphasised the need for a less fragmented legal environment, with some calling directly for further harmonisation.
• Several stakeholders asked for further clarification of the interplaybetween consumer law and other legislation applicable in the digital sphere, stressing the need to avoid duplications and ensure full consistency in the application of the various pieces of legislation in the digital domain.
• Most stakeholders called for more effective enforcement of consumer protection rules, including towards businesses based outside of the EU. Some participants referred to the need of reviewing the Consumer Protection Cooperation (CPC) Regulation and to the potential benefits from centralised enforcement at EU level.
• Several stakeholders expressed support for the forthcoming Digital Fairness Act (DFA) to the extent that the initiative would fill identified and evidence-based regulatory gaps in the consumer protection legal framework, without duplicating or merely adding another layer of rules. Some business representatives suggested that rather than adopting new rules, guidelines would be needed to clarify the existing legal framework. Consumer organisations insisted on the need for a legislative intervention to address the gaps identified in the Digital Fairness Fitness Check.
• Regarding simplification, businesses were overall supportive with regard to information obligations in the case of repeat transactions with the same trader (e.g. in-app purchases), the exercise of the right of withdrawal from contracts of digital media services, and the exception for perishable goods on price reduction announcements under the Price Indication Directive. Consumer organisations asked for caution, to ensure that simplification would not lead to a reduction of the level of consumer protection, including for more vulnerable consumers.
  
  Commissioner McGrath concluded informing that the identified possible simplification measures and additional suggestions put forward by stakeholders will be explored in the context of the Impact Assessment for the Digital Fairness Act. Stakeholders are invited to contribute with further suggestions to the DFA public consultation and call for evidence. 
  
  More information here.

Commissioner Michael McGrath:

• 16 July 2025 (Brussels).
• Application of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
  
  The Implementation dialogue on the Application of the General Data Protection Regulation was held on 16 July 2025 in Brussels. The meeting was attended by representatives of selected stakeholders, representing in particular business, civil society, and academia, from different sectors and fields of life. 
  
  The objective of the Implementation Dialogue was to collect stakeholders’ views and ideas on the possible need and ways to simplify and improve the application of the GDPR, keeping in mind that these should not result in lowering the high level of data protection in the EU.
  
  The feedback from stakeholders can be summarised as follows:
   
• Overall, stakeholders consider that the GDPR is a balanced legal framework which has met its objectives.
• While stakeholders cautioned against a general reopening of the GDPR, some industry representatives suggested targeted measures including possible amendments to the rules to enhance clarity of certain concepts or simplifying obligations for data controllers, insisting on the respect of the GDPR risk-based principle, notably as regards AI and other new technologies.
• Businesses also underlined that they have invested in compliance and a general reopening could create uncertainty, including in the context of international data transfers.
• Civil society organisations strongly opposed any amendment of the GDPR, highlighting that the GDPR is an expression of the fundamental right to data protection.
• Stakeholders share the view that there is a need to ensure consistent and harmonised enforcement and application.
• All stakeholders underlined the need for more practical guidance and increased stakeholder engagement from the national data protection authorities and the European Data Protection Board.
• They also called for tailor-made support, such as templates and checklists, especially for SMEs. Several stakeholders referred to the codes of conduct as a useful compliance tool, but their development and adoption procedure were considered cumbersome.
• The importance of clear articulation of different pieces of EU legislation was raised by most stakeholders, who mainly referred to the interplay between the GDPR and the AI Act, and many considered that this could be achieved through guidance and enhanced cooperation of different regulatory authorities. 
  
  Commissioner McGrath reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to high standards of data protection and to a balanced approach that both fosters innovation and protects fundamental rights.
  
  More information here.

Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas:

• 17 July 2025 (Brussels).
• Renewable and Low-Carbon Fuels in Maritime and Aviation.
  
  The Implementation Dialogue on ramping up renewable and low-carbon maritime and aviation fuels was held on 17 July 2025. It was attended by high-level stakeholders from airlines, shipping and inland waterway operators, aviation and maritime manufacturers, infrastructure managers of ports and airports, sustainable alternative fuel producers, ship owner organisations, private investors organisations representatives and the EIB. 
  
  The constructive exchange addressed questions of implementing the FuelEU Maritime and the ReFuelEU Aviation regulations and the need for additional measures to address persistent barriers for the scaling up of production and use of renewable and low-carbon fuels.
  There was a consensus on the importance of the EU regulatory framework and the crucial role of the binding mandates under FuelEU maritime and RefuelEU aviation. Several maritime stakeholders also welcomed the recent NetZero IMO agreement and called for alignment of the EU regulatory and global approaches. 
  
