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Outermost Regions

The EU Outermost regions (OMR) are European outposts in the global arena. The inclusion of Strand D in Interreg 2021-2027 formally recognised the unique position and challenges of Interreg programmes in these regions. As providers of local solutions in their respective corners of the globe, they are a key instrument to support regional integration, for their territories and citizens, and for the EU as a whole.

Five cooperation programmes, with 280 million euros, work in three geographic areas and support cooperation between EU Outermost regions and their neighbouring countries. The OMR regions are the Atlantic (Madeira-Azores-Canaries), Indian Ocean (Mozambique Channel, Indian Ocean) as well as the Caribbean and Latin America (Amazonia and Caribbean).

They work to address challenges including biodiversity, climate and disaster risks, youth employment and social inclusion.

Who this network is for

This network is designed specifically to support the five OMR programmes with their specific challenges.

What we are working on

In 2024 we had several network meetings, in-person and online, to discuss key challenges in the current programme implementation. For instance, the integration of additional NDICI funds to be allocated to some OMR programmes, in close collaboration with the European Commission (DG REGIO and INTPA). 

Another success achieved is that OMR programmes are being recognised as "external cooperation" programmes - built on strong partnerships between EU member states and non-EU countries, this dimension is shared by Interreg IPA, NEXT and OMR programmes. We jointly reflected on the role cooperation plays in these areas, and how it could be strengthened in the future programming period - this resulted in the Post-27 Consultation Report for External Cooperation, and a particular focus on Outermost Regions cooperation. This report builds upon interesting practices implemented and challenges faced in the current period, and we will continue with our discussions to ensure that we keep the focus on the external cooperation dimension in Interreg after 2027.

Contact 

For more information please contact Nicolas Garnier.

Have a look at our Library

Post-27 Consultation report | Outermost regions cooperation

RĂ©union des programmes Interreg RUP - 25 novembre 2024, Bruxelles

Interreg Knowledge Fair 2024 | Management of NDICI funds in practice - Presentation & Session report

Stories of European cooperation | The Outermost Regions

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