The debate on human capital in the Mediterranean is often trapped in a simplistic dilemma. Is it a lack of skills or a failure of the systems? In reality, the picture is much more complex. These two phenomena coexist, but the deeper problem lies in the inability of economies and institutions to make effective use of the already available human
A war in the Middle East always results in serious and multi-level economic impacts, both regionally and globally. Previous generalized war tensions have created shocks in the global economy, as they reduced global GDP from -0.2% to -1%, increased inflation +1% and interest rates, and reduced investment to avoid risk. In the Eurozone, the losses after a month can reach
Across the Mediterranean, women are increasingly stepping into leadership roles and driving entrepreneurial innovation, yet their journey toward full and equitable economic empowerment is still marked by significant disparities. Structural barriers, such as restricted access to finance, underrepresentation in decision making spaces, and deeply rooted social norms, continue to slow progress and limit the potential of countless women across the
ASCAME’s member, the Croatian Chamber of Economy (CCE), has emerged as a leading institution in advancing women’s empowerment across the Mediterranean, championing initiatives that strengthen women’s leadership, visibility, and economic participation. Through sustained efforts to expand mentorship opportunities, deliver leadership oriented training, and address the structural barriers that continue to limit women’s advancement, the CCE has become a reference point
At the recent EU leaders’ summit, held on 12 February 2026 at the Alben Biesen Castle (Belgium), Europe faced a crucial question: is it truly committed to its sovereignty, security, and long-term prosperity? The vision of “Made in Europe” must guide all policy decisions aimed at strengthening the competitiveness of European manufacturing. Europe’s 26.1 million industrial and craft enterprises provide
On 4 December, the partners of the RECIRCLE MED Project took part in the “Local Mobilisation Workshop and Western Balkans Forum”, held in Ohrid, North Macedonia. This event co-organised by the RECIRCLE MED Project, in which ASCAME is one of the strategic partners, brought together key stakeholders from local authorities, academia, industry, and regional organisations across the Western Balkans. The
The Piraeus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) places investment interest in the wider Piraeus, Lavreotiki, and Western Attica at the center of its development vision, highlighting the strategic importance of the region, as the current year marks a new period of adjustment for the productive and commercial fabric of the wider Piraeus and beyond. This specific time period is
At a time when Bosnia and Herzegovina is moving closer to the European Union and the Mediterranean region is entering a new phase of cooperation, Mr. Muamer Mahmutović, President of the Chamber of Economy of Sarajevo Canton, shares his vision for the Canton’s economic transformation. In the following interview, Mr. Mahmutović offers a comprehensive overview of the opportunities and challenges
The European Council agreed to apply a fixed customs duty of 3 euros to low-value parcels worth less than 150 euros entering the EU from 1 July 2026. The measure will remain in force until the permanent arrangement for such parcels, as agreed in November 2025 at the European level, comes into force. The tax will be levied on all
As part of the 30th anniversary celebrations of the Barcelona Process —an initiative launched in 1995 to strengthen cooperation between Europe and the Mediterranean—Barcelona will host the Euro-Mediterranean Economic & Business Forum on November 18 and 19. The event will take place in the iconic Llotja de Mar building and is co-organised by the Chamber of Commerce of Barcelona and