OVERVIEW
Regional policy has been a vital part of EU strategy for closer economic integration, inclusive growth and social cohesion. At the same time, decentralisation has evolved into a strong trend in managing not only regional and local issues but also national ones.
The successful operation of EU level regional development – or cohesion – policy has a strategic importance from the point of view of the whole integration process.
Strengthening economic, social and territorial cohesion and decreasing disparities between EU member states and regions are not only one of the main priorities of the integration, but at the same time these are justified expectations of the people living in the member states of the union.
The cohesion policy transfers should be spent on those factors which have the biggest contribution to the improvement of development prospects and competitiveness in the given regions.
OBJECTIVES
1. To showcase selected capacity building initiatives undertaken by Member States and the European Commission in the upcoming programming period.
2. To discuss how good governance should be promoted through and within the European Structural and Investment Funds
3. To exchange experience and ideas on this topic with other international organizations, business, academia and civil society representatives
4. To support EU policies which take better account of local needs