Thematic objectives
Find detailed information about the thematic objectives of Interreg
What are the Interreg themes?
Turning Cohesion Policy into action
Interreg focuses on seven thematic objectives during the 2021-2027 period. These objectives are part of the EU regulation and reflect Interreg's mission to build a more united, inclusive and resilient Europe by promoting cooperation and addressing shared challenges. The seven objectives include five EU policy objectives and two Interreg-specific objectives.
Each thematic objective addresses a key area. Below, you can explore a brief description of each theme and learn how they contribute to both EU policy priorities and Interreg's broader mission.
A Smarter Europe
Interreg drives innovation, competitiveness, digitalisation, and smart specialisation across regions. It supports research, technology, and entrepreneurship to build strong, future-ready economies.
A greener Europe
Interreg invests in projects that promote a low-carbon economy, tackle climate change, and encourage a circular economy. It supports risk prevention, nature protection, sustainable energy, and water management to help build a greener, more sustainable future.
A more connected Europe
Interreg focuses on improving mobility by enhancing transport networks and digital infrastructure. This ensures better connections for people, goods, and information across regions.
A more social Europe
Interreg promotes inclusion, employment, and access to quality health, education, training, and skills. It also supports culture, sustainable tourism, and equality to create a fairer, more inclusive society.
Europe for citizens
Interreg adopts place-based and community-based approaches to support integrated territorial strategies. It prioritises local ownership and sustainable partnerships to address the unique needs of regions and communities.
Better governance
Interreg strengthens institutional capacity and encourages cross-border collaboration. It addresses legal and administrative obstacles, promotes mutual trust, and helps build more transparent, inclusive, and sustainable democratic governance.
A safer Europe
Interreg supports better border management and migration processes. It helps enhance the social and economic integration of migrants and third-country nationals, creating more inclusive communities and fostering secure and efficient border operations.
Latest news and stories
Discover how Interreg brings its thematic objectives to life through real-world projects and success stories. Learn how collaboration across borders is driving positive change and making a tangible impact on communities across Europe.
New opportunity for Interreg projects to go global
Are you ready to scale the results of your regional cooperation projects internationally? The EU-funded International Urban and Regional Cooperation (IURC) programme is now calling for 40 European pilot cities and 24 European pilot regions to engage in partnerships with counterparts in Asia, Australasia, Latin America and the Caribbean.
27 May 2025
New report shares key findings from Interreg post 2027 consultations
The European Commission has published the Harvesting report on post-2027 Interreg, presenting key findings from extensive consultations with Interreg practitioners, stakeholders and citizens. The initiative is part of a large-scale consultation on European Territorial Cooperation (Interreg) that started in 2023.
16 May 2025
Project platforms powering up cooperation across the Baltic Sea region
From tackling hazardous substances to rethinking tourism and boosting mental health, eight project platforms have been recognised as Operations of Strategic Importance (OSIs) in Interreg Baltic Sea Region. These project platforms bring together organisations from across the region to turn tested project results into lasting impact, helping communities thrive, protecting shared resources, and paving the way for a greener, more resilient Baltic Sea region.
14 May 2025
Digital technology is reviving Sweden’s ancient stories
From firelight to fiber optics, Sweden is revitalising storytelling through digital technology. In remote villages and mountainous landscapes, communities are using tools like mixed reality (XR) and virtual production to preserve local culture, explore climate impacts, and connect across borders. Projects like CUPIDO and DACCHE show how digital innovation and transnational cooperation can bring the past to life - and give it a future.
12 May 2025