OPEN DAYS 2011 - 9Th European Week of Regions and Cities’ Between 10 and 13 October in Brussels

QG- 3 1-11-4 03 -E N - C

These proceedings summarise the 110 workshops held during the ‘OPEN DAYS 2011 - 9th European Week of Regions and Cities’ between 10 and 13 October in Brussels.

206 regions and cities from all over Europe and more than 5,000 participants, 600 speakers and 240 journalists took part in the event, which was organised by the Committee of the Regions and the European Commission’s Regional Policy DG.

Presentations, speeches and videos can be found on: www.opendays.europa.eu. European Week ofRegionsandCities-Brussels

A social network platform is available on the RegioNetwork2020: www.regionetwork2020.eu.

The 10th European Week of Regions and Cities will be held between 8 and 11 October 2012 in Brussels.

OPEN DAYS 2011 Proceedings 10-13 October

2011 -Proceedings

ISBN 978-92-895-0559-8

doi:10.2863/42425

Published in December 2011 Edited by the Committee of the Regions and DG Regional Policy of the European Union © European Union, 2011 Investing in Europe’s future: Regions and cities delivering smart, sustainable and inclusive growth Table of contents

Organisers and partners 3

Opening session 13

Workshops

Europe 2020 19

Geography matters 85

Better delivery 117

OPEN DAYS University 127

Oﬃ cial reception 139

Local events 143

Evaluation 147

Media strategy and coverage analysis 151

OPEN DAYS 2012 155

2 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Organisers and partners

OPEN DAYS DAYS 2011 2009  Proceedings– European - WeekEuropean of Regions Weeks of and Regions Cities and Cities 3 Editorial

Year after year the OPEN DAYS, the European Week of Regions and Cities, continues to attract thousands of participants from all over Europe and beyond. This year was no exception, proving there is a real need for an event like this. OPEN DAYS has deﬁ nitely established itself as the major annual cohesion policy event in Brussels.

The event is not only of beneﬁ t for the visiting participants, but also for the European Commission. As the Commission’s proposal on the regulatory package for cohesion policy 2014-2020 had been presented the previous week, on Thursday 6 October, the OPEN DAYS became a very important arena for discussion with stakeholders. This dialogue will continue for some time and I am convinced that cohesion policy post-2013 will be high on the agenda also next year when we will also celebrate the 10th anniversary of OPEN DAYS.

Of the three topics chosen for this year, “Europe 2020” turned to be the most popular, with close to 60% of the workshops organised under this topic. This was encouraging to see as it is important to demonstrate how EU cohesion policy contributes to the Europe 2020 strategy, which promotes smart, sustainable and inclusive growth. The OPEN DAYS oﬀ ers a market place for new ideas and an arena for exchange of experience on how to best achieve this. Without doubt, cohesion policy is the main source of EU investment for the strategy, and through its strong principle of partnership and decentralised implementation system the policy has great potential to promote the integration of the strategy into policy and funding decisions at regional and local level. It is clear that successful implementation of the strategy will depend on as wide ownership as possible among regions and cities of its objectives and targets.

I would like to conclude by thanking President Bresso and the Committee of Regions for their excellent partnership, as well as all partners, speakers, chairpersons and others involved in the organisation of the event. The success of OPEN DAYS very much depends on your commitment and contribution.

Next year we will celebrate the 10th anniversary of the European Week of Regions and Cities, and I hope that you are looking forward to it as much as I am.

Johannes Hahn European Commissioner for Regional Policy

4 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Editorial

The 2011 OPEN DAYS event was timely with respect to the debate on the European Commission’s proposals on the future of cohesion policy 2014-2020, which were tabled on 6 October. On top of the 5 000 participants from all over Europe, the highest ever number of CoR members (34) and elected politicians (137 in total) from all levels of government were involved in the OPEN DAYS, conﬁ rming the increased political importance and visibility of the event. For EU cohesion policy, the OPEN DAYS event is not just yet another conference in the annual calendar; it is the point of reference, unique in that it brings together politicians, oﬃ cials, academics and representatives from business, banks and civil society organisations. This is also mirrored by the interest of third countries in the event: a number of seminars involved ministerial delegations from these countries.

I hope these proceedings will highlight the most important moments, quotes and workshops and give you a good overview of the OPEN DAYS 2011. As in previous years, the event’s key messages were brought home with more than 250 local events held in 35 countries with an audience of some 25 000 participants. For 2012, more local events could be laid on as national kick-oﬀ events involving CoR members and – anticipating the European Year of Citizenship 2013 - more events could be run jointly with Members of the European Parliament and their national information oﬃ ces.

During the ﬁ rst half of 2012, the debate in the Council and the Member States will continue to be driven by the overall discussion on the Multiannual Financial Framework. It is likely that the new design and programming of cohesion policy for the next period will still be discussed among the target audience of the 10th OPEN DAYS. We should underpin the ongoing negotiations with a moment of positive reﬂ ection on what cohesion policy has achieved, for instance within the last decade, through presentations of places that have changed.

The euro and economic crises must not overshadow the success story of European regional policy. For the past nine years, the OPEN DAYS event has been the annual communication platform for regional experts from all over Europe and colleagues from the EU institutions. It is the place to present, exchange and network on good practice, new ideas and the eﬃ cient management of EU funds.

I would like to thank all OPEN DAYS partners for their enduring commitment and eﬀ ort in terms of time and manpower over the last years. It takes the goodwill and creativity of many to create such an OPEN event, even if for organisational reasons some rules need to be followed.

The OPEN DAYS 2012 event – to run from 8 to 11 October 2012 - is already approaching. As we do every year, we will try to improve the event in order to respond even better to your needs and expectations.

I look forward to meeting you at the next OPEN DAYS!

Mercedes Bresso President of the Committee of the Regions

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 5 Regional partnerships

6 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Regional partnerships

2020 Regions - Acting for a Healthy Future C.R.E.A.T.E. Cities and Regions Efficiently Acting West Norway (NO), Central Denmark (DK), Centro Region of Portugal (PT), Together in Europe East of England (UK), Mid Norway (NO), Warmia and Potenza (IT), Swietokrzyskie (PL), Grenoble (Alpes Métropole & City) (FR), Mazury (PL) Krapinsko-Zagrorska County (HR), Kujawsko-Pomorskie (PL), Lubuskie (PL), Nitra Region (SK), Region of Hanover (DE), Värmland (SE), Venice (IT), Active Ageing in the EU 2020 Warsaw (PL) Flanders (BE), Podlaskie (PL), Kadikoy (TR), Karlovy Vary (CZ), Lubelskie(PL), Seferihisar (TR), Stockholm Region (SE), Timis County (RO), Umbria (IT) Europe of Traditions Veneto (IT), Opolskie (PL), Estonia (EE), Guimarães (PT), Ialomiţa (RO), Latvia Active Regions in Cross-border Cooperation (LV), Malta (MT), Piedmont (IT), Province of Ourense (ES), Šumadija (RS), Lower Austria (AT), Extremadura (ES), Alpeuregio (AT/IT), Limburg (BE), Trenčín Region (SK) Limburg (NL), Lithuania (LT), Norrbotten (SE), North West England (UK), Skåne (SE), South Bohemia (CZ), Vysocina (CZ) European Capitals of Culture City of Turku (FI), Maribor (SL), Estonian Culture Cities (EE), Košice Region Adriatic-Ionian Macro-region (SK), North Rhine-Westphalia (DE), Umeå (SE) Marche (IT), Istria (HR), Abruzzo (IT), Dubrovnik-Neretva Region (HR), Emilia- Romagna (IT), Hercegovina-Neretva Canton (BA), Kragujevac (RS), Molise Euroregions for Territorial Cooperation (IT), Montenegro (ME), Niš (RS), Republika Srpska (BA), Sarajevo Canton (BA), Catalonia (ES), Rhône-Alpes (FR), Aosta Valley (IT), Languedoc-Roussillon Slovenia (SL) (FR), Liguria (IT), Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (FR), Malopolska (PL), Midi- Pyrénées (FR) Advanced Cooperation in the North Sea – English Channel Area Greater Region and Upper Rhine Metropolitan Lower Saxony (DE), East of Scotland (UK), Bremen (DE), Noord-Holland Region and Partners (NL), North Denmark (DK), Southern England (UK), South Norway (NO), Alsace (FR), Land Baden-Württemberg (DE), German Speaking Community Stavanger (NO), Upper Normandy (FR), Zuid-Holland (NL) (BE), Lorraine (FR), Luxembourg (LU), Northwestern Switzerland (CH), Palatinate (DE), Podkarpackie (PL), Rhineland-Saarland (DE), Walloon Alliance for Clean Mobility Region (BE) Västra Götaland (SE), Castilla y León (ES), Basque Country (ES), Bretagne (FR), Dunkerque (FR), Gothenburg (SE), Nord-Pas-de-Calais (FR), Norte Innovative Regions Partnership Portugal (PT), Oslo Region (NO), Picardie (FR), Steiermark (AT) Saxony Anhalt (DE), Valencian Region (ES), Észak-Alföld (HU), Mazowsze Voivodship (PL), Région Centre (FR), Region of Murcia (ES) Alps-Adriatic Regions & Universities 4 Knowledge Society Islands for Equal Chances Friuli Venezia Giulia (IT), Croatian Pannonia (HR), Carinthia (AT), South Balearic Islands (ES), Corsica (FR), Crete (GR), District of Larnaca (CY), Transdanubian Region (HU), West Slovenia (SL) Mayotte (FR), Sardinia (IT), Sicily (IT), South Aegean Periphery (GR)

Baltic Sea Group Local Intermediate Authorities: Mecklenburg-Vorpommern (DE), West Finland (FI), Central Sweden (SE), Acting for Europe 2020 Malmö (SE), East Sweden (SE), Hamburg (DE), Schleswig-Holstein (DE), Prahova County (RO), NAMRB-NW Regions (BG), Drôme (FR), Gironde (FR), South West Finland (FI), Tallinn City (EE), Westpomerania (PL), Zealand (DK) City of Łódź (PL), Province of Badajoz (ES), Province of Cáceres (ES), Province of Liège (BE), Province of Palermo (IT), Province of Potenza (IT), Province of Capital Cities and Regions Network (CCRN) Venezia (IT), Walloon Brabant (BE) G-4 EU Office (Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam, Utrecht) (NL), Budapest (HU), Berlin-Brandenburg (DE), Bratislava Region (SK), Brussels Capital Local Urban Development European Network Region (BE), Ile-de-France (FR), Lazio Region (IT), London (UK), Madrid Amadora (PT), City of Sevilla (ES), Bacau Municipality (RO), Seine-Saint- Region (ES), Nicosia (CY), Prague (CZ), Rome Capital City (IT) Denis (FR), Starogard (PL), Torino (IT)

Convergence Regions on the Way to Cohesion Maritime Knowledge Network Galicia (ES), Cornwall (UK), Andalucia (ES), Castilla-La Mancha (ES), Central Lisbon and Tagus Valley (PT), Lower-Normandy (FR), Azores (PT), Alentejo Bohemia (CZ), Nova Gorica (SL), Saxony (DE) (PT), Canary Islands (ES), Devon County (UK), Finistere (FR), Irish Regions (IE), Merseyside (UK), Principality of Asturias (ES), Wales (UK) Creative Cities for an Innovative Europe Province of Barcelona (ES), City of Varna (BG), Central Finland (FI), City of Rural Transport Solutions Sofia (BG), City of Vienna (AT), Liverpool (UK), Ljubljana (SL), Pomorskie (PL), East Finland (FI), Västernorrland (SE), Dumfries and Galloway (UK), East- Puglia (IT), Wielkopolska (PL) Iceland (IS), Pielinen Karelia (FI), Shetland Islands (UK)

The ERRIN Regional Partnership on Smart Specialisation Northern Ireland (UK), Basilicata (IT), Eindhoven (NL), Lodzkie Voivodship (PL), Navarra (ES), Region Orebro (SE)

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 7 Partner regions and cities

Abruzzo Alentejo Alpeuregio Alsace Amadora Andalucia

Balearic Islands Province of Barcelona Basilicata Basque Country Berlin-Brandenburg Bratislava Region

Carinthia Castilla-La Mancha Castilla y León Catalonia Central Bohemia Central Denmark

Crete Croatian Pannonia Devon County Drôme Dubrovnik-Neretva Region Dumfries and Galloway

Eindhoven Emilia Romagna Estonia Estonian Culture Cities Észak-Alföld Extremadura

Gironde Gothenburg Grenoble (Alpes Métropole & City) Guimarães Hamburg Region of Hanover

Karlovy Vary Košice Region Kragujevac Krapinsko-Zagrorska Kujawsko-Pomorskie Languedoc-Roussillon

Limburg (NL) Lisbon and Tagus Valley Lithuania Liverpool Ljubljana City of Łódź

Lubelskie Lubuskie Luxembourg Madrid Region Malmö Malopolska

8 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Partner regions and cities

Aosta Valley Principality of Asturias Azores Bacau Municipality Province of Badajoz Land Baden-Württemberg

Bremen Bretagne Brussels Capital Region Budapest Province of Cáceres Canary Islands

Central Finland Central Sweden Région Centre Centro Region of Portugal Cornwall Corsica

Dunkerque East Finland East-Iceland East of England East of Scotland East Sweden

Finistère Flanders Friuli Venezia Giulia G-4 EU Oﬃ ce (Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam, Utrecht) Galicia German speaking Community (BE)

Hercegovina-Neretva Canton Ialomiţa Ile-de-France Irish Regions Istria Kadikoy

District of Larnaca Latvia Lazio Region Province of Liège Liguria Limburg (BE)

Lodzkie Voivodship London Lorraine Lower Austria Lower-Normandy Lower Saxony

Malta Marche Maribor Mayotte Mazowsze Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 9 Partner regions and cities

Merseyside Mid Norway Midi-Pyrénées Molise Montenegro Region of Murcia

Norrbotten Norte Portugal North Denmark North Rhine-Westphalia North West England Northern Ireland

Province of Ourense Province of Palermo Picardie Piedmont Pielinen Karelia Podkarpacie

Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur Puglia Republika Srpska Rhineland-Palatinate Rhône-Alpes Rome Capital City

Seferihisar Seine-saint-Denis City of Sevilla Shetland Islands Sicily Skåne

South West Finland Southern England Starogard Stavanger Steiermark Stockholm Region

City of Turku Umbria Umeå Upper Normandy Valencian Region Värmland

City of Vienna Vysocina Wales Walloon Brabant Walloon Region Warmia and Mazury

Zealand (DK) Zuid-Holland

10 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Partner regions and cities

Navarra Nicosia Niš Nitra Region Noord-Holland Nord-Pas de Calais

Northwest Switzerland North-West/Central Regions (BG) Nova Gorica Opolskie Region Orebro Oslo Region

Podlaskie Pomorskie Potenza Province of Potenza Prague Prahova County

Saarland Sarajevo Canton Sardinia Saxony Saxony Anhalt Schleswig-Holstein

Slovenia City of Soﬁ a South Aegean Periphery South Bohemia South Norway South Transdanubian Region

Šumadija Swietokrzyskie Tallinn City Timis County Torino Trenčín Region

City of Varna Västernorrland Västra Götaland Veneto Province of Venezia Venice

Warsaw West Finland West Norway West Slovenia Westpomerania Wielkopolska

Regions and cities delivering smart, sustainable and inclusive growth

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 11 12 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Opening session

Investing in Europe’s future: Regions and cities delivering smart, sustainable and inclusive growth

OPEN DAYS DAYS 2011 2009  Proceedings– European - WeekEuropean of Regions Weeks of and Regions Cities and Cities 13 Opening session

Organised by the European Commission, the Committee of the Regions and the European Parliament, the opening session of the OPEN DAYS 2011 event was held on 10 October in the hemicycle of the European Parliament. Keynote speeches expanded on the commitment of the parties to promote growth and territorial cohesion, the new challenges in fostering economic development, and the link to the Europe 2020 goals. The opening session continued with a debate on the three themes of the OPEN DAYS 2011 event: Europe 2020 and cohesion policy; Better delivery; and Geography matters.

Welcome addresses

Danuta Hübner, Chair of the European Parliament Regional power in national governments. Ms Bresso disagreed with the Development Committee, welcomed the 9th OPEN DAYS event macroeconomic conditionality introduced in the new regulations, by highlighting the important challenges to and opportunities but also touched upon some very important positive aspects, of EU growth regeneration, namely public such as the common strategic framework, and private investments. Ms Hübner “Cohesion policy, as an multilevel governance and a new category emphasised that close cooperation within investment policy, can achieve of regions (transition regions), leaving them all EU institutions on the new regulations its full impact only in an on the table for the coming debates. for cohesion policy 2014-2020 was vital. Cohesion policy 2014-2020 was intended to adequate macroeconomic and Johannes Hahn, Commissioner for be an investment policy, aiming to achieve fi nancial framework.” Regional Policy, pointed out that the OPEN smart, sustainable and inclusive growth. Danuta Hübner DAYS event reached beyond Brussels and Ms Hübner also stressed the crucial role of the EU administration. Cohesion policy and public and private, national, regional and local actors in securing growth-related issues were being addressed in many diff erent sustainable and competitive growth in the European Union (EU). regions across Europe. Mr Hahn stressed the positive impact of cohesion policy so far, and shared his conviction that it Mercedes Bresso, President of the Committee of the Regions, should stay at the centre of the European project as the main offi cially opened the OPEN DAYS by underlining that the timing investment strategy. Keeping cohesion policy at the forefront of – i.e. fi ve days after the adoption of the draft legislative package the collective strategy would help Europe achieve the objectives by the Commission – was ideal for sharing opinions and doubts of the Europe 2020 strategy. The Commissioner referred to the on the future of cohesion policy. Ms Bresso expressed her Commission’s latest proposal as “mission accomplished”. As the support for the eff orts made by the European Commission. She strength of the new cohesion policy, Mr. Hahn mentioned some stressed that “the Union did not suff er from a surfeit of cohesion of its priorities (thematic concentration, focus and fl exibility) or an overgenerous cohesion policy”; in her view, the problem and the major changes (a stronger monitoring system, ex ante lay in social and territorial inequalities and the concentration of and ex post conditionalities).

14 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Opening session

Keynote speeches

Keynote speeches expanded on the commitment of the parties to would be no stable and competitive Europe, highlighting at promote growth and territorial cohesion, on the new challenges the same time two very important elements for building a in fostering economic development, and on strong Europe: solidarity and responsibility. the link to the Europe 2020 goals. “We believe that a strong and The Commission president argued that well-fi nanced EU regional policy principles and values had not changed in Jerzy Buzek, President of the European the new cohesion policy. The key changes Parliament, said that he was pleased to is a condition sine qua non for were the policy instruments, which needed be taking part in the “biggest forum on achieving social, economic and to be modernised. To make the system more regional policies in the world”. He stressed territorial cohesion.” eff ective and inclusive, a new category of the importance of cities and regions, which transition regions would be introduced. Jerzy Buzek were communicating European policies to The role of the ESF would be increased, the general public and needed to deliver and procedures for the benefi ciaries of the growth. Mr Buzek also referred to structural policy which was Cohesion Fund simplifi ed. also an essential tool for helping European nations overcome the economic crisis. Structural policy included investing i.e. in Elżbieta Bieńkowska, Minister for Regional Development in education, employment and innovation in the regions. Mr Buzek Poland, presented the work on cohesion policy 2014-2020 from argued against the re-nationalisation of the perspective of the Polish Presidency. She regional policy. Regional policy was one of “We want a modernised said that the Polish Presidency would work the few genuine EU policies which created cohesion policy driving growth hard to keep all the deadlines regarding a sense of identity and belonging to the and competitiveness, an policy implementation, and push the European community. He also named three negotiations and compromise-setting principles which should characterise post- even more eff ective cohesion process as far as possible by December, 2013 cohesion policy: fewer priorities, policy that continues to be documented in a progress report. Outlining a simpler system and a clear European the keystone of effi cient and the way ahead, Ms Bieńkowska mentioned dimension. responsible European solidarity.” seminars, conferences and meetings which would be organised to discuss the practical José Manuel Barroso, President of the José Manuel Barroso projects for the implementation of the European Commission, began by stressing Europe 2020 strategy, the intensifi cation of the importance of this moment for Europe – gathering together the territorial dimension, EPSON and URBAN and the European with all EU institutions and regions to discuss its future, which cities networking instruments. proved the value of the European solidarity policy. Mr Barroso stressed that without stable and competitive regions, there

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 15 Opening session

Debate

The debate started with a short presentation of the new However, he emphasised that the eff ectiveness was dependent legislative package (based on symmetric centralisation, fl exibility on the regulatory and physical context in the regions and and thematic concentration) by Johannes Hahn. therefore, the conditions should be checked before the programmes were adopted. Other important points in the The Commissioner presented the proposed 2014-2020 cohesion proposal were the ex post conditionalities which rewarded policy regulation which linked cohesion policy with the Europe eff ective programmes and the simplifi cation that would 2020 goals. He elaborated on the new features such as thematic streamline the procedures. concentration and the partnership contract. The Commissioner underlined the drive to achieve greater eff ectiveness through This presentation was the stimulus for further discussion, stronger target setting and a monitoring system, ex ante and organised around the three main topics of this year’s OPEN DAYS ex post conditionalities, and the use of a performance reserve. event: Europe 2020, Better delivery and Geography matters.

