Results of the mid-term verification of additionality 2007-2013

Additionality is a core principle of Cohesion Policy aiming to ensure its added value. It means that the EU Structural Funds complement but do not replace equivalent public expenditure of a Member State. Additionality is respected if the average annual level of national expenditure in real terms in 2007-2013 is at least equal to the level determined at the beginning of the period. This ensures that Cohesion Policy has a genuine impact by complementing national with European investments. It remains a key element of the Commission's proposal for Cohesion Policy for 2014-20 as it supports the preservation of growth-enhancing investments.