Macro-regional strategies

The European Commission defines a macro-region as an area including territory from a number of different countries or regions associated with one or more common features or challenges.

A macro-regional strategy can thus be described as an integrated framework that enables the EU and its Member States to identify needs and allocate available resources in a way that allows the macro-region to achieve a sustainable environment and optimal economic and social development. However, macro-regional strategies also involve non-EU countries (e.g. Ukraine, Montenegro, or Switzerland).

The aim of macro-regional strategies is to provide a framework for cooperation leading to concrete responses to macro-regional challenges in the form of projects or more coherent collaboration. They serve as a cross-cutting tool for improved horizontal coordination, synergies of existing activities, and more effective and integrated use of available EU financial instruments, funds, and other resources. However, the strategies do not have their own financial resources, nor do they provide a preferential position for accessing EU funds