Europe 2020 and cohesion policy

Ramón Luis Valcárcel Siso, President of the Region of Murcia Holger Poppenhäger, Minister for Justice in the Thüringen and First Vice-President of the CoR, noted that the principle region in Germany, expressed his belief that cohesion policy was of multilevel governance had not been incorporated into the in good hands for the future. Europe 2020 strategy, which continued to have a very top-down approach. The remaining speakers focused on their concerns about macroeconomic conditionality (Karin Kadenbach) and less Michel Delebarre, Mayor of the City of Dunkirk and chair of the privileged regions, such as mountainous areas (Jacques Leblanc). Territorial Cohesion Commission (COTER) at the Committee of the Regions, agreed “There is ever greater need In answer to these statements and questions, with the preceding speakers, but expressed to view cohesion in its three Ms Bresso agreed that Europe 2020 some concerns about the fact that national and cohesion policy might be imposing mistakes could endanger local and regional dimensions – economic, social some limitations, but with the help of the funding which generated development. and territorial – as an asset for partnership contracts prepared carefully with the European Union.” local authorities the ideal balance could be Michael Scheider, Delegate of the State maintained. Mercedes Bresso of Saxony-Anhalt and President of the EPP Group at the Committee of the Regions, Ms Hübner also admitted that it was a welcomed the package of draft regulations from Commissioner big challenge to strike a balance between conditionality and Hahn, stressing however that cohesion policy should be a long- ﬂ exibility. Ms Hübner also emphasised that the initiatives needed term policy with long-term goals, going beyond the Europe 2020 to come from the local level (bottom-up) as well. strategy. Mr Hahn, in response to some concerns about transition regions, Barbara Schwarz, Regional Minister for Social Aﬀ airs, Labour and said that simply being left out was not an option. The remaining Family in Lower Austria, expressed her support for the objectives challenge was to strike the ideal balance between national and of the Europe 2020 strategy. European objectives.

16 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Opening session

Better delivery

Flo Clucas, Member of Liverpool City Council and President of The last contribution from the fl oor came from the representative the ALDE Group at the Committee of the Regions, underlined the of the Slovenian delegation, who reminded the audience that importance of investing properly and being there were diff erent countries with diff erent result-oriented in managing the EU Funds. systems and there was a need to seek a Ms Clucas stressed the need to involve local “We not only need to keep balance between big and small projects, as people and to invest in certain cities, as the cohesion policy at the centre of small projects also improved quality of life in bottom-up approach was now lacking. As our European project, but also individual regions. regards conditionality, Ms Clucas concluded to reinforce it by making it better that we just see the sticks, not the carrots. Mr Hahn, Ms Hübner and Ms Bresso and smarter.” concluded this part by explaining the logic Jerzy Zająkała, Mayor of Łubianka, Poland, Johannes Hahn behind the macroeconomic conditionality and President of the European Alliance Group instrument. Mr Hahn stressed that the at the Committee of the Regions, underlined the diff erences penalty would only be triggered in reaction to repeated fl outing within a single region which should also be taken into account in of the general rules set by the EU. cohesion policy. To ensure better delivery, Mr Zająkała suggested that more accessible funding and better implementation and Ms Bresso also referred to the Lisbon Treaty, which enabled control, were key as they would result in better value for money. the Committee of the Regions to safeguard the subsidiarity At the end of his speech, he also expressed some criticism about principle. conditionality and penalties.

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 17 Opening session

Geography matters

Giorgos Kaminis, Mayor of Athens, focused on urban areas – Commission would be even more involved or whether it would which were in turmoil ﬁ rstly as a result of the crisis – and hoped have a more complementary role. In other words: whether local to push forward ambitious policies there. He also hoped for more authorities would have a stronger voice on how the funds were horizontal policies for the ERDF and the ESF. spent.

Roberto Molinaro, Italian Regional Minister for Education, In the last part of the debate, Jackie Davis asked the main Universities and Research from the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region speakers to identify the top priority for the future cohesion policy. that was deeply involved in crossborder cooperation, expressed concern about the future of cohesion policy, in particular its Ms Bresso stressed that energy policy was one of the most territorial dimension and competitiveness. important policies at the heart of cohesion policy, as well as being connected to urban areas. She placed emphasis on the meaning Jesús Gamallo Aller, Director-General for External Relations of territorial cohesion and underlined the role of networks as and the EU from Xunta de Galicia, mentioned that the EU crisis tools for building macroregional strategies. did not aﬀ ect all EU regions evenly, hence regional programmes were becoming more and more important. He stressed that In reference to mountainous regions, Mr Hahn said that there “democratic cohesion” was happening at regional level, and so was always an opportunity to apply for funding. However, some crossborder cooperation between regions and networking were regions had a higher and some a lower level of co-ﬁ nancing important in securing sustainable growth. (example of tailormade solutions). The Commissioner said that the top priority for cohesion policy was to make it a clear and The President of Catania Province in Italy, Giuseppe Castiglione, visible project to the general public, generating added value for thanked Commissioner Hahn for taking his recommendations everyone in Europe. To achieve this, cohesion policy should be on board. Mr Castiglione also asked about the way of managing focused, transparent and outcome-oriented. structural funds in the future, i.e. whether the European

Closing

The closing statements were delivered by Ms Hübner. She emphasised that cohesion policy should be considered an eff ective investment policy that could also be used to answer the challenges of the debt crisis and foster better governance solutions. However, an adequate macroeconomic and fi nancial framework was needed as well as a critical mass of fi nancial resources.

18 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

OPEN DAYS DAYS 2011 2009  Proceedings– European - WeekEuropean of Regions Weeks of and Regions Cities and Cities 19 Workshops Europe 2020

Do more with less – Case study: The creative sector 11A01 Outline 11 October 2011, In the current economic climate, it cannot be expected that there will be any major increases to the EU budget. We 09:00-10:45 will therefore have to find new formulas in order to be able to do more with less money. This seminar looked at how to spend EU money in a better way in order to leverage extra resources, whether through other EU instruments such Organiser: as the European Investment Bank, through national, regional and local public spending, or through private sector ALDE Group in the Committee of the contributions. The seminar used the creative sector as a case study. Regions Debate Chair: Rémi Charrier outlined the EIF proposal for the cultural and creative sector (CCS), the CCS guarantee facility, which Flo Clucas, President of the ALDE would rely on two main pillars: Group in the Committee of the − Capacity building to provide expertise on CCS financial specialities to financial intermediaries. Regions − Credit risk protection through financial guarantees to financial intermediaries building portfolios of loans in the CCS. The CCS guarantee facility would provide capacity and skills to assess credit risk by financial intermediaries as well as Speakers: significant risk cover. Rémi Charrier, Head of Product Development, European Investment Ibon Areso made an interesting presentation, which showed a number of photos highlighting the impressive changes Fund that Bilbao has undergone since the economic downturn in 1975. The whole city has been transformed from a Ibon Areso, Vice Mayor of Bilbao, traditional industrial city into one that is capable of generating new job opportunities, mainly in the service sector. The Spain city council has also encouraged cultural activities as a means of making the city more dynamic and thus generating Andreas Wiesand, Executive the economy. Director of the European Institute for Comparative Cultural Research Andreas Wiesand suggested the following actions to be taken in order to support the creative sector: 1) recognising (ERICarts) creative potentials and cultural values in the structural funds and other EU programmes; 2) protecting regional Vasco Cal, Adviser, Bureau of diversity and addressing unequal chances in global markets; 3) improving financial and investment conditions for the European Policy Advisers, European ‘micro business’ structures in the sector; 4) providing training opportunities that fit occupational needs; 5) enhancing Commission transparency through research and expertise, and 6) harmonising legal, social and VAT frameworks.

Vasco Cal summarised the proposals for a new multi-annual financial framework proposed by the European Commission and explained the schedule for the negotiations ahead. He emphasised that we need to be realistic about the budget and the envelope that the European Commission is suggesting given the current economic circumstances.

Conclusions Flo Clucas concluded this discussion by saying that culture must be seen not only as an end in itself, but as a major and effective tool in regeneration, economic growth, job creation and research. When put in this context, the EU needs to understand that through its funding streams it can add significantly to the economy of cities, regions and Member States by investing in culture and related activities in specific areas. To that end, it should consider culture and education not just as part of a distinct programme, but also as an integrated part of cohesion policy.

20 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

Territorial dimension of cohesion policy after 2013 Outline 11A02 The workshop was a joint meeting of the Committee of the Regions' Commission for Territorial Cohesion Policy (COTER) 11 October 2011, and the European Parliament Committee on Regional Development (REGI). It offered the possibility to Members of the 09:00-10:45 European Parliament and Committee of the Regions' Members to exchange views with the stakeholders attending the workshop (representatives of local and regional authorities, EU institutions, civil society, etc.). The meeting was Organiser: scheduled at a particular moment of the year, as the legislative package ruling on cohesion policy after 2013 was Committee of the Regions adopted and published by the European Commission just a few days before (6 October). (Commission for Territorial Cohesion Policy, COTER), European The thematic scenario of the event was drawn up based on the following key issues, related to the territorial dimension Parliament (Committee on Regional of cohesion policy: Development, REGI) - multilevel governance and partnership in the post 2013 era; - the pursuit of territorial cohesion: rural-urban linkages, urban dimension and functional areas; Moderator: - territorial cooperation; Mark Rogerson - interplay between Union policies: synergies between policy areas, territorial impact assessment of EU policies. Speakers: Debate Danuta Hübner, Chair, Committee In the context of global competition and crisis, the alignment of cohesion policy with the Europe 2020 strategy alongside on Regional Development, European the policy’s treaty-based mission was welcomed by Danuta Hübner. There is a need to provide an adequate answer to Parliament global competition and crisis through local responses. The proposal of the Commission puts forward several elements Michel Delebarre, Chair, allowing for a strong territorial dimension in the future policy, such as the provisions for partnership and multilevel Commission for Territorial Cohesion governance, local initiatives, integrated urban development, separate regulation for territorial cooperation, etc. Policy, Committee of the Regions Mercedes Bresso, President of the Michel Delebarre stressed the added value of multilevel governance and the active role of local and regional authorities Committee of the Regions in policy implementation. Mr Delebarre highlighted the need to fully involve LRAs in the elaboration, negotiation and Jacques Blanc, Member of the setting up of partnership contracts and stressed the need for territorial pacts. He welcomed the increased awareness Commission for Territorial Cohesion of the common strategic framework for all the funds, the urban emphasis and the local development in the proposals. Policy, Committee of the Regions However, the strong emphasis on conditionality is worrying and needs an in-depth political debate. Victor Boştinaru, Rapporteur on the Cohesion Fund, Committee on Mercedes Bresso stressed that despite the fact that territorial consideration is given to Europe 2020 objectives, the Regional Development, European number of thematic priorities should be expanded in order to take into account the diversity of the regions and their Parliament socio-economic specificities. The Committee of the Regions strongly supports the common strategic framework, Maria Irigoyen Pérez, Draftperson which should allow a better contribution of other policies to achieve the objective of territorial cohesion. However, on the ESF, Committee on Regional impact assessment analysis should better take into account the territorial dimension, in order to measure the territorial Development, European Parliament consequences of EU policies. Concerning social cohesion, it is important to support the proposal of attributing a Constanze Angela Krehl, minimum share of structural funds to the ESF, but this fund should be managed at regional level by local and regional Rapporteur, Committee on Regional authorities. Furthermore, we should ensure that local partners are directly involved in the definition of indicators within Development, European Parliament the framework of the conditionality exercise. Riikka Manner, Rapporteur on territorial cooperation, Committee Constanze Angela Krehl underlined that cohesion policy goes beyond being a delivery vehicle of the Europe 2020 on Regional Development, European strategy. The common strategic framework is a good approach to align policy areas. However, the right balance is to Parliament be found between thematic concentration and territorial specificities. The principle of partnership is still vague in the Iosif Matula, Member of proposals, and thorough analysis is needed on whether they will lead to genuine simplification. The urban dimension the Committee on Regional needs to be further developed and finally, the proposed macro-economic conditionality is not acceptable. Inter-urban Development, European Parliament cooperation is not specified in the proposals. Brian Meaney, Member of the Commission for Territorial Cohesion Joachim Zeller highlighted the fact that with the Treaty of Lisbon a new legislative situation has been created. The Policy, Committee of the Regions Council and the Parliament will certainly have disagreements on several issues, but it has to be ensured that the Petr Osvald, Rapporteur on regulations adopted correspond to the needs of the regions. territorial cooperation, Commission for Territorial Cohesion Policy, Committee of the Regions

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 21 Workshops Europe 2020

Territorial dimension of cohesion policy after 2013

Speakers: Petr Osvald highlighted the dangers of the system of conditionality and asked to provide criteria which are general and Michael Schneider, Rapporteur on based on the principle of equal treatment between regions. the ERDF, Commission for Territorial Cohesion Policy, Committee of the Victor Boştinaru stressed that the proposals should include better clarification of the environmental impact assessment, Regions and the role played by the Commission in this context. Rules providing for local and regional participation should Bernard Soulage, Member of the be binding. He commented on the need to enhance institutional capacity and to draw lessons from the previous Commission for Territorial Cohesion programming period. Policy, Committee of the Regions Romeo Stavarache, Rapporteur on Iosif Matula pointed out that cohesion policy is clearly based on solidarity and has helped several regions in increasing the Cohesion Fund, Member of the the living standards of their citizens. However, we need to measure results and performance. The governance model of Commission for Territorial Cohesion the policy should be strengthened and the involvement of local and regional authorities in drawing up the partnership Policy, Committee of the Regions contract should be ensured. The enhanced attention paid to territorial cooperation is welcome. Herwig Van Staa, Member of the Commission for Territorial Cohesion Brian Meaney identified the performance reserve as a problem since the regions are not involved in the elaboration Policy, Committee of the Regions of this principle. Joachim Zeller, Rapporteur, Committee on Regional Michael Schneider underlined that the risks are that cohesion policy remains a tool for implementing the Europe 2020 Development, European Parliament strategy and quantified objectives; that is why we need to ensure more flexibility links with Europe 2020. Multilevel Stephen Fox, West Midlands Europe governance and subsidiarity should also be adopted in the setting up of the Europe 2020 strategy. The risk is that Service, United Kingdom cohesion policy just becomes a tool for Europe 2020 objectives. Bernardo Rodrigues, Greater London Authority, United Kingdom Jacques Blanc called for emphasis to be given to the territories with permanent handicaps and notably the mountain Marie-Pierre Cabanne, General regions, which face particular problems and seem to be forgotten in the regulation. Council of Pyrenees-Atlantique, France Stephen Fox stressed that it is of concern how local/regional authorities will be involved in shaping the future cohesion policy. One has to be careful when advocating urban considerations: peri-urban regions fall into a different category, and if we want real territorial cohesion, they should not be left behind.

Herwig Van Staa pointed out that structural funds are the tool to implement Europe 2020 but flexibility should not be lost. There must be a link between different levels of authorities and instruments for multilevel governance.

Romeo Stavarache stressed that cohesion policy has proven to be an effective tool to address major challenges of infrastructure projects in the field of transport as well as the environment, and to improve competitiveness. However, a top-down approach contradicts the core principals of the cohesion policy.

Bernard Soulage said that firstly, as far as urban policy is concerned, the concept needs a larger definition in order to encompass the agglomeration and not just the metropolis. Secondly, a decentralised mechanism for urban integrated projects should be guaranteed. He thought that allocating funds for transport is a good idea but they should not be at the detriment of the structural funds.

Riikka Manner welcomed the link between cohesion policy and Europe 2020, but stressed the need for flexibility. Cohesion policy has been a success, but there are some weaknesses in the policy architecture. All regions need to be considered, not just urban areas, and sufficient attention needs to be paid to territorial cooperation, especially cross-border cooperation. Efficiency and result orientation need to be improved and regions must be involved in the partnership contract.

Maria Irigoyen Pérez stressed that attention needs to be paid to social issues, such as youth unemployment, and flexibility of current and future generations to adapt to challenges. Simplification should be further pursued. Freezing of funds should be avoided, as it punishes regions for national level misbehaviour.

22 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

Territorial dimension of cohesion policy after 2013

More information: Bernardo Rodrigues asked whether the concept of the performance reserve, as presented in the proposals, penalised www.europarl.europa.eu/ more innovative projects. Furthermore, will the access to and implementation of financial engineering instruments activities/committees/homeCom. become more complicated? The current proposals seem to point in this direction. do?language=EN&body=REGI www.cor.europa.eu/pages/ Marie-Pierre Cabanne called for a clear definition of urban areas to be set up and stressed that the urban development CommissionDetailTemplate_COTER. approach should include medium-sized cities within both urban and rural areas. spx?view=template&id=TEMPLATE_ COTER&sm=499492ad-52df-472f- Conclusions 8f3b-aa337278a62a Danuta Hübner underlined that we are in the process of interinstitutional cooperation and negotiation. Topics high on the agenda will certainly be macro-economic conditionality, simplification, partnership contract, result orientation. However, the negotiations on the future EU budget will have a strong impact on the process.

Michel Delebarre stressed that the policy should evolve towards a simplified architecture; a more complicated framework harms the added value of the policy as well as concerns and difficulties in urban areas, which needed to be taken seriously.

“I believe that many elements of this proposal will allow cohesion policy to better pursue the triangle of economic, social and territorial cohesion. However, I can only repeat my conviction, that macro-economic conditionality is counterproductive and unfair, even more so when approached from the perspective of territorial dimension.” Danuta Hübner

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 23 Workshops Europe 2020

PPP – New business models in ICT-intensive public services delivery 11A03 Outline 11 October 2011, Today, governments face growing pressure to provide a better and broader range of services, with either the same or 9:00-10:45 reduced levels of funding. At the same time, there is an increasing need to implement complex ICT solutions. During this process, substantial risks may be encountered in planning, implementing and operating complex IT programs, Organiser: which can often result in increased costs, delays and unsatisfactory results. After a first wave of PPP projects with mixed Hewlett-Packard success, the ICT industry and the public sector are now looking for new ways to fulfil the expectations by establishing new models of cooperation, responding to these new challenges. Chair: Peter O’Donnell, Associate Editor, Organised by Hewlett Packard (HP), the workshop aimed to openly discuss to what extent and under which format European Voice the ICT industry and the public sector are ready to jointly invest, and share risks and rewards from public service implementation and operation using extensive ICT. During the session, the problem was looked at from different Speakers: perspectives – from regulators, financing institutions, public service providers and the ICT industry – in order to give Sasha Bezuhanova, CEE Director, real examples of new ways of public-private partnerships. Hewlett Packard Paul Timmers, Director, ICT Debate addressing societal challenges, Sasha Bezuhanova described the evolution of IT in the public administration and explained the main reasons that Information Society and Media DG, drive public sector transformation. She also outlined HP’s experience in business process outsourcing, IT outsourcing European Commission and PPP, and mentioned some HP customer case studies, which showed HP’s proven experience in e-government Dinand Tinholt, Project Director of projects worldwide and highlighted the company’s potential role as knowledge partner for public administrations. The SPOCS, Capgemini presentation ended with some key recommendations, emphasising that service-level agreement precision is crucial to Geert Mareels, e-government significantly reduce pricing and delivery risks on both sides, and calling for long-term partnerships to better reap the Manager, Flemish Government benefits of outsourcing contracts. Andy Carty, Advisor to the European PPP Expertise Centre, EIB Paul Timmers outlined the different options currently available for PPPs, focusing in particular on the Connecting Europe Facility, a new fund proposed under the 2014-2020 budget, which aims at boosting pan-European values of infrastructure projects through more interconnectivity. This instrument will have a budget of EUR 50 billion and will cover the areas of transport, energy and ICT, using innovative financing tools in order to speed up and secure greater investment. Mr Timmers stressed that the Connecting Europe Facility can potentially break through the deadlocks in the market and have a positive impact by creating new jobs and increasing the efficiency of public services.

Dinand Tinholt described SPOCS, a large-scale pilot project launched in 2009, which aims at overcoming the obstacles that businesses seeking to expand into other countries usually face. Since July 2011, this project has been streamlining online procedures involved in establishing a business, providing services in another EU country and offering seamless cross-border technology. Mr Tinholt emphasised that the key role of cross-border activities is to stimulate the improvement of public services and highlighted the importance of thinking about citizens’ needs instead of technologies in order to increase the effectiveness of public services.

Geert Mareels illustrated the MAGDA platform, a system built in 2005 in close partnership with HP to facilitate data exchange between the Flemish administrations, the Federal Government and the 308 Flemish municipalities. MAGDA has so far been very successful and has reached 25 million data exchanges per year, allowing substantial cost savings and enabling Flemish citizens to receive government benefits and services more efficiently and quickly. Mr Mareels stressed the importance of data sharing as a way of reducing the administrative burden for citizens and emphasised the need to use more technologies to meet public goals.

Andy Carty focused on the sustainability of e-government platforms and showed how e-government services can have a greater impact on both businesses and public administration, allowing significant potential savings by using broadband to reduce administrative burdens or modernise the administrative processes. The key to achieving these savings is increasing the take up, which in turn can be done by improving services and infrastructures. The presentation also tackled the theme of PPPs in e-government and highlighted that PPPs have a great potential to improve the sustainability of e-government projects by bringing down the total costs of public administration and providing a better service to users.

