EU Cohesion policy: Commission announces the winners of the REGIOSTARS Awards 2022

Yesterday, the Commission has announced the winners of the 2022 REGIOSTARS Awards for the best Cohesion Policy supported projects in the EU. To celebrate the Awards' 15th anniversary, 15 projects were nominated among finalists and winners of the past editions. A group of young journalists made short documentaries on how the projects have evolved since their REGIOSTARS nominations.

After a public vote, Commissioner for Cohesion and Reforms, Elisa Ferreira presented the awards to the winners at a ceremony in Evora, Portugal:

• The first place went to the ‘rehabilitation and restoration' project of Cittadella Gozo, in Malta. The project restored and rehabilitated internal structures in the walls of the ancient and fortified city. Today, thanks to the new visitor centre and better accessibility, this impressive landmark will attract more tourists than ever, exploiting its potential to the fullest.  
• The second place was attributed to an e-Schools pilot project. This project provided ICT equipment and digital education tools to 151 primary and secondary schools in Croatia. It helped 10% of the country's schools raising their competencies in the areas of ICT for teaching and learning. With ongoing support and training for teachers and principals, the project's comprehensive approach ensured long-term sustainability.           
• The third place went to ‘PICSA Sustainable Construction Programme in Andalusia'. This project helped reinvigorating the building sector in Andalusia, Spain, by introducing energy saving and more renewable energy in existing buildings. The project also improved the competitiveness of local construction companies and reduced energy poverty of low-income families.     

Background

The REGIOSTARS Awards are organised every year by the Commission since 2008. They have become Europe's label of excellence for EU-funded projects under Cohesion Policy that demonstrate innovative and inclusive approaches to regional development. They have inspired regions to deliver an ever more impactful EU Cohesion Policy.

Each year, hundreds of projects compete in five categories and a specific topic established for each competition. For the public choice award, citizens can vote for their favourite project among the finalists.

From 2023 onward categories will be linked to the policy objectives of the 2021-2027 programming period. In addition, the selection process will take place in two steps, with all finalists presenting their final pitch before a jury during the annual EU Regions' Week. The award ceremonies are held in Member States according to a rotating system. The host for 2023 will be the city of Ostrava, in Czechia.

For More information

REGIOSTARS Awards

Regiostars 2022 project videos