Among the largest programs of the European Union, Interreg aims to strengthen cooperation between different geographical areas within the Union and with the outermost regions and neighboring countries. In the current programming period 2021-2027, the sixth to be precise (Interreg VI), with a budget of almost 10 billion euros and around 100 programmes, Interreg operates at a cross-border level, both inside and outside the the EU, contributing to the implementation of the main priorities of the EU Cohesion Policy, placing greater emphasis on current challenges, such as the digital and ecological transitions, and social inclusion.
What is Interreg?
Interreg is a European Union program that promotes cooperation between geographical regions to overcome common challenges and improve citizens' quality of life. Created in 1989, the program aims to facilitate cross-border, transnational and interregional collaboration, supporting projects that address issues such as economic development, innovation, the environment and social inclusion.
History of Interreg
Interreg was created with the aim of eliminating barriers between European regions and promoting economic and social cohesion. Initially focused on regional development projects, the program has expanded its scope to also include cooperation with non-EU countries, contributing to the stability and growth of neighboring areas.
Interreg objectives
The main objectives of Interreg include strengthening territorial cohesion, increasing the competitiveness of regions, promoting environmental sustainability and facilitating social inclusion. Interreg seeks to address common challenges through cooperation and exchange of good practices between participating regions.
The 2021-2027 programming period
The 2021-2027 programming period, known as Interreg VI, represents the sixth phase of the programme. With a budget of almost 10 billion euros, Interreg VI focuses on current issues such as digital and ecological transition, social inclusion and the resilience of local communities.
Budget and Financing
Interreg has a significant budget for the period 2021-2027, intended to finance around 100 different programmes. These funds are used to support cooperation projects that address local and transnational problems, promoting sustainable development and social inclusion.
Types of Cooperation
Interreg operates through three main types of cooperation: cross-border, transnational and interregional. Each of these typologies has specific programs and objectives, but they all share the intention of improving territorial cohesion and the quality of life of European citizens.
Cross-border cooperation
Cross-border cooperation supports collaboration between regions of at least two different Member States, located directly on or adjacent to borders. This form of cooperation aims to overcome the barriers created by divergent national legislation and the lack of common territorial planning.
Programs of the European Union
These programs focus on turning border obstacles into opportunities for EU Member States. The aim is to facilitate collaboration and joint development in various sectors, improving the quality of life in border regions.
Interreg IPA
Interreg IPA supports cooperation between the EU and candidate or potential candidate countries, such as the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Croatia and Turkey. These programs aim to facilitate European integration and promote stability and development in neighboring regions.
Interreg NEXT
Interreg NEXT operates at the EU's external borders, in particular with Eastern and Southern European countries. In response to Russian aggression against Ukraine, cooperation with Russia and Belarus has been suspended, while cooperation programs with Ukraine and Moldova are promoted.
Transnational Cooperation
Transnational cooperation involves regions from different EU countries, promoting large-scale collaboration to address common challenges such as innovation, environment and urban development.
Continuous programs
These programs support large-scale cooperative activities, encouraging regional development through joint projects and investments in various key sectors.
Direct support programs
Programs such as Interreg Baltic Sea Region, Interreg Danube Region, Interreg IPA Adrion and Interreg Alpine Space provide direct support to macro-regional strategies, facilitating cooperation and development in specific geographical areas.
Interregional Cooperation
Interregional cooperation covers large geographical areas, promoting the exchange of good practices and mutual learning between regions. Programs such as Interreg Europe, Interact, Urbact and Espon play a key role in this type of cooperation.
Interreg Europe
Interreg Europe facilitates pan-European cooperation, encouraging the development of good practices and the transfer of skills and experience between participating regions.
Interact
Interact provides technical and administrative support to Interreg programmes, facilitating the implementation and management of cooperation projects.
Urbact
Urbact promotes sustainable urban development through cooperation and exchange of experiences between European cities.
Expo
Espon focuses on research and analysis of territorial dynamics, providing useful data and information for the development of regional policies.
Cooperation with the Ultraperipheral Regions
Cooperation programs with the EU's outermost regions, such as Interreg Indian Ocean, Interreg Caribbean, Interreg Amazon, Interreg Mozambique Channel and Interreg Madeira-Azores-Canaries, aim to ensure the European presence in key areas and to promote sustainable development and social inclusion.
Main Funded Projects
Interreg has funded numerous successful projects across Europe, which have improved the quality of life of citizens and promoted sustainable development. Examples of projects include initiatives for technological innovation, environmental protection and social inclusion.
Impact of Interreg on the Territories
The impact of Interreg on the territories is significant, with numerous projects having contributed to the economic, social and environmental development of the participating regions. Cross-border, transnational and interregional cooperation has made it possible to overcome barriers and promote greater territorial cohesion.
Focus on Social Inclusion
One of the key objectives of Interreg is to promote social inclusion, ensuring that all regions and citizens can benefit from the opportunities offered by the programme. Specific projects have been implemented to address social inequalities and improve access to essential services.
Digital and Ecological Transition
Interreg supports the digital and ecological transition through projects that promote technological innovation and environmental sustainability. These projects aim to create a more sustainable and resilient future for European regions.
Benefits for Citizens and Businesses
Citizens and businesses derive numerous benefits from participation in Interreg projects, which improve the quality of life and promote economic development. Cross-border cooperation allows us to overcome administrative and legislative barriers, facilitating mobility and collaboration between regions.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite its many successes, Interreg faces several challenges, including administrative complexity and legislative differences between participating countries. However, these challenges also represent opportunities to develop innovative solutions and promote greater European integration.
Study cases
Numerous case studies demonstrate the effectiveness of Interreg projects in promoting regional cooperation and development. Successful examples include technological innovation, environmental protection and social inclusion projects, which have had a positive impact on local communities.
Accomplished results
Interreg has achieved significant results in terms of regional development and cross-border cooperation. The funded projects have improved the quality of life of citizens and promoted environmental sustainability, contributing to territorial cohesion and social inclusion.
Future perspectives
Interreg's future prospects are promising, with new programs and projects being developed to address emerging challenges and promote greater cooperation between European regions. The aim is to continue supporting sustainable development and social inclusion, creating a more cohesive and resilient Europe.
