The future of EU regional policy is connected with the overall EU policy priorities. Since 2000 and 2001 the Lisbon and Gothenburg strategies have been on the EU agenda. Lisbon focuses on growth and jobs, while Gothenburg sets the directions towards sustainable economical development. Both go hand in hand to achieve the overall aim of Europe to be more competitive and become a world leader in innovation. Cohesion policy is the primary financial instrument used to implement these strategies. In that way Lisbon, Gothenburg and cohesion policy are interlinked and based on the same principles: economy, society and environment.

EU Lisbon strategy = economic growth & employment

Started: 2000

Renewed: 2006

Aim: "To make the EU the most competitive and dynamic knowledge-based economy in the world, capable of sustainable economic growth with more and better jobs and greater social cohesion"

Actions:

• more investment in education and research
• more support for small and medium-sized businesses
• higher employment rates
• common EU energy policy

EU Gothenburg strategy = sustainable development

Started: 2001

Renewed: 2005

Aim: A better quality of life for everyone

Actions:

• combat climate change
• ensure sustainable transport
• address threats to public health
• manage natural resources
• combat poverty and social exclusion
• ageing population

The European Union encompasses 27 Member States, includes 268 regions and houses a population of 492 million. Disparities between European regions are still substantial. Therefore the importance of regional policy has increased. In the future, EU regional policy will face new challenges and opportunities posed by globalisation and technological progress. In order to address these challenges a better interaction between regions, people and the environment are key.