24 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

PPP – New business models in ICT-intensive public services delivery

Conclusions Peter O’Donnell concluded the workshop by making the following points:

• A detailed and precise service-level agreement can significantly help both public-sector and private companies to reduce pricing and delivery risks. • The benefits of outsourcing contracts can be best reaped through long-term partnerships. • ICT plays a key role in boosting the efficiency of public services and in helping to meet public goals. • The different approaches that Member States have toward PPP represent an opportunity more than an obstacle. • The cross-border dimension of e-government services stimulates improvements in public services. • Sharing of efforts and willingness to find joint solutions between the public and private sector are one of the keys for PPP projects’ success. • PPPs have a great potential to improve the sustainability of e-government projects by bringing down the total costs of public administration and providing a better service to users.

"The diﬀ erent approaches that Member States have toward PPP represent an opportunity more than an obstacle." Sasha Bezuhanova

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 25 Workshops Europe 2020

Urban Europe: Towards an urban dimension of future cohesion policy 11A05 Outline 11 October 2011, Cities are key players for delivering the Europe 2020 strategy. Future cohesion policy will take this into account and 09:00-10:45 put an increased emphasis on the urban contribution to smart, sustainable and inclusive growth. This new, ‘ambitious urban agenda’ which has been evoked by the conclusions of the fifth cohesion report, includes a series of actions. The Organiser: workshop reflected on different aspects of the urban dimension of the future cohesion policy, and focused on the Regional Policy DG, European challenges and opportunities for different kinds of actions to be carried out in urban areas with support from structural Commission funds.

Chair: Nicholas Martyn, Deputy Director Debate General, Regional Policy DG, Jan Olbrycht welcomed the fact that the urban dimension was becoming clearer and a priority task for the EU. He European Commission stressed the need for an integrated approach in all policies, as administrations tended to be ‘sectorialised’ through their own procedures, own money and own powers. The integrated approach was of particular importance for Speakers: urban areas, because managing cities was not possible in a sectorial way and by definition required an integrated Jan Olbrycht, Member of the approach. This meant not only taking economic, social and environmental aspects into account (sustainability), but European Parliament also a multidimensional approach and the active participation of all actors involved. The integrated approach should Piotr Żuber, Director, Ministry be mandatory in future regulations. of Regional Development of the Republic of Poland Piotr Żuber pointed out that for a more efficient delivery of public policies funding needed to be concentrated. To Rudolf Niessler, Director, Regional deliver the Europe 2020 strategy, an integrated approach that took into account the specificities of different territories Policy DG, European Commission was key. To improve the use of structural funds, a coherent regulatory system was necessary to coordinate policies at Paul Bevan, Secretary General, European, national and regional levels. Cohesion policy should find ways to promote multilevel governance, not only Eurocities through partnership and coordination, but real participation. As cities were not always the most appropriate level, Valérie Lapenne, Inter-ministerial cohesion policy should go beyond administrative boundaries and take a functional approach. Secretariat for urban and social development, France Rudolf Niessler highlighted the main cornerstones of the future policy. The strategic and place-based approach would be fostered at three levels: common strategic framework, partnership contracts and operational programmes. The main concern would be the thematic concentration on Europe 2020. An increased focus would be put on sustainable urban development through allocating at least 5% of national ERDF resources to cities, supporting innovative urban actions “Europe has a model and setting up an urban development platform to complement other forms of networking. Integrated programming would be reinforced through multi-fund programmes, integrated territorial investments and community-led local of urban development development. which is a competitive Paul Bevan stressed that 85% of Europe’s GDP was generated in cities. The attractiveness of cities was an increasingly asset. We must build on important economic development factor. Cities were living laboratories for smart technologies and involving citizens the strength of European and consumers. At the same time, cities allowed for the most sustainable form of development due to the density and compactness of urban areas. Yet, Europe’s cities needed to become greener and more resource-efficient. Attractive and cities and not neglect it.” successful cities also offered the necessary infrastructure and facilities for social inclusion and the fight against poverty. Europe should thus invest more than just 5% of ERDF resources in smart, sustainable and inclusive cities. Paul Bevan Valérie Lapenne pointed out that France had had good experience with support for sustainable urban development coming from regional competitions. Integrated urban development strategies were prerequisite for supporting the revitalisation of deprived neighbourhoods. All actors, including cities, were involved in a territorial governance structure with clearly defined roles. Although most cities did not choose to take over the fund management from the regional level, they took the lead when implementing urban strategies and projects. The actions driven by cities achieved large leverage effects. The ERDF support allowed additional themes to be addressed that were not covered by national funds.

Conclusions Nicholas Martyn concluded that there was broad consensus about the need for the integrated approach and about its added value, especially in the context of urban development. However, the question remained as to how to make it happen on the ground. There were different opinions about how far the integrated approach and coordination between sectors and people could be forced. Some claimed that introducing obligations was the only way to ensure that the integrated approach was enhanced. Others stated that the integrated approach should remain optional, but should be promoted through incentives and additional benefits. A compromise might be a minimum obligation that could easily be achieved in all Member States. Apart from that, the administrative burden to implement integrated actions should be reduced and procedures simplified, for example through ‘one-stop-shop’ solutions with a single agency for beneficiaries of multi-fund programmes.

26 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

Regions delivering on sustainable energy strategies – Good practice examples from regional players

Outline 11A06 How can regional bodies steer the delivery of Europe 2020 targets on energy and climate change? This workshop 11 October 2011, aimed to present good practice examples of planning, financing and implementing concrete actions within the regions 9:00-10:45 to deliver sustainable energy measures. The workshop reflected the variety of important actors at regional level and their different approaches to stimulate uptake of energy efficiency and renewable energy solutions. The engagement Organiser: of public authorities in delivering the European 2020 targets is also highlighted in the European Energy Efficiency European Commission, Executive Plan. The presentations focused on achievements of a regional development agency, a regional energy agency and a Agency for Competitiveness and managing authority of operational programmes. It also featured a recently developed toolbox for regional bodies in Education (EACI) and Regional Policy the framework of the Energy DG's Intelligent Energy Europe programme. DG

Conclusions Chair: The workshop illustrated how regional actors can support sustainable energy planning, which is an important starting Vincent Berrutto, Head of point for mobilising investment for energy efficiency and renewable energy measures in the regions. Regional Unit, Executive Agency for sustainable energy action plans provide the content for implementing financing tools such as the ERDF. There is a wealth Competitiveness and Innovation of guidance available for regional and local authorities on energy planning, which is based on practical experiences. Regional development agencies and regional energy agencies should be engaged in energy planning as they provide Speakers: useful skills and capacity to assist regional authorities in the development and implementation of action plans and the Maud Skaringer, Policy Analyst, mobilisation of funds for concrete projects. The Managing Authority (MA) demonstrated that it is possible to amend the Regional Policy DG current Operational Programme and allocate a higher share towards energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. Miram Badino, Province of Genoa - The Dutch MAs are starting a network to share sustainable energy experiences amongst managing authorities. IEE project Energy4Mayors, Italy Elena Monitroni, Project Manager, Common objectives are set at EU level, but action needs to take place at local level to mobilise and engage all actors. Regional Development Agency of The following was learned from three important actors at the workshop: Marche, Italy Jelle Wiarda, Programme Manager, • From the Regional Development Agency of Marche which is the interface between the region and its municipalities: Samenwerkingsverband Noord- helping the latter to develop their sustainable energy action plans in the context of regional strategy. Nederland, the Netherlands Bartosz Dubinski, President, • From the Managing Authority in the north of the Netherlands: it amended its operational programme to further Managing Board, Mazovia Energy promote sustainable energy measures. Agency, Poland

• From the Regional Energy Agency of Mazovia, which is more specialised: it not only assisted the region in energy More information: planning and capacity building, but also provided expert advice to the managing authority in charge of the cohesion http://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/ policy programme. projects/stories/index_en.cfm http://ec.europa.eu/energy/ There is support for all committed regional authorities who want to move towards becoming a low-carbon region. The intelligent EU cohesion and energy policies offer dedicated funding programmes, which includes the Intelligent Energy – Europe http://toolbox.climate-protection.eu programme that promotes the uptake of energy efficiency and renewable energy measures. http://regions202020.eu www.managenergy.net

"Low-carbon regions can easily become a reality when actors collaborate together and capitalise on the experiences and skills available to hand." Martin Eibl

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 27 Workshops Europe 2020

Mobile Internet: A key tool to fill the digital divide 11A07 Outline 11 October 2011, Broadband is a key factor of competitiveness for the European territories. How can local institutions and companies 09:00-10:45 collaborate to bring connectivity everywhere? This debate will bring to light the lessons learned from Vodafone and from the institutions involved in three projects: Organiser: the deployment of LTE in Germany, the developments in Romania and the ‘1000Comuni’ project in Italy. Both the Vodafone Group speakers from Vodafone and those from the other organisations gave an outline of their success stories, highlighting the lessons drawn from their experience and explaining how and under what conditions these experiences can be Chair: replicated in other EU regions, including using PPPs. Matthew Kirk, Director of External Affairs, Vodafone Group Debate Speakers: Marian Velicu introduced the Vodafone Romania country coverage of 3G services, which was announced in April Raed Arafat, Under-secretary of 2010. The deployment was able to take place due to re-farming in the 900 MHz spectrum, which now enables access to State for Health, Romania mobile Internet for 90% of Romania’s population, at speeds of up to 21.6 Mbps. Marian Velicu, Director, Corporate Affairs, Vodafone Romania Raed Arafat presented the SMURD (the Romanian Emergency Service), which constitutes one of the most extensive Marcus Schafft, Mayor of Hofbieber, tele-medicine programmes in the EU. Thanks to a partnership with Vodafone, new equipment and mobile broadband Germany communication services have been included in existing tele-medicine solutions. Now the SMURD ambulances can Thomas Ellerbeck, Director, communicate via mobile broadband with an operating centre where medical personnel can give advice to each Communication and Political Affairs, ambulance crew. This increased efficiency and the effectiveness of the emergency response is saving more lives. Vodafone Germany Paolo Bianchini, Councillor for Thomas Ellerbeck outlined the results of the deployment of LTE mobile networks across Germany. LTE is the latest European Policies, Province of generation of mobile broadband technology. The main advantages are that broadband Internet access is being Viterbo, Italy extended to German rural regions and it allows for speeds equal or higher than the typical DSL (up to 50Mbps). This Marco Zangani, Head of radio has been possible with investments from telecom operators following the auctions of 800 Mhz spectrum band (digital access network, Vodafone Italy dividend). And no government funding was needed.

More information: Marcus Schafft explained how the life of citizens changed after LTE arrived in Hofbieber, a city of 6 400 inhabitants www.vodafone.com/eu in the German state of Hesse. The city hosts 450 companies, schools, public administrations, tourism facilities and agricultural activities. Before the LTE, the availability of broadband was very low: the average daily Internet usage for businesses was 438 minutes. Now it is 828 minutes. The main benefits of LTE are: 1) making broadband speeds in rural areas comparable to larger cities; 2) enabling the use of Internet radio, internet telephony and IPTV; 3) low-migration complexity from the original infrastructure.

Marco Zangani described the ‘MilleComuni’ project launched by Vodafone Italia in 2010, with the aim of mapping the ‘digital divide’ villages across Italy and bringing broadband to at least 1 000 communities. Vodafone activated a website and a toll-free number where citizens can signal their village and apply to get 3G data coverage. The initial estimate was “Mobile Internet changes for 2 000 villages without any kind of broadband coverage. In October 2011, Vodafone had already received over 3 000 the lives of our citizens applications, covering 331 villages. and of our businesses by Paolo Bianchini highlighted the case of Civita Castellana, a city in the Province of Viterbo, which is also known for making ceramics. He explained how the ‘1000Comuni’ project worked, which allowed Vodafone to better target connecting us to new network investments in areas where the demand for fast Internet access is growing. Thanks to the arrival of mobile opportunities of growth.” broadband, the companies based in Civita Castellana started using ICT solutions to empower their businesses. Many of them now use e-commerce solutions and have increased their productivity as a result. Paolo Bianchini

Conclusions Matthew Kirk summed up the discussion by saying that Internet access is a key enabler of productivity, growth and inclusion. Therefore, the deployment of networks is a top priority for EU regions. There are different technologies that can deliver the ‘Internet for all’ objective. Mobile broadband is a flexible, cheaper and faster solution compared to others. The three success stories presented during the conference represent a best practice that can be replicated in other areas of Europe by promoting cooperation between public and private actors.

28 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

Creative cities and regions for an innovative Europe 11A08 Outline 11 October 2011, Creative cities and regions put innovation and culture at the heart of their work. By seeking progress across all 11:15-13:00 economic, social and cultural spheres, they can improve their attractiveness, enhance citizens’ quality of life and foster competitiveness. They generate creative dynamics that drive a knowledge-based economy, economic growth and Organiser: social revitalisation. Diputació de Barcelona (Barcelona Provincial Council) The Province of Barcelona led a consortium that brought together the experiences of the cities of Varna, Liverpool, Vienna and Sofia, as well as those of the regions of Central Finland, Ljubljana, Puglia, Pomorskie and Wielkopolska. Chair: Neil Peterson, Head of International Within the framework of the Europe 2020 strategy, this debate tried to identify the new opportunities that ‘creative and Commercial Relations, Liverpool activities’ linked to creative economy can bring to a territory, and analyse the role of arts and culture in the relationship City Council, United Kingdom between creativity, innovation and competitiveness. In this framework, best practices and some projects co-funded with structural funds were also presented. Keynote speaker: Xavier Troussard, Head of Unit Debate for Culture policy, diversity and Xavier Troussard outlined the contribution of the cultural and creative industries which amounted to 2.6% of EU intercultural dialogue, Education and GDP and 5 million jobs. He also underlined that the creative cities and regions put innovation and culture at the heart Culture DG, European Commission of their work; they generate creative dynamics that drive knowledge-based economy, economic growth and social revitalisation. Finally he defended that culture must act as catalyst for innovation and creativity, while promoting Speakers: sustainable and inclusive growth. Eduard Miralles, Cultural Relations Advisor, Barcelona Provincial Council Neil Peterson, who moderated the debate, explained that the increase of cultural activities in Liverpool came about as and chair of the Interarts Foundation, a result of increased cooperation and communication between Liverpool and other regions in Europe since the United Spain Kingdom’s accession. He underlined the role of local authorities which realised that investing in the development of Petar Radushev, Head of cultural activities returns the money invested. He pleaded that authorities from European to local levels should stimulate International Relations, Programmes and support people involved in developing culture. and Projects, City of Varna, Bulgaria Raija Partanen, Project Manager Eduard Miralles focused on the need for an innovative way of thinking for the future development of cultural industries. for creative economy and culture He pointed out that new initiatives should be supported at all levels by society and public authorities, inventing new projects, Regional Council, Central ways of governing, promoting, creating and preserving culture. He emphasised the fact that cities, regions and citizens Finland should be involved in the culture development process, and insisted on the idea that “big changes are possible”. Lilijana Madjar, Director, Regional Development Agency, Ljubljana Petar Radushev emphasised the importance of public-private partnerships for the development of cultural industries. Urban Region, Slovenia Varna has implemented several project initiatives, such as festivals, in partnership with local organisations, businesses Larry Okey Ugwu, Director, Baltic and individuals, which have achieved excellent results and now bring large benefits to the municipality. The importance Sea Cultural Centre, Pomorskie of municipal authorities in promoting the city as a cultural destination was also highlighted, as well as their role in the Region, Poland effective absorption of EU funds for cultural development. Silvio Maselli, CEO, Foundation Apulia Film Commission, Italy Raija Partanen gave an interesting example of how her region used creativity in the local industry of tractor production, Sybille Straubinger, Member, which is promoted as a local tradition and gives clients the opportunity to participate in the production process of their Vienna City Council, Austria own tractor. Mrs Partanen also claimed that smaller cities and villages have a communication advantage due to their Joanna Waligóra, Deputy Director, size, which makes the exchange of information and ideas easier. Economy Department, Marshal Office, Wielkopolska Region, Poland Lilijana Madjar focused on the comprehensive infrastructure Ljubljana provides for its citizens. The well developed Svetlana Lomeva, former Bulgarian transport system offers the opportunity for a fast and safe journey to ‘hot spots’ of cultural activities in the region. She Deputy Minister of education, youth assessed that such infrastructure and facilities, as well as good communication amongst all stakeholders, are key factors and science and current executive for a better development of culture in a city or a region. director of Sofia Development Association, Bulgaria Larry Okey Ugwu expressed the need to give individuals the ability to demonstrate, develop and achieve their creative potential and thus contribute to cultural development. He emphasised that individuals can become inventors and if we provide them with the required conditions, can generate businesses and contribute to economical and cultural growth. Mr Ugwu also stated that “cultural industries are the industries of the future”.

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 29 Workshops Europe 2020

Creative cities and regions for an innovative Europe

More information: Silvio Maselli pointed out that the involvement of all stakeholders in the development of culture is crucial for creating Information brochure employment. As an example he presented a project co financed with structural funds concerning the film industry in www.diba.cat/ his region, where authorities, businesses and individuals work together creating added value. He defended the idea that documents/228621/3d6aa83d-92f6- the creation of a “space” where individuals and organisations can share experiences and capabilities is key for cultural 4a63-9f55-31532f14dacd development.

With its operas, theatres, museums, exhibitions, etc., Vienna has much to say on how to develop and preserve culture. Sybille Straubinger discussed the great cooperation between national and local authorities and other stakeholders involved in cultural activities in her city. She emphasised the role of public authorities in promoting the city as a cultural destination and presented several initiatives, like the creation of the Departure Agency, which have brought excellent results to the city.

Joanna Waligóra discussed the need for a general mentality change, for which public authorities should play a central role, and insisted on raising awareness about creativity in individuals. She presented the example of Wielkopolska, which organises exhibitions and events where individuals are able to exchange information and learn from successful experiences. These activities help individuals realise their potential to be creative and innovative.

Svetlana Lomeva shared the Sofia Municipality’s cultural grant-making experience and the latest results from research in the cultural sector. She emphasised the role of Sofia as a driver for the development of the neighbouring cities and regions through cultural decentralisation. The City of Sofia was presented as an example of a city with a high concentration of cultural activities, and as a successful creator and guardian of existing cultural traditions.

Conclusions Neil Peterson outlined the main conclusions from the discussion. These were: • the need for clearer aims within the cultural programme regarding territorial cohesion; • generating and implementing cultural policies that stimulate and support the creative industries through different instruments, such as laboratories (not observatories) – places for real interaction between artists, businesses and other stakeholders, as well as cooperation with other sectors; • the creation of instruments and indicators to measure the impact of cultural and creative industries in regard to enabling informed decision-making and evidence-based policy-making.

“The future of European cities depends to a signiﬁ cant degree on their ability to use their cultural and creative assets for the beneﬁ t of both economy and community.” Neil Peterson

30 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

European capitals of culture stimulating cultural and creative industries Outline 11A09 The debate showcased how the European Capital of Culture projects contribute to the development of cities and 11 October 2011, regions by stimulating cultural and creative industries and thus implementing the goals of the Europe 2020 strategy. All 11:15-13:00 the participating cities and regions share this goal but they each have their own unique approach to achieve it. Organiser: The discussion of the debate also elaborated the actual European Union policy development: the cultural and creative European Capitals of Culture industries are seen as important means to support innovation and economic growth, and it is acknowledged in several EU strategies and initiatives (Europe 2020 strategy and its flagships Innovation Union and Digital Agenda, and the Green Chair: Paper on unlocking the potential of cultural and creative industries). Hajo Freidrich, Journalist, T-online

Among the panellists were representatives of former, current and future European Capitals of Culture which enabled a Speakers: broad approach in the discussion and exchange of good practices. Anna Olofsson, Head of City Marketing, City of Umeå, Sweden After the introductory speeches from the speakers, the floor was opened to a lively discussion with the audience. Cay Sevón Oliver Scheytt, General Manager, European Capital of Culture RUHR.2010, Essen, Germany Lilijana Stepančič, Public Institute Maribor 2012, European Capital of Culture, Maribor, Slovenia Toomas Vitsut, Chairman, Tallinn City Council, Estonia Aleksandr Protasevitch, Ministry of Culture, Youth policy and mass communication, Perm krai region, Russian Federation

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 31 Workshops Europe 2020

Regional responses to the Europe 2020 strategy with particular focus on energy efficiency 11A10 Debate 11 October 2011, Teodoro Garcia put forward the main working areas of the agency, such as promoting PPPs (mainly energy service 11:15-13:00 companies), developing energy-adapted financing schemes, increasing energy consumption awareness-raising measures, and providing innovative and proportional incentives for the private sector (both individuals and businesses). Organiser: He emphasised that all the municipalities and cities from the Region of Murcia have signed the European Covenant Representation of Saxony-Anhalt to of Mayors and that, due to the potential of this initiative, it is one of the strategic cornerstones of the agency. As a the European Union consequence, ARGEM became a supporting structure of this European initiative in 2010 in order to support and implement the Regional Energy Efficiency protocol at local level. To conclude, Mr Garcia reiterated the importance of Chair: the regional government’s commitment to fight against climate change and how it is working to achieve European Thomas Wobben, Director of the objectives. Representation Manuel Irun outlined the Valencian strategy. To ensure energy supply within optimum safety, quality and price Speakers: conditions, the Regional Government proposes its own energy model in line with common European and Spanish Teodoro Garcia, Managing Director energy policies. The Valencian Regional Government’s objectives are: to consolidate self-reliance in power generation; of the Energy Agency of the Region secure the supply of natural gas; improve the quality and continuity of the energy supply; improve access for all citizens of Murcia (ARGEM), Spain to the distribution networks of natural gas and electric networks; provide a clear commitment to renewable energy Dr Manuel Irun, Head of sources; and promote savings and energy efficiency. The regional energy policy priorities are defined within the Competitiveness, Innovation and Strategic Infrastructure Plan 2010-2020 of the Valencia Region with the following lines of action: electricity generation; Sustainability Unit, Valencian Region natural gas infrastructure; renewable energy; energy saving and energy efficiency. Delegation in Brussels Andras Ibranyi, Planning manager In its Regional Scheme for Planning and Sustainable Development (SRADDT) and its Climate Energy Plan, and in order Észak-Alföld Regional Development to become an ‘eco-region for everyone’, the Region Centre plans to reach ambitious targets regarding the Europe 2020 Agency, Hungary strategy in the field of energy and climate change. By 2020 it plans to reduce greenhouse gases by 40% (based on 1990) Bartosz Dubinski, President of the throughout the regional territory, to produce at least 23% renewable energy and to reach a target of 20% on energy Managing Board, Mazovia Energy savings. Therefore, in partnership with the French Environment and Energy Management Agency (ADEME) and the Agency, Poland French government, Region Centre supports the industrial sector, farmers, citizens and local authorities.

