Cyprus Presidency urges focus on social cohesion and competitiveness

The Finance Ministry’s directorate general for development on Monday outlined the outcomes of recent European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) discussions held in Nicosia under the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the European Union, focusing on employment, inclusion and future EU funding priorities.

The meetings, which brought together representatives from all EU member states, concluded on April 16, following sessions of the ESF+ Committee hosted in the Cypriot capital.

During the proceedings, Penelope Papavassiliou, representing the directorate, stressed the importance of social investment as a cornerstone of a resilient and inclusive European growth model.

“The need for a Europe that combines competitiveness with social cohesion is more relevant than ever, aligned with the priority of the Cypriot Presidency for a more autonomous Europe,” Papavassiliou said.

Particular emphasis was placed on the ongoing negotiations for the new Multiannual Financial Framework 2028–2034, as well as on the broader direction of future European investment policies.

Within this context, the ESF+ was highlighted as a key instrument for promoting equal opportunities, strengthening social inclusion and combating poverty, through sustained investment in Europe’s human capital.

Participants also underlined the importance of enhancing the long-term resilience of European societies, ensuring that economic development is accompanied by social progress.

At the same time, the role of Cohesion Policy as a catalyst for balanced regional development across the European Union was strongly emphasised.

Discussions focused on ensuring that no region is left behind, allowing every member state to contribute meaningfully to the Union’s strategic objectives.

As part of the programme, participants were given a guided tour of the walled city of Nicosia, combined with site visits to projects implemented under the Thaleia 2021–2027 Cohesion Policy Programme, which are co-funded by the ESF+.

These visits provided delegates with direct insight into the impact of European funding on local communities in Cyprus, showcasing tangible outcomes of EU-supported initiatives.

Among the sites visited was the Centre for Information and Training for Employment and Entrepreneurship Development, which contributes to promoting employment, supporting work-life balance, tackling social exclusion and encouraging entrepreneurship.

Delegates also visited the “Ouranio Toxo” Child Care and Employment Centre, which provides practical support to families, facilitates work-life balance and enables greater participation of parents in the labour market.

“These projects demonstrate how the Thaleia 2021–2027 programme transforms European resources into tangible social interventions, investing in people and strengthening social cohesion across communities,” the fund said in a statement.

They also highlight “the contribution of local government authorities in identifying needs early and delivering targeted social interventions at community level, complementing state services and supporting a more holistic approach”.

The discussions reaffirmed the strategic importance of the ESF+ in shaping a fairer, more inclusive and sustainable future for Europe, while reinforcing Cyprus’ role in advancing these priorities during its presidency.