In 2026, the BEST initiative is launching a new fundraising and policy initiative to secure sustained investment in biodiversity action across EU overseas regions and Overseas Countries and Territories.

This initiative comes at a critical moment. The European Union is preparing its next Multiannual Financial Framework (2028–2034), while major global biodiversity and climate processes are advancing. Decisions taken now will shape how biodiversity action is funded and delivered over the coming decade.

At stake is the continuity of proven, locally led approaches. Without stable and accessible funding, the progress already achieved risks slowing down at a time when it is most needed.

BESTLIFE2030 sits at the centre of this effort. It builds on years of experience and provides a tested model for delivering results on the ground, while informing policy and investment decisions at EU and global levels.

Why this initiative now

EU overseas regions and territories already demonstrate how biodiversity action can be delivered effectively in complex environments.

Through the BEST initiative and now the BESTLIFE2030 Programme, local actors have restored habitats, strengthened conservation practices and developed approaches adapted to island contexts. These initiatives show that when funding reaches local stakeholders, it leads to tangible and lasting outcomes.

At the same time, the policy context is evolving. The EU is defining future funding priorities, and global frameworks such as the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework are moving into implementation.

This creates a clear opportunity: to align proven delivery models with future funding decisions and ensure that what works can continue and expand.

What needs to happen

To maintain progress, investment needs to match ambition.

This means recognising region-led approaches as credible and effective delivery mechanisms. It also requires funding frameworks that are accessible, predictable and suited to the realities of overseas territories.

Moving forward involves securing sustained biodiversity funding within the next EU budget cycle, supporting models such as BESTLIFE2030 as scalable solutions and enabling a transition from short-term projects to longer-term financing approaches.

These steps will help ensure continuity, strengthen impact and support broader environmental objectives.

A year of engagement: From regional leadership to global recognition

The initiative will unfold across a series of key moments in 2026, linking regional leadership with European and global decision-making.

• Aruba (April 2026) – Overseas Countries and Territories will reaffirm their role as long-term partners of the European Union and as active contributors to biodiversity action.
• Brussels (June 2026) – A policy and investment event will connect regional experience with EU institutions, Member States and donors, translating political recognition into funding discussions.
• Yerevan (October 2026) – At the CBD COP, island territories will be positioned within the global biodiversity agenda, demonstrating how local action contributes to international targets.
• Guadeloupe (November 2026) – Regional leaders will focus on long-term financing pathways and the transition beyond project-based support.

Together, these milestones create a coherent pathway: from demonstrated results to increased investment, global recognition and long-term sustainability.

Looking ahead

EU overseas regions and territories are already delivering results. The priority now is to ensure that these efforts are sustained, supported and scaled over time.

As predominantly island and ocean-facing territories, they are not peripheral actors but strategic stewards of globally significant biodiversity and climate resilience systems. Achieving EU biodiversity objectives will not be possible without them. They provide tested approaches and expertise that enable replication and scalability.