opinion parliamentary committee, 10 September 2026
On the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the European Fund for Regional Development including for European Territorial Cooperation (Interreg) and the Cohesion Fund as part of the Fund set out in Regulation (EU) […] [NRP] and establishing conditions for the implementation of the Union support to regional development from 2028 to 2034
Document EMPL-AD-786812 · (COM(2025)0552 – C100168/2025 – 2025/0238(COD))
Committee on Employment and Social Affairs · Rapporteur: João Oliveira
AI:In short
The Committee on Employment and Social Affairs proposes amendments to the proposed regulation establishing the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), Interreg and the Cohesion Fund for 2028 to 2034. The amendments add new objectives and recitals on social cohesion, housing, public services, island and outermost regions, cross-border workers, partnership and administrative simplification. They require Member States to involve social partners, civil society and local authorities in programming, and to allocate resources for their administrative capacity. They set minimum shares of ERDF resources for social cohesion and for sustainable urban development, and an additional allocation for island regions. They add rules on housing support, just transition, community-led local development, and easier access to funds for final beneficiaries.
Position. The Committee on Employment and Social Affairs proposes amendments to the lead Committee on Regional Development, adding social, employment, housing, partnership and accessibility provisions and minimum resource allocations to the proposed ERDF, Interreg and Cohesion Fund regulation.
Key points
- The committee submits amendments to the Committee on Regional Development on the proposed ERDF, Interreg and Cohesion Fund regulation for 2028 to 2034.
- A new recital says the budget should ensure predictability and visibility of cohesion policy investments, ensuring continuity with the 2021-2027 programming period.
- Amendments add that the Funds should not support actions jeopardising the highest applicable social and labour standards, and should guarantee accessibility for persons with disabilities in all new infrastructure projects.
- A new recital requires Member States to take specific commitments on how resources reflect social and employment needs, including when changing the share allocated to those priorities.
- A new recital says NUTS 2 classification based exclusively on GDP per capita should be reviewed, and allows reclassification of regions to the category immediately below at the request of national and regional authorities.
- New recitals call for ERDF and Cohesion Fund support for public services, regions bordering Russia, Belarus and Ukraine, affordable and social housing, and youth in disadvantaged and depopulating regions.
- Amendments require at least 10% of ERDF resources allocated at national level to be directed to integrated urban development strategies, maintained throughout the programming period.
- New recitals call for support to SMEs and reindustrialisation, to territories affected by decarbonisation, to outermost regions with a specific additional allocation, and to island regions.
- A new article requires each Member State to organise a partnership including regional and local authorities, economic and social partners, civil society organisations, and research organisations and universities.
- A new article requires minimum allocations of ERDF resources for social cohesion at the level of category of region, starting with at least 15% for more developed regions.
- New articles set rules on just transition, housing support, integrated territorial investment and community-led local development, and on reducing administrative burden for final beneficiaries.
- Amendments add Interreg support for cross-border labour markets, social infrastructure, one-stop hubs, and actions for young people and NEETs, with monitoring committees including partners from all participating Member States.
Who is affected
- Member States, which must organise partnerships, take social commitments and ensure compliance with social and labour obligations.
- Regional and local authorities, which gain a role in defining priorities and selecting operations.
- Social partners, civil society organisations and SMEs, which should get easier access to funds and administrative capacity support.
- Island and outermost regions, which should receive additional allocations to offset insularity and remoteness costs.
- Cross-border workers and young people, including NEETs, targeted by Interreg employment and training measures.
Figures and deadlines
- At least 10% of ERDF resources allocated at national level for integrated urban development strategies.
- At least 15% of ERDF resources for social cohesion in more developed regions (GDP per capita above 100% of EU-27 average).
- Transition regions defined as GDP per capita between 75-100% of EU-27 average.
- The Commission shall assess Interreg Plan chapters within 4 months of their submission.
- The fair transition towards a clean and climate-neutral and resilient economy by 2050.
Written by AI from the full text · every figure comes from the text · ¶ opens the paragraph · 25 Sept 2026 · Report a problem
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Text 226 paragraphs
AMENDMENTS
The Committee on Employment and Social Affairs submits the following to the Committee on Regional Development, as the committee responsible:
Amendment 1
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (3) This Union support under the ERDF and the Cohesion Fund is to be provided under the National and Regional Partnership Fund, in accordance with the rules governing that Fund and set out in Regulation (EU) [NRP Regulation] of the European Parliament and of the Council4 . | (3) This Union support under the ERDF and the Cohesion Fund is to be provided without prejudice to the support from the National and Regional Partnership Fund and the ring-fenced amounts set therein, in accordance with the rules governing that Fund and set out in Regulation (EU) [NRP Regulation] of the European Parliament and of the Council1a. |
| 4 OJ … | 1a OJ … |
Amendment 2
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (4) Regulation (EU) XX [NRP Regulation] sets out common rules applicable to various funds including the ERDF, the European Social Fund (‘ESF’), the Cohesion Fund, the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (‘EMFF’), the Asylum and Migration Fund (‘AMIF’), the Internal Security Fund (‘ISF’) and the Border Management and Visa Instrument (‘BMVI’) which operate under a common framework (‘the Funds’). | (4) Regulation (EU) XX [NRP Regulation] sets out common rules applicable to various funds including the ERDF, the European Social Fund (‘ESF’), the Cohesion Fund, the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (‘EMFF’), the Asylum and Migration Fund (‘AMIF’), the Internal Security Fund (‘ISF’) and the Border Management and Visa Instrument (‘BMVI’) which operate under a common framework (‘the Funds’), while preserving the specific objectives, governance arrangements and implementation modalities of each Fund, and allowing for flexibility and synergies where appropriate. |
Amendment 3
Proposal for a regulation
Read the rest (214 paragraphs)
Recital 4 a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (4a) The budget for the ERDF, the Cohesion Fund and Interreg should ensure the predictability and visibility of cohesion policy investments in accordance with the interim report for the MFF 2028-2034, in order to achieve the objectives set out in this Regulation, in the fields of employment, social cohesion, territorial development and support to the most disadvantaged regions, ensuring continuity with the 2021-2027 programming period. |
Amendment 4
