This week, the European Commission unveiled its 2026 work programme, outlining a series of actions to help build a more sovereign and independent Europe, in line with the priorities of the Interreg programmes and European cooperation investments.
Regarding supporting people and strengthening Europe’s social model, the programme mentions that “no region or community is left behind”: “Through EU cohesion policy, which is essential for the competitiveness, growth and resilience of our regions, we will put forward several territorial strategies, with a focus on the outermost regions [including Madeira, Azores and Canarias supported by Interreg Atlantic Area], the Eastern border regions, and a Communication on islands and coastal communities”.
The document emphasises the theme of sustainable prosperity and competitiveness, outlining measures such as a Quality Jobs Act with a skills mobility initiative, the establishment of a Critical Raw Materials Centre, and the development of “a genuine Energy Union” aimed at achieving Europe’s energy independence.
As outlined in the recent proposal for a Multiannual Financial Framework, the European Commission simultaneously urges the European Parliament and the Council to reach a swift agreement on this framework and move forward with the key legislative priorities during 2026.
Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said: "We will continue working closely with the European Parliament and the Council to deliver on Europe's priorities, to boost competitiveness, harness the power of our Single Market, simplify our rules and address the affordability crisis. Together, we will protect our citizens and uphold our values."
Regarding supporting people and strengthening Europe’s social model, the programme mentions that “no region or community is left behind”: “Through EU cohesion policy, which is essential for the competitiveness, growth and resilience of our regions, we will put forward several territorial strategies, with a focus on the outermost regions [including Madeira, Azores and Canarias supported by Interreg Atlantic Area], the Eastern border regions, and a Communication on islands and coastal communities”.
The document emphasises the theme of sustainable prosperity and competitiveness, outlining measures such as a Quality Jobs Act with a skills mobility initiative, the establishment of a Critical Raw Materials Centre, and the development of “a genuine Energy Union” aimed at achieving Europe’s energy independence.
As outlined in the recent proposal for a Multiannual Financial Framework, the European Commission simultaneously urges the European Parliament and the Council to reach a swift agreement on this framework and move forward with the key legislative priorities during 2026.
Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said: "We will continue working closely with the European Parliament and the Council to deliver on Europe's priorities, to boost competitiveness, harness the power of our Single Market, simplify our rules and address the affordability crisis. Together, we will protect our citizens and uphold our values."
Publish date: 2025-10-23
