Tomorrow, the eighth #CohesionForum will kick off in Brussels.

The Cohesion Forum is a large-scale political event held every three years, gathering around 2000 participants, with high-level representatives from European institutions, governments, regional and local representatives, economic and social partners, NGOs and academics. Key speakers this year include President von der Leyen, who will participate via video-message, Commissioner Elisa Ferreira, Commissioner Nicolas Schmit and Commissioner Mariya Gabriel who will participate via video-message. The event provides an opportunity to reflect with all stakeholders on the major challenges of cohesion policy: how can cohesion policy support a strong and balanced economic recovery, improve the well-being of EU citizens in the context of globalisation, support the green and digital transition, and tackle the demographic challenges.

This year a particular focus will be given to how cohesion policy can support those fleeing the war in Ukraine and help Member States and regions to overcome the consequences of the coronavirus pandemic. The event will also be an opportunity to discuss the input from the 8th Report on Economic, Social and Territorial Cohesion published last month. The Cohesion Forum will last two days and will be opened by a press conference co-hosted by Commissioners Ferreira and Schmit at 10h30 CET. The programme and the web streaming of all sessions are available on the event website.