Silesia at the Heart of Europe. Dialogue on the Future of Regions

The European Week of Regions and Cities – the largest annual event dedicated to regional policy in the European Union – took place in Brussels. Inside the European Parliament, representatives of governments, local authorities, EU institutions and civil society from across the continent met to discuss how to jointly build a sustainable, modern, and resilient Europe.

This year’s edition, held under the motto “Shaping Tomorrow, together”, brought together a strong and active delegation from the Silesian Voivodeship. The regional team included Rafał Adamczyk – Member of the Management Board of the Silesian Voivodeship, Jacek Jarco – Chairman of the Silesian Regional Assembly, as well as representatives of the Department of Regional Projects: Anna Zioła, Magdalena Łazaj and Agnieszka Celka.

The Silesian delegation participated in numerous panels, workshops and bilateral meetings devoted to the future of EU cohesion policy and preparations for the new 2028–2034 financial perspective. Discussions focused on energy transformation, innovation, environmental education and the development of local communities – key areas that will shape the future of European regions in the years ahead.

Among the participants was also Dr. Helena Jadwiszczok-Molencka, representing the project “Silesia. Blue Sky Restored”. Her presence in Brussels highlighted the project’s European dimension – an initiative that combines actions for clean air, water protection, green technologies and climate education. Through such initiatives, the Silesian Voivodeship has become an active voice in the European dialogue on climate and sustainable development.

As emphasized by participants, the upcoming 2028–2034 financial framework will be a time of key decisions, determining how regions will support ecological and digital transformation. With its strong project experience and European partnerships, Silesia has taken an important place in this discussion – combining its industrial heritage with the ambition to become a leader of green transformation.

The Silesian Voivodeship demonstrated in Brussels that local action can have a European impact. The joint efforts of local authorities, experts and projects such as “Silesia. Blue Sky Restored” have created an image of a region committed to innovation, clean air and a high quality of life. This synergy between local initiatives and European values shapes a future in which Silesia stands as the heart of a green and sustainable Europe.