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (5) Horizontal principles as set out in Article 3 of the Treaty on European Union (‘TEU’) and in Article 10 of the TFEU, including principles of subsidiarity and proportionality as set out in Article 5 of the TEU, should be respected in the implementation of the ERDF and the Cohesion Fund, taking into account the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. Member States should also respect the obligations of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and ensure accessibility in line with its Article 9 and in accordance with the Union law harmonising accessibility requirements for products and services. Member States and the Commission should aim at eliminating inequalities and at promoting equality between men and women and integrating the gender perspective, as well as at combating discrimination based on sex, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation. The Funds should not support actions that contribute to any form of segregation. The objectives of the ERDF and the Cohesion Fund should be pursued in the framework of sustainable development and the Union’s promotion of the aim of preserving, protecting and improving the quality of the environment as set out in Articles 11 and 191(1) of the TFEU, taking into account the polluter pays principle. In order to protect the integrity of the internal market, operations benefitting undertakings shall comply with State aid rules as set out in Articles 107 and 108 of the TFEU. | (5) Horizontal principles as set out in Article 3 of the Treaty on European Union (‘TEU’) and in Article 10 of the TFEU, including principles of subsidiarity and proportionality as set out in Article 5 of the TEU, should be respected in the implementation of the ERDF and the Cohesion Fund, taking into account the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, the European Pillar of Social Rights, and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and ensure accessibility in line with its Article 9 and in accordance with the Union law harmonising accessibility requirements for products and services. The accessibility of persons with disabilities should be guaranteed in all new infrastructure projects financed by the Funds. Member States and the Commission should aim at eliminating inequalities and at promoting equality between men and women and integrating the gender perspective, as well as at combating discrimination based on sex, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation. The Funds should not support actions that contribute to any form of segregation or that jeopardise compliance with the highest applicable social and labour standards under Union and national law and collective agreements. The Funds should therefore direct their support to measures aimed at promoting quality employment, education and healthcare, improving working conditions, the development of skills and professional qualifications, labour markets participation, combating poverty and social exclusion, and providing affordable and social housing, public services, social support structures and care for children, elderly and people with disabilities, culture and sports, water, sanitation, energy, communications and public transport. The objectives of the ERDF and the Cohesion Fund should be pursued in the framework of sustainable development and the Union’s promotion of the aim of preserving, protecting and improving the quality of the environment as set out in Articles 11 and 191(1) of the TFEU, taking into account the polluter pays principle. In order to protect the integrity of the internal market, operations benefitting undertakings shall comply with State aid rules as set out in Articles 107 and 108 of the TFEU. |
Amendment 5
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (6) The ERDF and the Cohesion Fund should contribute to the specific policy objectives set out in Articles 2 and 3 of Regulation (EU) [NRP Regulation], within their respective scopes set out in the Treaties. It is necessary to further specify the possibilities for support from the ERDF and the Cohesion Fund for disadvantaged areas, urban areas and the outermost regions. Furthermore, it is necessary to lay down provisions for the implementation of European territorial cooperation (Interreg). | (6) The ERDF and the Cohesion Fund should contribute to the objectives set out in this Regulation, within their respective scopes as defined in the Treaties. It is necessary to further clarify the scope and specify the possibilities for support to those objectives from the ERDF and the Cohesion Fund for disadvantaged areas, urban areas and the outermost regions, with a view towards promoting regional convergence as well as attracting and retaining population, including, in addition to the investment in employment, affordable housing and public services, support for local productive sectors and small and medium enterprises (SMEs), strengthening local economies and the enhancement of productive capacities, recognising the decisive role of these factors in guaranteeing balanced economic, social and territorial development. Furthermore, it is necessary to lay down provisions for the implementation of European territorial cooperation (Interreg). |
Amendment 6
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6 a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (6a) The principle of partnership is a key feature in the implementation of the ERDF, the Cohesion Fund and the Interreg, building on the multi-level governance approach and ensuring the involvement of regional, local, urban and other public authorities, civil society, including non-governmental organisations, economic, social and environmental partners and, where appropriate, research organisations, universities and youth organisations. In order to provide continuity in the organisation of partnership, the European Code of Conduct on Partnership should continue to apply to the Funds. Adequate resources for the administrative capacity of regional managing authorities, social partners and civil society organisations are necessary to ensure that partnership is genuinely effective rather than merely formal, and should therefore be supported. For Interreg programmes, the involvement of partners from all participating Member States is necessary to reflect the transnational character of territorial cooperation. |
Amendment 7
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6 b (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (6b) Programmes supported by the ERDF and the Cohesion Fund should contribute effectively to the objective of strengthening social cohesion and inclusion, taking into consideration the socio-economic needs of the territories concerned and the level of development of the regions. Given the importance of directing cohesion policy resources towards social investment priorities, including those that follow from the implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights, and to ensure transparency and accountability, Member States should take specific commitments on how the allocation of resources reflects those needs, including when changing the share of resources allocated to social and employment-related priorities compared with the previous programming period. |
Amendment 8
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6 c (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (6c) The classification of NUTS 2 regions, as established in Regulation 1059/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council1a, as least developed, in transition, or most developed, must be based on objective criteria capable of adequately reflecting the level of economic and social development of each region. The allocation of Union support and the application of co-financing rates should take due account of the socio-economic needs of the territories concerned, in order to ensure that programmes contribute effectively to reducing economic, social and territorial disparities. Current classification criteria, based exclusively on GDP per capita, do not reflect possible considerable internal asymmetries within each region, including differentiated social and labour realities, territorial imbalances in economic activity or unequal conditions in access to employment, essential services and public services, and should, therefore, be reviewed in future programming periods. In order to address these situations in the current period, reclassification of the regions to the regional development category immediately below should be allowed, at the request of the respective national and regional authorities. Without prejudice to the classification system, programming should take account of those socio-economic realities when determining investment priorities and the allocation of resources, in particular for measures contributing to strengthen social cohesion and inclusion. | |
| 1a Regulation (EC) No 1059/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 26 May 2003 on the establishment of a common classification of territorial units for statistics (NUTS) (OJ L 154 21.6.2003, p. 1) ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2003/1059/2024-01-01) |
Amendment 9
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6 d (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (6d) Universal, accessible and high-quality public services, as well as goods and services of general interest are essential to achieving high levels of social protection and cohesion and improving access to employment, with particular attention to the most disadvantaged and isolated areas. The provision of these services is hampered by various factors, such as persistent problems related to service continuity, inadequate infrastructure, worker shortages and insufficient financial resources. Therefore, the ERDF and the Cohesion Fund should provide robust support for public investment in these services to ensure their proper functioning, modernisation, and their role in safeguarding the rights of populations, regardless of territory or region. |
Amendment 10
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6 e (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (6e) The Commission presented the ‘Strong regions for a safe Europe’ strategy that is aimed at regions bordering Russia, Belarus and Ukraine, which face some of the most acute demographic pressures, mounting economic pressures and economic development challenges owing to the economic and security conditions of the Eastern border. To address these challenges and support the local economies, businesses and people, it is necessary to provide comprehensive and coherent support to these regions. |
