BackProgramming for 2028-2034 happens now – and the Strategy is here to support!
While we have 1.5 years left of the current EU programme period, the preparatory work for the post-2027 period is in full swing. Authorities are currently mapping the needs to enable the definition of the most relevant thematic focus areas for the funding programmes. The EU Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region Action Plan provides a solid starting point for the needs assessments.
Over the autumn of 2026, the Strategy Secretariat organises a series of thematic dialogues which bring together funding programmes and the thematic Coordinators of the Strategy. These meetings are the platform for the programme authorities in the region to come together and establish a shared understanding of common needs and challenges across the Baltic Sea Region. The aim is to facilitate cross-fertilisation with national programming processes and the preparation of National and Regional Partnership Plans (NRPPs), including the Interreg Plan and Chapters.
The dialogues also contribute to building synergies among programmes and with Policy Area Coordinators, and lay the groundwork for joint implementation, including coordinated or synchronised calls.
First of the dialogues: Social cohesion and labour market integration
The first of the thematic dialogues on 24 September focused on social cohesion and labour market integration. According to the Action Plan, the Baltic Sea Region has a lot to do, starting with physical, mental, emotional and social well-being, which are integral preconditions for a productive work force. The regional health challenges, such as an ageing population and rising mental distress, need to be institutionally addressed. Sustainable working life requires inclusive education and possibilities for upskilling and lifelong learning. Only this way can we secure and promote the competitiveness and attractiveness of the Baltic Sea Region.
The Strategy Action Plan is a synthesis of the views of all member states of the Strategy. For the funding programmes and other stakeholders in the region, the Action Plan provides a broad cross-sectoral overview of the topics, which are macro-regionally important and best addressed transnationally.
According to the current plan, the other calls will focus on
- Advancing research, innovation and the dual transition (green and digital) while ensuring a just and socially fair transition.
- Infrastructure development and decarbonisation in sectors such as energy, transport, and shipping.
- Sustainable use of the sea and marine resources.
- Clean waters, nutrients and pollution remediation.
- Increasing prosperity in rural areas.
Additional topics will be identified based on stakeholder input.
Read the Action Plan 2026 here.
More information: info@eusbsr.eu.
