Preparations for the next generation of Interreg programmes covering the 2028–2034 programming period are already underway. While the ongoing Interreg VI-A NEXT Hungary-Slovakia-Romania-Ukraine Programme continues implementing projects, discussions at European level and preparatory work within the programmes have already started to shape the future of European Territorial Cooperation.
In July 2025, the European Commission presented its legislative proposals for the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), including the future framework for Cohesion Policy and European Territorial Cooperation (Interreg). Since then, the proposals are under negotiations at EU level.
The Commission’s proposal foresees that Interreg would remain a dedicated instrument for European Territorial Cooperation, supported by its own strategic framework, the Interreg Plan. The proposal also foresees a budget of EUR 10 billion for Interreg in the 2028–2034 period. As the legislative package is still under negotiation, the final framework will only be determined once negotiations at EU level have been concluded.
Alongside the legislative discussions at EU level, preparations for the post-2027 programming period have also started within the future Interreg Programme between Hungary, Slovakia, Romania and Ukraine (2028-2034). A territorial analysis of the Programme area is currently being prepared to support the design of the future Programme. As part of this work, particular emphasis is placed on the capitalisation of results achieved under the current and previous programming period, ensuring that successful project outcomes and cooperation experiences can help shape future priorities. Stakeholders from across the programme area will also be involved throughout the process to ensure that the future Programme reflects the needs and challenges of the border regions.
Further reading:
European Commission – EU Budget 2028–2034
European Commission – Future Cohesion Policy
Interreg – What the European Commission’s 2028–2034 budget proposal means for Interreg
Interact – Future regulatory discussions
