Commission launches targeted consultation on ‘Do No Significant Harm’ Principle for 2028-2034 MFF
This article was updated on 12 August 2026 to include information on the Interact consultation process and opportunities for Interreg programmes to contribute.
This consultation aims to prepare, by 1 January 2027, a single and simplified guidance on the application of the DNSH principle, ensuring its consistent implementation across EU-funded programmes and activities where feasible and appropriate.
The consultation is based on a Concept Paper and will remain open until 16 September 2026.
The DNSH principle sets the environmental and climate conditions that EU funds must adhere to, ensuring that EU funding does not support activities that significantly harm the Union’s environmental and climate objectives.
The upcoming guidance seeks to replace the current fragmented approach and provide a clearer, more predictable and enforceable framework for applying the DNSH safeguard in the next MFF.
The consultation also includes a dedicated Interreg chapter, recognising the specific context in which European Territorial Cooperation programmes operate.
Interreg programmes invited to contribute
The Commission’s consultation provides an opportunity for Interreg programmes to share their perspectives and practical experience on the application of DNSH.
To support this, the Interact Programme is facilitating an exchange among Interreg programmes on the Commission’s Concept Paper. The aim is to gather views and practical experience from programmes and, where possible, help build a shared Interreg perspective on the future application of DNSH.
Interact's process includes an online consultation, an online focus group on 2 September and an online discussion on 8 September. Interreg programmes are invited to contribute their views and share concrete examples of their experience with DNSH implementation.
Take part in the Interact consultation (login required)
The outcomes of this exchange will help provide evidence and practical considerations that can inform discussions with the European Commission on the future DNSH framework.
Commission webinar
There will also be a webinar for Managing Authorities on the latest state of play of the DNSH Guidance for the next MFF, organised by DG REGIO and the Secretariat-General of the European Commission. It will take place on 3 September from 15:00 to 16:30 CEST. Managing Authorities should receive an invitation directly from the European Commission.