Event: future Cohesion Policy

Event “Strengthening the Territorial Dimension in the future EU-Cohesion Policy” (12 October 2026, 5-9 pm)

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Against the backdrop of the European Week of Regions and Cities 2026, this high-level evening event in Brussels creates a timely political space to take stock of where Cohesion Policy is heading—and what is at stake for the territorial dimension in the next EU programming period.

The Week brings together European institutions, Member States and local and regional leaders around the central question of how Europe can deliver place-based solutions to shared transitions. This event deliberately connects that overarching debate with one of the most consequential upcoming decisions: the shaping of the new Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) and the emerging architecture of National and Regional Partnership Plans (NRPPs), where priorities, governance and delivery tools for future EU investment will be negotiated.

In this context, the territorial dimension is not a technical add-on, but a core condition for impact. Climate neutrality, competitiveness, social inclusion and resilience will only be achieved if EU investment recognises different territorial starting points and capacities across cities, surrounding areas, functional regions and rural territories.

The event responds to this moment with three interconnected objectives:

1. To anchor key recommendations for a strong territorial dimension in the forthcoming negotiations on the MFF and NRPPs;
2. To safeguard a balanced territorial approach that addresses urban and rural territories in a complementary way; and
3. To strengthen a European coalition for integrated territorial approaches bringing together Member States, European institutions and the organised local and regional government community, notably through CEMR, the Committee of the Regions and the European Commission.

Designed as a politically oriented panel discussion followed by a networking reception, the event will convene a targeted community of decision-makers and practitioners: representatives from EU institutions, national and regional managing authorities, cities and regions with hands-on experience in territorial tools, European associations, as well as researchers, think tanks and civil society organisations working on cohesion policy and spatial development.

By combining policy dialogue with exchange among practitioners, the event aims to build shared understanding—and strengthen alliances—at precisely the time when Europe’s future place-based investment framework is being defined.

Please note that spaces are limited. Your registration does not constitute confirmation of participation. You will receive a separate confirmation once your participation has been approved.

For further information on the event, you can reach: r.hohmann@deutscher-verband.org.

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