On February 20th, 2024, the independent Group of High-Level Specialists on the Future of Cohesion Policy presented its report, evaluating the effectiveness of Cohesion Policy in promoting prosperity and convergence across the EU and providing recommendations for its future.

Set up by Commissioner Elisa Ferreira, the group examined ways to ensure the policy supports growth, recovery, and transitions to green and digital economies across European regions. The report outlines recommendations including a more place-based approach, investment in human capital, leveraging local potential for sustainable growth, and enhancing administrative efficiency. 

The reflection on the future of Cohesion Policy will continue at the 9th Cohesion Forum in April 2024, with the Commission publishing the 9th Cohesion Report in Spring 2024.

Read more on the European Commission's Press Release

Read the complete report below:

European Commission, Directorate-General for Regional and Urban Policy, Forging a sustainable future together – Cohesion for a competitive and inclusive Europe – Report of the High-Level Group on the Future of Cohesion Policy, February 2024, Publications Office of the European Union, 2024, https://data.europa.eu/doi/10.2776/974536