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.
‘Cohesion and cooperation are the DNA of the European project’: Juraj Droba on how Interreg supports regional communities
At the heart of Central Europe, where Slovakia meets Austria and Hungary, cooperation across borders isn’t just a policy, it’s a way of life. Juraj Droba, Chairman of the Bratislava Region and Second Vice-Chair of the European Committee of the Regions’ COTER Commission, sees every day how international partnerships shape communities and improve people’s lives. From bridges to cultural landmarks, Interreg projects are making a visible difference on the ground.
07 August 2025
How Interreg helps tourism glow through Finland’s darkest months
Tourism in Finland typically peaks in the summer, but what happens in the long, dark months of autumn, winter, and early spring?
28 July 2025
Interreg Northern Periphery and Arctic seeks young voices to help shape its first youth call for projects
Interreg Northern Periphery and Arctic will launch its first youth call for projects in 2026 and is seeking input from young people to shape it in the best way.
21 July 2025
Commission proposes €10 billion for Interreg in 2028-2034 EU budget
The European Commission has unveiled its proposal for the European Union’s long-term budget for 2028–2034 (Multiannual Financial Framework, or MFF). A key feature is the continued support for the Interreg programme, which is allocated €10 billion.
17 July 2025