Funchal Mayor Jorge Carvalho expressed concern over a potential concentration of power within the European Union, which could threaten the role of regions and municipalities in managing community funds. Carvalho warned that "a process of returning to the middle of the States is underway," advocating for the preservation of the principle of subsidiarity and regional intervention.
During a debate in Santa Cruz, other local officials also voiced similar concerns. Élia Ascensão highlighted the importance of proximity for understanding local realities and criticized the exclusion of municipalities from defining priorities. Olavo Câmara called for the defense of European principles of cohesion and solidarity for regional development.