Amendment 11
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6 f (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (6f) The Member States in the Union are experiencing a housing crisis characterised by a structural shortage of affordable and social housing, rising house prices and rents, and a persistent energy-efficiency gap in the residential building stock. In line with the European Pillar of Social Rights and the European Affordable Housing Plan, access to affordable, social, sustainable and decent housing is both a fundamental social objective and a structural condition for economic and social cohesion. Therefore, the ERDF should consider the social consequences of housing shortages and support measures aimed at meeting the needs for quality affordable and social housing. |
Amendment 12
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (7) In line with the principle of intergenerational fairness and the Union’s commitment to the rights of the child and the Youth Strategy, the ERDF and the Cohesion Fund should support measures that contribute to sustainable development for future generations, promote access to opportunities for young people across all territories, and address the specific needs of youth in disadvantaged areas, particularly in disadvantaged and depopulating regions, including infrastructure for skills, innovation, entrepreneurship, sustainable livelihoods and culture or sports. Such support may be implemented via integrated urban or local strategies. | (7) In line with the principle of intergenerational fairness and the Union’s commitment to the rights of the child and the Youth Strategy, the ERDF and the Cohesion Fund should support measures that contribute to sustainable development for future generations, promote access to opportunities for young people across all territories, and address the specific needs of youth in disadvantaged areas, particularly in disadvantaged and depopulating regions, such as less developed, remote, island and outermost regions including access to high quality education and employment, infrastructure for acquisition of qualifications and skills, innovation, entrepreneurship, apprenticeships, sustainable livelihoods and culture or sports. Such support may be implemented via integrated urban or local strategies, including place-based measures designed to improve access to employment, mobility and affordable living conditions in order to address demographic decline and promote the return or retention of youth in disadvantaged and depopulating regions. |
Amendment 13
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (9) In view of promoting sustainable urban development, it is considered necessary to support integrated territorial development in order to more effectively tackle the economic, environmental, climate, demographic and social challenges affecting urban areas, including functional urban areas, while taking into account the need to promote urban-rural linkages. Measures reflecting these approaches should be established in appropriate chapters of the National and Regional Partnership Plans. | (9) Specific territories within the Union face complex and interconnected economic, social, demographic, environmental and climate challenges that cannot be effectively addressed through a single fund. In view of promoting sustainable urban development, the ERDF should support integrated territorial development in order to more effectively tackle these challenges affecting urban areas, including functional urban areas, while taking into account the need to promote urban-rural linkages, urban regeneration, affordable and social housing, local services and productive investments. Support targeting urban areas should be able to benefit from a multi-fund approach. In order to ensure a minimum level of investment in sustainable urban development, at least 10 % of the ERDF resources allocated at national level should be directed towards integrated urban development strategies. This percentage should be maintained throughout the entire programming period, including in the case of transfers between priorities within a programme or between programmes and at the mid-term review. Measures reflecting these approaches should be established in appropriate chapters of the National and Regional Partnership Plans. |
Amendment 14
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9 a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (9a) The ERDF should provide support for SMEs, productive sectors and activities, the reindustrialisation of economically depressed regions and the modernisation of traditional industries, ensuring the full utilisation of their productive potential with a view towards the satisfaction of economic and social needs, the development of diversified economies, the creation of decent and quality jobs and the promotion of balanced regional development models capable of retaining population and ensuring their economic and social rights. |
Amendment 15
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 9 b (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (9b) In order to ensure a fair and socially balanced energy transition, particular attention should be paid to territories most affected by the socio-economic consequences of decarbonisation and industrial transformation. Measures aimed at strengthening their industrial base, resilient supply chains and boosting sustainable manufacturing will contribute to both strengthening economic, social, and territorial cohesion and addressing the socio-economic challenges of the energy transition. In this light, the experience gained under the Just Transition Mechanism and the Just Transition Fund has demonstrated the importance of place-based support tailored to the specific vulnerabilities of territories dependent on carbon-intensive industries. The ERDF and the Cohesion Fund should therefore support Member States in the areas affected by these challenges, including through targeted investments supporting economic diversification, reskilling, quality employment, innovation and social cohesion. |
Amendment 16
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (10) Specific attention should be paid to outermost regions, namely by adopting measures under Article 349 of the TFEU providing for measures for the outermost regions to offset the additional costs incurred in these regions as a result of one or several of the permanent restraints referred to in Article 349 of the TFEU, namely remoteness, insularity, small size, difficult topography and climate, economic dependence on a few products, the permanence and combination of which severely restrain their development. In order to protect the integrity of the internal market, and as is the case for all operations co-financed by the ERDF and the Cohesion Fund, any ERDF support to the financing of operating and investment aid in the outermost regions should comply with State aid rules as set out in Articles 107 and 108 of the TFEU. | (10) Specific attention should be paid to outermost regions, namely by adopting measures under Article 349 of the TFEU providing for measures for the outermost regions to offset the additional costs incurred in these regions as a result of one or several of the permanent restraints referred to in Article 349 of the TFEU, namely remoteness, insularity, small size, difficult topography and climate, economic dependence on a few products, the permanence and combination of which severely restrain their development, resulting in structurally higher unemployment, greater exposure to poverty and social exclusion, and more limited access to quality employment, education, healthcare and social services. A specific additional allocation should be provided to the outermost regions under this Regulation, which shall not be subject to thematic concentration. Without prejudice to specific measures framed by the POSEI 2028-2034 programme, all operational provisions of this Regulation must be read and applied in such a way as to ensure that the outermost regions can fully and effectively benefit from the support of the ERDF and the Cohesion Fund, including measures to improve connectivity, service continuity, economic diversification, access to employment and support for local and regional enterprises. Targeted support should be provided through programmes under this Regulation, taking into account their specific needs and development potential, where Member States with outermost regions should have the right to request a reasoned derogation to address their specific constraints, which the Commission should assess promptly and in the light of Article 349 of the TFEU. In order to protect the integrity of the internal market, and as is the case for all operations co-financed by the ERDF and the Cohesion Fund, any ERDF support to the financing of operating and investment aid in the outermost regions should comply with State aid rules as set out in Articles 107 and 108 of the TFEU. |
Amendment 17
