(fra EFTAs pressemelding 28.1.2025)

EEA EFTA States seek to help shape next EU programmes based on equal access

In a joint EEA EFTA Comment, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway underline the importance of the cooperation between the European Union and the EEA EFTA States in EU programmes. In view of the ongoing preparations for the 2028–2034 programming period, they recall that the EEA Agreement foresees the participation of EEA EFTA stakeholders in EU programmes on an equal footing with EU stakeholders.  

For more than three decades, the EEA EFTA States have worked alongside the EU Member States to ensure the full implementation of the four freedoms, and have cooperated closely in areas such as education, research, innovation, social policy, culture and environment. During this time, EU programmes have been a key instrument in enhancing European competitiveness and economic resilience. For the 2028–2034 programming period, the EEA EFTA States restate their intention to actively participate in and contribute to EU programmes.

In their comment, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway underline that the EEA Agreement constitutes the legal basis for their participation in all parts of EU programmes. It also sets out their financial contribution towards the programmes in which they choose to participate. The EEA EFTA States are concerned that upcoming programmes may contain provisions limiting the scope of this participation, and therefore call for full access to strategic discussions on future programmes. 

They further highlight that their status within EU programmes has increasingly been equated to that of third countries not covered by the EEA Agreement. For the 2028–2034 programming period, they thus propose that a clearer distinction be made between the EEA EFTA States and countries with other association arrangements.

While acknowledging that EU programmes respond to geopolitical changes and shifting policy priorities in Europe, the EEA EFTA States emphasise the importance of ensuring sufficient predictability, enabling them to make informed decisions about joining a programme. They wish to contribute positively to the development of the next EU programmes, and look forward to continuing their close collaboration and dialogue with the European Commission.