At the EUSAIR Forum in Georgioupolis, the conversation around social cohesion took center stage during the Pillar 5 session on the second afternoon of the event. As previously announced, this year marks the debut of the EUSAIR Youth Council, which will bring forward youth-driven solutions to regional challenges and create new pathways for empowerment in the Adriatic-Ionian area. Together, they aim to build a more inclusive and forward-looking future.

The forum’s main session turned its focus toward people-first policymaking with a vibrant discussion titled “Social Innovation as an Alternative Approach to Address Citizens' Needs,” under Pillar 5 – Enhanced Social Cohesion. As local communities across the Adriatic-Ionian region contend with changing population trends, growing inequalities, and complex societal issues, social innovation is proving to be an essential strategy for citizen empowerment and sustainable progress.

This discussion examined the European approach to social innovation, its application in the region, and how inventive strategies can raise living standards—particularly for marginalized groups such as seniors and individuals with disabilities. Social innovation is already woven throughout the EUSAIR Action Plan, reflected in areas like digital transformation, accessible tourism, and eco-friendly technologies.

Led by Pillar 5 Coordinator Ms. Dunja Šare, the session included key insights from Ms. Cristiana Costinescu of the European Commission’s DG for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion, who elaborated on the EU’s overarching strategy. Additional contributions came from Ms. Marianna Kondylidou of the SEED2SCALE initiative and Ms. Stefania Athanasiou from the Hellenic Ministry of Family and Social Cohesion, who shared practical policy tools and real-world applications.
Guided by moderator Ms. Rania Oikonomou, the panel also showcased successful examples from the region: healthy aging programs in Slovenia, inclusive employment practices by Humana Nova in Croatia, and grassroots entrepreneurship in Greece.

As the Adriatic-Ionian region works to deepen cooperation, close innovation gaps, and build a stronger social framework, this session highlighted the transformative role of social innovation as a key driver of unity and inclusion.