Designing the Future: IPA ADRION Post-27

The European Commission has drafted a new regulation for the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MMF), covering the EU budget period from 2028 to 2034.  All Interreg programmes, including IPA ADRION, are already getting ready for shaping the new priorities of the Programmes. Following the European Commission’s call to start our activities as early as possible, we are working ahead of schedule to ensure a smooth transition. While the final legislative package is expected to be approved in Spring 2027, our journey toward the future has already begun!

 

The Task Force: 10 Countries, One Goal

As we approach the final years of our current cycle, the Managing Authority and the Joint Secretariat, together with the representatives of all our 10 partner countries, are working closely to set the stage. Our goal is to create a common vision that addresses the real needs of the Adriatic and Ionian area. To achieve this, a dedicated Task Force has been formed with the mission to define our future direction. The group is currently identifying the key priorities and topics that matter most for our region, while establishing a clear methodology for collaborative decision-making. Furthermore, they are determining the right technical expertise needed to guide the drafting process and are following a structured calendar of meetings:

  • 1st Meeting: 19 February 2026 (Online)
  • 2nd Meeting: 19 March 2026 (Online)
  • 3rd Meeting: Scheduled for the second week of June 2026

The 2028-2034 period represents a strategic shift towards a more integrated and performance-based approach, moving beyond traditional sectors to focus on broader themes such as prosperity, security, and quality of life. To define these future priorities, the Task Force is currently identifying core needs and recurring issues across the region while ensuring alignment also with the EUSAIR framework.

Transparency and accessibility are at the heart of this planning process. Beyond the strategic design, the goal for IPA ADRION remains clear: to create a framework that continues to support the economic and social cohesion of our area over the coming years.

More resources 

A first proposal for the EU Budget 2028-2034 was drawn up by the European Commission in July 2025, including fund-specific regulations such as, among others, ERDF (Interreg). The proposal introduces National and Regional Partnership Plans to be designed by Member States and regional authorities following more simplified rules and a more flexible approach to help respond faster to upcoming challenges. The draft regulation estimates a budget of 10 billion for the Interreg Programmes, demonstrating the strong commitment of the European Commission to allocating a substantial pool of resources to this funding scheme.

The decision on the EU budget will be discussed by Member States in the Council. Its adoption requires unanimity, following the consent of the European Parliament.