This book investigates the extent to which regions participate in and influence EU policy-making through the lens of Multi-Level Governance (MLG). Focusing on the 2021-2027 Cohesion Policy programme, it examines whether regions – traditionally central actors in EU governance – are progressively experiencing a diminishing role. By comparing the current programming cycle with previous ones, the book analyses the degree of regional participation in shaping the Cohesion Policy agenda setting. Adopting a comparative and empirically grounded approach, the study explores two Member States – Italy and France – and four regional case studies – Tuscany, Veneto, Brittany, and Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. By assessing whether regional actors still effectively influence Cohesion Policy content, the book demonstrates that recent crises, including the financial crisis, rising Euroscepticism, and the COVID-19 pandemic, have accelerated centralisation trends within the EU. Instruments such as Next Generation EU and National Recovery and Resilience Plans have further strengthened national governments, often limiting meaningful regional involvement. Combining theoretical insights with policy relevance, this book will appeal to scholars of EU studies, public policy, and regional governance, as well as policymakers engaged in Cohesion Policy and the future of EU governance.

Sara De Martino is Researcher at the Department of Political and Social Sciences, University of Florence, Italy.