| Editorial
This issue of Sustainable Mediterranean, in combination with all other efforts of MIO-ECSDE in different fields and various fora, is hoped to contribute in placing the problem of the environment and the Sustainable Development of the Mediterranean region much higher in the political agenda of the reparian countries and the European Union in the start of the 21st Century.
In the eyes of MIO-ECSDE and its members, this is not only a noble aim, but also a prerequisite for survival. Unfortunately, the implementation of sustainability seems to be today a much more difficult task than expected a few years ago when the Mediterranean Commission for Sustainable Development (MCSD) was established. Perhaps because the government of the region did not realise the needed commitment in involving the citizens in this process. Undoubtedly, this is also linked to the critical developments within the EU itself and the struggle of the latter to balance its expansion, particularly to central and eastern Europe and the Mediterranean, with the needed "deepening" of european procedures. Simultaneously, the EU is involved in a hard, competitive rally lead by USA, over economic and, partly, cultural globalization.
The strengthening of the ability of respective governments and the EU to timely address the Mediterranean environmental, social and economic problems in a sustainable way is a challenge that may be considered as a test/case for the credibility of all parties concerned and particularly of the European Commission.
Entering the 21st century it is absolutely necessary for all stakeholders to minimize unnecessary disputes on the one hand and inertia on the other and maximize synergies and co-operation in order to obtain a common vision for the future of the region. A vision shared by Mediterranean and European partners, able to bring together different nations and different sectors of the society. Simultaneously, such a vision will lead to concrete action and visible improvements in all three dimensions of sustainable development. For MIO-ECSDE the pillars of the Sustainable Development of the Mediterranean are the high quality of its natural environment, its rich culture, demonstrated in its monuments, works of art, music, customs, cuisine, etc., its potential for renewable energy resources (solar and wind) and its human resources, including the imagination and ingenuity of its inhabitants.
Despite the very positive formal European position towards the Mediterranean, delays and enormous difficulties in starting the MEDA projects often give the impression that the European Union and some of its members underestimate the dynamism and political importance of the Mediterranean. Others seem to hesitate about the indigenous ability to handle in a responsible way sophisticated and integrated programmes and projects, while for some the main issue of the region is security, in the more traditional sense of the term, and tend to relate its sustainable development to the progress of the trans-Atlantic dialogue between EU and USA.
The various future scenaria for the region are not always very optimistic. If international comprehension and solidarity does not prevail, peace - including social peace and stability - might not reach the level necessary for the sustainable development of the region. Given its geomorphological and geopolitical characteristics and complexity such a future could inhibit the overall prosperity, including the European one.
The role of the MCSD should be clarified and strengthened especially as regards its core responsibilities. It should be provided sufficient resources to fulfil the tasks it undertakes. "Nominal", "decorative" and "symbolic" roles cannot be sustained any longer. It is high time for things to become "serious". The matter should be dealt with in a serious manner in the coming months and in particular within the framework of evaluations of the Strategic Plan of the Mediterranean Action Plan.
The turn of a century and, even more, the turn of a Millennium, offers good opportunity for reflection, assessment of successes and failures and quite often for reconfirmation of commitments or readjustment of routes and tools. Europe has to find practical, efficient and far reaching means to strengthen and speed-up the sustainable development of the Mediterranean by using traditional and innovative tools.
This "Mediterranean Millennium Issue" of MIO-ECSDE reflects the deeper thoughts and vision of a number of key persons who combine a deep knowledge of the environmental conditions and institutions of the Mediterranean region with a thorough understanding of policies. Several of them are the architects of these policies and have been conducting them from different posts for several years. I thank them all and each one of them wholeheartedly for their contribution.
The substantial content of these contributions forms a very valuable and concrete foundation for future policies in the region. An in-depth reflection cannot ignore what Europe and the entire world has gained for centuries from this region particularly if this is compared to what the Mediterranean has until now received, in return.
M. Scoullos
Chairman of MIO-ECSDE |
