Possibilities for simplification of cohesion funds
This resolution calls for simplifying the rules and processes for managing EU cohesion funds to make them more accessible and efficient for projects aimed at reducing regional disparities and fostering economic and social convergence across the EU. The changes primarily affect local and regional authorities, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), civil society organisations, and beneficiaries of cohesion funding, aiming to reduce their administrative burdens and improve project implementation. Key changes include a push for greater digitalization, avoiding 'gold-plating' (extra national rules beyond EU requirements), streamlining audit procedures, and ensuring timely adoption of programming documents to prevent implementation delays. The resolution emphasizes maintaining the core principles of cohesion policy, such as shared management and a place-based approach, while exploring new digital tools and simplified cost options to enhance transparency and effectiveness.
Analysis
Cohesion policy is identified as the EU's primary investment tool for reducing economic, social, and territorial disparities.
What changes
- The resolution emphasizes the need to transition from hybrid and paper-based administration to fully digital processes for managing, reporting, monitoring, and auditing EU funds.
- The Commission is called upon to propose the standardization and broader use of simplified cost options and financing not linked to costs.
- The resolution calls for more direct access to EU funding for regional and local authorities, cities, and urban authorities.
Expected impact
- Simplification efforts aim to reduce administrative burdens on beneficiaries, facilitating their access to funds and decreasing administrative work.
- The resolution suggests removing certain technical regulations and requirements from the Common Provisions Regulation (CPR) and incorporating them into guidelines or a handbook to create certainty.
- Increased administrative burdens have created a deterrent effect, discouraging beneficiaries from applying for cohesion policy funding and limiting its overall effectiveness and accessibility.
Limitations
- The document is a resolution and does not contain specific legislative text that would allow for a detailed analysis of proposed changes to regulations.
- The analysis is limited to the factual statements and recommendations presented within the resolution text.
Shadow Rapporteurs
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