Region Centre places great emphasis on energy efficiency in buildings through professional training, offers 0% interest loans for individuals, constructs positive energy buildings and encourages an extended use of renewable energy.

Conclusions

Thomas Wobben said the workshop showed the extent of the challenges for the regions in Europe to meet the Europe 2020 targets with regard to energy efficiency. But the workshop also showed the inspiration and enthusiasm of local actors to create the momentum for a change towards energy efficiency. “Change must happen It became obvious that only local and regional authorities are able to develop the necessary local partnerships on the here and now!” ground to deliver these changes and despite all the different situations in the regions, it also became clear that there is Susanne Mittag much to exchange on in the future.

32 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

How to incubate service innovation through structural funds Outline 11A12 The objective of the workshop was to highlight the role of structural funds in creating the suitable framework conditions 11 October 2011, and business environment for European SMEs to develop and thus trigger innovation and, in particular, service 11:15-13:00 innovation. In the past, there has been a strong focus on the construction of hard infrastructures, which structural funds largely supported, but what is the value of an airport to a region without any surrounding services? Organiser: While investments in research might take decades to impact on a region’s economy, support to technology transfer, European Commission, Regional design or creativity can allow a new service innovation to grow in a few months and rapidly become competitive. Policy DG; European Commission, With blurring boundaries between manufacturing and services, service innovation also has the ability to rejuvenate Enterprise and Industry DG traditional sectors, such as tourism. Two concrete examples of the use of structural funds in implementing service innovation were also presented, showing Chair: tangible applications in regions across Europe. Eurico Neves, Director of Inova Europe and Lead Expert Unit Project Debate (Urbact), Inova Europe Reinhard Büscher insisted on the transformative power of service innovation for regions in Europe. Taking the example of the gaming industry that has recently been developed in Mülheim in North-Rhine Westphalia, he showed Speakers: how service innovation could impact the whole value chain and generate faster, and possibly larger, effects than Reinhard Büscher, Head of Unit, investments in research activities. He stressed how important it was for regions to address the problems they face by Support for Industrial Innovation, building upon their talents and assets. European Commission, Enterprise and Industry DG Karolina Loth-Babut explained how the structural funds were being used in the GreenConServe two-step voucher Karolina Loth-Babut, Krajowa scheme (funded under the Europe INNOVA initiative) and gave examples of six regional initiatives that provide access Agencja, Poszanowania Energii SA, to technical and business support services to service innovators in the construction industry. She also highlighted Poland the study ‘Greening the construction sector – Towards a value-adding service industry,’ which assesses the voucher Angelos Manglis, Atlantis Research schemes and provides conclusions and recommendations for the future implementation of voucher schemes financed Agnieszka Truszczynska, Support by the structural and cohesion funds. for Industrial Innovation, European Commission, Enterprise and Industry Angelos Manglis highlighted that “mobile technologies are changing the world we live in. It is a sector where R&D DG results go quickly and directly to citizens.” In Greece, which is building upon a strong mobile industry, the voucher Claus Schultze, Regional Policy DG, scheme that was developed under MOBIP (funded under the Europe INNOVA initiative) is now being followed up and European Commission expanded by the Greek authorities through a ‘Digi-mobile voucher’. The total budget of this scheme is EUR 15 million and it aims to promote mobile services across all sectors. More information: www.europe-innova.eu/web/guest/ The use of structural funds for service innovation should be market-driven and act as a catalyst for job creation. This was innovation-in-services/overview highlighted in the recommendations and final report of the Expert Panel on Service Innovation in the EU, presented in February 2011. To support this recommendation, the Enterprise and Industry DG is preparing a guide to provide regional structural fund managing authorities with a toolbox on how to use the money to incubate service innovation.

Conclusions “Betting on service Claus Schultze, from Regional Policy DG, concluded the workshop by summing up the discussions as follows: The innovation is a smart focus of structural funds is moving from strengthening infrastructures to developing knowledge in European regions. The rationale is to have more impact on, and create more value for the economies, building upon available strengths choice for regions in and resources. The Commission’s smart specialisation strategy encourages all regions to concentrate on a few thematic Europe to rapidly boost priorities and build their innovation strategy accordingly. Service innovation is one of the areas that should feature prominently in many regions’ strategies for its ability to rapidly integrate and add value to the existing regional their competitiveness.” economic fabric. Reinhard Büscher

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 33 Workshops Europe 2020

Sustainable mobility in the EU: Electromobility, biogas and biofuels – Local and regional answers

11A14 Outline 11 October 2011, This political debate focused on the responses at regional and local levels to questions on sustainable mobility in the 14:30-17:00 framework of European Union initiatives. Cities and regions are crucial partners for a successful implementation of the Europe 2020 strategy and share the EU’s and Members States’ interest in policy objectives, such as reducing the Organiser: adverse impacts of transport. Regions and cities play a fundamental role in the deployment of sustainable mobility Region Västra Götaland (e-mobility, biogas or biofuels). Strong cooperation is required between citizens, cities and regions, Member States, vehicle manufacturers, infrastructure owners, energy suppliers and other stakeholders to enable the use of these new Chair: technologies. The debate was followed up by the expert workshop: ‘E-Vehicle: the way to succeed’. Jean Yves Le Drian, President of Brittany Region and President of Debate the Automotive Intergroup of the Committee of the Regions Setting the scene for e-mobility Alex Bergström, Member of the Laure Chapuis emphasised the importance of mobility for safe transport, a competitive economy and connections Executive Board of Region Västra throughout Europe. She outlined the challenges for the transport sector: climate change, congestion, safety issues Götaland, Sweden and the supply of energy. Furthermore, the Commission has presented the White Paper on the challenges to achieve sustainable transport systems by 2030. For the near future, Mrs Chapuis stressed the importance of harmonising fuel Speakers: and infrastructure strategies across Europe. Laure Chapuis, Member of the Cabinet of Vice President Siim Kallas, Patrick Lambert emphasised that more efficient transportation, adapted to the needs of the population, is one European Commission part of the goal to reduce CO2 emissions that Dunkirk is strongly committed to. He stressed three aspects of public Patrick Lambert, Greater Dunkirk transportation for achieving this goal: infrastructure, reliable speed and comfortable travel. Mr Lambert concluded Council, France by saying that one contemporary challenge is to find new ways to live in our cities, instead of just building more Xavier Garmendia, Deputy Minister motorways. for Industry and Energy, Basque Country Regional Government, Spain Xavier Garmendia shared the goal of the Basque region: at least 10% of the cars sold in the region should be electric Ana Teresa Lehmann, Vice or hybrid vehicles by 2020. In cooperation with the automotive industry and potential users, the Basque region takes President, North Portugal Region action to create a network of recharging points, a critical mass of demand and adapt the legal framework in order to Tomàs Villanueva, Regional provide incentives for a shift towards electric vehicles. Minister for Economy and Employment, Castilla y León, Spain Ana Teresa Lehmann firstly outlined the comprehensive approach to e-mobility that North Portugal has implemented Franck Dumeignil, Professor USTL, in cooperation with the national and local levels of government, as well as national and international companies for Région Nord-Pas de Calais, France ten years. She then described the maturity of the technological system of the project ‘Mobi.E’ that has spurred interest Ingjerd Schou, Member of from, for example, Shanghai in China. She concluded by sharing the goal to spread their model throughout Europe, as Norwegian Parliament well as globally. Anneli Hulthén, Executive Mayor, City of Gothenburg, Sweden Tomàs Villanueva presented Castilla y León’s ‘Strategy for the Electric Vehicle’, which will cover the period from Claude Gewerc, President, Picardy 2011 to 2015. All pillars for the development of the electric vehicle are considered: industrialisation and technological Regional Council, France development, infrastructures, market and cluster development of electric mobility. By 2015, the electric vehicle park is expected to have 15,000 units. A total of EUR 82 million is to be invested in the strategy, with a contribution of EUR 18 million from the Regional Government.

Panel debate on e-mobility The subject of subsidies was discussed in this debate. On the one hand subsidies can contribute to establishing a market for electric cars. On the other hand, subsidies may impair the effectiveness of the market. It was also expressed that indirect subsidies in the form of environmental tax exemption could be less market-distorting than direct subsidies.

Setting the scene for biogas and bio-fuels Franck Dumeignil expressed that one major technological hurdle for biofuels is the integration of chemical production and its high added-value with fuel production, which has a low added-value. He presented calculations that indicated that investments in the order of EUR 10 billion are required to develop biofuels at present. In addition, subsidies are needed in order for the biochemical industry to develop properly.

34 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

Sustainable mobility in the EU: Electromobility, biogas and biofuels – Local and regional answers

Ingjerd Schou stressed the importance of holistic solutions for biogas and biofuels in Europe with common standards “In order to boost and aligned legislation across administrative borders in order to create a level playing field. In this context, she pointed out that different geographical locations are conducive for different biofuels. She emphasised the legislative the development of introduction of consistent incentives for a shift from fossil fuels to biofuels. e-mobility, biogas and Anneli Hulthén explained Gothenburg’s intentions and plans to be fossil independent by 2030. A EUR 3.5 billion biofuels in regions infrastructural package in the region includes measures to improve commuting by train. Such large investments require across the European political unity and collaboration between the different levels of government, academia and business. She described the development of using biogas as transport fuel in the city of Gothenburg during the last ten years and presented Union, the EU should Gothenburg’s plans for the largest biogas plant in the world. construct eﬀ ective Claude Gewerc presented the work carried out by the Picardy region from the 1980s onwards to promote biogas ﬁ nancial instruments and biofuels, as well as the current plans for a bio refinery. He stressed the importance of creating an independent and and dedicated funding competitive industry in the long term. One important issue he raised was the potential conflict between food and fuel production. Continued increased crop yields are essential to find a balance between these two. opportunities, as well as continuously work for Panel debate on biogas and biofuels In the panel debate on biogas and biofuels, the matters of harmonisation and common standards were discussed. legislative harmonisation On the one hand it was expressed that several technologies must be tested before evaluation can be made and that and standardisation will require several different alternatives to phase out fossil fuels. On the other hand, it was expressed that common standards and harmonisation is needed in order to create an environment that is conducive to investing in future within the European technologies and infrastructure. Union and beyond.” Alex Bergström Conclusions The conclusions drawn from these discussions are: • Climate change: there is a need to diversify fuel supply, congestion and safety issues are contemporary challenges for mobility in Europe. • In Europe there are the several innovative projects on e-mobility, biogas and biofuels. • In the future, the competitiveness of e-mobility, biogas and biofuels as independent industries will be a great challenge. • The collaboration between different levels of government, business and academic partners is vital for substantial investments in e-mobility, biogas and biofuels. • A comprehensive and holistic approach that takes into account technology, infrastructure and demand is essential for successful measures in e-mobility, biogas and biofuels. • The cooperation and sharing of best practices between regions and cities are imperative for a successful deployment of alternative fuels and both should continue and intensify. • The European Commission should, in deliberation with Member States, regions and cities, further investigate how to construct effective subsidies to support the development of e-mobility, biogas and biofuels without distorting the market excessively. • The Commission should investigate the need for standardising and harmonising infrastructure and for alternative fuels at the European level, and be aware both of the need for diversified projects in an unexplored industry and for an investment climate that is conducive to benefitting alternative fuels. • The Commission should strongly support regions and cities, both by means of effective financing instruments and suitable legislative support.

Alex Bergström concluded that the workshop provided many good examples of projects in the areas of e-mobility, biogas and biofuels. The workshop was an opportunity for sharing the experiences of these projects. Mr Bergström welcomed further initiatives by the regions, localities and the Commission to boost the development of e-mobility, biogas and biofuels as well as creating benchmarking and arenas for information-sharing between actors.

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 35 Workshops Europe 2020

Smart grid and electrical vehicle infrastructure – Projects from around Europe

11A16 Outline 11 October 2011, General Electric has, for many years, been committed to working with cities and regions in Europe to understand their 14:45-17:00 priorities and work together on solving the common infrastructure challenges. In light of current economic challenges and the emphasis on sustainable growth in the energy sector within the framework of the Europe 2020 strategy, Organiser: this work is even more important. This year, a workshop was organised to discuss smart grids and electric vehicle General Electric (GE) infrastructure in the context of grid flexibility to better understand specific challenges that local authorities are facing and to hear about the success of mature projects in Europe. Chair: Hughes Belin, Journalist Debate The discussion revolved around the barriers to smart grid implementation in the European Union, as well as the role Speakers: regulators, utility companies and the private sector will need to play in order for it to be successful. Michael Fette gave Dr Michael Fette, Samco Networks, some very interesting insights from his pilot smart grid project from Paderborn in Germany: in 90% of user cases, the Paderborn, Germany smart grid is cheaper than the traditional centralised power grid! David Cook, CEO Kettering Borough, United Kingdom David Cook then introduced the growth plan for Kettering Borough in the United Kingdom, which is based on Britta Thomsen, Member of the renewable energy generation and smart grid. This focus on efficiency and clean energy will give his town a competitive European Parliament edge when attracting business investments, proving that smart grid makes economic sense from whichever way it is Edit Herczog, Member of the viewed. The local community is extremely supportive: 90% of residents like the wind farm and 75% support plans to European Parliament extend it. Paddy Turnbull, Strategy Leader for Europe, GE Digital Energy and Britta Thomsen drew attention to the fact that energy efficiency also has a social dimension, with many families in Chairman, Smart Grid Ireland Central and Eastern Europe spending more than 50% their income on heating. She called for binding efficiency targets and more smart grid investments. She alluded to the fact that Member States only act when there is legislation, giving More information: the example of action that has been seen on CO2 emission reductions. www.ecomagination.com www.ge.com/cities Edit Herczog echoed these messages and called for more demonstration projects, stating that there is a need for www.gedigitalenergy.com R&D, demonstration power projects and the implementation of smart grid infrastructure as soon as possible. She also commented that legislation is not enough and that a much stronger effort is needed on standardisation in this energy technology sector in Europe.

Paddy Turnbull agreed with this message, noting that although it is not possible to create a one-size-fits-all smart grid solution for the 27 Member States, the EU does need to establish some consistent principles to ensure success. The varying levels of grid maturity between the Member States pose challenges for each country but the challenges are common for all utilities, and solutions already exist for every step along the distribution chain. What is needed is more “Smart grid investment support from governments to demonstrate these solutions. is critical; it is a pre- Conclusions Hughes Belin concluded that this was a lively workshop debate and interesting for several reasons. It is clear that condition, in order action is needed at EU level to implement legislation to better enable the deployment of smart grid in Europe but also to achieve our 20% to forcibly push for standardisation and support more demonstration projects. Another key takeaway was the message given by the case studies which prove the economic case for smart grid: smart grid is cheaper than traditional methods reduction target by 2020.” of power distribution. Its deployment also facilitates higher levels of renewables in the grid, giving towns like Kettering Britta Thomsen a competitive advantage when attracting investments.

36 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

Europe 2020: Regions and cities contributing to resource-efficiency Outline 11A17 The workshop focused on achieving a resource-efficient Europe, which is a key element of the Europe 2020 strategy for 11 October 2011, smart, sustainable and inclusive growth. It was broadly agreed that resource efficiency, as well as the social dimension of 14:30-17:00 sustainability, need local actions and political commitment on the ground. All speakers agreed on the need to promote and implement resource-efficiency to prevent conflicts. Some sustainable innovative actions by local and regional Organiser: authorities were proposed during the workshop with a view to overcoming today's crises in a green way. For example, Committee of the Regions’ one of today's main concerns is that drinkable water should not be used for the purposes of industrial production; Europe 2020 Monitoring Platform, another type should be used. Europe especially should become more resource-efficient than Africa and Asia. The Commission for the Environment, discussion during the workshop will feed into the Second CoR Monitoring Report on Europe 2020. Climate Change and Energy, with the Environment DG, European Debate Commission Satu Hassi reported that resources in the EU nowadays are used unsustainably, which might cause disputes between countries. She also mentioned the creation of an ‘ecological debt’ by the EU and said that awareness on this issue Chair: was growing but too slowly. Finally, she stressed that cities produce 70% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, Ilmar Reepalu, Mayor of Malmö, consume 75% of all natural resources and create 20% of GDP. Decoupling is therefore extremely important and should Member of Committee of the be implemented. Regions, Chair of the ENVE Carina Vopel presented the issue as a social challenge, warning about the need to prevent resource constraints in commission, CoM signatory the coming generations. She also emphasised the importance of decoupling economic growth and the advantages of implementing resource efficient measures. Moreover, Ms Vopel listed some measures that should be taken into Speakers: consideration, such as implementing existing environment legislation, avoiding leakage in resource distribution Janez Potočnik, European systems and managing noise pollution. Finally, she pointed out the importance of establishing a longer-term vision and Commissioner for the Environment the availability of EU funding through existing channels like cohesion funds. (via video message) Michel Lebrun began by stating that environment, climate and energy policy should ensure sustainability of resources. Satu Hassi, European Parliament, Current examples of resource use show a disparity between Europe and Africa, for example. The Committee of the Member of the Committee on the Regions believes that it is essential to establish the will to change and to plan our investment policy for the long term. Environment, Public Health and According to Mr Lebrun, the Covenant of Mayors should also incorporate other elements, such as biodiversity and Food Safety biosphere pollution. He believes that the common agricultural policy and the fisheries policy should become green, Carina Vopel, Environment DG, and that the structural fund policy should act in line with the Europe 2020 strategy. European Commission Nichi Vendola focused on the social and environmental conversion of the economic system and underlined the Michel Lebrun, Member of the importance of building a network of good practices. He also introduced the issue of water (including floods and Parliament of the French-speaking drought) which, in the UN resolution of 28 July 2010, is identified as a human right and the "logical extension to life". Mr Community (Belgium), Rapporteur Vendola proposed introducing the principle ‘who wastes pays’, consisting of sanctioning irresponsible consumerism for Resource efficient Europe – and the use of drinkable water for non-domestic use. flagship initiative, Member of Simon Mønsted Strange described Copenhagen as a case study for urban sustainability, pointing out that the city Committee of the Regions has already been able to reach targets on GHG emission reductions. Moreover, he suggested establishing a sustainable Nichi Vendola, President of solutions catalogue to share good practices. Apulia Region, Italy, Rapporteur Jean-Pierre Hannequart outlined the importance of reusing products and developing recycling habits. This would for ‘The role of regional and local mean that management and waste prevention would become an imperative, which could lead to resource efficiency. authorities in promoting sustainable According to Mr Hannequart, it would be essential to reduce waste at source and to promote waste sorting, thus the water management’, Member of exchange of good practices would be very useful. Committee of the Regions Simon Mønsted Strange, Member Conclusions of Copenhagen Town Council, The workshop concluded with a question and answer session concerning, for example, the idea of teaching children Denmark, Member of Committee of how to behave ecologically from elementary school and launching a new awareness campaign. Ilmar Reepalu the Regions, CoM signatory underlined the fact that environmental sustainability must become a fundamental part of governments' agendas. Jean-Pierre Hannequart, President Finally, according to some contributors, it could be useful to create an ecological bank where we could keep all our of the Association of Cities ‘ecological debts’ and prevent the problem of eco-refugees, which could become a real threat to peace according to and Regions for Recycling and the UN. Sustainable Resource Management (ACR+)

“If we undertake to protect the four elements (wind, ﬁ re, earth and water), then More information: http://portal.cor.europa.eu/ we should be able to go beyond the ideological discussions that we see today europe2020/news/Pages/ and get out of the depression which we ﬁ nd ourselves facing.” Nichi Vendola OpenDays2011.aspx

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 37 Workshops Europe 2020

Energy and territory: From multilevel governance to local agreements 11A18 Outline 11 October 2011, Territorial cohesion and energy are two newcomers in the Lisbon Treaty. Even though they are two essential 14:45-17:00 components of European policy-making, they are all too often considered separately. Fortunately, local and regional authorities are coming to grips with this issue and progressively taking the lead in reconciling energy with its territorial Organiser: dimension. A consensus has emerged, which recognises crosscutting issues between territorial cohesion and energy. Energy Cities Energy and climate are topics that interest the whole of European society.