  Many stakeholders noted that the EU should improve its current financial instruments to better support early movers in scaling up production and encouraged support from the EIB. Many stakeholders identified long term off-take agreements as a critical element for project developers to kick-start industrial production and called for an intermediary mechanism at EU level to ensure revenue certainty. Many stakeholders spoke in favour of extending the ETS sustainable aviation fuel allowances, and maritime representatives proposed to make them available also for the maritime sector. A large number of participants asked to earmark ETS revenues collected from both sectors to support scaling up fuels production. Some stakeholders also raised shortcomings in the implementation such as problems linked to certification, price transparency, need for further simplification and access to sustainable aviation fuels in some parts of Europe distant from main production facilities.
  
  There was a large consensus from all participants on the need for the Sustainable Transport Investment Plan to send clear signals of an EU intermediary mechanism and include clear commitments for elevated and targeted investment support under relevant financial instruments at EU level.  
  
  The Renewable and Low-Carbon Fuels Alliance was mentioned as a good initiative to provide recommendations to enhance the implementation of the regulations and to provide inputs for the Sustainable Transport Investment Plan (STIP) that the Commissioner plans to present in autumn.  
  
  The Commissioner concluded by reiterating his commitment to assess the possibility for a “book and claim” type mechanism based on the results of the feasibility study that the Commission and the European Parliament will conduct. He recalled the shared agreement on the benefits of ramping up renewable and low-carbon fuels for aviation and maritime and underlined that the Commission is currently assessing a broad range of measures to boost investment. The Commissioner acknowledged the need for further flexibility to facilitate implementation where this is possible and in line with the regulatory framework.

Commissioner Dubravka Šuica:

• 31 July 2025 (online).
• People-to-people initiatives of the partnership with the Mediterranean.
  
  The Implementation Dialogue on People-to-People initiatives in the Mediterranean, hosted by Commissioner Šuica, was held on 31 July 2025. The dialogue gathered 20 key stakeholders to collect their views on challenges and best practices regarding the implementation of ongoing actions in the fields of education, culture, skills development and mobility. It also provided insights on how to better design successful initiatives in the framework of the upcoming New Pact for the Mediterranean. The Commissioner opened the dialogue by laying out the importance of this new tool of Implementation Dialogues for the Commission as a whole and for her portfolio on the Mediterranean in particular. The dialogue was designed in a way to allow the Commissioner to respond directly to the various points raised by stakeholders throughout the discussions. This created a dynamic exchange between the Commissioner and the stakeholders.
  
  Stakeholders reported about positive outcomes from EU initiatives under the 2021 New Agenda for the Mediterranean, emphasizing the potential for strengthening regional cooperation and integrating Southern partners better into policy dialogues, notably in the framework of the Union for the Mediterranean. They highlighted the need for cross-sectoral alignment of initiatives in education, culture, employment to enhance impact on communities, as well as the importance of involving local actors, civil society, and youth in designing initiatives. Best practices cited include cultural events hosted by the Goethe Institute, intercultural initiatives by the Anna Lindh Foundation, curriculum development partnerships between the European Training Foundation and Morocco/Tunisia, and the Team Europe Initiative on Jobs through Trade and Investment.
  
  At the same time, challenges hinder implementation of actions in the fields of education, culture, skills development and mobility, including shrinking civic space in some countries, restricted access to EU funding for civil society, and limited awareness of financial opportunities. Visa complexities also impede mobility critical for cultural, educational, and skills programs, while gender disparities persist. Multi-partner collaboration faces obstacles due to diverging institutional processes. To address these, stakeholders advocate for a whole-of-government approach, improved data-driven strategies, and enhanced accessibility to funding and information. Stakeholders also referred to the importance of a pact that considers crisis situations, e.g. education as not all countries are in a position to join an education alliance.
  
  Commissioner Šuica highlighted two main takeaways: putting people first is the right approach and listening to and learning from stakeholders is key for implementation of the New Pact. She will continue to work in the spirit of Team Europe while adding a Mediterranean dimension namely by integrating better Mediterranean universities, addressing visa issues, and increasing visibility of projects like the Mediterranean Capitals of Culture and Dialogue. Taking ownership of the narrative around EU engagement in the Mediterranean is important as the EU works to be a credible and trusted partner. The Commissioner aims to convene the Ministers for Culture in Malta once a convenient date can be found. A next Implementation Dialogue will follow before the end of the year, after the New Pact for the Mediterranean has been presented.