Since 2004, cohesion policy has significantly reduced disparities in GDP and employment between the east and west of the EU, but challenges such as brain drain and development traps remain, the EU’s 9th Cohesion Report shows

Today, 27 March, the Commission published its 9th Cohesion Report, showing that Cohesion policy is fulfilling its mission to narrow economic, social, and territorial disparities across the EU.

Tomorrow, Commissioner for Cohesion and Reforms Elisa Ferreira will embark on a three-day mission to Greece to visit Athens, Patras, Megalopolis and Tripolis, to see first-hand how Cohesion Policy is supporting these areas and specifically, how the Just Transition Fund is helping them make the transition to a net-zero economy in a fair and inclusive way.

On 19th March, ECOFLUV inaugurated “Evoli”, their zero-emission vessel. Since its establishment in 2021, ECOFLUV has emerged as an important player in the field of river transport, with a real commitment to energy transition. Its latest project, the design and construction of the zero-emission boat Evoli, perfectly exemplifies this dedication.

After 50+ years in the EU, Ireland has benefitted from €20 billion in Cohesion policy support for economic development.Funding initially focused on major infrastructure projects: M1/M4 between Dublin and Galway, the Dublin Port Tunnel, water supply and wastewater treatment. (Read Commissioner Ferreira's entire thread on X)

Cohesion policy has walked hand in hand with Greece since its accession to the EU in 1981. A total €77 billion supported transformative projects across 🇬🇷, from infrastructure to innovation, fostering inclusive growth and prosperity. Have a look at some telling examples (Read Commissioner Ferreira's complete thread on X)

How to use local strengths to innovate and grow? Addressing complex challenges requires different tools, mindsets and approaches from those traditionally used.

Today, the European Commission has selected 10 EU regions - that are at risk of falling into a ‘talent development trap' - to receive tailored support as part of the Talent Booster Mechanism to help them mitigate the effects of demographic change and a departing younger population.

The EU-funded project “REDACt” (Rapid Earthquake Damage Consortium) helps countries bordering the Black Sea respond more efficiently to earthquakes.