The discussions around the future cohesion policy framework post-2027 are gaining momentum, while the role of regional and local innovation ecosystems is increasingly recognised in the context of R&I policy implementation and strengthening territorial cohesion, as seen for example in the Spanish Presidency priorities in the R&I area, and initiatives like the Regional Innovation Valleys and Partnerships for Regional Innovation. In this frame, ERRIN kicked off the conversation on the need to explore closer links between cohesion and research & innovation policies.

The European Committee of the Regions (CoR) is currently in the process of drafting an opinion on "The future of cohesion policy post-2027". The opinion is scheduled for adoption in the COTER Commission on 26 September and in the Plenary on 29 November 2023, following a stakeholder consultation held this summer. ERRIN contributed to the consultation by sharing key messages during a dedicated CoR event in July and by submitting written input.

Guided by ERRIN members’ experiences and concerns, this ERRIN contribution offers the first general reflections with regard to the cohesion policy framework post-2027. It touches upon issues such as closer linking cohesion and R&I policies for increased impact and tackling the innovation divide; initiatives like Regional Innovation Valleys and Partnerships for Regional Innovation; S3 and addressing the societal transformation needs; openness to dialogue with other policies; collaboration; funding synergies; current thematic R&I focus in cohesion policy; place-based dimension.

You may read the full contribution in the attached document.

ERRIN looks forward to continuing to follow and contribute to the process of shaping the new cohesion policy framework post-2027 development with network members as it goes ahead. This is also in the context of the ongoing work of the European Commission’s high-level group on the future of cohesion policy, whose strategic conclusions and recommendations are expected in early 2024.

As a next step, in the last week of September, ERRIN’s Smart Specialisation Working Group will organise a meeting on R&I in cohesion policy post-2027. The exact date and details will be published on the ERRIN website by the beginning of next month, with registration open to all network members.