CLLD Study Visit

Our cross-border CLLD as a virtuous example for future EU cohesion policies

In October 2024, a Study Visit took place in the CLLD Terra Raetica region. Two years ago, a comprehensive study was conducted in all 4 CLLD regions.

On Tuesday, October 1st, we had the honor of welcoming the delegation of European Commissioners, consisting of Beate Grajnert, Aurélie Lechien, Jean-Pierre Halkin, Olivier Baudelet, the highest representatives of DG Regio from Brussels, and the CLLD researcher on behalf of the European Commission, Jean-Pierre Vercruysse. During the day, presentations were held by the Joint Secretariat and other bodies involved in the Interreg Italy-Austria program, which are involved in the evaluation, implementation, and control of CLLD projects, thanks to the cooperation of the EGTC Euregio Tyrol-South Tyrol-Trentino.

In the following 2 days, an ‘onsite’ visit was planned in the cross-border CLLD Terra Raetica region, a region where the CLLD approach thrives thanks to the strength of local initiatives. During this study trip, participants had the opportunity to directly observe how local actors and communities are implementing their local territorial development strategy, planning and carrying out projects from the bottom up within a multi-level governance framework. By visiting various small and medium-sized projects and interacting with the people who implement them, participants gained valuable insights into the effectiveness and potential of the cross-border CLLD approach. By promoting local empowerment and collaboration, the areas not only preserve their rich cultural and natural heritage but also drive sustainable development in innovative ways, fully exploiting the potential of the Alpine border regions between Austria and Italy (and Switzerland).

We are confident that the experience has inspired discussions on how the CLLD approach can be adapted and applied in other border regions across Europe, strengthening the impact of cohesion policies.