CEMR opens dialogue on reforming EU Cohesion Policy post-2020 to better support local and regional development
The Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR), representing over 100,000 local and regional authorities across Europe, has launched an early contribution to the debate on the future of EU Cohesion Policy. With discussions on the post-2020 Multiannual Financial Framework already underway, CEMR stresses the importance of adapting Cohesion Policy to ensure it continues delivering economic, social and territorial cohesion for all communities.
CEMR proposes three possible scenarios: maintaining the current system, introducing incremental improvements such as simplification and stronger partnerships, or pursuing a more fundamental reform through the creation of a single territorial development fund. These options aim to make Cohesion Policy more effective, accessible, and transparent.
At the core of its opening statement, CEMR outlines five guiding principles for reform:
- Integrated and simplified – moving beyond silos towards more coherent funding instruments.
- Inclusive – ensuring stronger bottom-up partnerships and local ownership.
- Result-oriented – focusing on impact and outcomes rather than only expenditure.
- Relevant and flexible – aligning priorities with territorial realities and avoiding excessive thresholds.
- For all territories – safeguarding equitable support, especially for less developed regions.
- This statement marks the beginning of a dialogue between CEMR, its members, and the EU institutions. By placing local and regional governments at the heart of the debate, CEMR seeks to shape a Cohesion Policy that is more integrated, inclusive and effective, ensuring no territory is left behind in the next programming period.
For more information, contact:
Advisor – Territorial Cohesion & Local Finances