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10 a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (10a) Island regions that are not connected to the continental territory of a Member State by a permanent fixed-link road or rail infrastructure face permanent geographical, economic, demographic and social structural disadvantages resulting from their insularity akin to the constraints of the regions laid out in Article 349 TFEU, including higher energy, transport and connectivity costs, restricted access to public services and affordable and social housing, seasonal employment and a narrow economic base, that directly impede the creation of and access to quality employment. Article 174 TFEU, third paragraph, explicitly recognises islands as territories requiring specific attention in Union cohesion policy, providing a direct basis in the TFEU for specific ERDF support, including approaches adapted to the needs of these regions and additional allocations of funds. |
Amendment 18
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10 b (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (10b) In certain particularly vulnerable areas, the entrenchment of illicit economies, particularly those linked to drug trafficking, jeopardises social and territorial cohesion, access to employment and public security. The ERDF, the Cohesion Fund and Interreg should aim to build up the resilience of local communities, foster the professional and social integration of the people concerned and prevent the sustained marginalisation of young people and families who are exposed to these issues, in complementarity with the European Social Fund. |
Amendment 19
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12 a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (12a) Whereas Interreg, as an instrument of European territorial cooperation, should support social infrastructure and related territorial facilities that improve access to inter alia employment, education, training, childcare and social inclusion, particularly in border, outermost regions, insular and underserved or remote regions and other areas with specific territorial challenges. |
Amendment 20
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (13) The ERDF under Interreg may contribute to all specific objectives. In addition, it should contribute to additional specific objectives to address specific issues for “better cooperation governance”, “a safer and more secure Europe” and “more resilient regions bordering Russia, Belarus and Ukraine”. In order to enable the ERDF to provide support under Interreg in terms of both investments in infrastructure and the associated investments, training and integration activities, it is necessary to provide that the ERDF may also provide support for activities under the specific objectives set out in Article [3(1)(c) - Specific objectives on social] of Regulation (EU) [NRP Regulation]. | (13) The ERDF under Interreg may contribute to all specific objectives. In addition, it should contribute to additional specific objectives to address specific issues for “better cooperation governance”, “a safer and more secure Europe” and “more resilient regions bordering Russia, Belarus and Ukraine”. In order to enable the ERDF to provide support under Interreg in terms of both investments in infrastructure and the associated investments, training and integration activities, it is necessary to provide that the ERDF may also provide support for activities under the specific objectives set out in this Regulation without prejudice to the specific objectives set out in Article 3 of Regulation (EU) [NRP Regulation]. |
Amendment 21
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13 a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (13a) The reality of border regions is significantly and structurally marked by the situation of cross-border workers, who face specific challenges as regards access to employment and the recognition of qualifications and skills. Interreg should support cross-border and territorial cooperation aimed at improving access to employment, the portability and mutual recognition of qualifications and professional experience and, in particular, facilitate the transition of young people and NEETs into quality jobs, including through co-designed training pathways and cooperation with education and labour entities. |
Amendment 22
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (15) In addition, Member States should also prepare chapters in view of setting out essential programming elements for the implementation of support. These chapters should be subject to approval by the Commission at regular intervals. | (15) In addition, Member States, with the support of regional and local authorities and in accordance with the partnership principle set out in this Regulation, should also prepare chapters in view of setting out essential programming elements for the implementation of support. These chapters should be subject to approval by the Commission at regular intervals. |
Amendment 23
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19 a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (19a) Considering the different local realities and their specific needs, the choice of priorities and objectives for the use of funds, within the scope of the rules and objectives established in this Regulation, should be defined by the national and regional authorities in order to guarantee adapted regional development policies and democratic participation at national, regional and local levels. |
Amendment 24
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19 b (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (19b) Evidence from previous programming periods1a 1bshows that excessive administrative complexity in application and access processes is one of the main obstacles to access to cohesion funds by end beneficiaries, discouraging local authorities and entities, trade unions and social organisations, entities from the cooperative and social sectors, and SMEs from applying for support and reducing the social and territorial reach of funded operations. Therefore, all measures should be taken to ensure easier and faster access to funds by their end beneficiaries, while reducing their dependency on intermediary and consultancy service providers. | |
| 1a Special Report 13/2024 of the European Court of Auditors | |
| 1b Opinion 09/2026 of the European Court of Auditors |
Amendment 25
Proposal for a regulation
Chapter I – title
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| I General provisions | I Common provisions |
Amendment 26
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| This Regulation lays down the specific objectives of the ERDF and Cohesion Fund, and specific conditions for their implementation. |
Amendment 27
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| The ERDF and the Cohesion Fund shall support the specific objectives set out in Regulation (EU) [NRP Regulation] contributing to the general objective set out in Article 2(1)(a) of Regulation (EU) [NRP Regulation] in accordance with their respective scope set out in Articles 176 and 177 TFEU. | The ERDF and the Cohesion Fund shall contribute to reduce regional imbalances in the Union and the backwardness of the least favoured regions and promote economic, social and territorial cohesion in accordance with their respective scope set out in Articles 174, 176 and 177 TFEU, as well as the correspondent specific objectives set out in Regulation (EU) [NRP Regulation], including by supporting projects in the area of environment and transport infrastructure. |
Amendment 28
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| The ERDF and the Cohesion Fund, within the scope of their respective purposes, shall support investments in access to services, infrastructure, equipment, software, intangible assets, cooperation and exchange of experiences, information, communication, studies and technical assistance, education, training and life-long learning activities. |
Amendment 29
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 b (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| The ERDF and the Cohesion Fund shall support the following specific objectives: | |
| a) a more competitive and smarter Europe by promoting innovative and smart economic transformation and regional ICT connectivity through: | |
| i) developing and enhancing research and innovation capacities, including fundamental and industrial research, experimental development and feasibility studies, and the uptake of advanced technologies; | |
| ii) enhancing digital connectivity and harnessing the benefits of digitisation for citizens, companies, research organisations, services and public authorities; | |
| iii) enhancing sustainable growth, competitiveness and quality job creation in SMEs, including by productive investments; | |
| iv) developing qualifications and skills for smart specialisation, industrial transition and entrepreneurship, taking into account the social and economic needs of the regions, including shortages in sectors critical to regional economies such as inter alia maritime, agriculture, tourism, energy and construction; | |
| b) supporting a transition towards climate neutrality, including through skills development, workforce adaptation and employment opportunities in affected regions and sectors; | |
| c) a more connected Europe by enhancing mobility through: | |
