//   Circle the Med

Tue 3 Jun - Wed 4 Jun 2025
All times are based on Europe/Athens

Shaping the Future of the Mediterranean: Cooperation, Adaptation, and Resilience

“Uniting the Mediterranean for a Sustainable, Adaptable, and Resilient Future”
In alignment with the EU’s 2024-2029 strategic priorities, including a free and democratic Europe, a thriving, sustainable economy, and strong international partnerships, the 8th Circle the Med Forum emphasizes climate adaptation, resilience, and the transformative power of renewable energy, innovation, and cultural preservation to secure a just and sustainable future for the Mediterranean.

Building Inclusive Green and Digital Economies — Innovation and Adaptation for a Thriving Mediterranean Future

“Driving Change: Digital Transformation and Green Innovation for a Resilient Mediterranean”
The Forum will explore how the Mediterranean can adapt to the challenges of climate change and digital transformation. It will focus on strategies to foster inclusive economic growth, address regional disparities, and ensure a digitally enabled, climate-neutral future. In line with EU priorities, topics include:
  • Smart cities and digital infrastructure: Leveraging technology to enhance energy efficiency, improve public services, and build urban resilience.
  • Equitable green transition and adaptation: Ensuring vulnerable communities benefit from economic and climate adaptation strategies.
  • Innovation ecosystems: Developing public-private partnerships to drive clean technologies, sustainable development, and regional cohesion.

Maritime Cooperation — Safeguarding the Blue Economy and Marine Biodiversity in a Changing Climate

“Strengthening the Blue Economy: Maritime Cooperation for a Resilient Mediterranean”
As the Mediterranean faces increasing environmental and geopolitical challenges, we will explore strategies for adapting maritime policies to enhance resilience and sustainability. Topics include:
  • Decarbonizing maritime transport: Advancing green fuels, smart ports, and circular economy solutions for sustainable shipping.
  • Marine ecosystem protection and adaptation: Policies to combat pollution, restore biodiversity, and build resilient marine ecosystems.
  • Regional maritime security: Promoting cooperative frameworks to address climate-induced risks and strengthen trade routes.
  • Blue Growth Fund (UfM): Showcasing financing mechanisms to support innovative projects for sustainable maritime adaptation and growth.

Sustainable Tourism and Cultural Heritage — Resilience, Regeneration, and Preservation

“Protecting Heritage and Building Regenerative Tourism for a Thriving Mediterranean”
The Forum will address how the Mediterranean can adapt its tourism and cultural heritage strategies to mitigate climate impacts and preserve its unique identity. Key topics include:
  • Regenerative tourism practices: Models that contribute to environmental restoration and local well-being.
  • Cultural heritage preservation and adaptation: Safeguarding historical sites and traditions in the face of climate and modernization pressures.
  • Community-driven adaptation and development: Ensuring local voices shape tourism policies and benefit from sustainable economies.

Special Energy Dialogue: Unlocking Renewable Energy Potential through the Mediterranean Dialogue on Sustainable Energy and Climate (MEDSEC)

“Harnessing Renewable Energy: Cooperation and Resilience in the Mediterranean”
The Forum will highlight the Mediterranean Dialogue on Sustainable Energy and Climate (MEDSEC) initiative, which champions regional decarbonization and adaptation strategies. Central themes include:
  • Political consensus and regional cooperation: Aligning Mediterranean countries on a just energy transition, with MEDSEC’s 1-terawatt renewable energy target by 2030.
  • Untapped renewable energy potential: Realizing the technical capacity of solar and wind power in North Africa to meet regional and European energy needs.
  • Adaptation and resilience through energy transition: Addressing how renewable energy can support climate adaptation and reduce regional instability.
  • Investment and green jobs: Stimulating development and creating new opportunities for regional stability and economic growth.
  • Regional interconnections: Promoting the Mediterranean as a bridge between the Global North and South, with a focus on Africa’s role in renewable energy transitions.

Charting the Path Forward

“Commitments and Collaborations: Shaping the Mediterranean’s Adaptable and Sustainable Future”
The Forum will conclude with a synthesis of the key outcomes and announced commitments, reflecting the Mediterranean’s role in advancing global and regional cooperation. We will emphasize the importance of fostering climate adaptation and resilience, promoting energy interconnections, and ensuring inclusive participation to shape a sustainable future for the Mediterranean and beyond. Key priorities include:
  • Strengthened regional partnerships for climate adaptation and renewable energy transitions.
  • Concrete commitments toward the MEDSEC renewable energy target of 1TW by 2030.
  • Enhanced collaboration between the Global North and South, positioning the Mediterranean as a hub for innovation and sustainability.
  • Actionable pathways for equitable adaptation strategies that empower local communities and foster resilience.
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