The Mediterranean region has largely contributed to the promotion of coexistence of cultures and religions in history. Between both the northern and southern shores, communities and cultures have always exchanged ideas, trade and learning together. This shared history has forged the creation of robust networks and our region has evolved with its characteristic diversity.

The Barcelona Process was launched in 1995 with the aim of strengthening such relations between Europe and the Southern Mediterranean countries. This expression of good faith and the recognition that closer ties were in everyone’s interest would later lead to the creation of the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM).

During these 25 years, hundreds of initiatives have served as examples of this commitment in action. From large scale international projects to local initiatives, a consolidated network of cooperation has gradually developed and directly impacted the lives of millions of citizens. 

Since 2008, the UfM has introduced a more structured and pragmatic framework of cooperation that works to tackle the root causes of the crises we face today. 

The anniversary comes at a time of great disruption for the region, compounded by an unprecedented global health crisis with severe economic and social impacts. Covid-19 is a stark reminder of the need for tangible and coordinated cooperation across borders, sectors and generations. Our collective response will determine how fast the region recovers and how well we handle pressing challenges: from the economic crisis to the climate change emergency, inequalities and rapid changes in technology and in our population.