Chair: There are signs that lead us to think that the time for a European urban policy is coming, which would recognise cities Stephane Dupas, Energy Cities as important actors in the field of regional policy.

Speakers: An important future milestone is the Energy Roadmap 2050 and its local implications. Territories must also prepare local Gérard Magnin, Executive Director energy roadmaps in order to come up with innovative and relevant solutions to the energy issue. of Energy Cities Jean-Luc Daubaire, Deputy Mayor Debate of the City of Rennes, France Gérard Magnin pointed out that energy issues are often taken as vertical issues in European policies, while territorial Lambert Van Nistelrooij, Member issues are considered horizontally. He showed the necessity to go beyond these ideas and explained the important role of the European Parliament (Regional local level can play in a sustainable energy transition. Many territories are already implementing multilevel governance Policy committee, European People’s processes in that direction. Local sustainable energy strategies are needed for a better quality of life, resilient local Party economies, and territorial and social cohesion. Energy is a society issue. Kathleen Van Brempt, Member of the European Parliament (Industry, Jean-Luc Daubaire said that, in 1998, the local energy agency was created in Rennes and had shown great success in Research and Energy committee, integrating local stakeholders in local governance processes. It clearly was a milestone to integrate energy in the core Social Democrat) of local development policies. Over the years, European policies have helped the local authority to put in place energy Tudor Constantinescu, Principal efficiency policies, inspired by various programmes and projects. Adviser to Philip Lowe, Director- General, Energy DG, European Lambert Van Nistelrooij explained that, during the Europe 2020 debate, the European Parliament wanted to be sure Commission that Europe 2020 will be transformed into commitments and measures. The new partnership contracts should change Rudolf Niessler, Director Policy the deal because if the Member States do not set up measures they will not be able to apply for funding. Signs from the Coordination, Regional Policy DG, local level like the Covenant of Mayors and the Energy Cities publication ‘Energetic territories on energy and territorial European Commission cohesion’ are very positive and optimistic.

More information: Kathleen Van Brempt pointed out that there is no real European energy policy. There is no vision and no courage. www.energy-cities.eu/imagine Europe needs legislation with firm goals to achieve. Member States decide for their energy mix. Europe should define www.energy-cities.eu the energy mix and energy-efficiency targets and then it is up to Member States to decide how to reach those goals. Local authorities play an important role but you need the full support of the European institutions, especially on financial points.

Tudor Constantinescu stressed that targets do not replace policies and policies do not replace measures. We need both. As an example, within the framework of the Energy Performance and Energy Efficiency Directives, the best performing countries have no specific legislation on energy efficiency. There is a need to monitor compliance as legislation is already in place but might not be implemented.

Rudolf Niessler explained that in the current programming period, EUR 9 billion are dedicated to energy efficiency, but the implementation is slow. As a consequence of the recent economic crisis, eligibility rules have been changed and extended to housing and energy efficiency measures, which triggered changes in the use of funding. When the actors ”None of Europe’s are ready, European policies can deliver on a large scale in a short time frame. Energy targets are feasible and energy investments are paying off. objectives can be Conclusions achieved without Stephane Dupas concluded by saying that a consensus emerges, recognising crosscutting issues between territorial bringing together citizens cohesion and energy. Proof that these questions are being taken into consideration comes from the newest ERDF regulation proposals by the European Commission. Energy and climate are topics that interest all of European society. and local stakeholders.” There are signs that lead us to think that the time for a European Urban Policy is coming, recognising cities as important Jean-Luc Daubaire actors in the regional policy. In this light, the URBAN Intergroup of the European Parliament has a role to play.

38 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

Innovation in e-government: Satellite applications as enablers of smart public services

Outline 11A19 e-government is the future of local and regional government: an opportunity to harness the potential of new 11 October 2011, technologies at the service of innovative policy approaches and smart public services. 14:45-17:00

This workshop addressed the added-value of satellite applications in e-government to deliver smart public services that Organiser: are more efficient and improve citizens’ well-being and quality of life (e.g. in terms of healthcare, rural development, Eurisy citizen participation, etc.). The focus was placed not on the technology as such, but on the conditions for the successful implementation of such services and their added value. Chair: Tamme Van Der Wal Representatives of Vienna, Wallonia and Islington County Council shared their hands-on experience and lessons learned using satellite applications in traffic management, the monitoring and prosecuting of illegal waste dumping and public Speakers: health advice. Their feedback provided the basis for an interactive discussion with the audience on their reserves and Stefaan de Mey, Secretary General, perceived advantages of using satellite applications in e-government. Eurisy Angelika Poth-Mögele, Director, Debate Council of European Municipalities Angelika Poth-Mögele highlighted some of the threats local and regional authorities face in implementing and Regions e-government, such as the ‘change of culture’ necessary to accompany technological developments, staff training Andreas Partusch, ITS Vienna needs, interoperability of information systems and others. Such potential threats are offset by tangible benefits for Region, Austria example better public services, more interaction with citizens and general improvements in quality of life. Freddy Ruggiero, Regional Delegate of the Directorate General Andreas Partusch, representing the traffic management project ITS Vienna Region in the city of Vienna and the for Highways and Housing of neighbouring provinces of Lower Austria and Burgenland, illustrated how real-time information on the position and Wallonia, Belgium speed of Vienna’s taxis contributed to delivering dynamic, intermodal traffic advice to the city’s inhabitants and visitors Paul Clift, Principal Environmental via the web portal www.AnachB.at. This service contributes to shifting travellers’ preferences towards sustainable Health Manager, Islington County modes of transport, while also enabling more efficient fleet management for the city’s waste collection. Council, United Kingdom

Freddy Ruggiero shared the experience of the Wallonia Road Administration, who investigates acts of vandalism, More information: illegal waste disposal and other incivilities on the region’s roads and motorways, using a GPS-based, mobile solution www.eurisy.org to report and prosecute these incidents. Since its implementation, the solution resulted in significant increases in www.AnachB.at efficiency, so that it will now be implemented in other administrative departments of the Wallonia Region. www.islington.gov.uk/Environment/ pollution/default.asp Paul Clift reported how Islington County Council in Greater London provide a satellite-based, daily air-quality information service for citizens vulnerable to pollution (those suffering from respiratory diseases, from allergies, etc.) This free service contributes to public policy on preventive healthcare and aims to reduce public health expenses. Mr Clift stressed that opportunities to further develop the service lie in partnerships still to be created, notably with the public health sector, and in providing quantitative and qualitative evidence as to the impact of the service on cutting healthcare costs.

Conclusions “A technology can In summing up, Tamme Van Der Wal said that concrete examples from regions and cities demonstrate that satellite information, satellite navigation and localisation, and satellite telecommunication provide innovative and viable tools transform a public that can help local and regional authorities implement e-government. service, but it should

While participants expressed some concerns over cost, privacy and the rapid pace of technological development, never be dehumanised, the benefits and opportunities they identified during exchanges, such as savings in the long run, improved citizen meaning it should be participation, connectivity for all, greater transparency, increased efficiency in public service delivery and enhanced quality of public services, by far outweighed the threats and pointed forward towards a more participatory democracy. adaptable and have the capacity to evolve Political leadership, a change of working culture in public administrations, involvement of staff in the implementation process, trials on smaller departments before generalising the service, and addressing concerns over the protection of according to staﬀ needs.” privacy were identified as crucial success factors. Freddy Ruggiero

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 39 Workshops Europe 2020

Cultural and creative industries, innovation and smart specialisation strategies

11A22 Outline 11 October 2011, As highlighted in the 2010 Smart Growth Communication, ‘cultural and creative industries are in a strategic position 14:30-17:00 to link creativity and innovation. They can play a positive role in smart specialisation strategies’. The challenge is to help regions invest in culture and cultural and creative industries (CCIs) as part of an integrated local or regional Organiser: development strategy. Claire-Lyse Chambron, Education and Culture DG, European Experience shows that culture and CCIs contribute greatly to a region’s attractiveness and its vision for development Commission and innovation driving the Europe 2020 strategy.

Chair: In many regions and cities across Europe, investments in CCIs can have a significant impact on smart, sustainable and Xavier Troussard, Head of Unit, inclusive growth. Indeed, these industries have a multiple role to play in unlocking the creative and innovative potential Education and Culture DG, European of a region. Commission This panel tried to identify the new opportunities that CCIs linked to innovation (in its broadest sense) and smart Speakers: specialisation strategy can bring to local and regional development. Luisa Sanches, Regional Policy DG, European Commission Debate Sylvia Amann, Director, Inforelais Luisa Sanches presented the regional innovation strategies for smart specialisation (RIS3), the Smart Specialisation Claire Nauwelaers, Research and Platform (S3 Platform) and talked about the Guide for Smart Specialisation Strategy, which is intended for regional Innovation Policy Analyst working at authorities, managing authorities and cultural sector operators and which is in preparation. She made recommendations OECD, Member of the Mirror Group paving the way for using CCIs to design and implement a targeted strategy focused on the delivery of the Europe 2020 of the S3 Platform strategy. Ragnar Siil, Undersecretary for Fine Arts, Estonian Ministry of Culture Sylvia Amann was the only speaker who was representing a region. She highlighted some practical experiences: CCI Mike Coyne, Specialist in impact smart specialisation in EU structural funds on behalf of the District Administration Lüchow-Dannenberg (Germany) assessment (enterprise policy, that she represented. She also talked about the CREARE network, of which she is the former General Secretary and D. innovation, IPR and creative Lüchow-Dannenberg a member. economy), Member of the Mirror Group of the S3 Platform Claire Nauwelaers is participating in the elaboration of the Guide for Smart Specialisation Strategy. She delivered a more generic speech on smart specialisation and the challenge for innovation policies in their broadest sense in, by More information: and for the regions. There is a need to have a strategic and inclusive approach to investments and the use of financial http://ec.europa.eu/culture/ resources for CCIs. documents/greenpaper_creative_ industries_en.pdf Ragnar Siil is President of the working group of Member States' experts on CCIs and regional development. This group http://ec.europa.eu/culture/ is working on the ‘strategic use of EU support programmes, including structural funds, to foster the potential of culture documents/analysis_green_paper. for local and regional development and the spill-over effects of CCIs on the wider economy’. Two target outcomes are pdf expected by December 2011: a policy handbook and a reflection on ‘a joint EU-wide awareness raising initiative by http://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/ the Commission and Member States to promote the integration of culture in regional and local development policies sources/docoffic/official/communic/ and to support smart specialisation strategies’. Mr Siil focused in the first place on the Estonian strategy concerning smart_growth/comm2010_553_ innovation, which is recognised at the highest national level and is entirely relevant for regional levels. Moreover, he en.pdf presented the work of the CCIs and regional development expert group. http://ec.europa.eu/culture/key- documents/contribution-of-culture- Mike Coyne spoke about CCIs in the smart specialisation strategy, referring to the 2010 study on the contribution of to-local-and-regional-development_ culture to local and regional development. He insisted on the potential of CCIs in new approaches to lead markets, by en.htm generating and managing social demand, engaging the public and addressing social concerns. http://ec.europa.eu/culture/ key-documents/entrepreneurial- Conclusions dimension-of-the-cultural-and- Xavier Troussard concluded by saying that the cultural and creative sectors constitute a major asset for regional creative-industries_en.htm economies, and building on this asset can be part of most development plans. Member States and regions are invited to finance their CCIs through investment priorities closely linked to the objectives of the Europe 2020 strategy. Building on the work of the S3P and the Member States expert group, the Commission would like to help regional/managing authorities and stakeholders to better understand the type of fundamental investments in human capital (soft) and in structures/connected infrastructures (hard), which are essential at regional level to contribute to the emergence of ‘creative ecosystems’.

40 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

Public Financial Institutions in Europe

Outline 11A23 The workshop aimed at improving the understanding of the variety and the roles of publicly influenced financial 11 October 2011, institutions in the 27 EU Member States, Croatia, Macedonia, Norway, Switzerland and Turkey. Varied pattern of financial 14:45-17:00 institutions with public involvement across Europe were depicted. Clusters of countries adopting distinctive models were described. The extensive range of roles fulfilled by the public financial sector and the need of a number of business Organiser: models was described. European Association of Public Banks AISBL (EAPB) Debate Branka Perišić, made a presentation on ‘HBOR - Export Credit Insurance in Support of Croatian Trade. Konstantin Chair: von Hassell then spoke on ‘Thüringer Aufbaubank - A German example for a Regional Development Bank’. Karina Henning Schoppmann, Secretary Kostrzewa’s presentation was on ‘Public Financial Institutions in Europe-The Polish Example’. The final speaker was Siv General of the European Association Galligani who talked about ‘KBN Kommunalbanken Norway - The Norwegian way of financing the local authorities - of Public Banks current situation and future challenges’. Prof. Dr Mathias Schmit, Managing Director of Sagora sprl , Professor Conclusions of the Solvay Brussels School of The targeted missions of public financial institutions have led to the development of specific business models. Various Economics and Management, characteristic business models were described, such as national and regional development banks and agencies, export University of Brussels , Responsible credit agencies and municipal credit institutions. Editor of the publication Public Financial Institutions in Europe The variety and complexity of missions carried out by public financial institutions has led to the emergence of numerous hybrid and alternative business models. Despite operational variations and differences between specifying goals and Speakers: business models of public financial institutions they all share two common goals: to correct situations where the market Henning Schoppmann has failed to deliver and to complement the shortcomings of private financial institutions. Prof. Dr Mathias Schmit Branka Perišić, Head of the Medium Long-term Insurance, Croatian Bank for Reconstruction and Development, HBOR, Croatia Konstantin von Hassell, Director, Thüringer Aufbaubank, Germany Karina Kostrzewa, Deputy Director “Public banks and funding agencies do whatever they can do to go for European Cooperation of the from an environment of instability to one of strong fi scal solidity, to European Programmes Department, Bank Gospodarstwa Krajowego, BGK, make sure Europe becomes an area of strong growth again by off ering Poland a strong and sustainable business model supporting, amongst others, Siv Galligani, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Kommunalbanken local authorities in their tasks, by fi nancing SMEs and by following the Norway, KBN, Norway issues of structural funds.” More information: Henning Schoppmann www.eapb.eu

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 41 Workshops Europe 2020

E-vehicle: the way to succeed – Examples of PPP concerning the e-vehicle 12A24 Outline 12 October 2011, This workshop focused on the important role that regions and municipalities play in the development of new clean 09:00-10:45 technologies, particularly the electric vehicle, and their essential collaboration with the private sector in this field. Several PPP examples in research, infrastructure and fleet management were presented by regions and companies. Organiser: Castilla y León, Spain Debate Tore Helmersson presented the cross-functional collaboration which made the creation of the e-car Saab 9-3 ePower Chair: possible. Carlos Martín Tobalina introduced the smart e-mobility cluster in Castilla y León in the framework of a Keith Bevis, Managing Director regional strategy for the electric vehicle, which will cover the period from 2011 to 2015. Jeff Laidler talked about Evalu8, EValu8 Transport Innovations Limited the East of England’s plugged-in network, which includes eight clusters and a test bed on which to build the region’s significant innovation capabilities. David Rendell summed up various aspects of the e-vehicle, such as the different Speakers: phases of implementation, the need to leverage fleet management and the importance of regional influence. Peter Tore Helmersson, CEO and Prenninger emphasised the need of a holistic approach and a cluster-based cooperation as catalysts for accelerated Managing Director, Energy and growth in regional industry and strengthening competitiveness. Environmental Engineering Innovatum Technology Park, Further examples of PPP were provided by José Ramón López, who is also a recharge manager for IBIL, and Trollhättab, Västra Götaland, Sweden Peter Öhman, from Test Site Sweden, who organised a platform for cooperation between private companies, national Lillemor Lindberg, Project agencies, regional authorities, and R&D institutions. Coordinator, Energy and Environmental Engineering Speakers and the public discussed about what is preventing a general deployment of e-vehicles: some think that Innovatum Technology Park, industry still has to be improved, mainly concerning the cost and durability of batteries; others claimed that serious Trollhättab, Västra Götaland, Sweden improvements must be done in the field of standardisation. Most of the interventions agreed that this is mainly Carlos Martín Tobalina, General depending on consumers: technology is already available at more or less affordable prices but what is missing is a Director of Industry Castilla y León behaviour change amongst consumers. In Northern countries this change has already happened and there is a massive Regional Government, Spain demand for e-vehicles. However, in Southern countries there is still a lot to be done concerning demand-side measures. Jeff Laidler, Programme Manager for Low Carbon Innovation, East of Conclusions England Development Agency Keith Bevis concluded by saying that e-vehicles are already a reality. Thanks to the efforts of the industry and the public David Rendell, Managing Director, sector, there are already thousands of these vehicles on the roads in Europe today. But the cooperation between public Green Financing GE Capital EMEA and private still will be crucial for the massive deployment of this technology. Both public and private businesses should Peter Prenninger, Dipl.Ing. keep on collaborating together to develop demand-side measures to convince consumers about the benefits of this Dr.techn., AVL, Graz, Austria type of transport. José Ramón López, EVE – Ente Vasco de la Energía (Basque Energy Board, Spain Peter Öhman, Programme Manager, Lindholmen Science Park AB, “We have passed from an age when e-vehicles Gothenburg, Sweden were almost a utopia to a time when we begin More information: to see real e-cars in our roads.” ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/ conferences/od2011/presentation_ Keith Bevis frame.cfm?nmenu=333 www.evalu8-ti.org.uk www.sourceeast.net

42 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

Future cities – Creating smart and connected communities Outline 12A25 This workshop showcased innovative city initiatives, which not only contribute towards the Europe 2020 goals, but also 12 October 2011, benefit from public programmes, such as EU funds and/or private sector engagement. Communications networks and 09:00-10:45 intelligent infrastructures are the basis for creating smart and connected communities. However, the full potential of infrastructure investments only becomes clear when services, innovations and skilled people are added to the equation. Organiser: This workshop will demonstrate several transformational scenarios for aspiring smart cities of all sizes from infrastructure Cisco Systems investments to energy-efficient tools. Investments in ICTs help cities deliver sustainable high-quality public services at a lower cost during challenging times, as well as create growth and jobs through local innovation. Chair: Maarit Palovirta, Local Government Debate EMEA, Cisco Systems Amr Salem introduced the participants to Cisco’s Smart+Connected Communities vision, highlighting the importance of economic, social and environmental sustainability. One route for cities to take to cut costs and improve service Speakers: delivery is to create a one common infrastructure as a platform. There is no one magic recipe to create a smart city, Amr Salem, Director, Local but some of the key ingredients include visionary leadership, smart regulation and public-private partnerships (PPPs). Government EMEA, Cisco Systems Madeleine Mahovsky, Cabinet Madeleine Mahovsky outlined the four main pillars the European Commission considers essential for city development: of Commissioner Johannes Hahn, cultural, social, environmental and economic sustainability. The European Commission believes that technology is a key Regional Policy DG, European enabler for modern cities. Also, private sector engagement or PPPs should be used when appropriate – they can be Commission beneficial especially in fields of innovation and ICT. Finally, the European Commission is increasing its focus on city Hans Tijl, Director of Urban development and a new city strategy will be published in the coming weeks. Planning and Development, City of Amsterdam, The Netherlands Hans Tijl gave an interesting presentation on the smart infrastructure initiatives in the City of Amsterdam. The basis Jacek Boruszka, Director of for Amsterdam’s smart city strategy is an optical fibre network called the CityNet, providing high-speed connectivity Innovation and Informatics, City of directly to citizens and businesses. Based on this platform, Amsterdam has launched many innovative service schemes Elblag, Poland including remote work centres and energy-efficient solutions. Amsterdam has also used PPPs as a vehicle for more Kulveer Ranger, Director of successful and sustainable projects and believe that this is the right model, so long as the partnership is beneficial to Environment and Digital London, all parties involved. Greater London Authority, United Kingdom Jacek Boruszka presented the recently deployed municipal broadband project in the City of Elblag, in Northern Poland. The objective of Elblag is to improve the quality of citizen and business services, as well as increasing the More information: operational efficiencies in the city administration. The city broadband was funded with EU structural funds. Based on www.cisco.com/web/strategy/ the new high-speed infrastructure, Elblag is now planning to launch the first smart services and has already attracted smart_connected_communities/ new businesses to locate to their city. overview.html

Kulveer Ranger outlined the most recent achievements related to smart city development in the City of London. London is at the forefront of the so-called open data movement, emphasising the importance of data and development of new applications for use by citizens and businesses alike. London is also part of the iCity consortium, funded by the EU’s CIP programme, to develop and test a city platform for services and applications. Concerning the London Olympics and their legacy, London is working with many enterprises and SMEs to create an IT cluster in the East End of London as part of its regeneration plan.

Conclusions All of the speakers agreed that technology and connectivity are two key enablers for any aspiring smart city. Municipal broadband is usually the first step towards smart citizen and business services. Consequently, the smart services and applications should deliver the promised economic, social and environmental benefits to the citizens, businesses and the city administration itself. In terms of innovative business models, many large European cities are working closely with private sector companies and are experimenting with PPPs. The general feeling is that for as long as all the balance of the partnership is right in terms of influence, contributions and gains, PPPs are a valid option to roll-out new initiatives.

