A View of German-Polish Cross-Border Cooperation: an Experience from the 2007– 2013 INTERREG Programme

Javier Martín-Uceda

University of Girona, Department of Geography
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1427-7903

Jarosław Jańczak

Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań; European University Viadrina: Frankfurt (Oder)
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0493-1721

Abstract

The aim of this article is to understand the nature and dynamism of cross-border cooperation in Europe by taking cross-border projects of INTERREG program implemented in the period 2007–2013 as examples and the concepts of (a)symmetry and potential differences as a conceptual framework. The case of the German-Polish border has been chosen and the authors attempt to further the already existing analysis by indicating additional analytical levels and interpreting findings with the help of the concept of asymmetry. INTERREG projects provide a great source of data to help analyse the cooperation processes established within the Schengen Area. The findings of this investigation reflect well the differences between the two countries in many aspects, especially the leading partners in projects (Germans lead more than Poles), as well as the fact that the German actors are more active in general, when at the same time urban and more dynamic areas are more able to take part in projects.

Keywords:

German-Polish border, Interreg, asymmetry, cross-border cooperation, CBC