What cohesion (policy) post 2027?

March 2023

In February 2023, a group of high-level specialists has been tasked by the European Commission to reflect on the future of cohesion policy post 2027. Until early 2024, it will discuss needs and ideas to make sure cohesion policy can respond to cohesion challenges today and in future. More information is available on the website of the DG REGIO (Opens in a new window).

The work of the group includes also questions about the understanding of cohesion and subsequently the self-conception of cohesion policy, which has touched upon at the first meeting of the group.

To start with, the EU looks to ensure stability, security, prosperity and integration, increase citizens’ living standards and secure its global influence. In short, sustained inclusive (broad-based) growth should be experienced by the majority. This ambition is supported by the Single European Market and related EU policies concerning competition, economic growth, innovation, etc.

In this context, cohesion policy is a necessary but not sufficient ingredient to achieve cohesion. Cohesion policy sets out to support balanced economic development, correcting internal disparities through investments in public goods, innovation, digitalisation, human capital, the environment, climate, social integration and transport. Its investments also support the green and digital transition that is currently undergoing in Europe. The investments can accelerate regional development while contributing to sustainable growth across Europe, especially in less developed regions. The policy improves efficiency, equity, convergence and competitiveness, while also aiming to maximise growth along with continuous convergence of outcomes and productivity across Europe’s regions.

Cohesion, growth and development

Despite its role in promoting convergence while delivering EU priorities, including supporting investments during the economic crisis, the pandemic and the war, cohesion policy is often seen as a purely redistributive policy. This raises questions concerning the relation between growth, cohesion and sustainability, which should be compatible.