Thematic Objectives | Italia Malta

Priorities and specific objectives

The Interreg VI-A Italia–Malta Programme is built around four Priorities and seven Specific Objectives (SOs).
Below you find a clear, simple explanation of each SO, together with why it matters for people, communities and the territory.

The Priorities define the main thematic areas where Programme resources are focused.

The Programme has four Priorities:

1. A smarter cooperation area
Research, innovation and skills development to enhance territorial competitiveness.

2. A greener and more resilient area
Environmental protection, climate change adaptation, risk prevention and circular economy.

3. Culture and sustainable tourism
Promotion of cultural and natural heritage as a driver for economic development and social inclusion.

4. Better governance
Strengthening institutional cooperation and administrative capacity between Italia and Malta.

Specific Objectives turn the Programme Priorities into concrete operational goals.
They define what projects are expected to achieve, guiding funded actions towards measurable results and real territorial impact.

Below is a more detailed explanation of what Specific Objectives are and what they aim to achieve, in relation to the Programme Priorities.

Priority 1 - Smarter and More Innovative Area

SO1.1 – Research, Innovation and Advanced Technologies

This objective supports cooperation between universities, research centres, businesses and public stakeholders in the Italy–Malta area to develop innovative solutions and strengthen technology transfer. Actions promote applied research, the use of advanced technologies, digitalisation and the testing of new models in strategic sectors such as the blue economy, green economy, health, environment and creative industries.

SO 1.4 – Skills, Entrepreneurship and Smart Specialisation

This objective aims to strengthen professional and entrepreneurial skills needed for the green and digital transition of the cooperation area. Through training activities, networking and joint initiatives, the Programme supports young people, businesses, startups and economic operators to foster qualified employment, innovation and competitiveness in strategic cross-border sectors.

Priority 2 - A Resilient and Sustainable Area for Environment and Climate

SO 2.4 – Climate Adaptation and Risk Management

Supports joint actions to address the effects of climate change and enhance the resilience of coastal and marine territories. Activities focus on the prevention of natural and human-induced risks, coastal erosion, hydrogeological instability, seismic and maritime risks, as well as the development of shared monitoring systems, civil protection measures and sustainable planning tools.

SO 2.6 – Circular Economy and Resource Efficiency

This objective promotes sustainable resource management models and waste reduction, supporting the transition towards a circular economy in the Italy–Malta area. Initiatives focus on recycling, reuse, pollution reduction, marine litter prevention and the adoption of innovative solutions to improve the environmental sustainability of territories and productive sectors.

SO 2.7 – Protection of Biodiversity and Natural Heritage

Supports the protection and enhancement of terrestrial and marine ecosystems, biodiversity and natural areas within the cross-border cooperation area. Actions aim to reduce pollution, preserve vulnerable habitats and species, improve the management of protected areas and promote sustainable forms of environmental use and nature-based tourism.

Priority 3 - Culture, Sustainable Tourism and Inclusion for Territorial Growth

SO 4.6 – Culture and Sustainable Tourism for Inclusive Development

Enhances the cultural and natural heritage of Sicily and Malta through innovative models of sustainable, accessible and inclusive tourism. Activities promote the regeneration of cultural sites, heritage digitalisation, community participation and the creation of new economic and social opportunities linked to culture and creativity.

Priority 4 - Stronger and More Effective Cross-Border Governance

ISO 6.4 – Institutional Cooperation and Shared Governance

Strengthens the capacity of institutions and stakeholders to cooperate in addressing shared territorial challenges. Actions support coordination among public authorities, governance bodies, territorial networks and local actors, fostering joint strategies, knowledge exchange and improved cross-border policies.