EUSTAFOR Marks 20 Years of Advocacy and Impact in European Forest Policy

This 2026, the European State Forest Association commemorated a major milestone: 20 years of representing state forest management organisations at the heart of EU policymaking.

Over two decades, EUSTAFOR has grown into a trusted partner in Brussels, bringing the voice of publicly managed forests to discussions on climate, biodiversity, rural development, and the circular bioeconomy. The anniversary is more than a celebration, it’s a moment to highlight how sustained advocacy translates into policy influence, practical solutions, and stronger partnerships across Europe.

A Year of Visibility, Engagement & Strategic Outreach

To mark its anniversary, EUSTAFOR launched a year-long programme of engagement and visibility activities, designed to reinforce key messages with policymakers, stakeholders, and the wider public.

Rather than just marking history, this programme aims to elevate the role of sustainable state forest management in EU climate and nature agendas. By combining public-facing events in Brussels with high-level engagement.

Reinforcing EUSTAFOR’s Core Messages

The anniversary initiative puts a spotlight on EUSTAFOR’s long-standing policy priorities:

• Sustainable state forest management is fundamental to Europe’s green transition.
• Long-term public stewardship balances ecological, economic and social benefits for citizens, rural economies, and climate goals.
• Policies at EU level should be grounded in practical, field-tested forest management realities.
• Continued dialogue with EU institutions is essential to align forest policy with broader EU climate, biodiversity and rural development strategies.

Strategic Engagement in 2026

The anniversary will be a platform for EUSTAFOR to accelerate connections with EU decision-makers and stakeholders. Initiatives include public installations, events tied to major key dates, and a high-level policy conference in Brussels that will bring together EU institutions, forest sector practitioners, and stakeholders.

These activities are not just celebrations, they are targeted advocacy moments supporting EUSTAFOR’s ongoing efforts to influence policy processes in 2026 and beyond.

Looking Ahead: Continuity and Influence

As EUSTAFOR marks this anniversary, it also looks forward , with the design of a new strategy to guide its activities in a rapidly shifting policy landscape. The association’s advocacy continues to focus on ensuring that forests are seen as essential and active contributors to Europe’s resilience, sustainability, and competitiveness.

For members, partners, and Europe’s forest communities, this milestone is a reminder that continuous engagement — not occasional visibility — is what builds influence and drives policy change.