Conceptualizing the Logics of Territorial Cohesion

Abstract

This paper explores the multiple conceptualizations of territorial cohesion on various levels, and specifically in connection with European Union Cohesion Policy instruments. It examines a number of European-wide “storylines” of territorial cohesion, creating a type of “meta-storyline” to show the diversity of ways that the concept is seen in Europe. Secondly, the paper examines how territorial cohesion is explicitly and implicitly conceptualized in Cohesion Policy instruments and asks if there are different logics informing territorial cohesion? If so, when in the discourse and storylines does one logic seem to take precedence over the other and why?

Notes

Results of the consultation process are available at http://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/archive/consultation/terco/consultation_en.htm (Last accessed 16 July 2012).

An explicit definition of territorial cohesion is exemplified by the ERDF Operational Programme 2007–2013 from Champagne-Ardenne (FR) which explicitly addresses territorial cohesion as “the reduction of centre-periphery disparities at different levels: national, urban–rural areas and at the level of neighborhoods. The need for better accessibility to ICT and services is connected to the goal of territorial cohesion”.

An implicit definition of territorial cohesion is also exemplified by The Hungarian Integrated Operational ERDF Programme (IOP) which does not mention the term bUt emphasizes ensuring access to high quality public services (health, social, risk, employment) in all regions, thus alluding to the quality and accessibility of these services across the country.

Some OPs addressed more than one definition of territorial cohesion and these are reflected in the chart.