EU Cohesion Policy 2021–2027: New Tools to Foster European Integration?

Several recent political crises represented a setback for the European integration process. In a face of rising Euroscepticism European Commission is looking for ways to foster integration by promoting European identity among citizens in EU regions. In this respect EU Cohesion policy is thought to have potential to be instrumental in achieving this goal. The aim of the paper is to assess the Commission proposals for Cohesion policy within MFF 2021–2027 in this context. The paper analyses new measures introduced by Commission proposal in view if they can deliver to better EU image in the regions. The proposal to change cohesion funds allocation methodology by adding into calculation more social factors can potentially be counterproductive as it leads to funds’ re-allocation compared to the current status. Evaluation of bringing into Cohesion policy smaller social and values oriented programs is more positive. Detailed analysis of the Justice, Rights and Values program shows high potential as a source for experience-based driven identification with Europe and can be instrumental in fostering European integration.