Cohesion policy is the main investment policy of the European Union. It benefits all EU regions and cities and supports economic growth, job creation, business competitiveness, sustainable development and environmental protection.

In the 2021-2027 programming period, cohesion policy has five strategic objectives:

• a 'Smarter Europe — innovative and smart economic transformation;
• a 'Greener Europe and low-carbon;
• a 'More Connected Europe — mobility and regional ICT connectivity;
• a 'More social Europe through the implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights;
• a 'Europe closer to citizens — sustainable and integrated development of urban, rural and coastal areas through local initiatives

The achievement of these objectives shall be supported through the use of the European Structural and Investment Funds:  European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), European Social Fund Plus (ESF+), Cohesion Fund (FC) – which in programming 21-27 does not concern Italy; European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) in addition to Just Transition Fund (JTF).