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 at the European Week of Regions and Cities 2025, join our sessions!
The European Week of Regions and Cities 2025 will take place from 13 to 15 October 2025 in Brussels, and Interreg programmes will once again be actively contributing to the debate through a variety of high-level sessions and thematic activities.
22 August 2025
Atlantic Days – Galway, 12-13 November 2025
This series of events includes the Interreg Atlantic Area Programme Annual Event, the Blue Synergies Event, and the 12th Atlantic Stakeholders Platform Conference (ASPC 2025).
22 August 2025
How Aarhus and Copenhagen are using repair and reuse to cut waste and reshape public services
Danish design is more than aesthetics. It is about simplicity, functionality, and about making things last. That mindset has shaped everything from iconic furniture to public services. Now, it is also reshaping how Danes approach waste: not as something to discard but to reuse.
18 August 2025
10 Interreg projects named finalists in the REGIOSTARS Awards 2025
The public voting to select the winners will be open from 2 September to 15 October at midday, giving everyone the opportunity to support their favourite projects online. The winners in each category - as well as the Public Choice Award winner - will be announced at a ceremony on 15 October in Brussels.
12 August 2025