The Committee of the Regions has commissioned t33 to conduct a study focusing on the role of Local and Regional Authorities (LRAs) in policy discussions concerning the post-2027 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF). The profound transformation of the EU, both in terms of policy objectives (including the green and digital transition, the geopolitical Union and the Union of fundamental values and rights) and in terms of identity and membership (with the prospect of a Europe of 30+), indicates that the debate on the post-2027 MFF takes place in a radically different context from the discussions that led to the adoption of previous frameworks (2007-2013, 2014-2020, 2021-27).

The study examines in detail the delivery mechanism of EU funding programmes for the period 2021-2027, from a functional and procedural perspective, with a particular focus on the role of LRAs. Among other objectives, the study assesses the extent to which the concerns and voices of LRAs have been taken into account during the preparation and negotiation of the MFF 2021-27. It also investigates whether there are specific delivery mechanisms designed to facilitate LAGs' access to EU funding programmes. In addition, the study assesses how LAGs perceive their access to EU funding programmes after two years of implementation of the MFF 21-27.

The study also provides concrete recommendations and forward-looking aspects to contribute to a more inclusive, place-based and place-aware generation of EU funding programmes for the post-2027 MFF.

t33 led this study in collaboration with Milieu.

The final report of the study is available at the following link.