| i) developing an intelligent, secure, sustainable and intermodal national, regional and local mobility network, including improved access to TEN-T and cross-border mobility, while improving access to employment, education, healthcare and essential and public services, particularly in disadvantaged territories; | |
| d) a more social and inclusive Europe implementing the European Pillar of Social Rights through: | |
| i) enhancing access to quality employment and to more inclusive labour markets, developing social infrastructure and promoting the social economy; | |
| ii) improving equal access to inclusive and quality services in education, training and lifelong learning through developing accessible infrastructure, including by fostering distance and on-line education and training; | |
| iii) promoting the socio-economic inclusion of marginalised communities, low income households and disadvantaged groups, including people with special needs, through integrated actions, including housing and social services; | |
| iv) promoting the socio-economic integration of third country nationals, including migrants through integrated actions, including housing and social services; | |
| v) ensuring equal access to health care and fostering resilience of health systems, including primary care, and promoting the transition from institutional to family-based and community-based care; | |
| vi) enhancing the role of culture and sustainable tourism in economic development, social inclusion and social innovation; | |
| vii) supporting integrated urban renewal and territorial revitalisation strategies in areas affected by high levels of poverty, social exclusion, deprivation or the presence of organised crime, including drug trafficking, through combined investment in affordable and social housing, public spaces, public services and community infrastructure; | |
| viii) promoting access to affordable, decent and energy-efficient housing for low-income households and vulnerable groups, including through social housing investment and renovation of existing housing stock. | |
| e) a Europe closer to citizens by fostering the sustainable and integrated development of all types of territories and local initiatives through: | |
| i) fostering the integrated and inclusive social, economic and environmental development, culture, natural heritage, sustainable tourism and security in both urban and non-urban areas. |
Amendment 30
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 c (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| Member States shall ensure that programmes supported by the ERDF and the Cohesion Fund comply with applicable obligations in the fields of environmental, social and labour law established by Union law, national law or applicable collective agreements, including respect for social dialogue mechanisms, collective bargaining rights and workers' information and consultation rights. The managing authority shall provide simplified and effective procedures to verify compliance with these obligations as part of the selection of operations and during the implementation phase. |
Amendment 31
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| Article 3a | |
| Partnership and multi-level governance | |
| 1. For the implementation of the ERDF, the Cohesion Fund and Interreg, each Member State shall ensure the meaningful participation of socio-economic entities at the relevant territorial levels by organising and implementing a comprehensive partnership in accordance with its institutional and legal framework, including: | |
| (a) regional, local, urban and other public authorities; | |
| (b) economic and social partners, including trade unions and employers' organisations; | |
| (c) civil society organisations, including NGOs, youth organisations, social economy entities, and bodies promoting social inclusion, fundamental rights, the rights of people with disabilities, gender equality and non-discrimination | |
| (d) research organisations and universities, where appropriate. | |
| 2. The partnership shall operate in accordance with the multi-level governance principle and a bottom-up approach. Each Member State shall involve the partners referred to in paragraph 1 throughout the preparation, implementation and evaluation of programmes supported by the ERDF, the Cohesion Fund and Interreg, including through participation in monitoring committees. Member States shall allocate an appropriate percentage of the resources of the ERDF, the Cohesion Fund and Interreg for the administrative capacity building of social partners and civil society organisations. | |
| 3. For Interreg programmes, the partnership shall include partners from all participating Member States. | |
| 4. The organisation and implementation of partnership shall be carried out in accordance with the European Code of Conduct on Partnership established by Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) No 240/2014. | |
| 5. At least once a year, the Commission shall consult organisations which represent partners at Union level on the implementation of programmes supported by the ERDF, the Cohesion Fund and Interreg, and shall report to the European Parliament and the Council on the outcome. |
Amendment 32
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 b (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| Article 3b | |
| Financial support at regional level | |
| 1. Member States and the Commission shall take appropriate steps, in the preparation, implementation, monitoring, reporting and evaluation of ERDF and Cohesion Fund measures, to prevent any discrimination based on gender, ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation, in compliance with applicable Union law and the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. Member States and the Commission shall ensure that the perspective of gender equality and the rights of persons with disabilities are integrated throughout the preparation, implementation, monitoring, reporting, and evaluation of operations supported, including through the provision of accessible infrastructure for persons with disabilities. | |
| 2. Member States shall ensure that programmes supported by the ERDF and the Cohesion Fund contribute effectively to strengthen social cohesion and inclusion, as referred in Article 2(1b), taking into consideration the socio-economic needs of their territories and the level of development of the regions concerned. Member States shall take specific commitments on a contribution to the specific objective in Article 2(1b)(d) through a minimum allocation at the level of category of region as follows: | |
| (a) more developed regions (GDP per capita above 100% of EU-27 average): at least 15% of ERDF resources; | |
| (b) transition regions (GDP per capita between 75-100% of EU-27 average): at least 10% of ERDF resources; | |
| (c) less developed regions (GDP per capita below 75% of EU-27 average): at least 7% of ERDF resources; | |
| (d) outermost regions and island Member States receiving ERDF and Cohesion Fund support shall be classified as less developed regions. | |
| 3. The minimum allocation in paragraph 2 may be delivered through direct investment or through community-led local development and multi-level governance approaches that demonstrably prioritise social cohesion and employment objectives. By derogation and in exceptional and duly justified circumstances, Member States may request temporary different minimum allocations provided that alternative delivery mechanisms achieve equivalent social and employment outcomes for the regions concerned, in accordance with the discretion afforded to Member States under the applicable budgetary rules. | |
| 4. Whenever considerable internal asymmetries within each region are verified, including differentiated social and labour realities, asymmetrical territorial centres of economic activity or unequal conditions in access to employment, essential services and public services, national and regional authorities may request that those disparities be taken into account when determining thematic concentration, support levels and, where appropriate and duly justified, the possibility for those regions to be classified in the regional development category immediately below the one resulting from the application of the criteria in paragraph 2. | |
| 5. This Article shall not apply to the additional specific allocation referred to in Article 6 of this Regulation. | |
| 6. Measures providing support for businesses, or involving the restructuring of businesses, shall be accompanied by an assessment of their impact on employment and job quality, and shall comply with applicable social and labour law, including the provisions in force under national law and collective agreements, as well as relevant Union law. | |
| 7. The co-financing rate for the ERDF at the level of each priority shall not exceed: | |
| a) 85 % for less developed regions; | |
| b) 70 % for transition regions; | |
| c) 50 % for more developed regions. | |
| 8. By way of derogation from the cofinancing ceilings established in paragraph 7: | |
| (a) The co-financing rate for outermost regions shall be equivalent to that set for less developed regions, including the additional specific allocation referred to in Article 6 of this Regulation; | |
