In Person event
As the Recovery and Resilience Fund (RRF) reaches its midpoint, the publication of the mid-term evaluation prompts reflection on its key features. Introduced in 2020 and scheduled to conclude in 2026, the RRF’s innovative use of performance as a criterion for budget allocation marks a departure from the traditional cost-based approach prevalent in EU budgetary allocations. Indicators for inputs, outputs and, to a more limited extent, for results and longer-term impacts are used to monitor whether the money spent actually delivers on the objectives.
As potentially setting new standards for future EU fund allocations, this shift has sparked considerable debate, with proponents and critics alike weighing in on its implications. Amidst the ongoing discourse, definitive answers to critical questions remain elusive. What are the advantages and drawbacks of a performance-based approach compared to the traditional cost-based method? What are the design and implementation challenges? What can we learn from the experience of projects funded under the RRF? On Monday 25 March, speakers will debate these questions, reflect on the lessons learnt, and chart a potential course forward.
CEPS co-led the consortium responsible for conducting the independent study that supported the Commission’s mid-term evaluation report.
This study offers valuable background evidence and insights into lessons learnt, which are essential for discussions surrounding potential future performance-based instruments in the post-2027 MFF.
Introduction:
- Francesco Corti, CEPS, and Daniel Nigohosyan, Ecorys
Panel debate:
- Geraldine Mahieu, European Commission
- Chiara Pancotti, CSIL
- Atanas Pekanov, WIFO, former Deputy Prime Minister of Bulgaria
- Olga Verdugo, Ministry of Finance, Spain
Moderator:
- Cinzia Alcidi, CEPS
More speakers to be announced
