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 launches targeted consultation on ‘Do No Significant Harm’ Principle for 2028-2034 MFF
The European Commission has initiated a targeted consultation to define the approach for applying the ‘Do No Significant Harm’ (DNSH) principle to the 2028-2034 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF).
17 July 2026
Faces of Interreg: Hugo Sobral on turning borders into bridges
In the first edition of Faces of Interreg, Hugo Sobral, Deputy Director-General at DG REGIO, reflects on cooperation, cohesion and why Europe works best when it works together.
10 July 2026
Interreg CENTRAL EUROPE launches stakeholder consultation for its 2028–2034 programme
Interreg CENTRAL EUROPE has launched a stakeholder consultation to help shape its cooperation programme for the 2028–2034 programming period.
09 July 2026
Mapping tomorrow's Interreg: evidence for stronger cooperation after 2027
As preparations begin for the next generation of Interreg programmes, understanding the needs and opportunities of Europe's territories has never been more important. The European Observation Network for Territorial Development and Cohesion, better known as ESPON, has produced a new set of analyses covering both transnational cooperation areas and cross-border regions, providing programme authorities, policymakers and stakeholders with a shared evidence base to help shape cooperation beyond 2027.
08 July 2026