| (b) The maximum co-financing rates may be increased by up to ten percentage points for priorities entirely delivered through community-led local development, in particular in areas affected by poverty, social exclusion or organised crime; | |
| (c) The maximum co-financing rates may be up to 90% for priorities specifically designed to improve access to essential services through supporting infrastructure, especially health, education and housing, in urban, rural or island areas with particular social weaknesses whose economic activity, unemployment and poverty rates are particularly unbalanced compared to neighbouring urban, rural or island areas; | |
| (d) Cofinancing rates may be increased by 5% for regions that were classified in a lower development category for the 2021-2027 period and are classified in a higher development category. | |
| (e) As just transition regions are most negatively affected, or at risk of being negatively affected, by the transition to a climate-neutral economy, the maximum co-financing rates may be increased by up to 15 percentage points for targeted support regarding the reskilling, upskilling and access to quality employment for those directly affected by transition to a climate-neutral economy and the support to communities affected by the closure of fossil fuel or carbon-intensive activities, including affordable housing and social services. |
Amendment 33
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 1. In accordance with Article 174 TFEU, Member States shall pay special attention to addressing the challenges of disadvantaged regions and areas, in particular rural areas, areas affected by industrial transition, regions which suffer from severe and permanent natural or demographic handicaps, such as the northernmost regions with very low population density and island, cross-border and mountain regions, and also just transition areas and regions bordering Russia, Belarus and Ukraine. Member States and regions shall, where appropriate, set out an integrated approach to addressing demographic challenges or specific needs of the regions and areas referred to in this paragraph in their National and Regional Partnership Plans in accordance with Articles 72 to 74 [integrated local and urban development] of Regulation (EU) [NRP Regulation]. Such an integrated approach may include a commitment on dedicated funding for that purpose and may be included in dedicated chapters of the National Regional and Partnership Plan. | 1. In accordance with Article 174 TFEU, Member States shall pay special attention to addressing the challenges of disadvantaged regions and areas, in particular rural areas, areas affected by industrial transition, including regions affected by structural industrial decline and persistently low productive activity, significant demographic outflows, in particular the loss of young people and skilled workers, regions which suffer from severe and permanent natural or demographic handicaps, such as outermost regions, the northernmost regions with very low population density and island, cross-border and mountain regions, and also just transition areas and regions bordering Russia, Belarus and Ukraine. Member States and regions shall, where appropriate, set out an integrated approach to addressing demographic challenges or specific needs of the regions and areas referred to in this paragraph in their National and Regional Partnership Plans, including through targeted measures to support employment, public services, affordable and social housing, community infrastructure, SMEs, local productive capacity, skills, and territorial and digital connectivity in accordance with Articles 75 and 76 [integrated local and urban development] of Regulation (EU) [NRP Regulation]. Such an integrated approach shall include a commitment on dedicated funding for that purpose and may be included in dedicated chapters of the National Regional and Partnership Plan. In regions characterised by insularity or remoteness, Member States shall ensure targeted measures to strengthen access to quality and year-round employment, workforce retention and diversification of economic activity. |
Amendment 34
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 1a. Member States with island regions that are not connected to the continental territory of a Member State by a permanent fixed-link road or rail infrastructure shall ensure that those regions receive an additional ERDF allocation to compensate for the costs arising from their insularity, in particular for energy supply, territorial and digital connectivity, communications, access to public services, affordable and social housing, health and child care, availability of quality and year-round employment, access to skills aligned with local needs and support for SMEs, local productive sectors and economic diversification. That allocation shall not be subject to reduction through the flexibility reserve mechanism established under the NRP Regulation. Support shall strengthen administrative capacity in island regions to ensure effective absorption of funds and safeguard the participation and interests of final beneficiaries, local communities, workers and SMEs. |
Amendment 35
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| As part of their territorial development, Member States shall support integrated urban development strategies which focus on sustainable development and tackle environmental, energy and climate challenges, in particular the fair transition towards a clean and climate-neutral and resilient economy by 2050, paying special attention to housing, poverty, cultural heritage and to harnessing the potential of digital technologies for innovation purposes and energy efficiency, to supporting the development of functional urban areas, as well as supporting urban-rural linkages. | As part of their territorial development of Member States, the ERDF shall support integrated urban development strategies focused on sustainable development, tackling economic, social, demographic, environmental, energy and climate challenges, in particular the fair transition towards a clean and climate-neutral and resilient economy by 2050, paying special attention to decent and quality employment, affordable, sustainable and decent housing, the fight against poverty, mobility, safeguarding cultural heritage and to harnessing the potential of digital technologies for innovation purposes and energy efficiency, to supporting the development of functional urban areas, particularly with regard to investment in public services, urban regeneration, support for SMEs, as well as supporting urban-rural linkages. Such strategies shall include measures to strengthen community support systems, the capacity of local authorities, and the availability, affordability and quality of essential services. In regions with a high dependence on seasonal sectors, including tourism, support shall aim to promote diversification of economic activity and the creation of stable, year-round employment. |
Amendment 36
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1 a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| At least 10 % of the ERDF resources at national level under this Regulation, other than for technical assistance, shall be allocated to sustainable urban development. The relevant territorial authorities or bodies shall select or shall be involved in the selection of operations in accordance with Article 5a of this Regulation. |
Amendment 37
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| Article 5a | |
| Integrated territorial investment and Community-led local development | |
| 1. Where a territorial strategy involves investments that receive support from one or more Funds, from more than one programme or from more than one priority of the same programme, actions may be carried out as an integrated territorial investment. | |
| 2. The ERDF and the Cohesion Fund may support community-led local development. Community-led local development shall be: | |
| (a) focused on subregional areas; | |
| (b) led by local action groups composed of representatives of local socioeconomic interests with balanced decision-making; | |
| (c) carried out through integrated local development strategies; | |
| (d) supportive of networking, accessibility, innovative features in the local context and, where appropriate, cooperation with other territorial actors. |
Amendment 38
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 b (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| Article 5b | |
| Just Transition | |
| Member States and regions shall, where appropriate, set out an integrated approach to ensure a just transition in areas that are particularly vulnerable to adverse economic and social effects of the energy transition. Such an integrated approach may include a commitment on dedicated funding for actions eligible under the ERDF and Cohesion Fund. |
Amendment 39
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 c (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| Article 5c | |
| Housing | |
| 1. With regards to housing, the ERDF shall support: | |
| a) affordable, sustainable and decent housing solutions adapted to the needs of the population, within a framework of sustainable urban development and spatial planning; | |
