Future of cohesion policy: decentralised decisions and adequate funding essential

Europe needs a cohesion policy with adequate funding and decentralised planning, anchored in the needs of each place, MEPs argue in a report adopted with 392 votes in favour, 125 against, and 55 abstentions – so EU investments can continue to reduce regional disparities. In response to the European Commission’s Ninth Report on Social, Economic and Territorial Cohesion, MEPs welcome the “proven positive impact” of cohesion funds on reducing disparities within the EU. They argue that a regional and local focus, decentralised programming, and decisions based on partnerships have been key to the effectiveness of cohesion policy, and should continue to be key aspects in future. MEPs opposed to one-size-fits-all, top-down approaches MEPs argue that cohesion policy funds need to be clearly demarcated to avoid competition between EU funding instruments, some of which have different goals. They are “concerned” about plans that could lead to a one-size-fits all centralisation of plans, and oppose any form of top-down centralisation reform of EU funding programs. While the EU budget should become more responsive to crises and unforeseen events, MEPs say cohesion policy is not a crisis response instrument, and instruments including the EU Solidarity Fund (EUSF) should be strengthened instead. Funding needed to address development traps, invest in housing MEPs call for a more ambitious cohesion policy for the 2028-2034 budget cycle. To make it easier for local and regional actors to...