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 43 Workshops Europe 2020

Consolidating the European entrepreneurial region (EER) label – Towards regional SBA partnerships

12A26 Outline 12 October 2011, Besides a general discussion on the merits and weaknesses of the revised Small Business Act (SBA), the three European 09:00-10:45 entrepreneurial regions (EERs) for the year 2011 demonstrated the progress made in the implementation of their EER action plans. The EER 2012 regions then presented the priorities for their EER action plans for the year 2012. The CoR’s Organiser: opinion on the revised SBA was also presented. The European Commission delivered key messages on the importance Committee of the Regions, and governance aspects of the SBA. The speakers highlighted policy measures that aim at delivering smart, sustainable Directorate for Consultative Works and inclusive growth in an EER perspective. The presentations of the regions were commented on by some EER jury members. The workshop was followed by a networking meeting among the six EER labelled regions and the EER Chair: secretariat. Arnoldas Abramavicius, Chairman, Commission for Economic and Social Debate Policy (ECOS) in the Committee of Arnoldas Abramavicius stressed that the workshop serves to increase the awareness of the EER label which rewards the Regions, Mayor of Zarasai District visionary regional policy strategies, to learn from the experience of those regions having previously received the EER Municipality, Lithuania, EER jury label, and to develop local and regional governance mechanisms for the implementation of small business support member policies. He also suggested that the EER can strengthen the competitiveness of Europe’s regions whilst also serving as a laboratory for cross-border cooperation for the promotion of further entrepreneurial activity. Speakers: Constance Hanniffy, Member, Constance Hanniffy, a member of the CoR amd the EPP, addressed the merits and weaknesses of the revised SBA Offaly County Council, Midland and presented the CoR’s opinion on the Review of the Small Business Act for Europe (SBA). She explained what is at Regional Authority and the Border, stake, why Europe still needs to do more to help small businesses and how it could be done. For example, she called on Midland and Western Regional Member States to take greater ownership of the SBA and that it becomes politically binding. Ms Hanniffy welcomed in Assembly, Ireland particular the proposed action plan to address access to finance. She underlined that there is a lot more that local and Ralf Christoffers, Minister for regional authorities can do to help encourage the further development of the SBA, for instance through the EER award. Economic and European Affairs, Federal State of Brandenburg, Ralf Christoffers presented the revamped regional strategy of Brandenburg (EER 2011), which focuses on the Germany (EER 2011) following pillars: ecological modernisation, boosting creativity and innovation, and increasing awareness for all forms of Juan Hernandez, General Director, entrepreneurial activity, especially among young people. He also reaffirmed that based on a renewed SME strategy, new INFO Murcia, Regional Development qualitative measures have been initiated, such as new revolving financial instruments to ease SMEs’ access to finance. Agency, Region of Murcia, Spain Brandenburg is determined to continue to use the EER label in the future to further develop these strategic aspects for (EER 2011) regional policy-making in partnership with other EER regions and to increase the awareness of the EER label. Marie Lynch, Development Manager, Kerry Technology Park, Marie Lynch presented County Kerry’s (EER 2011) major initiatives in the field of young entrepreneurship, such as County Kerry, Ireland (EER 2011) several programmes which address students of different age categories, providing them with tailor-made training, Joan Prat, Delegate, Government innovation support and entrepreneurship education. By the end of 2011 some 3 000 students will have completed of Catalonia to the European Union, the Young Entrepreneur Programme, which is for pupils in the 8-12-year age group. Another programme rewards the Catalonia, Spain (EER 2012) most successful start-ups and entrepreneurs with a trip to Silicon Valley, where several of them create a branch. This Arto Bryggare, Executive Secretary, promotes Kerry’s objective to become internationally more connected. Ms Lynch specifically focused on Kerry’s vision Uusimaa Regional Council, Helsinki- to develop a culture of entrepreneurship across the entire community. Uusimaa Region, Finland (EER 2012) Joanna Drake, Enterprise Juan Hernandez stated that the focus of Murcia’s (EER 2011) action plan is threefold: boosting the business development and Industry DG, European and creation of new companies, fostering innovation, cooperation and access to markets, and ensuring sustainable Commission, Deputy Special Envoy economic development. The region intends to do so by building a long-term partnership between 45 public and for SMEs, Director for SMEs and private organisations, by establishing a permanent technical office for entrepreneurs, by introducing entrepreneurship entrepreneurship in the curricular of primary, secondary and vocational education, and by creating a regional net of clusters and business cooperation centres. Despite the success of their action plan, Mr Hernandez said that problems still existed for local entrepreneurs, fox eample on how to obtain financing for new project ideas.

44 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

Consolidating the European entrepreneurial region (EER) label – Towards regional SBA partnerships

Joan Prat presented the many specific measures Catalonia (EER 2012) has initiated that aim to back entrepreneurship More information: and SMEs and spread the idea of the EER itself (e.g. The day of the entrepreneur, Hit Barcelona, etc.). He pursued by www.cor.europa.eu/eer presenting the objectives of the 2010-2013 Catalan SBA Implementation Plan, the renewed industrial policy plan which www.mwe.brandenburg.de intends to simplify legislation, reduce administrative procedures and promote the internationalisation of the regional www.ittralee.ie economy, their ‘global entrepreneur’ programme, and their plan to reduce the number of technology centres from www.carm.es 80 down to four major ones. He highlighted the role of the business support agency ACC1Ó, the implementing body www.gencat.cat which is a member of the Enterprise Europe Network. www.uudenmaanliitto.fi www.trnava.vuk.sk Arto Brygarre stated that Europe needs to adapt its attitude towards entrepreneurship and fully anchor the knowledge http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise/ of entrepreneurship in all parts of society. This is one of the main goals of Helsinki-Uusimaa’s (EER 2012) strategy. Mr policies/sme/small-business-act Bryggarre added that the EER should also be used as a platform to promote entrepreneurship, especially among young http://toad.cor.europa.eu/ entrepreneurs in order to allow more connections between students and entrepreneurs. He also presented the specific corwipdetail.aspx?folderpath=ECOS- programmes that Helsinki/Uusimaa has launched in this regard, such as Innovation express. V/017&id=21020

Joanna Drake congratulated both the CoR for the EER initiative and the EER regions for their efforts and good practices in tailoring measures for the support of SMEs and entrepreneurship at regional level. Ms Drake stated that the EER is a good inspiration for the SBA implementation at regional level, and stressed the governance aspects of the SBA review, such as a SME assembly, and the SME envoy network. She pointed out some of the European Commission’s actions that have a direct regional impact, such as the Enterprise Europe Network, or the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs and called on the EER regions to further disseminate their experiences and good practices, and to further integrate them into other activities.

Conclusions Constance Hanniffy concluded that the variety of EER approaches to foster entrepreneurship and small businesses’ competitiveness is what makes the richness of the European Entrepreneurial Region Award, and this initiative deserves to be further promoted so as to serve as an inspiration on how to make Europe more entrepreneurial.

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 45 Workshops Europe 2020

Delivering resource efficiency through PPPs: Optimising partnerships, risk allocation and leveraging funds

12A27 Outline 12 October 2011, Infrastructure investments needs in the EU-27 are significant and driven by both the need to meet the objectives of 09:00-10:45 the existing regulatory framework, as well as progressing towards the Europe 2020 objectives. It is paramount that the current economic austerity measures and public budgetary constraints do not take their toll on the implementation Organiser: and pace of those investments. Introduced by the Moderator, Graham Meadows, panel members looked at how Veolia Environnement / UDITE / public private partnerships (PPPs) can be used to overcome some of the current challenges and provide a solution to MARSH optimise the use of public money, thus boosting innovation in areas that are central to the EU’s gestation towards a greener economy and balancing the aspiration for high quality public services with efficient and innovative delivery. Moderator: Graham Meadows, Special Adviser, Debate Cabinet of European Commissioner The debate began with a presentation on the Barcelona Light Rail (Trambaix and Trambesòs projetcs) and how this Andor, European Commission innovative PPP (BOT) has, over the last seven years, contributed to delivering a high-quality local and sustainable public transport service in Europe’s largest metropolis on the Mediterranean coast. According to Ramón Seró, the key to the Speakers: success of this PPP is the existence of a strong and qualified administration that ensures a professional and balanced Ramón Seró, Director General, relationship with the private operator. Autoritat del Transport Metropolità de Barcelona, Spain Jean-Patrice Poirier outlined PPPs from an operational perspective. He highlighted the following: Jean-Patrice Poirier, Europe • All PPPs are tailor-made to fit the expectations, priorities, history, physical and socio-economic situation of each Development Director for Veolia municipality. Environnement • A PPP is a long-term partnership that has to be assessed from a life cycle approach. Didier Duraffourg, President, UDITE • Forcing a healthy clarification of the roles, a precise definition of the expected results, and focusing on service and Secretaire General des Services a performance are the main advantages of these partnerships. le Mairie de Sète, France • PPP and European funds are complementary. Andy Carty, European Public Private Partnerships Expertise Centre Didier Duraffourg underlined the benefits that a PPP could bring in terms of increasing the efficiency of resources in Philippe Auzimour, MARSH Risk local authorities. These include: Management • making investments quickly/reducing financial burden; • new approaches to local governance during period of austerity; More information: • accelerating investment, design excellence and reduced construction/maintenance costs; www.udite.eu • professional approach/longer-term perspectives; www.veolia.com • acquiring knowledge for in-house facilities; www.marsh.com • private partners improving their knowledge of the public sector; www.eib.org/epec • challenges: mobilising significant financial resources, a stable legal framework and appropriate capacity within local government; • early involvement of local authorities for successful public-private partnerships; • leveraging investment and cultural change.

Andy Carty highlighted that, in 2010, the European PPP market showed the first signs of recovery, despite difficult economic conditions. A total of 112 PPP transactions reached financial close in 2010 with an aggregate value in excess of EUR 18 billion. The financial crisis deeply affected traditional funding sources: debt tenors shortened and pricing increased dramatically. As a result, there has been a shift from commercial debt to public financing institutions (European Investment Bank – EIB). According to EPEC, there is a growing dependency on public support to bring deals to a close. The EIB’s gap-filling role through the financial crisis led to a record lending volume of EUR 3.4 billion.

Philippe Auzimour stressed the importance of the risk management process in setting up PPPs: • Infrastructure investors seek to minimise the volatility of expected benefits by managing three core risks: budget, completion and performance expectations. • Completion risk consists of the construction, commissioning or ramp-up phases leading to a steady operational phase and anticipated cash flow. • Effective risk management, risk allocation, risk mitigation and risk transfer over the asset life-cycle are paramount to protecting the specific assets, capital structure and volatility of cash flows needed to service fixed obligations, most notably interest payments and repayment of principal loans.

46 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

Delivering resource efficiency through PPPs: Optimising partnerships, risk allocation and leveraging funds

Conclusions It is a fundamental objective for local authorities and their administrations to engage more actively in partnership agreements. At European level, collaboration between public and private entities is a strategic driver underpinning EU cohesion and innovation policies in the context of Europe 2020.

The success of PPPs require firstly a stable legal framework and secondly appropriate skills and capacity within local government.

The risk management process is fundamental so as to minimise the volatility of expected benefits – financial returns or public good.

A PPP must be considered in the long-term and over the life cycle of the project. In this respect private sector involvement is not limited to financing considerations. Experience has shown that PPPs have helped to improve management and customer service. Ultimately it is consumer satisfaction that is the best gauge of quality of service offered.

“At European level, collaboration between public and private entities is a strategic driver underpinning EU cohesion and innovation policies in the context of Europe 2020.” Didier Duraﬀ ourg

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 47 Workshops Europe 2020

The EIB and regional and urban development 12A28 Outline 12 October 2011, The European Investment Bank’s activities were presented, covering the EIB’s emerging urban agenda and the financial 09:00-10:45 instruments that have been developed to support its implementation.

Organiser: Debate European Investment Bank (EIB) The workshop was opened by Brian Field who welcomed all the participants. He explained the Europe 2020 targets using EIB instruments and gave information on various EIB programmes, such as Jaspers, Jeremie and Jessica. He also Chair: spoke extensively on urban planning as well as on the (implicit) EIB’s action plan for cities and financial instruments Brian Field, European Investment to support urban regeneration. This consists of technical assistance, traditional lending, financial engineering and Bank structured finance. He addressed the EIB’s three pillars of approach (eligibility/consistence with EU priorities, technical quality/economic soundness, and financial viability/adequate security) and explained how the EIB, acting as a holding Speakers: fund, would operate. Sebastian Hyzyk, European Investment Bank During the debate many (practical) questions were raised (and answered), and more of the bank’s instruments and Rakesh Bhana, European approach were further explained. Investment Bank Norbert Hahn, European Conclusions Investment Bank After the question and answer session, Brian Field concluded the workshop by referring participants to the EIB website Eugenia Kazamaki, European (www.eib.org) where much of the information on the bank’s activities can be found. With a view to the EIB’s carbon Investment Bank footprint, only a small (paper copy) flyer on the EIB was available during the session; other documents can be accessed Roland Randefelt, European or ordered via the website. The panel, participants and interpreters were all thanked for being there and help, as well as Investment Bank the organisers of the OPEN DAYS 2011.

More information: www.eib.org

48 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

PPP for energy efficiency and environmental protection: Challenges for brownfield, knowledge, market and cluster development

Outline 12A29 This workshop presented and discussed four public-private partnerships (PPPs) for energy efficiency and environmental 12 October 2011, protection: 09:00-10:45

• Blue Gate Antwerp (City of Antwerp, Belgium): development of a brownfield into an eco-effective business site; Organiser: • TRION – Trinational Energy Network Upper Rhine (Alsace, France, representing Upper Rhine Metropolitan Region): City of Antwerp development of a cross-border network for knowledge transfer regarding energy efficiency in buildings; • PlasTEP (Mecklenburg Vorpommern, Germany): dissemination and fostering of plasma-based technological Chair: innovations for environment protection in the Baltic Sea region; Prof. Dr. Elvira Haezendonck, • WasteKit (Sofia, Bulgaria): development of a regional cluster for waste management-related R&D. University Of Brussels, holder of he Deloitte-Grontmij-Laga Chair in PPP These four PPP projects each have their own specific focus and objectives, respectively brownfield, network, market and cluster development. Each presentation tackled four crucial questions: (i) the need for a PPP; (ii) the set-up of the PPP; Speakers: (iii) the objectives for the PPP; and (iv) future challenges for the PPP. Guido Muelenaer, Project Manager, Blue Gate Antwerp (Werk en Debate Economie vzw – City of Antwerp, Guido Muelenaer introduced the specificities of the Blue Gate Antwerp project (i.e. the development of a brownfield Belgium into an eco-effective business site), and highlighted particular reasons that justify the introduction of private partners Vulla Parasote, Project Leader, into the project, for example the need for more flexibility and to speed up the process, and the possibility of risk TRION, Energie-Netzwerk der allocation (in particular for the sanitation of the brownfield). The long-term challenge will be to guarantee the initial Trinationalen Metropolregion ambition of eco-effectiveness. Oberrhein, Germany Alexander Schwock, Project Vulla Parasote outlined the characteristics of the TRION-network (Trinational Energy Network in the Upper Rhine), Manager, PlasTEP which builds on an Interreg IVA-project. The speaker highlighted the organisational set-up: TRION obtains funding Sevdalina Voynova, Director of and expertise from, respectively, public institutions and (private) network partners, on the basis of which it can deliver Programmes, Sofia Development network services (competence databases and cross-border events/training/energy data/advice). The objectives of the Association, Bulgaria cluster are both ecological (energetic quality of buildings) and economic (competitiveness of the cross-border region). More information: Alexander Schwock explained about BalticNet-PlasmaTec, an international network for plasma technology in the Baltic www.bluegateantwerp.eu Sea region, which acted as initiator for a PPP involving 47 partners (R&D institutions, technology centres and industry). www.TRION-climate.net PlasTEP itself is an Interreg IVB-project focused on disseminating and fostering plasma-based technological innovation www.PlasTEP.eu for environmental protection in the Baltic Sea region. The working areas are: sustainability analysis and education, www.BalticNet-PlasmaTec.org cleaning of exhaust gases of combustion, removal of hazardous compounds and aerosols, and water cleaning. www.wastekit.eu

Sevdalina Voynova introduced the Seventh Framework Programme’s Regions of Knowledge project ‘WasteKit’ (bringing together four regions and 19 partners, and focusing on the challenge of waste management), and clarified the set-up of the Sofia WasteKit PPP. Its objectives are: research/prognosis; target setting; investment strategy, funding and spin-offs; showcasing, exchange and training; and public perception and awareness-raising. The key challenges are: removing obstacles to innovation, the ‘NIMBY’ attitude vis-à-vis waste management, and the interaction between different levels of government. “One of the challenges

Conclusions for public-private Elvira Haezendonck highlighted the fact that the desire for a more sustainable world has implications for how partnerships is to ﬁ nd the governments and businesses operate. While governments feel the need for a more efficient and business-like approach towards achieving public goals (for example due to tightening budgets), business see themselves forced to contribute right balance between to societal issues, as their power and impact on the world increase. Today, many businesses turn this threat into a private interests and strategic opportunity, while governments encourage firms to contribute to societal challenges. The use of partnerships in this social debate, however, is still somehow limited and underexposed. This workshop clarifies how governments social values.” and companies can partner to realise a win-win situation. Sevdalina Voynova

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 49 Workshops Europe 2020

Urban networks for better integration and greater social cohesion 12A31 Outline: 12 October 2011, The European Commission provides many tools to support migrant integration and social cohesion. In July 2011, the 09:00-10:45 Commission proposed a European agenda for the integration of non-EU migrants, focusing on action to increase the economic, social, cultural and political participation by migrants and putting the emphasis on local action. The role of Organiser: local authorities is very important in promoting integration, which is primarily the Member States’ competence, but the Regional Policy DG, European Commission can support the process with knowledge exchange, networking and policy coordination. The network of Commission the National Contact Points on Integration, together with the European Integration Forum provides an opportunity for government representatives and civil society organisations to express their views on migrant integration issues Chair: and to discuss challenges and priorities with the European institutions. The European fund for the integration of Diane Schmitt, Head of Unit, Home non-EU immigrants (EIF) seeks to promote European cooperation, with the objective of granting comparable rights, Affairs DG, European Commission responsibilities and opportunities for all. With a budget of EUR 850 million for the period of 2007 to 2013, the EIF provides support for capacity building of the local and regional authorities. It is a complimentary fund to the European Speakers: social fund (ESF). Ian Goldring, Lead Expert, OpenCities URBACT fast-track Debate network Liesbet de Letter defined social innovation: new ideas that simultaneously meet social needs (more effectively than Gizella Mátyási, ROMA-NET, an alternatives) and create new social relationships and collaboration. The settings and background of social innovation ongoing URBACT fast-track project are cohesion policy objectives (social, economic and territorial cohesion), financial and economic crises, globalisation Susan Russam, Chair of Belfast and the social media area. OPENCities Local Support Group The following policy initiatives support social innovation: Liesbet de Letter, Regional Policy • New ERDF regulation: one of the thematic areas is the integrated innovative strategies. Smart specialisation acts as an DG, European Commission ex-ante conditionality; • Under the Europe 2020 strategy's smart pillar, social innovation is a flagship initiative (innovation union) and the anti- poverty flagship defines school dropout targets and poverty reduction; • Social business initiative: after the social business act, it will be adopted in November 2011; • Relevant topics for urban development: (public) service innovation – working better and more with citizens, e-health and ageing, urban regeneration, social enterprises, workplace innovation; • Tools: micro finance, new forms of incubation, business support measures, CSR, URBACT, Interreg IVC, quadruple helix model – civil society should be added to the triple helix model; • Concrete initiatives from the Commission: guide on social innovation for ERDF, third call for URBACT, Small Business Initiative was adopted this month, social business conference on 18 November, social innovation website, studies on financing social innovation and one on measuring innovative services.

Ian Goldring was the lead expert of OpenCities URBACT fast-track network, which examined how to make cities attractive for migrants. The objective was to attract and to retain migrant populations. It is the level where concrete development occurs and innovation takes place, or not. The main finding of the project was that there is a lack of connection between policy for inclusion, policy for economic development and policy for space promotion. The key recommendation was to break down silos and integrate seemingly different policy fields.

It is of upmost importance to involve the private sector as well as the migrants themselves but this constitutes a challenge in many European projects. OpenCities had to adapt to the new situation of crisis. Planners had to go back to their communities and to re-adapt the strategy to the changing circumstances. The argument that OpenCities need to defend is maintain openness! Openness is a strategy for a whole economic cycle and it provides the resilience and capacity cities need to recover.

Susan Russam reported that Belfast has experienced a great shift from closed lives, closed doors to openness. The reason for Belfast to get involved in OpenCities was to create the momentum for building the value proposition for “Migration, diversity and Belfast as an Open City. With URBACT providing a dynamic platform for inclusion and innovation, openness are an actual Belfast has identified three integrated teams: inclusion and integration, leadership and governance internationalisation. asset to a city.” The work was not easy with the local support group (LSG). They have come up with the idea to organise the Belfast Migrant Forum: it brings together practitioners and people who work with migrants. This has brought people together Ian Goldring on a consultation process.

