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.
How TakeUP is helping Interreg programmes strengthen project impact
One of Interreg’s recurring challenges is ensuring that project results continue to create value after funding ends. While many projects produce tools, methods and networks with long-term potential, programmes often struggle to transfer those results beyond the original partnership or funding period.
21 May 2026
Building a shared emergency care system across the EU–Ukraine border
Hospitals in western Ukraine are working under growing pressure as the war continues to strain regional healthcare systems. In border regions like Zakarpattia, doctors are treating more patients while facing rising demand for specialised emergency care.
18 May 2026
Europe turns to Interreg in a changing geopolitical landscape
How can Interreg adapt to Europe’s evolving strategic and territorial priorities for 2028–2034 while continuing to deliver measurable impact on the ground?
12 May 2026
'Interreg creates space for innovation and policy experimentation': Marilena Ayiomamitou
Marilena Ayiomamitou, Growth Officer, Directorate General Growth at the Cyprus Ministry of Finance, shares her views on the future of Interreg in the context of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU 2026.
12 May 2026