Thematic concentration of the Interreg Programmes was a recurring principle in the previous programming periods. The Programmes were invited to select from a number of thematic policy and specific objectives defined by the ERDF Regulation, complemented by an Interreg-specific objective. We will discuss about the practical experiences with the thematic concentration in the previous two programming periods?

Furthermore, as their name suggests, Interreg Programmes are oriented towards territorial cooperation. Their foremost objective is to stimulate and encourage cooperation within certain territory, along specific thematic lines. Within this context, we would investigate if the thematic concentration along the ERDF policy objectives is justified, or if a territorial approach would better support the impact of Interreg resources.