In a reflection paper published in October, the Conference of Peripheral Maritime Regions (CPMR) envisaged possible futures for post-2027 cohesion policy, ranging from the most utopian to the most dystopian.
Indeed, while cohesion funds have been regularly solicited in order to deal with a succession of crises, voices—including that of the CPMR—have been raised to defend the long-term objectives and nature of cohesion policy. Drawing inspiration from the titles of popular films, [the CPMR] imagines five scenarios; the one in which cohesion policy becomes “fully centralised and renationalised” is compared to the sinking of the Titanic. The following claims are made in the reflection paper.
It’s a Wonderful Life. In this scenario, Member States support a larger budget for cohesion [policy]. Despite a flexibility reserve, cohesion policy is simplified and pursues long-term objectives.
The Matrix. In this scenario, structural funds and other sizeable investment instruments are merged into a single territorial fund. Traditional programmes are replaced by territorial strategies encompassing both EU and national funds. New categories of regions are created to enable a targeted approach to specific challenges to be taken.
Frozen. Despite the debates, cohesion policy remains the same: All regions, grouped into three categories, remain eligible; the partnership principle remains essential; and cohesion policy continues to aim for long-term objectives while contributing to the EU’s most pressing priorities.
Honey, I Shrunk the Kids. The cohesion budget is significantly reduced, only the least developed regions are eligible, and the management of the funds is largely entrusted to national governments.
Titanic. Cohesion policy becomes fully nationalised and centralised: Allocation is based on national data, the involvement of local authorities is left to the discretion of Member States, and investment priorities are fully aligned with the EU’s strategic objectives.
To read the reflection paper: https://aeur.eu/f/3vw (Original version in French by Hélène Seynaeve)