While the European Union is one of the most prosperous economic areas in the world, the disparities between its Member States and regions are striking. With the accession of ten new Member States in 2004, the development gap between regions has doubled. That is why the Union aims to achieve two importantobjectives: harmonious development in the Union, and economic and social cohesion, which demonstrate its solidarity with the least-developed regions. The new cohesion policy will do more to target the EU’s strategic priorities, especially the Growth and Jobs Strategy, and funding will focus on areas such as innovation.