From January 1 to June 30, 2025, Poland will hold the presidency of the Council of the European Union. One of the key priorities of Poland’s presidency will be discussions on the updated agenda for the EU Cohesion Policy for the 2028–2034 period. This large-scale initiative aims to strengthen economic and social cohesion within the EU, enhance the resilience of EU regions to crises, and boost their competitiveness in European and global markets. This process directly impacts Ukraine, particularly in the context of its upcoming EU accession negotiations. The Institute for Civil Society has outlined why the updated Cohesion Policy is crucial for Ukraine. Below are the key takeaways, with the full version available here.  

Why Now, and What’s the Discussion About?

 The European Union is currently preparing for the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) beyond 2027. In 2025, the European Commission will present its draft for the new MFF, which will set the Union’s financial priorities for 2028–2034. Poland, as the EU Council presidency holder, aims to highlight the importance of Cohesion Policy as a reliable tool for ensuring balanced development across European regions.  

Poland’s leadership is based on ten key proposals that seek to make Cohesion Policy more “policy-driven,” easier to understand, and governed by common and simplified rules.  

How Does This Affect Ukraine’s EU Negotiations Agenda?

 For Ukrainian regions and government bodies, understanding the key changes and directions in Cohesion Policy is important for several reasons.  

First, new rules and approaches to managing structural funds will shape the framework Ukraine will encounter during its EU accession negotiations. As Ukraine aligns its legislation with the EU, its institutions will need to adapt national regional policies to the principles and mechanisms currently being developed for the 2028–2035 period.  

Second, it is crucial to understand today which tools and financial mechanisms will be introduced after 2027 to ensure that Ukraine’s institutions and administrative capacities are adequately prepared in advance.  

Third, Ukraine’s early participation in discussions on the new MFF and related regulations will help determine the most effective ways to integrate into EU programs. This includes potential recovery support instruments and participation in cross-border and interregional programs, which will become a key part of Ukraine’s integration into the European space.  

Why Is This Important for Ukrainian Communities?  

A fundamental aspect of EU regional policy is its focus on functional territorial types, meaning that cooperation is based not on administrative boundaries but on real economic, social, and spatial connections between communities. This fosters partnerships between cities, towns, and rural communities that share common development interests.  

In this context, Ukrainian communities should recognize that EU accession will require them to demonstrate the ability to plan, implement, and monitor projects under the same standards as EU member states.  

To prepare for European integration, communities should start strengthening their institutional capacity, training personnel, implementing modern transparent governance mechanisms, and establishing partnerships. This will demonstrate their readiness for EU requirements and lay the groundwork for attracting financial resources for Ukraine’s recovery and development.  

It is crucial for Ukraine to closely follow these developments and begin preparing for participation in the EU’s new “program architecture.” The implementation of institutional capacity-building tools, enhanced regional cooperation, and the adoption of best European practices can serve as a solid foundation for the effective implementation of national regional policies and bring Ukraine closer to European standards.