New partnerships, shared ambition, youth innovation and more! Stefano Sannino, Director-General for the Middle East, North Africa and the Gulf (DG MENA), shares how this newly established body marks a turning point in the EU’s approach to its Southern Neighbourhood. With a focus on building meaningful, balanced partnerships, Sannino emphasises the need to listen to young people, support their creativity and innovation, and co-design solutions that reflect their energy and vision. From supporting green and digital entrepreneurship to promoting vibrant civil societies, DG MENA aims to be a space where youth voices shape the future.
Read all about it in the following interview.

1. What is DG MENA, and what are its main objectives?

DG MENA, or the Directorate-General for the Middle East, North Africa and the Gulf, is a newly created structure within the European Commission. It was established to focus specifically on the European Union’s engagement with the Mediterranean neighbourhood. This is the first time the EU has had a dedicated body for this region. The creation of DG MENA comes at a time when the EU is deepening its relations with countries in Eastern Europe, to signal that this increased focus on the East does not diminish the EU’s commitment to the South. The main objective of this Directorate is to concentrate its efforts and resources on strengthening and developing partnerships with countries in the Middle East and North Africa, affirming that both the East and the South are equally important in the EU’s external relations.

2. How does DG MENA contribute to empowering young people?

These are young countries, where the younger generation represents the majority—and to me, that’s incredibly important. It’s about the future. What strikes me is how strong the will of these young people is to connect with us, to build something meaningful. That’s why, within DG MENA, we don’t come with a predefined list of priorities. Instead, we want to define our partnerships together, based on shared ambition, on both sides, not just from the South Mediterranean but also from the European Union. Our work will certainly involve ideas that foster employment and support vibrant civil societies. I’ve seen so many young people, entrepreneurs, full of determination, working in innovative ways—whether in the digital space, organic agriculture, or environmentally friendly fish farming. They’re not just sticking to traditional paths but they’re looking forwards. This kind of innovation is exactly what we want to support through DG MENA. 

3. What advice would you have liked to receive at 20? 

If I had to give myself advice at 20, it would be to hold onto that enthusiasm and determination because there’s real power there. I truly believe this is what can change everything. It can change the world. And I’m not afraid of saying that. Young people have the ability to bring enthusiasm into action, to channel their intelligence and innovation to make a change that is so needed in this very complicated moment in the world.