Will territorial cohesion survive after 2028? Assessing the implications of the reform of Cohesion Policy for future structural funds

The paper provides a comprehensive analysis of promoting territorial cohesion as an EU Treaty objective after 2027. It identifies emerging challenges that must be addressed and outlines the fundamental components of a new EU cohesion framework. Furthermore, it examines the process by which these elements should be integrated into the EU Multiannual Financial Framework beyond 2027. The paper presents some new and forward-looking proposals, including the establishment of a new coordination mechanism translating overarching EU goals into local and regional implementation efforts. It provides a snapshot in the EU debate on the future of territorial cohesion initiated and promoted by the Polish Presidency of the EU Council and supported by Polish and foreign scientists in 2023-2024. This article is exploratory and reflective in nature and is intended to serve as inspiration for further discussion. It is based on a review of research on the cohesion policy, as well as on the authors’ expert knowledge.