The debate on the future of cohesion policy after 2013 began with the publication of the "5th Report on Cohesion Policy" of the European Commission in 2010. The Multiannual Financial Framework 2014-2020 was adopted by the European Council and the European Parliament on 19 November 2013. The legislative framework which governs the planning and implementation of the Structural Funds and the Rural Development Fund was approved on December 20, 2013 with the exemption of the adoption of the Maritime and Fisheries Fund:

• General Regulations of all Funds Reg. (EU) 1303/2013
• European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) Reg. (EU) 1301/2013
• European Social Fund (ESF) Reg. (EU) 1304/2013
• Cohesion Fund Reg. (EU) 1300/2013
• European Territorial Cooperation Reg. (EU) 1299/2013
• European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development Reg. (EU) 1305/2013
• Fund and Sea Fisheries

Important policy documents that contribute to the shaping of key strategic choices - priorities and constitute long-term core options for the European Union and Greece are:

• the EU Strategy Europe 2020 to promote smart, sustainable and inclusive economy
• the National Reform Programme for Growth and Jobs 2011-2014

The drafting of the NSRF and Operational Programs 2014-2020 is in public consultation with the relevant national, regional and local authorities as well as social, economic and environmental partners. Within this framework, First, Second and Third Circulars (available in greek language) have been sent and the First National Development Conference has taken place on April 4, 2013 followed by the relevant Sectoral and Regional Conferences.

The views of the European Commission for the new programming period were depicted in the "Position paper" and presented to the Seminar for the Common Strategic Framework 2014-2020 on November 14, 2012 in Athens (Workshop presentations) as well as in conferences for the new programming period..

For more information on the Cohesion Policy click here.