Bilateral IPA programmes are complemented by multi-beneficiary/regional IPA programmes, known as IPA Multi-Country, with the aim of fulfilling the objectives of IPA assistance from the European Union. Support through IPA Multi-Country is provided primarily to address issues of a regional nature, or where a regional approach would enable greater efficiency.
Activities under IPA Multi-Country are programmed when:
a) well-defined regional objectives are addressed that promote regional cooperation, and when issues are better addressed regionally due to their cross-border dimension;
b) it is appropriate to follow a common methodology, for example, to carry out comparative analyses, diagnostic studies, or exchanges of best practices (as in the case of TAIEX);
c) in the case of facilities/mechanisms that enable coherent common approaches and offer greater efficiency, including benefits from economies of scale;
d) the nature and size of investments require that they be implemented under the Western Balkans Investment Framework.
Action Documents under IPA Multi-Country are prepared by the services of the European Commission, and the proposed drafts are then consulted for comments with the beneficiary countries before proceeding to the final approval stages.
Also under the current multi-annual programming period 2025-2027, the IPA Multi-Country programme remains a key instrument for the implementation of the Economic and Investment Plan (EIP) and in support of the objectives of the New Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, contributing to the integration of the region and aiming to ensure a common approach through technical assistance to institutions, as well as support for civil society and the media in the beneficiary countries.
More detailed information on assistance under IPA Multi-Country can be found at this link.