Among the several stakeholders that took part to PERCEIVE Final Conference, we asked Matteo Salvai, Communication Officer at European Commission (DG REGIO), to share with us some thoughts on Cohesion Policy communication and on the relevance of PERCEIVE research, from the point of view of EU institutions. 

What’s your major concern with today’s Cohesion Policy communication?

One of my major concerns is that Cohesion Policy actors should undertake an organisational shift, considering communication as an integrated part of the programming and project cycle.

Also, more investment in original and professional communication would also help the organizations to increase their reputation and would eventually turn in a better of delivery of the funds.

Why do you think PERCEIVE project is important in today's scenario?

I believe PERCEIVE project has been relevant as it explored a rather uncharted territory: the link between Cohesion Policy and the European identity and values.

Understanding the entangled relations between what the EU does on the ground and what the EU stands for as a global player is pivotal in bringing the European project forward.