The Workshop on Cohesion in a Policy-Based, Simpler and Impactful MFF, held in Brussels on 9 December 2024, brought together senior officials from Member States and EU institutions to discuss the role of Cohesion Policy in the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF 2028-2034). The workshop was informed by a Reflections Paper outlining ten key recommendations, advocating for a policy-based rather than programme-based MFF, stronger alignment between national reforms and investment, and a more strategic approach to European competitiveness. Discussions focused on three core themes: positioning Cohesion as a pillar of the next MFF, integrating Cohesion into the European Semester, and enhancing Cohesion instruments through multi-level governance. A major emphasis was placed on ensuring that Cohesion remains a central EU priority, with a structured strategic framework that aligns EU-wide and territorial objectives while addressing regional disparities. Simplification, performance-based funding, and improved coordination across EU policies were highlighted as critical enablers for an effective and impactful Cohesion Policy.
The discussions underscored the need for a coherent strategic framework that integrates Cohesion Policy with EU-wide priorities, streamlines funding instruments, and enhances territorial differentiation in policy implementation. The role of the European Semester in policy coordination was debated, with calls for greater territorial emphasis and alignment with national and regional needs. Participants highlighted the importance of multi-level governance, advocating for stronger regional involvement in planning and implementation. Lessons from the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) were explored, particularly the potential benefits of Simplified Cost Options (SCOs) and Financing Not Linked to Costs (FNLCs) in streamlining Cohesion Policy delivery. Institutional capacity-building and inter-regional cooperation were identified as key drivers of success. The overall conclusion was the need for a simplified, flexible, and impact-driven Cohesion framework that balances EU strategic priorities with regional development needs, ensuring long-term growth, competitiveness, and resilience across Europe.