50 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

Urban networks for better integration and greater social cohesion

The second successful action was the ‘Living in Belfast’ initiative: 72 training programmes for immigrants, informing More information: them on practical things like how to deal with everyday issues in Belfast (e.g. purchasing bus tickets, etc.). http://urbact.eu/opencities Finally the Talk-IT action targeted a big company that employs 3-4 000 people in Belfast. The performance management http://urbact.eu/en/projects/active- identified a gap: people were socialising in their language group, not in their team group. The project aimed at inclusion/roma-net/homepage/ improving the migrant workers’ English and English-language IT skills and to foster personal contacts among colleagues ec.europa.eu/home-affairs/news/ from different backgrounds. intro/news_intro_en.htm#20110720 ec.europa.eu/home-affairs/funding/ Our shared learning experience showed that no city can close its doors anymore. Being open is a work in progress, not integration/funding_integration_ a one-time action. en.htm www.integration.eu Gizella Mátyási presented ROMA-NET, a project which will finish in January 2013.

One of the challenges is to secure active community engagement. There are still some cities struggling with how to involve Roma populations in the project. Early frustrations must be dealt with too: seemingly nothing is happening for many participants and it is hard to maintain commitment from the participating parties. Some of the actions the project partners are working on are: building a transitional labour market, creating and using an intermediate labour market, maximising the role of the social economy, promoting social firms and social accounting. There are already some early results. There is a change in the attitude of the decision-makers: they are getting more and more engaged and committed, and have positively changed their attitudes towards the topic. There are examples of different services who have already dealt with Roma and who are starting to talk to each other.

The project partners have appreciated the methodology of the URBACT programme. The lead partner has tried to orientate LSGs into incorporating urban renewal actions in their LAPs in order to have actions ready that could be implemented in the next programming period.

Conclusions The presentations have made it clear and obvious that integration and social inclusion happens at local level. The presented examples have proved that knowledge exchange is very important to find solutions. There is a need to acknowledge that integration is a long-term process and that adequate policy mix and integration of different policy fields are needed to achieve positive results. The involvement of the target groups in the process is also crucial. The importance of EU funding was underlined.

“Social innovations are innovations that are social both in their ends and in their means. Speciﬁ cally, they are new ideas (products, services and models) that simultaneously meet social needs (more eﬀ ectively than alternatives) and create new social relationships or collaborations.” Liesbet de Letter

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 51 Workshops Europe 2020

Unlocking innovation and efficiency at local level 12A32 Outline 12 October 2011, On 12 October 2011, the 'Local intermediate authorities (LIAs): Acting for Europe 2020' Regional Partnership, promoted 9:30-13:00 by CEPLI, organised a debate entitled “Unlocking Innovation and Efficiency at Local Level", divided into two panels. The first panel, on 'Digital Europe and Innovation – the role of Local Intermediate Authorities in Europe 2020 strategy', Organiser: discussed the innovation and digitalisation in LIAs’ policies. Innovation was outlined as the main driving force Prahova County, Romania for efficiency achieved at local level. The debate revealed the positive impact on local areas, especially in terms of employment and economic growth. Moderator: Bridget Czarnota, freelance Policy In the second panel, on 'Energy efficiency at local level for the benefit of Europe 2020 goals', the speakers presented Advisor projects which had contributed to energy efficiency in public buildings, especially in offices and schools, awareness- raising campaigns and initiatives for smart and green mobility. The discussions confirmed that a green economy was Speakers: increasingly becoming an investment priority for European local government. Guinka Tchavdarova, Executive Director of NAMRB, Bulgaria Debate Laureano Leon, President of Mrs. Tchavdarova shared her views on the management of local authorities' financial resources in times of crisis. Diputación of Cáceres, Spain The project she presented represented an important phase in the implementation of the European strategy for good Hervé Rasclard, First Vice-President governance at local level, having been awarded a European Label for innovation and good governance at local level in of Drôme County Council, France participating Member States. Jean Touzeau, Deputy of Gironde County Council, France Mr. Leon pointed out that it was not enough to secure innovation, but proper conditions for its implementation had to Alain Trussart, Provincial Deputy be developed. He also outlined one major issue: the lack of specialised human resources. Mr. Leon defended the view of the Province of Walloon Brabant, that more funds and resources were needed to increase effectiveness and improve measures taken. Belgium Giovanni Avanti, President of the Mr. Rasclard spoke about the ambitious policy in his region to promote deployment of telecommunication Province of Palermo, Italy infrastructures, research and the development of digital services, encouraging everyone to use them – public Mircea Cosma, President of Prahova authorities, the public and businesses - through completion of the “Pole Numérique” project for promoting the use of County, Romania digital resources, under which 96 % of the population of the Ardèche and Drôme départements fully benefited from Piero Lacorazza, President of the “triple play” broadband Internet offers. Province of Potenza, Italy Georges Pire, Vice-President of the Mr. Touzeau spoke about the major public measures launched by the GCC, with financial support from the region and Provincial Government of Liège, the ERDF, which had helped avoid the need for far-reaching investment concentrated in only a few high density zones Belgium with significant entry costs and high prices. GCC was investing in preserving the history of the region, combining this Manuel Diaz, Member of the with the use of modern technologies. Provincial Council of Diputacion of Badajoz, Spain Mr. Trussard set out the situation in his province, where the proximity of Brussels attracted a wide range of companies, Paolo Dalla Vecchia, Assesor for from spin-offs to well-known multinationals. Many of the entrepreneurs in the region were young and highly-qualified, the environment of the Province of but inexperienced, and the province was taking steps to help them. PWB fund innovation centres addressed people's Venezia, Italy special needs, providing young entrepreneurs with advice and facilities, offices, specific training and networking events. The Province provided different kinds of local incentives to stimulate the best ideas and examples in the fields described.

More information: Mr. Avanti said that the objectives of his province are related to energy efficiency. The reduction of CO2 emissions www.cepli.eu was therefore seen as being linked to a technological development strategy aiming to harmonise production techniques and resource exploitation with environmentally friendly approaches, boosting employment generated by new technologies. Energy production and use and the effects thereof had given rise to several problems in terms of environmental sustainability, consumption and pollution. Therefore “sustainable development, innovation and efficiency” represented the targeted outcomes of his province's energy strategy.

Mr. Cosma said that the full and widespread use of hydro-electric, wind, solar and thermo-solar resources, as well as a natural gas-fuelled cogeneration plant, were just some of the initiatives taken over the last few years at local level in his county in order to make the shift to RES. The move to renewable energies was possible and recommended, but the commitment to using mainly renewable energies could be made only at local level, a mixture of different renewable energies needing to be promoted in order to guarantee a sustainable future. There was a strong need for flexible methods to support local authorities.

52 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

Unlocking innovation and efficiency at local level

Mr. Lacorazza listed the variety of awards that his province had won in the field of RES. One example was a worthy project aimed at putting together a network of schools and cultural buildings (museum, library, music academy auditorium and historical archives) powered by green energy, in line with the European objectives for increasing the use of renewable energies and securing the 20% energy efficiency target. This method of defining the “best of the best” created noble competition.

Mr. Pire presented provincial projects which had been carefully coordinated and discussed with the public and/or public representatives and academic circles in order to ensure advanced sustainable planning. From Liege's central station to car parks, city lighting and tourism, everything had been targeted to achieve greater efficiency and value for the public. He also noted that funding was not necessarily the guiding principle behind this.

Mr. Manuel Diaz spoke about experience with the development of the Estremadura Energy efficiency agency, with financial support from the IEE programme. Thanks to the work of the agency, many partnerships had been created, pooling advice and expertise. Mr. Diaz cited one example of cooperation between Badajoz and the Bulgarian municipality of Suvorovo, in the field of energy efficiency.

Mr. Dalla Vecchia highlighted the Province of Venice's undertaking to support the municipalities in their commitment to meet and surpass the European Union 20-20-20 objectives through concrete actions. This was a real challenge given the delicate environmental balance in the old city of Venice, while trying to maintain sustainable modern municipalities and regions. Among the successful projects mentioned was the 'The Energy House', involving students and schools. It was planned entirely by students and teachers at a Technical High School (Levi di Mirano) and supported by technical partners.

The debate was concluded with a statement by Claudy Lebreton, Secretary General of CEPLI. The decentralisation process, representing one of the most major revolutions of the past century, had a key role to play in securing not only the efficiency of public administration, but also the success of European strategies set up to boost economic development and combat social exclusion.

Conclusions Bridget Czarnota concluded that part of the European Union's beauty was its variety and, the more LIAs shared with one another, the better they would be in a position to deal with problems common to all of them. The solutions they found might not always be the same, but efforts to seek efficiency in digitalisation, energy, services and partnerships did bring out the best in Europe.

"We have to safeguard local democracy: this is where things happen!" Claudy Lebreton

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 53 Workshops Europe 2020

Thematic subsidarity workshop: The integration of immigrants at local and regional level

12A33 Outline 12 October 2011, Migrant integration is an area which serves as an excellent illustration of the application of the subsidiarity principle: 11:15-13:00 policies are implemented and deliver results at local, regional and central level, but are also inspired by guidelines agreed at EU level and depend upon an effective partnership between all. About 130 representatives of local and Organiser: regional authorities, NGOs and European institutions attended this workshop which show-cased the experience of Committee of the Regions, cities and regions that have participated in the consultation carried out by the Committee of the Regions on the Second Subsidiarity Monitoring Network European Agenda for Integration for the integration of third-country citizens during its preparation. The workshop was and Commission for Citizenship, taking place after the release of the agenda and the European Commission took the opportunity to express a strong will Governance, Institutional and to develop a strategic partnership with the CoR. Concrete proposals arose from the discussions, which will be explored External Affairs (CIVEX) in the context of the upcoming CoR opinion.

Chair: Debate Ramón Luis Valcárcel Siso, First Ramón Luis Valcárcel Siso, chair of the meeting, presented an update of the CoR’s subsidiarity monitoring activities, Vice President of the Committee of particularly its Subsidiarity Monitoring Network (SMN), which participated in the CoR consultation. He highlighted the the Regions and Coordinator of the case of his region, Murcia (Spain), which set up a plan for the social integration of immigrants, involving and coordinating Subsidiarity Monitoring Network authorities at central, regional and municipal levels, within the framework of common principles adopted at European (SNM) level, in coordination with the private sector and NGOs, including migrant associations. Presenting the renewed European Agenda for the integration of third-country nationals, Stefano Manservisi insisted Speakers: that the integration of immigrants relies on policies essentially performed at local level, therefore the European Stefano Manservisi, Director- Commission made the strategic choice to develop a partnership with these authorities. The Commission can play an General, Home Affairs DG, European important role in bringing together the relevant actors in dialogue and creating incentives to promote good local and Commission regional models, developing knowledge exchange, monitoring, policy coordination and financial instruments. Salvatore Iacolino, Vice Chair of the For Salvatore Iacolino, immigration issues in the Mediterranean region are of concern to all European Member States. Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice He drew a parallel between the revolutions in North Africa and the fall of the Berlin Wall: both situations necessitated a and Home Affairs of the European coordinated approach, dialogue and, more importantly, political will. There is a need for a European policy and for clear Parliament (IT/EPP) guidance at European level, in a spirit of responsibility and solidarity. Dimitrios Kalogeropoulos, Dimitrios Kalogeropoulos echoed Mr Iacolino’s call for Europe to help countries around the Mediterranean, which Member (EL/EPP) of the Committee are facing important fluxes of immigration. The CoR opinion should be drafted along the following lines: respect of Regions, Rapporteur on the of fundamental rights and equal treatment for legal immigrants, a comprehensive and holistic approach to take all Second European Agenda for aspects of integration into account and coordinate all policy areas involved, and multilevel governance. The CoR should Integration, CIVEX commission translate the ‘strategic partnership’ proposed by the European Commission into concrete proposals. Walter Kindermann, Director- Walter Kindermann presented the experience of Hessen (Germany), where integration is treated as a regular social General for Integration Affairs, policy towards inclusion, with services that are not only directed towards immigrants but to the whole population. He Hessian Ministry of Justice, for would recommend that the EU deal with the integration of immigrants as part of European integration and develop Integration and Europe, Germany efficient comparison tools at EU level to facilitate coordination/cooperation between regions and Member States, as Barbara Sardella, Head of the well as exchange of staff between regions. European Affairs Committee of the Barbara Sardella shared the experience of the Marche (Italy), before paying tribute to the working group on the Regional Parliament of Marche, integration of immigrants in the first SMN action plan, led by the Catalan Parliament, the Finnish association of local substituting for Vittoriano Solazzi, and regional authorities and Patras Municipality. She invited local and regional authorities to participate in the working President of the Regional Parliament group being set up within the second action plan, which the Regional Parliament of the Marche offered to lead. of Marche, Italy Conclusions More information: Ramón Luis Valcárcel Siso concluded the workshop with a strong wish to see the proposals expressed here shortly www.cor.europa.eu/subsidiarity transformed into reality. The dialogue with countries of origin should also be strengthened via the Euro-Mediterranean http://ec.europa.eu/ewsi/en Regional and Local Assembly (ARLEM), a consultative assembly, which gathers local and regional representatives from the EU and its 16 Mediterranean partners. Its secretariat is “Integration is essentially an activity which is performed at local performed by the CoR. Mr Valcárcel Siso would also hope that level, therefore the European Commission, as an institution, has good practices in terms of migrant integration be collected and exchanged, and their access facilitated. to look into how it can build partnerships with the institutions which are governing at local level – the Commission has made this a strategic policy and political choice.” Stefano Manservisi

54 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

Local and regional authorities as drivers of change towards a fully integrated single market

Outline 12A34 The reform of the single market, which was launched by the European Commission in October 2010, is one of the key 12 October 2011, drivers for change and economic growth within the economy of the European Union that has been affected by the 14:30-17:00 crisis. One year after the Single Market Forum of the Committee of the Regions, representatives of the key Institutions and experts met to discuss the progress in the reform of the single market. The benefits from the efficient single market Organiser: for the European Union would be measured in the number of jobs created, better access to affordable services, more Committee of the Regions affordable pricing and greater freedom of choice and movement for citizens. Chair: To ensure success, local and regional authorities must be involved in the reform process. This is why the Committee of Jean-Louis Destans, Member of the Regions engaged itself in the debate on the future of the single market from the early consultation stage. Now, with the Committee of the Regions, the priorities chosen, it is time for action and practical solutions to be designed. It is also time to define the role that the Rapporteur SMA; Dr Simona Milio, local and regional authorities can play to improve the function of the single market. London School of Economics, United Kingdom Debate Jean-Louis Destans confirmed that the concerns presented in his report remain valid. A balanced, inclusive social Speakers: market economy is in fact in line with the underlying principles of the European Union laid down by Robert Schuman, Michel Barnier, Commissioner for who saw the progressive construction of the single market as a lever for new dynamism in the European integration. Internal Market and Services, keynote Today, the single market remains a fundamental engine for economic growth in Europe. However, in order to make speaker the best of this potential, three conditions must be met: legitimacy for the reform process must be regained, the cities António Fernando Correia de and regions must be fully involved in the process, and a priority must be given for innovative practices and solutions. Campos, Member of the European Parliament, Rapporteur SMA In his keynote speech, Commissioner Michel Barnier referred to the progress in bringing change to the single market. Jean-Louis Destans, President of The involvement of key institutional stakeholders and an active participation of the civil society was a key to success. the Regional Council of Eure, France, The economic crisis cannot be overlooked, and the EU has responded to it rightly, yet in this context, the decisive and Member of the Committee of changes need to be implemented even more. The Commissioner further stated that an efficient single market can the Regions support cohesion policy in economic growth creation and social progress. To ensure that the European society at large Henrik Morch, Head of Unit: Single will benefit from the reform, the Commission took into account the recommendations of the report by Jean-Louis market policy, Internal Market and Destans (Opinion of the Committee of the Regions on the Single Market Act, CdR 330/2010) and stressed that citizens Services DG, European Commission will benefit from the 12 priority actions, rather than just the big enterprises. Prof. Jacques Pelkmans, The Centre for European Policy Studies Finally, the Commissioner pointed out the opportunities that the reform of the single market will offer local and regional Dr Simona Milio, Associate Director, authorities. The three major areas that will positively affect the LRA are: public services (or services of general economic Social and Cohesion Policy, London interest), public procurement and investments, and advancements in telecommunication infrastructures. School of Economics, United Kingdom Referring to the report for which he was Rapporteur (Opinion of the European Parliament Single Market for Europeans) Magdalena Ochej - Lokuciejewska, and the points made by preceding speakers, António Fernando Correia de Campos reaffirmed the fundamental Representative of the Presidency importance of the appropriate freedom for local and regional authorities to exercise services of general economic interest in the context of competition policy and the advantages created by the single market. Furthermore, he gave practical examples from the recent work of the European Parliament towards a better functioning single market: reducing roaming charges and support for investment in broadband Internet.

Henrik Morch explained that to ensure progress in the practical implementation of the single market on the ground, more could be done to improve information for citizens, particularly concerning points of single contact and the SOLVIT network. Local and regional authorities could facilitate this communication process. Furthermore he gave an overview of actions planned by the European Commission for the 20th anniversary of the single market, and mentioned the single market week planned for November 2012.

Jacques Pelkmans commented on the overall economic situation and the need to reduce the economic imbalances in current accounts by sound structural reforms in order to restore conditions for growth. Referring to the local and regional dimension of the single market, he underlined the proximity to the citizens and the capacity to act in the vicinity.

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 55 Workshops Europe 2020

Local and regional authorities as drivers of change towards a fully integrated single market

More information: He also appreciated the recent opinion of the CoR on services of general economic interest (Opinion of the Committee ec.europa.eu/ of the Regions on the reform of the EU state aid rules on services of general economic interest, CdR 150/2011 and commission_2010-2014/ revised opinion CdR 278/2011), saying he was particularly in favour of the very concrete measures proposed. barnier/headlines/ speeches/2011/10/20111012_ Simona Milio referred to the quality of public services as one of the key deliverables for citizens and noted that the well en.htm functioning single market can contribute to better quality and affordability of public services. She also presented the ec.europa.eu/internal_market/ interdependencies between the cohesion policy, the Europe 2020 strategy and the single market, which will be seen as top_layer/docs/simfo-declaration- sources of growth that reinforce each other. op-conclusions_en.pdf On behalf of the Presidency, Magdalena Ochej-Lokuciejewska, expressed the sound support of the Polish government for the single market reform. Therefore, it is of key importance that the Single Market Act proposals are delivered by the European Commission as soon as possible, so that the first results of the re-launch can be already achieved in 2012. The role of local and regional actors in promoting this process was also confirmed from the Council perspective. In this context, she recalled the Single Market Forum organised in Krakow on 2-4 October 2011, which gathered together all single market stakeholders.

Conclusions Jacques Pelkmans, highlightedthe following as critical for success of the single market: - structural reforms at Member State level, and government involvement; - private investment in R&D; - right policy mix for the labour market; - raising awareness of the single market at local level;

The role that can be attributed specifically to local and regional authorities is based on a strong feeling of ownership of the reform agenda. Practical actions within the competencies of the local and regional authorities include: - reinforcing capacity for creation of SMEs; - facilitate cross-border exchanges; - creation and support for networks, engagement in construction of smart grids; - support for social entrepreneurs; - local dimension of public procurement; - further cutting of red tape, facilitating access to information for SMEs and citizens; - support for inclusive employment market.

“It is our ambition to make the single market a reality for all players in the European economy. No one, no region in Europe is to be excluded from this new growth.” Michel Barnier

56 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

Breaking the taboo: Time for smart spending of EU funds Outline 12A35 The European Commission analysis demonstrates some clear benefits brought by cohesion policy in terms of GDP, 12 October 2011, employment, innovation and business development, among others. Yet cohesion policy could clearly do more to 11:15-13:00 leverage regional competitiveness. A lack of strategic approach, heavy administrative procedures, and little focus on project delivery and evaluation undermine the credibility and performance of this policy. Given present constraints on Organiser: public finances and the ongoing debate around the next multi-annual financial framework, it is time to analyse the role BUSINESSEUROPE of this policy in greater detail. Chair: Bringing together views from a wide variety of stakeholders, there was a frank and open discussion considering issues Joshua Chaffin, Journalist such as: does cohesion policy bring a real European added-value? What are the key factors preventing better results? Are funds well targeted and properly channelled to competitiveness-related policies? How do these views fit into the Speakers: multi-annual financial framework post-2014 proposal? Iwona Wendel, Undersecretary of State, Ministry of Regional Debate Development, Poland Iwona Wendel started the debate by identifying a number of taboos in cohesion policy. The fact that cohesion policy Dirk Ahner, Director General, benefits not only the direct beneficiary but also brings enormous benefits to the surrounding regions and countries has Regional Policy DG, European been stressed. The importance of this policy for the Polish Presidency has been reiterated. Commission Prof. Iain Begg, London School of Dirk Ahner provided an overview of the main changes that the new Commission legislative proposals on cohesion Economics and Political Science, policy will bring about. The revision of this policy intends to be more result-orientated, with closer monitoring and United Kingdom effective evaluations. Conditionalities are a key condition for success. Sinne Conan, Director, European Affairs, Confederation of Danish Lambert van Nistelrooij provided the initial assessment of the European Parliament on the Commission’s proposal Industry and he believes it to be positive and a good start for debate. He agreed that conditionality is a very serious and complex Bernward Kulle, Member, Executive issue and one which the European Parliament will look at closely. Board, HOCHTIEF Concessions Lambert van Nistelrooij, Member of Iain Begg referred to the key role that cohesion policy will play from 2014 onwards in the delivery of the Europe 2020 the European Parliament, Regional strategy. A careful scrutiny of the factors that inhibit growth in each region is needed. He warned of the fact that clearly Development Committee no one calls for ‘complification’ but that simplification measures need to properly tackle the underlying problems. Philippe de Buck, Director General, BUSINESSEUROPE Sinne Conan raised her points in the context of the upcoming multi-annual financial framework that will profoundly influence the reform of any policy at EU level. She recalled the strategic importance of the EU budget and its potential to More information: boost competitiveness in Europe. But more would be needed from the current Commission proposal on this direction. www.businesseurope.eu With most Member States pursuing austerity measures, growth must be the primary objective of the EU budget. The www.businesseurope. same should be applied to cohesion policy. eu/content/default. asp?PageID=568&DocID=29277 Bernward Kulle presented a case study and stressed that while developing projects, unforeseeable contingencies www.businesseurope. are encountered. It would therefore be desirable if the beneficiary countries were themselves to guarantee EU-backed eu/content/default. investments in infrastructure projects. The focal question, however, must always be “whether a recipient country is in asp?PageID=568&DocID=28913 fact in a position to draw down the funding needed for preparation and implementation of projects”. It is, after all, self- evident that countries which receive funding must use it to finally get something accomplished.

