Future regulatory discussions

Before the Post 2027 period ends, a new Multi-Annual Financial Framework (MFF) will need to be agreed. Many documents are already published which are relevant to shaping the Post 2027 regulatory framework. 

In addition to the financial agreement, further regulations may be used to create and establish Interreg (and other funds) as well as establish rules for operating and implementing EU funding. Interact follows this work, and supports the engagement of Interreg and other cooperation practicioners at opportune moments.

In 2024, Interact supported programmes to engage with citizens and stakeholders, and to engage with each other on the way the current regulations work, and what could be repaired or improved in the future period.

Where to start 

In the context of the Post 2027 period, the European Elections created a Parliament and started the appointment and confirmation processes required to create the President of the Commission, the college of Commissioners and to begin the preparations. 

The Political Guidelines established the orientation of the future Commission. 

In further explaining what the new College of Commissioners would achieve, Mission letters were sent to the Commissioner-Designate from the various Member States. Of particular interest to Interreg is the letter sent to Commissioner-Designated as the Executive Vice-President for Cohesion and Reforms 

The exact shape of the future orientation of cohesion policy and Interreg will continue to be defined in ongoing political and policy-based discussions in the coming months.

Emerging themes include: 

1. Strengthened role of cohesion policy
2. Partnership principle with local and regional authorities
3. Need for continued focus on regional disparities
4. Realisation of the 'right to stay' 

An indicative timeline has been suggested that could see the MFF published in mid-2025, and further legislation following (if needed) later in 2025. These dates are subject to change and political agreements, and should be seen as indicative timelines in a complex, political discussion. 

What we are working on

Interact continues to monitor developments, and has several engagement points on the practical implications of proposals.

The Performers Working Group was established in 2024 and sought to provide feedback on the implementation of Performance-based approaches in Interreg.

Interact's Working Group on Indicators continues to engage with DG EVAL on the use of Common Indicators in Interreg.

More points of contact and discussion on topics continue at a sectorial level, and information is regularly shared at Interact events on the latest development on the future shape of Cohesion Policy and Interreg.

Contact 

For more information please contact Jelena Stojovic