The post-2027 Interreg is being prepared under a dramatically changed geo-political situation. The Russian war in Ukraine and related urgent needs in European security and defence, migration pressures, importance to invest in key strategic technologies and green and digital transition are subject of tough discussions about  future EU priorities and budget. In this context, it is key to demonstrate the added value and benefits of cooperation across borders. 

During the Interreg Knowledge Fair, Director Slawomir Tokarski called again on the Interreg authorities to do a high-quality consultation of stakeholders and citizens in their programme areas. This should bring inspiring ideas on how to cooperate better, as well as evidence how cooperation matters to build solidarity, trust and well-being for EU citizens and local communities as well as for non-EU partner countries.

The Commission, in cooperation with the Committee of the Regions, will consult important cooperation players at EU level, such as associations of border regions, EGTCs, cross-border twin cities, and youth.

In addition, young people are already supporting the very process of consultations through the Interreg Volunteer Youth (IVY) initiative. Several Interreg programmes are taking on board volunteers aged 18-30 years old to take part in the events, surveys, and other consultation initiatives targeting local citizens and stakeholders.

Any programme can apply to host an IVY and get support for their consultation process: https://www.interregyouth.com/host-organizations/how-to-apply/