10 December — During the meeting of the Assembly of European Regions (AER) Political Bureau, its members formally adopted the updated AER Position Paper on Cohesion Policy post‑2027.
Cohesion Policy remains a cornerstone of the European Union’s commitment to economic, social, and territorial convergence. It strengthens the Single Market, drives sustainable growth, and promotes solidarity across all regions. As the debate on the post‑2027 framework accelerates, safeguarding the mission and effectiveness of Cohesion Policy is more essential than ever.
Regions Lead Europe: Preserving Cohesion in the Next MFF
Cohesion investments have consistently delivered strong returns for the EU economy—creating jobs, boosting innovation, and supporting both the green and digital transitions.
However, the European Commission’s proposal for the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF)—including the introduction of National Regional Partnership Plans (NRPPs)—risks centralising decisions and reducing the role of regions, contradicting the Maastricht principles of subsidiarity.
Cohesion Policy is far more than a funding instrument—it is a pledge of unity, resilience, and trust among Europe’s territories. Its future must remain rooted in shared prosperity and territorial balance across the Union.
🔹 Safeguard Cohesion
Maintain dedicated funding to reduce regional disparities and ensure that all EU policies are designed to “do not harm to cohesion.”
🔹 Reinforce Multi‑Level Governance
Introduce binding regional partnerships and mandatory regional chapters to strengthen democratic legitimacy and ensure policies reflect territorial needs.
🔹 Simplify Without Nationalising
Streamline processes while protecting the policy’s long‑term, place‑based mission and solidarity dimension.
🔹 Balance Flexibility and Predictability
Combine crisis‑response adaptability with stable investment frameworks for regions and stakeholders.
🔹 Empower Regions in Transition
Support tailored strategies for innovation, decarbonisation, and digital transformation, ensuring a just and inclusive green transition.
📄 Read the Full Position Paper
