CEMR outlines 10 key messages on the future of cohesion policy and calls for stronger territorial and partnership approaches
The Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) has set out ten key messages on the European Commission’s proposals for the future of cohesion policy. While welcoming steps towards simplification, CEMR warns against funding cuts, weakened territorial approaches and the exclusion of rural development from cohesion policy.
Protecting territorial and partnership principles
CEMR stresses that the Partnership Principle must be enforced across all regulations, ensuring that local and regional governments have a meaningful role in designing and implementing programmes. Equally, the territorial approach should not be sidelined but mainstreamed across all policy objectives of cohesion policy, including ESF+ and CAP rural development.
Ensuring flexibility and capacity
The proposals must safeguard the possibility of multi-fund approaches such as Community Led Local Development (CLLD) and Integrated Territorial Investments (ITI). Local and regional governments also need more flexibility to set investment priorities according to local needs, backed by sufficient resources for capacity building and technical assistance.
Avoiding harmful reductions
CEMR warns that cohesion policy risks losing its integrated character if funding is fragmented or reduced. Particular concern is raised over cuts to European Territorial Cooperation (INTERREG), which plays a vital role in fostering cross-border, transnational and interregional cooperation.
Conclusion
CEMR calls on EU institutions to ensure that the next Multiannual Financial Framework preserves cohesion policy as a strong, place-based instrument, rooted in partnership and territorial development, capable of addressing Europe’s diverse challenges.
For more information, contact:
Advisor – Territorial Cohesion & Local Finances