| b) the expansion and upgrading of public housing stock; | |
| c) the construction and renovation of affordable, non-profit housing; | |
| d) energy efficiency and energy renovation measures for housing; | |
| e) the socio-economic inclusion of marginalised communities, migrants and people at risk of poverty and social exclusion. |
Amendment 40
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| Measures shall be established in the National and Regional Partnership Plans to cover structural support for their economic, social and territorial development and operating costs or compensation including for the provision of services under a public service obligation and contracts in those regions with a view to offsetting the additional costs incurred in the outermost regions as a result of one or more of the permanent restraints to their development listed in Article 349, first paragraph, TFEU. | Without prejudice to the provisions of the POSEI, Member States shall establish measures to cover structural support for the economic, social and territorial development of outermost regions, operating costs or compensation including for the provision of services under a public service obligation and contracts in those regions, as well as support for digital, transport, communications and energy infrastructure where necessary to reduce isolation and improve access to services, and measures to diversify the economic base and support quality employment, and for which a specific additional allocation will be provided under this Regulation, with a view to offsetting the additional costs incurred in the outermost regions as a result of one or more of the permanent restraints to their development listed in Article 349, first paragraph, TFEU. |
Amendment 41
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| Article 6a | |
| Reduction of administrative burden for final beneficiaries | |
| The European Commission and the Member States, within the scope of their respective competences, shall take measures to facilitate access to funding to final beneficiaries that are local authorities and public entities, SMEs, and social economy and cooperative-sector organisations by simplifying and reducing administrative burdens especially where structural constraints risk limiting effective access to support. These measures may include simplified cost options, lump-sum funding, non-cost-based financing mechanisms and simplified auditing procedures for their projects. |
Amendment 42
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – title
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| Scope | Scope of support from Interreg |
Amendment 43
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point d a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (da) cooperation in cross-border and maritime labour markets, including mobility of workers, mutual recognition of qualifications and facilitating of administrative procedures, particularly in regions with geographical constraints. |
Amendment 44
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 5 a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 5a. Interreg operations shall include support for social infrastructure and related territorial facilities, including support for the establishment or adaptation of one-stop hubs, facilities or service points that facilitate access to employment, education, training, development of skills and qualifications,entrepreneurship, labour-market participation, childcare, social inclusion and other essential services, particularly in border regions and areas with specific territorial challenges where such support is necessary to ensure and promote the access to such services and to contribute to the objectives of the relevant Interreg chapter. Interreg shall support actions that strengthen administrative capacity, facilitate administrative procedures, promote the development of qualifications and skills, labour mobility, innovation transfer and SME cooperation; |
Amendment 45
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 5 b (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 5b. Interreg operations may support actions developed in cooperation with public authorities, education and training providers, social partners, local communities and other relevant stakeholders where such actions are necessary to improve access to employment and appropriate qualifications, including targeted support for young people and NEETs through upskilling, reskilling, mentoring and access to services and training; |
Amendment 46
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 3 – point b
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (b) describe the intervention strategy of the Interreg Plan chapter based on a clear analysis of territorial needs and gaps in the area covered, identifying the measures for cooperation, including any measures for territorial or local developement and explaining how these measures are expected to contribute to the objectives set out in Articles 2 and 3 [policy objectives] of Regulation (EU) [NRP Regulation] and the Interreg-specific objectives referred to in paragraph 4 of Article 7 of this Regulation and to transition to climate neutrality; | (b) describe the intervention strategy of the Interreg Plan chapter based on a clear analysis of territorial needs and gaps in the geographical areas covered, including an assessment of economic and social needs in the cooperation area, including cross-border commuting patterns, access to employment, housing and services, barriers to the recognition of qualifications, demographic trends and challenges, and the ability of the territory to generate and retain quality jobs, with particular attention to disadvantaged territories such as outermost regions, island, border and remote regions, , identifying the measures for cooperation, including any measures for territorial or local development and explaining how these measures are expected to contribute to the objectives set out in Article 2(1b)(d) of this Regulation and Article 3 [policy objectives] of Regulation (EU) [NRP Regulation] and the Interreg-specific objectives referred to in paragraph 4 of Article 7 of this Regulation and to the transition to climate neutrality; |
Amendment 47
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 3 – point c
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (c) provide a list and description of measures, including the general and specific objectives that each measure primarily pursues and the list of envisaged milestones and targets, with their indicative completion date during the programming period. The indicators proposed for the targets shall be based on the output indicators listed in Annex I to Regulation XX [Performance] except where duly justified; | (c) provide a list and description of measures, including the general and specific objectives that each measure primarily pursues, which should include assessments of the impact on employment and fighting poverty, with their indicative completion date during the programming period. |
Amendment 48
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 3 – point d
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (d) set out the total estimated costs of the measures together with information on existing or planned Union financing where relevant, backed up by appropriate justification and by explanations of how it is in line with the principle of cost efficiency, sound financial management and commensurate to the expected economic and social impact; | (d) set out the total estimated costs of the measures together with information on existing or planned Union financing where relevant, backed up by appropriate justification and by explanations of how it is in line with the principle of cost efficiency, sound financial management and commensurate to the expected economic and social impact, including in terms of creating quality jobs and fighting poverty; |
Amendment 49
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 3 – point e
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (e) set out clear arrangements for the effective monitoring and implementation of the Interreg Plan chapter by each Member State, including the responsible authorities and created monitoring committees reflecting the objective of establishing a robust multi governance system based on the partnership principle, and also the envisaged approach to information, communication and visibility in line with the rules laid down in Regulation xx[Performance Regulation]; | (e) set out clear arrangements for the effective monitoring and implementation of the Interreg Plan chapter by each Member State, including the responsible authorities and created monitoring committees composed of representatives of regional and local authorities and economic and social partners from all participating Member States, including cooperation with employment services, education and training providers and civil society organisations where relevant to the objectives of the Interreg Plan chapter, reflecting the objective of establishing a robust multi-governance system based on the partnership principle, and also the envisaged approach to information, communication and visibility in line with the rules laid down in Regulation xx[Performance Regulation]; |
