The seminar “New International Balances, Cohesion, Development Traps: What Europe and What Sicily Now?”, organized by PRISM Impresa Sociale, the Department of Extra-Regional Affairs in collaboration with the Department of Political Science of the University of Palermo, the Conference of Peripheral and Maritime Regions of Europe (CPMR), and the Mechatronics Valley Hub, was held at the Conference Room of the Presidency of the Sicilian Region in Palermo and attracted significant interest and active public participation.
Speakers from various academic and professional backgrounds delivered insightful presentations that sparked thoughtful reflection and lively debate among attendees. Topics discussed included new perspectives on EU economic, social, and territorial cohesion, regional convergence and EU cohesion policies, development traps in a changing Europe, the digital revolution, and emerging professional profiles.
In the afternoon, the seminar continued with further high-level contributions, including an analysis of Sicily’s European dimension, with a special focus on Southern Italy, the Mediterranean, and insularity; an overview of development and interregional cooperation tools in Europe and the Mediterranean; and discussions on the prospects, risks, and needs of the regional production system from a European perspective. The Mediterranean’s role as an “alternative center of Europe” was also explored.
The audience—comprising professionals, students, academics, and institutional representatives—participated actively, contributing to a dynamic exchange of ideas. The speakers’ contributions sparked numerous reflections and engaging debates, highlighting the relevance and timeliness of the themes addressed. Break moments such as the coffee and lunch breaks provided valuable opportunities for networking and informal dialogue among participants.
The seminar was highly appreciated for the quality of its content and the enthusiastic participation of the attendees. Organizers, speakers, and participants all contributed to a rich, stimulating event that provided a well-rounded and in-depth view of the challenges and opportunities facing Sicily and Europe today and in the future.
The initiative highlighted the importance of cooperation and dialogue between institutions, universities, and the private sector to successfully tackle the challenges of development and territorial cohesion. The presentation of the University of Palermo’s First-Level Master’s Degree in EU Project Design and European Professions, funded by the European Union, further enhanced the event, demonstrating a continued commitment to innovation and high-quality training.
Below is a photo gallery from the event.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. The European Union cannot be held responsible for them.