In January 2025, the European Union (EU) is set to launch a call for projects as part of the “Interreg NEXT MED” initiative. With a budget of 83.7 million euros, this Euro-Mediterranean initiative aims to promote collaborative and transnational solutions to address climate challenges, encourage decarbonization, and ensure sustainable resource management. Morocco, included among the partner countries, could take advantage of this opportunity to strengthen its role in the regional ecological transition.
The Mediterranean region, identified as a hotspot for climate change, is experiencing warming 20% faster than the global average. This reality exacerbates water resource scarcity, biodiversity loss, and economic and social pressures. The “Interreg NEXT MED” initiative proposes a comprehensive approach to mitigate these impacts, focusing on areas such as energy efficiency, the circular economy, climate change adaptation, and sustainable water management.
The call, which will be open from January 14 to April 15, 2025, encourages transnational projects involving at least three countries, including one EU member and a partner Mediterranean country like Morocco. With a European contribution covering up to 89% of costs, each project can benefit from a maximum funding of 3.5 million euros, provided that half of the expenses are allocated to partner countries.
For Morocco, facing major environmental challenges such as water stress and energy transition, this call represents an opportunity to strengthen its local capacities and integrate more into regional and European sustainable development dynamics. The program will provide support tools, including terms of reference, a partner matchmaking platform, and informational events planned between January and March 2025.
By mobilizing public actors, private enterprises, and civil society organizations, Morocco could play a central role in this regional ecological transition. Expected projects include initiatives such as pilot programs to improve energy efficiency, innovative solutions for the circular economy, and ecosystem restoration actions.
The “Interreg NEXT MED” initiative also incorporates a social dimension, particularly targeting youth, women, and marginalized groups. This aspect aims to ensure an equitable and inclusive ecological transition, in line with Morocco’s commitments to sustainable development.
With this initiative, the EU affirms its ambition to build a sustainable, resilient, and low-carbon Mediterranean while strengthening cooperation ties with countries like Morocco.