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.
Atlantic cooperation: from shared challenges to shared solutions
As regions adjust their European Union programmes to new priorities and begin discussing future funding priorities, Atlantic cooperation is helping them move faster. Across Ireland, France, Spain and Portugal, Interreg projects are delivering tested solutions that regional funds can scale up
26 August 2026
How the Swabian Alb is combining nature protection with rural development
How can rural regions turn nature protection into an opportunity for economic and social renewal? In Baden-Württemberg, Germany, the Swabian Alb Biosphere has helped create jobs, attract investment and support more sustainable agriculture and tourism.
24 August 2026
A former post office turned into a community hub in Roeselare
How can cities turn unused spaces into places that bring communities together? In Roeselare, Belgium, a former post office has become a community hub where around 35 organisations and 150 volunteers contribute to activities ranging from well-being and culture to circular economy and entrepreneurship.
17 August 2026
Breaking the ghost fishing cycle in the Black Sea
Invisible beneath the surface, abandoned fishing gear continues trapping fish, turtles and other marine life long after it has been lost, or discarded. These so-called ghost nets are among the most damaging forms of marine litter. In the Black Sea - where around 85% of marine waste is plastic - they add to a growing environmental crisis. Globally, abandoned fishing gear accounts for an estimated 10% of marine plastic pollution, but in some areas it can represent as much as half of all litter found at sea.
10 August 2026