From Mutual Learning to Joint Working: Europeanization Processes in the INTERREG B Programmes

Abstract

This paper analyses processes of Europeanization within the EU INTERREG B programmes, triggering the Europe-wide development of networks that can initiate policy transfer processes. The INTERREG B programmes have—if at all—been discussed with regard to Europeanization processes being discussed as a form of horizontal Europeanization. This paper analyses how horizontal Europeanization processes may take place in INTERREG B projects and shows additionally how the INTERREG B programmes also enable other forms of Europeanization processes—top-down and bottom-up—to take place. Identifying the potential channels of influence on policies and understanding their mechanisms constitute an important basis for project actors to make more active use of these channels and thus enhance the long-term impact of their project results. Furthermore, it enables programme actors to develop a better understanding of project mechanisms and programme frameworks to increase their impact and relevance. These questions are of relevance for the quality and impact aspects of INTERREG projects. Until now, however, evaluations of INTERREG B projects have rarely taken the less “tangible” policy transfer effects into account and have not addressed questions about causal mechanisms behind project and programme impacts.

Acknowledgements

The author is grateful to two anonymous referees for suggestions on improving an earlier draft of this paper and to North Sea Joint Technical Secretariat for the friendly cooperation on using programme data.

Notes

Note that his use of the term ‘convergence' is much wider than the ‘Convergence Objective' of the Structural Funds, which aims at accelerating economic development in the EU's poorest regions.

When discussing concepts of Europeanization in the field of spatial development, one needs to have the legal background of EU mandates in mind. Although the EU does have an explicit mandate for regional policy, it does not have a mandate for spatial planning. The objective of territorial cohesion of the Lisbon Treaty from 2008 might provide more scope for coordinated EU action in territorial development.