Regional Leaders Oppose Centralization of EU Cohesion Policy Post-2027

Concerns are mounting in Spain regarding the European Union's proposed budget framework for 2028-2034, which aims to centralize the Cohesion Policy, potentially undermining regional autonomy. On September 25 and 26, Kata Tüttő, President of the Committee of the Regions, met with Catalan officials in Barcelona, including Governor Salvador Illa, who voiced strong opposition to the proposed changes. Tüttő highlighted that the integration of cohesion funds with other financial resources would lead to a 20% budget cut for regional policies, diminishing the voices of local governments in Spain. She stated, "Centralizing power in larger capitals could weaken subsidiarity and compromise the clarity of cohesion policy objectives."

The new budget proposal presents a shift towards combining cohesion funds with agricultural subsidies, which Tüttő believes would hinder the accessibility of these funds across all EU regions. This centralization is deemed particularly alarming as it may limit regional engagement in policymaking at the European level. The meeting also addressed crucial regional challenges, such as the ongoing housing crisis in Europe, with discussions aimed at fostering stronger collaborations between Catalonia and European institutions. The resistance from leaders like Illa emphasizes the need for a decentralized approach to ensure that all regions can contribute to and benefit from the Cohesion Policy effectively.