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.Europe Day 2025: A Celebration of Unity and Cooperation
Every year on May 9th, Europe comes together to celebrate peace, unity, and collaboration. This year is particularly special: not only are we marking the 75th anniversary of the historic Schuman Declaration, but we’re also celebrating 35 years of Interreg, Europe’s flagship programme dedicated to cross-border and transnational cooperation.
09 May 2025
Tasting the eight Sámi seasons: Indigenous food education in Nordic schools
In Sámi culture, the weather and seasons have always held great significance. The eight seasons of the reindeer herding year reflect the shifts in nature and the reindeer’s life cycle — rhythms that have guided Sámi life for generations. Each season carries its own meaning, shaping daily tasks, food traditions, and a deep understanding of nature's cycle.
07 May 2025
Bridging the health gap: AI improves access and efficiency in Nordic rural care
Patients in remote areas of Sweden and Norway can now receive healthcare without having to travel long distances. The Kontiki project is making that possible through artificial intelligence (AI) and welfare technology that helps monitoring and following-up patients.
18 April 2025
Facing the storms together: Building resilience against weather extremes in Germany
Torrents of rain overwhelmed the valley within hours, cutting off roads and setting homes underwater, leaving residents no option but to seek refuge on their rooftops. Entire villages were destroyed, and more than 130 people lost their lives in the catastrophic floods that day.
10 April 2025