Speaker
Description
Border areas exhibit unique characteristics in the formation of cooperative relationships, influenced by the interplay of international and national conditions at central, regional, and local levels. Additionally, the existence of the border as a barrier in many dimensions, including spatial, economic, socio-cultural, plays a very strong role. Under these conditions, the initiation and subsequent continuation of cooperation are critical elements. The purpose of the study was to identify patterns (paths) in establishing and maintaining relations as well as formulating the scope of joint projects undertaken within the framework of cross-border cooperation. Specific objectives included identifying approaches to forming project consortia, defining the project scope, understanding the rationale for continuing joint activities, and identifying the characteristics of an 'ideal' cooperation partner. This study is embedded in the cooperation studies pursued in the context of cross-border multi-level governance. The results obtained are intended to support the governance policies of cross-border areas and the exploitation of their potentials.
The spatial scope of the analysis covered all land borders of Poland, including the internal borders of the EU and the Schengen Zone (with Germany, Czechia, Slovakia, and Lithuania) and the external ones (with Ukraine, Belarus, and Russia), which are excellent examples of bordering and debordering processes. Additionally, the studied borderlands, understood as areas on both sides of the Polish border, are characterized by great diversity due to environmental, economic, and cultural features.
Mix Method Approach was used. Thus, a two-stage exploratory sequential research design included quantitative data analysis of 1577 cross-border projects and 2307 organizations that implemented them as well as 26 in-depth interviews with selected entities (using content analysis). Projects implemented under the European Territorial Cooperation 2007-2013, the European Neighborhood and Partnership Instrument 2007-2013, Interreg 2014-2020 and the European Neighborhood Instrument 2014-2020 were taken into account.
| Keywords | cross-border cooperation; borderland; governance; local policy |
|---|---|
| Best Congress Paper Award | No |