Amendment 50
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 3 – point f
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| (f) promote partnership and knowledge exchange by setting out which stakeholders have been consulted, how they were selected, how their representativeness has been ensured and how their input is reflected in the Interreg Plan chapter in line with the code of conduct on partnership, and by including a summary of the consultation process conducted for the preparation of the Interreg Plan chapter; | (f) promote partnership and knowledge exchange by setting out which stakeholders have been consulted, including social partners, regional and local authorities and civil society organisations from all participating Member States, how they were selected, how their representativeness has been ensured and how their input is reflected in the Interreg Plan chapter in line with the code of conduct on partnership, specifying how stakeholders have been consulted, in particular from disadvantaged, outermost regions, island, border and remote territories, and by including a summary of the consultation process conducted for the preparation of the Interreg Plan chapter; |
Amendment 51
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 3 a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 3a. In the chapters of the Interreg plan that include border regions, the specific measures foreseen shall address cross-border labour challenges. The managing authorities shall submit annual reports on the number of cross-border workers benefiting from these measures, ensuring coordination with relevant public employment services, regional authorities and social partners, in order to improve the coherence and effectiveness of support. |
Amendment 52
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 2
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 2. The Commission shall assess the Interreg Plan chapters or the amended Interreg Plan chapters submitted by the Member State hosting the managing authority within 4 months of their submission. When carrying out its assessment, the Commission shall verify that the Interreg Plan chapter complies with all requirements in Article 5 and follows the template set out in the Annex to this Regulation [Interreg chapter template]. The Commission may make observations and request additional information. The deadline for the approval shall be interrupted from the day following the date following that on which Commission sends its observations or a request for revised documents to the Member State and until the Member State responds to the Commission. | 2. The Commission shall assess the Interreg Plan chapters or the amended Interreg Plan chapters submitted by the Member State and where applicable, regions, hosting the managing authority within 4 months of their submission. When carrying out its assessment, the Commission shall verify that the Interreg Plan chapter complies with all requirements in Article 5 and follows the template set out in the Annex to this Regulation [Interreg chapter template], and in particular that it demonstrates the effective involvement of regional and local authorities, economic and social partners and civil society organisations from all participating Member States in the preparation of the chapter, in accordance with Article 3a of this Regulation. The Commission may make observations and request additional information. The deadline for the approval shall be interrupted from the day following the date following that on which Commission sends its observations or a request for revised documents to the Member State and where applicable, regions, and until the Member State responds to the Commission. |
Amendment 53
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 6
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 6. A monitoring committee shall be established for each Interreg Plan chapter. The monitoring committee shall be responsible for selection of Interreg operations, in accordance with the Interreg Plan chapter’s strategy and objectives. The Commission may lay down further requirements to be met by the monitoring committee in the implementing act provided for in Article 9(1) [approval and amendment of the Interreg plan]. | 6. A monitoring committee shall be established for each Interreg Plan chapter. The monitoring committee shall include representatives of regional and local authorities, economic and social partners and civil society organisations from all participating Member States and, where appropriate, regions, in accordance with Article [3a] of this Regulation. The monitoring committee shall be responsible for the selection of Interreg operations, in accordance with the Interreg Plan chapter's strategy and objectives, on the basis of transparent, objective and non-discriminatory criteria, taking into account territorial needs, costs, expected impact and deliverability. The Commission may lay down further requirements to be met by the monitoring committee in the implementing act provided for in Article 9(1) [approval and amendment of the Interreg plan]. |
Amendment 54
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1 – point ii a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| iia. Before adopting any decision to discontinue or reduce the allocation of an Interreg Plan chapter, the Commission shall consult Member States, the regional and local authorities, economic and social partners and civil society organisations involved in the implementation of the chapter concerned, in accordance with Article 3a of this Regulation. The Commission shall duly take into account their observations before adopting its decision. |
Amendment 55
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 4
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 4. Where the PEACE PLUS chapter is acting in support of peace and reconciliation, it shall also contribute to promoting social, economic and regional stability in the regions concerned, in particular through actions to promote cohesion between communities. | 4. Where the PEACE PLUS chapter is acting in support of peace and reconciliation, it shall also contribute to promoting social, economic and regional stability in the regions concerned, in particular through actions to promote cohesion between communities, youth employment, training, the improvement of qualifications and access to quality jobs. |
Amendment 56
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 4 a (new)
| Text proposed by the Commission | Amendment |
|---|---|
| 4a. The PEACE PLUS chapter shall support local initiatives that strengthen access to employment, training, community-based provision of qualifications, provided that such support is consistent with the objectives of peace, reconciliation and cross-border cooperation. |
Annex: declaration of input 1 paragraph
The rapporteur for opinion declares under his exclusive responsibility that he did not include in his opinion input from interest representatives falling within the scope of the Interinstitutional Agreement on a mandatory transparency register, or from representatives of public authorities of third countries, including their diplomatic missions and embassies, to be listed in this Annex pursuant to Article 8 of Annex I to the Rules of Procedure.
Procedure pages
How the committees handled the text, and how their members voted on it.
Procedure – committee asked for opinion 1 paragraph
| Title | Establishing the European Fund for Regional Development including for European Territorial Cooperation (Interreg) and the Cohesion Fund as part of the Fund set out in Regulation (EU) […] [NRP] and establishing conditions for the implementation of the Union support to regional development from 2028 to 2034 | |
| References | COM(2025)0552 – C10-0168/2025 – 2025/0238(COD) | |
| Committee(s) responsible Date announced in plenary | REGI 23.10.2025 | |
| Opinion by Date announced in plenary | EMPL 23.10.2025 | |
| Rapporteur for opinion Date appointed | João Oliveira 16.1.2026 | |
| Discussed in committee | 2.6.2026 | |
| Date adopted | 10.9.2026 | |
| Result of final vote | +: –: 0: | 35 8 4 |
Final vote by roll call by the committee asked for opinion 3 paragraphs
35 · For
- No group
- Branislav Ondruš, Maria Zacharia
- EPP
- Pascal Arimont, Andrzej Buła, Norbert Herhammer, Sérgio Humberto, Jeroen Lenaers, Miriam Lexmann, Jagna Marczułajtis-Walczak, Dan-Ştefan Motreanu, Giusi Princi, Dennis Radtke, Romana Tomc
- Renew
- Irena Joveva, Hristo Petrov, Jana Toom, Brigitte van den Berg
- S&D
- Gabriele Bischoff, Vilija Blinkevičiūtė, Estelle Ceulemans, Vivien Costanzo, Johan Danielsson, Isilda Gomes, Alicia Homs Ginel, Marit Maij, Raffaele Topo, Marianne Vind
- The Left
- Konstantinos Arvanitis, Marc Botenga, Per Clausen, João Oliveira, Martin Schirdewan
- Greens
- Katrin Langensiepen, Maria Ohisalo, Villy Søvndal
8 · Against
- ECR
- Adrian-George Axinia, Nikola Bartůšek, Elena Donazzan, Chiara Gemma, Francesco Torselli, Kosma Złotowski
- EPP
- Niels Geuking
- Patriots
- Harald Vilimsky
4 · Abstained
- ESN
- Petr Bystron, Petar Volgin
- Patriots
- Mélanie Disdier, Séverine Werbrouck