population change

The Council conclusions on the role of cohesion policy in addressing demographic challenges (28 November 2024) recognise that cohesion policy has been one of the most important EU instruments in tackling demographic challenges. It underlines that that policy responses to demographic challenges should be in line with the strategic priorities of the EU, while also based on local and regional realities, and designed and implemented with the active involvement of national, regional and local authorities and that cohesion policy should continue to play a pivotal role in tackling these challenges. It considers that effectively addressing demographic challenges requires a holistic approach and a comprehensive set of measures under cohesion policy, especially in less developed regions. It invites the Commission to explore future areas of support that are relevant to addressing demographic change. It states that given the lack of an overarching approach, support under cohesion policy to tackle demographic challenges has remained fragmented so far. It invites the Commission to consider enhancing synergies among the cohesion policy funds post-2027, and underlines that a more integrated cohesion policy would also enhance the EU’s efforts in acknowledging and addressing both the impact of demographic change and the effects this challenge can have on the green and digital transitions. Map 2 shows the population change in EU NUTS3 regions between 2010 and 2021, with regions shaded red having experienced a population decline.