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.
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
Interreg projects drive energy transition at European Sustainable Energy Week 2025
Thirteen projects from thirteen Interreg programmes showcased how cooperation powers the green transition at the European Sustainable Energy Week (EUSEW) 2025, represented under the Interreg Thematic Community for a Greener Europe, coordinated by Interact.
15 July 2025
Interactive map tool helps build stronger regional partnerships
A new map tool from Interact supports regional cooperation by helping users find suitable partners for joint projects during the 2021–2027 programming period.
14 July 2025
Registration open: Macro-Regional and Sea Basin Strategies Days 2025
Join policymakers and stakeholders across Europe to collaborate on shared challenges and new opportunities in regional development and maritime affairs. Registration is now open for the EU Macro-Regional and Sea Basin Strategies Days 2025.
14 July 2025