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.
Interreg Atlantic Area and PEACE programmes win 2025 RegioStars Awards
Two Interreg projects have been recognised at the 2025 RegioStars Awards, winning in three categories: Green Europe, Public Choice Award, and Europe Closer to Citizens.
16 October 2025
A taste of cooperation: Türkiye joins the Interreg Bake Off challenge
To mark 35 years of Interreg, the Bake Off Challenge has turned kitchens into symbols of cooperation. Türkiye, part of this European journey for 22 years, joined the celebration with a cake that embodies unity and teamwork. Through this initiative, the country highlighted how cross-border and transnational collaboration can be as meaningful as it is creative.
10 October 2025
Mobility, economic activity: Euro-Mediterranean rural areas are on the move!
In this article, we put the spotlight on three innovative projects revitalising rural areas across the Mediterranean. From developing sustainable local economic models to facilitating access to electric mobility and on-demand transport, these initiatives –co-funded by the Interreg Euro-MED Programme– introduce new ways to meet the specific needs of Mediterranean communities.
10 October 2025
Transnational programmes at the European Week of Regions and Cities 2025
The European Week of Regions and Cities 2025 will take place from 13 to 15 October 2025 in Brussels. For this 23rd edition, all 13 Interreg transnational programmes are joining forces to showcase the power of transnational cooperation.
07 October 2025