Decisions made by the European Union are having an increasing impact on the daily lives of municipalities, wellbeing counties, businesses, and citizens. This EU Local Dialogue event, hosted by ECR member Carina Jäntti, will examine how cybersecurity, technological development, and preparedness are reflected in regional decision-making, as well as the opportunities and challenges they present for the Kymenlaakso region. The discussions will bring together European, national, and local perspectives on building a secure and competitive region. 

Panel 1: Cybersecurity and Digital Resilience – How Do EU Decisions Manifest Themselves in the Regions?

Digitalisation has increased society's dependence on information networks and digital services. This panel will discuss cybersecurity threats, the protection of critical infrastructure, and how EU cybersecurity policies and regulations affect the operations of municipalities, wellbeing regions, and businesses. The discussion will also examine the importance of regional preparedness and cooperation in a changing security environment.

Moderator: Carina Jäntti, ECR CoR member 

Speakers:

Sebastian Tynkkynen, Member of the European Parliament (video-message)

Kristina Lönnfors, Acting Mayor of Kotka

Sami Virtanen, Chair of Kotka City Board

Juho Eerola, Member of Parliament (Finns Party)

Markus Hölsä, Cybersecurity Expert, South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences
 

Panel 2: Safe Technology, Equipment Safety, and Drones in the Service of Society

Technological advancements offer new opportunities for improving security, logistics, emergency response, and industrial development. This panel will examine EU regulations on equipment safety and drone operations, as well as how new technologies can be utilised responsibly at the regional and local levels. The discussion will also assess the balance between technological self-sufficiency, innovation, and safety.

Moderator: Carina Jäntti, ECR CoR member 

Speakers: 

Jouko Rauhala, Chair of Kotka City Council

Kai-Ari Lundell, Member of the European Committee of the Regions (ECR)

Chris Lönnroth, Information Security Manager, Kymenlaakso Wellbeing County

Toni Vanhala, Director of Development, City of Kotka