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 57 Workshops Europe 2020

Breaking the taboo: Time for smart spending of EU funds

Conclusions Philippe de Buck concluded the workshop by summing up the discussions as follows: • The questions raised during the debate were extremely important. In a moment of great fragility in most European economies, it is not time to ask for more funds but more efficiency. • Europe needs growth and jobs, not only now, but also in the coming decade. EU funds must focus on a few decisive areas aligned with Europe 2020. Within each policy area, priority should be given to those projects that can clearly have a competitiveness-enhancing impact. And every single project should be performance proofed to ensure money is well spent. • More effort should also be placed in creating a dynamic business environment, fundamental to improve regional economic performance. This goes beyond the amount of funding provided: administrative procedures must be urgently simplified, financial instruments must be further improved and real consultation procedures must involve business representatives. • Structural conditionality should be increased to strengthen institutional capacity, ensure a proper transposition of European legislation, and meet underlying conditions that ensure the success of projects.

“In this diffi cult moment Europe is facing, the importance of this policy for regions is even greater. All eff orts must be focused on improving the effi ciency of cohesion policy, ensuring a good implementation of each single project and enhancing the competitiveness of the EU regions.” Philippe de Buck

58 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

EU 2020 through PPP: Three regional case studies Outline 12A36 In this workshop three regions presented their solutions to the challenges as posed in the Europe 2020 strategy. Smart, 12 October 2011, sustainable and inclusive growth are key elements and the regions of Achterhoek, Borken and Algarve have interpreted 11:15-13:00 these as challenges in the field of innovation, sustainability and bio-energy. The workshop showed that there are many similarities between the European regions and they solve the issues through innovation plans with private partners. Organiser: East Netherlands Regio Achterhoek

Chair: Jan Bart Wilschut, Secretary- director, Achterhoek Region, Eastern Netherlands

Speakers: Dr Gerd Eckstein, EU coordinator District Borken D Herman Kaiser, President, Achterhoek Region, Eastern Netherlands Jose Macario Carreia, Mayor, City of Faro, Portugal

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 59 Workshops Europe 2020

European broadband futures: Preparing for the age of communication (PPP) 12A37 Outline 12 October 2011, The workshop presented an outline of the scope and scale of change currently underway in the way in which IT and, 11:45-13:00 specifically, Internet-based technologies are changing our lives.

Organiser: The workshop had three presentations, which illustrated three very different examples of Internet development, driven European Regional Information by public-private partnerships. Society Association (ERISA) The first example presented a community-driven or bottom up broadband approach developed in a rural area in Chair: Denmark. The second was a regionally driven investment in broadband infrastructure combining public and private Charles Watt, CEO of ERISA investment similar to a ‘utility’ model to provide future Internet services. In the third example, the workshop showcased Roger Williams, Senior Consultant, a Future Internet (FI) PPP project that provides insight into the future for Internet services, illustrating the experimental ERISA solutions and services that will be rolled out more widely as the infrastructure develops.

Speakers: Debate Rod Mitchell, Senior Consultant, The discussion evolved around concerns related to the application of the Danish bottom-up approach elsewhere. In ERISA response, Rod Mitchell argued that the situation in Denmark was the same in the past as it is today in regions which are Ivana Dragišić, Senior Professional struggling with broadband implementation and development. The problem is limited broadband vision. The Danish Collaborator for International regions were inspired by the Swedish example and took action in order to put in place the vision of ‘fibre to everyone’. Projects, Region of Istria, Croatia Danish society has succeeded so others can too. Luigi Telesca, Business and Cooperation Director, CREATE-NET Ivana Dragišić explained that the PITAGORA project was considered to be very ambitious; it was the first model of PPP that had been established through the EU project in the Region of Istria. It was acknowledged that the projects would More information: provide strong potential for the development of the Adriatic-Ionian area. www.erisa.be www.broadband-europe.eu Luigi Telesca reported that regional and national experimental infrastructures have been upgraded under the Future www.fi-infinity.eu Internet PPP programme. It was agreed that experimental infrastructures are important assets for testing Future Internet www.istra-istria.hr ideas and enable citizens to become involved in FI-PPP activities.

Conclusions We all have to think about the future. The infrastructure market needs to grow by moving to new platforms. Dark fibre and broadband infrastructure create real opportunities for business and public sectors. Infrastructure investment is absolutely vital for the economic recovery that we are hoping and looking for.

“For me, the litmus test for our event at OPEN DAYS was genuine audience participation. We were presenting a complex and contentious subject so one would expect a degree of engagement, but the quality and number of questions continued well after the main debate was over and on into the networking lunch. We had three complementary presentations each at various stages of implementation and each with their key messages for those championing the move from policy to practice in their regions. Thanks to the attendees and the speakers it was a great success by anyone’s standards.” Charles Watt

60 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

Smart sustainable and inclusive growth: EU capital cities and regions show the way

Outline 12A38 The debate focused on discussing and visualising how cohesion policy contributes to smart, sustainable and inclusive 12 October 2011, growth, as well as indentifying some successful examples of how capital cities/regions and metropolitan areas possess 11:15-13:00 real potential as the main actors in research and innovation; Digital Europe; creative industries; regional and urban low-carbon development strategies; energy efficiency; cooperation on climate action; regional and local employment Organiser: strategies; tackling poverty and social exclusion. G-4 EU Office (Joint Representation Office of Amsterdam, The Hague, In that regard, the cohesion policy post-2013 should have a strong focus on making the ambitious urban agenda Rotterdam and Utrecht) effective. The priority themes targeted by the regulations’ proposals (energy efficiency, eenewable energies, innovation and SMEs’ competitiveness) are indeed strategic issues for the territories, and future funding programmes must Chair: therefore include an ambitious urban-integrated approach to deliver these thematic priorities. They should also take Geoff Meade, Journalist into account not only cities but also their metropolitan areas since such challenges do not stop at the administrative borders. With this in mind, cross financing from more than one fund or operational programmes would be an essential Speakers: requirement for the cooperation inside functional urban areas. Madeleine Mahovsky, Adviser and Member of Cabinet to Johannes Debate Hahn, Commissioner for Regional Madeleine Mahovsky presented ‘Capital cities and regions play an essential role in smart, sustainable and inclusive Policy growth, especially in the current economic climate’. Oldrich Vlasak, European Oldrich Vlasak talked about ‘Cohesion Policy post 2013 should have a strong focus on an ambitious urban agenda and Parliament, Member of the its instruments to be effective’. Committee for Regional Kulveer Ranger presented ‘Focusing EU funding on a limited number of priorities must not prevent a degree of Development flexibility so that programmes can tackle the realities at local level’. Rolf Strittmatter, Director of the Brandenburg Economic Conclusions Development Board Geoff Meade concluded by saying that EU structural funds must remain ambitious instruments to support smart, Kulveer Ranger, Mayor’s Director of sustainable and inclusive growth in our capital cities and regions. Environment & Digital London Paul Hofheinz, President and Co- Founder of The Lisbon Council

“Capital Cities and Regions play an essential role in smart, sustainable and inclusive growth, especially in the current economic climate.”

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 61 Workshops Europe 2020

What’s so smart about smart specialisation for regions? 12A39 Outline 12 October 2011, The ERRIN regional partnership led by Northern Ireland (UK), includes Eindhoven (NL), Basilicata (IT), Navarra (ES), Lodz 11:15-13:00 (PT) and Orebro (SW). The partnership organised a seminar on the smart specialisation strategy (S3) which was attended by over 140 people and complemented the seminar organised by Regional Policy DG on the same topic. Organiser: Northern Ireland The European Commission’s communications on smart and sustainable growth call on regions to help attain the smart, sustainable and inclusive objectives of Europe 2020 by developing smart specialisation strategies (S3). Chair/moderator: Eddy Hartog, Information A keynote speech from Danuta Hübner and presentations from experts in the field explored the main opportunities Society and Media DG, European and challenges of S3. The seminar concluded with regional policy experts highlighting their own experiences around Commission some of the key questions raised by S3.

Speakers: Debate Danuta Hübner, Member of the Danuta Hübner spoke about innovation being the basis for the construction of all regional policies. Innovation is not European Parliament a new product. It is about strategies, policies and systems. Regions need to focus on strategic priorities from their own Xabier Goenaga, European territorial perspective but also need to include a world view. Commission, Joint Research Centre Innovation is also a political challenge. Public funding and institutions must play a part but with a clear involvement of Jan Larosse, EWI Flanders the private sector. Regional policy will be a good tool to support smart specialisation and exploit synergies. Jacek Walendowski, Technopolis Group Xabier Goenaga outlined S3 and said that it is about value for money in a context of scarce public resources. The Commission is proposing S3 as an ex-ante condition for ERDF funding. More information: S3 is about making choices based on a thorough analysis of regional strengths. This is a learning process and not just a www.errin.eu one-off. The Commission has established an S3 platform, which will produce a guide on how to implement S3. There http://ipts.jrc.ec.europa.eu/activities/ will be training sessions for regional policy-makers and the platform will also develop analytical tools for regional use. research-and-innovation/s3_e.cfm http://erawatch.jrc.ec.europa.eu/ Jacek Walendowski explained that egions are now important at the innovation level. S3 is attributed to Prof. erawatch/opencms/research_and_ Dominique Foray but this is not a new concept. S3 is more an evidence-based policy but do we have enough evidence innovation to base policy at the regional level? The challenge is to understand the existing indicators in greater depth. The original innovation strategies were designed in times of growth but now we must adjust these strategies to a low- growth era.

“Regions in Europe are Jan Larosse pointed out that S3 is an innovation about structural change in knowledge-based economies. It needs to keen to know more, not be high on the policy agenda and develop an institutional capacity to develop the strategy. S3 is part of a new emerging paradigm with a focus on the real economy and how regions can control their future. It is about value creation and just about the theory a learning process. S3 should focus on differentiation, and not narrow specialisations but specialised clusters. S3 is of smart specialisation, interactive with co-designed strategies in a cross-border network system. but how to apply it in Conclusions practice.” Eddy Hartog summed up by saying S3 is not new. It builds on evidence-based policy. The key message from the seminar was that the smart part of S3 is actually building the long-term governance structures and the processes to Richard Tuﬀ s, Director ERRIN develop and monitor the strategies.

62 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

Innovation for a healthy future Outline 12A40 Regions from across Europe are facing common challenges in delivering health services. There is a need for innovation 12 October 2011, and action in a time of financial budgets cuts. The seminar discussed best practices in planning and implementation 11:15-13-00 across the European health sector and what role ICT tools and e-health services play in overcoming present and future challenges. Representatives from regional authorities and researchers shared their experience on local health Organiser: challenges and suggestions on how to move forward. All speakers agreed that health projects must be both innovative 2020 Regions – Acting for a healthy and economically equitable. This requires a more inclusive approach to health research and development – taking into future account the views of end-users and seeking effective cooperation with multinationals. The seminar was followed by a project brokerage session, which allowed private and public partners to inspire each other and find common ground Chair: for future projects. Dr Pēteris Zilgalvis, Head of Unit, ICT for health, Information Society Debate and Media DG, European Commision Prof. Jostein Holmen explained that the health challenges of the European population are recognised and taken seriously. Yet, we have not been successful in addressing these issues. There are shortcomings in approaches, the Speakers: nature, scope and accessibility of data, and the involvement of relevant stakeholders. Researchers must recognise that Prof. Jostein Holmen, Directer of their evidence has not led to the expected changes to public policy. As scientific evidence is only a small part of the the Hunt Research Centre, Verdal, decision-making platform, we must adopt a comprehensive approach that includes all possible stakeholders. Health Norway policies should be transparent, clear and visible and decision-making should be made easier. Sigrun G. Henriksen, Public Health Coordinator, Development Sigrun G. Henriksen outlined that ‘Partnerships for health’ has been pursued as a national strategy to address the Section, Department of Regional present and future health challenges. Evaluations show that local partnerships working systematically, interdisciplinary Development, Hordaland County and cross-sectional towards common goals are an effective means towards achieving a healthier future for all. Although Council, Norway challenges in terms of financing, responsibilities and time frames persist, the partnerships offer a strong platform for Dr Ryszard Wasinski, Director, developing healthcare provision in the future. Healthcare Department, Marshal Office of the Warminsko-Mazurskie Dr Ryszard Wasinski gave an overview of healthcare units in the Polish Warmińsko-Mazurskie Voivodeship Voivodeship, Poland region, which have undergone a major restructuring. Efforts have been put into developing human resources and Ivan Kjær Lauridsen, Head, Health implementing innovative techniques and technologies. These actions have resulted in an overall increase in the and Assisted Living Technology, quality and equality for the users of medical services. Highly specialised centres have emerged and they are becoming Department for Health and Care, City increasingly competitive on the medical market. The region’s experiences form a positive basis for future efforts to Of Aarhus, Denmark improve healthcare across Europe. Prof. Terry Mughan, Director of the Centre for Innovation in International Ivan Kjær Lauridsen said that most European countries face major healthcare challenges. At the same time, this holds Business, Anglia Ruskin University much potential for private and public organisations to develop and commercialise products that meet the needs of Prof. Teresa Mendes, President, Europe’s ageing population. Aarhus in Denmark has acted as a front runner in improving welfare technology and is Instituto Pedro Nunes involved in an ongoing partnership with the Panasonic robotic centre. This joint venture seeks to produce new efficient health solutions that improve service, whilst at the same time improving working conditions for carers. More information: www.ntnu.edu Prof. Terry Mughan explained that the objective of the Cura-B project is to strengthen the quality of care for individuals www.ipn.pt with long-term health conditions. The way forward is to improve links between private businesses and the healthcare www.cura-b.eu sector, and develop and promote the usage of assistive technology products and services. Obstacles to a smooth www.hordaland.no market include complicated procedures, heavy legislation and fierce competition from existing providers. If SMEs http://wrota.warmia.mazury.pl/en/ are kept from the market, innovation might be lost. Therefore there is a major challenge to facilitate SMEs’ efforts to Wersje-jezykowe.html internationalise and grow. www.aarhus.dk/da/sitecore/content/ Subsites/CityOfAarhus/Home.aspx Prof. Teresa Mendes said that low-cost innovations and open business models are vital components of a strong healthcare sector. Research must be connected to the market and we must engage more proactively with stakeholders. This also requires comprehensive and integrated solutions. Lessons can be learned from the highly integrated approach being taken in this institute which includes investors, end users (public sector) and SMEs, as well as large international firms working alongside researchers. An often overlooked issue is involving students more in the process of innovation. Prof. Mendes said this was done in her institute to great effect.

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 63 Workshops Europe 2020

Innovation for a healthy future

Conclusions In conclusion, Dr Pēteris Zilgalvis said that strong evidence is needed to inform policy decisions on how to create a healthy future. Research must be combined with health promotion and prevention, fostered by social and technological innovation. For public and private partnerships to work effectively, it is important to identify the main obstacles for SMEs to internationalise and engage in the market. In the competitive environment we find ourselves in, we must work effectively to provide affordable and sustainable healthcare. The type of bottom-up development and innovation is crucial to ensuring a healthy future for all.

“These events where all of you come together with the magniﬁ cent initiatives and ideas from your regions and Member States and then link them all together is the main driver of a healthy future for all.” Dr Pēteris Zilgalvis

64 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

EU structural funds as an instrument of social innovation: Closing down the Bulgarian orphanages with ERDF and ESF support

Outline 12A41 In 2009, the Bulgarian government committed itself to closing down all 137 existing orphanage institutions in Bulgaria 12 October 2011, and to place children in a kinder, community-based environment. The process is financed by structural funds, the ERDF 11:15-13:00 and the ESF. A total of more than EUR 100 million in the current programming period has been earmarked for it. Organiser: During the workshop, the process of preparation for closing down Bulgarian orphanages was presented, from the initial Regional Policy DG, European idea to the most extensive planning processes in Bulgaria at policy level. The speakers presented the governmental Commission vision on how the change of policy has been taking place, the main steps of the action plan, which was prepared with an envisaged lifespan of 15 years, and the challenges they have faced so far. Jan Jarab presented the human rights Chair: aspect of the process. Carsten Rasmussen, Regional Policy DG, European Commission Conclusions In summing up, the following points were made: Speakers: - The Bulgarian process is a very ambitious and unique in Europe, including with regard to the governmental Kiril Kiryakov, Employment, Social commitment to the process. The de-institutionalisation process for children has become a national policy. Affairs and Inclusion DG, European - The process is financed by the ERDF and ESF. More than EUR 100 million has been earmarked for this process so far. Commission - It is a model of good practice which should be followed by other states/regions with similar challenges. Tomislav Donchev, Minister for EU funds, Bulgaria Valya Simeonova, Deputy Minister for Labour and Social Policy, Bulgaria Jan Jarab, Regional Representative for Europe, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights

“If you're not part of the solution, you're part of the problem.” African proverb

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 65 Workshops Europe 2020

European PPP Expertise Centre 12A42 Outline 12 October 2011, The European PPP Expertise Centre (EPEC) is a joint initiative of the EIB, the European Commission and the EU Member 11:15-13:00 States and Candidate Countries. EPEC helps strengthen the capacity of its public sector members to enter into public- private partnership (PPP) transactions. EPEC's members share experience and expertise, analysis and best practices Organiser: relating to all aspects of PPPs. Its mission is to strengthen the ability of the public sector to engage in PPP transactions. EPEC The workshop will concentrate on sub-national PPPs.

Coordination: Debate Marcin Woronowicz, Advisor, EPEC During the panel discussion the following people participated: Steven Van Garsse, Manager, Flemish Knowledge Centre PPP; Chair: Krzysztof Siwek, Director at the Polish Ministry of Regional Development; Francois Gaudet, Principal Advisor, Simon Pascoe, European Federation of Local Government Chief Executives; EPEC Frank Littwin, Director at the Ministry of Finance, North Rhine-Westphalia.

Speakers: Goetz Von Thadden, Principal Advisor, EPEC Francois Gaudet

More information: “EPEC’s mission is to strengthen the www.eib.org/epec ability of the public sector to engage in public-private partnership (PPP) transactions.”

66 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

Regions and cities shaping industrial policy in the globalisation era

Outline 12A43 There has been a significant change in the nature and scope of the EU industrial policy over the last decade, which 12 October 2011, provided the context for the Commission communication on this subject. The aim of the fifth OPEN DAYS seminar, 14:30-17:00 organised by the EPP Group in the CoR, was to contribute to the implementation of the Europe 2020 strategy on the ground. The seminar focused on one of the seven flagship initiatives of the strategy, that of industrial policy for a Organiser: globalisation era. Special focus was placed on presenting concrete case studies and best practice examples from several European People's Party (EPP) Group EU regions, demonstrating the contribution of regions and cities in the implementation of the strategy by achieving in the Committee of the Regions sustainable growth. Local and regional authorities have accumulated significant experience in the area of economic and industrial development, and can provide a key contribution to achieving the objectives of the new industrial policy. Chair: Michael Schneider, President of the Debate EPP Group in the Committee of the Michael Schneider opened the seminar, stressing that local and regional authorities have contributed to the economic Regions (1st panel) and industrial development in a decisive way via multilevel partnerships, which makes them vital for the implementation Emilia Müller, Minister for Federal of this flagship of the Europe 2020 strategy. He explained that industrial policy has moved towards a more sustainable and European Affairs in the Bavarian approach, responding to the desire to boost growth and competitiveness in the Member States. State Chancellery (2nd panel)

Gianfranco Dell’Alba underlined the positive development of the EU industrial policy, welcoming the measures taken Speakers: by the European Commission. He highlighted that European industry is still strong and resilient, but that European Gianfranco Dell’Alba, Director, policy could provide a guarantee for socially and economically sustainable instruments, which would prevent losses Confederation of Italian Industry due to the economic crisis. He highlighted the importance of balancing our commitment to the 20-20-20 objectives (Confindustria) delegation in the with initiatives to boost competitiveness. Within this context, he stressed that an enhanced industrial element is European Union essential within EU policy and Confindustria can support all efforts made in this regard. Moreover he noted that specific Peter Jungen, Honorary President of actions, such as promotion of SMEs, and significant investments in innovation and technological research, are needed the SME Union of the EPP in order to boost growth. Marek Woźniak, Marshal of the Wielkopolska Region, Poland Peter Jungen stressed that dynamism and innovation are solutions to the economic crisis. The entrepreneurship, Constance Hanniffy, Member creativity and ideas of young people are key to realising the targets of the Europe 2020 strategy. He also argued of Offaly County Council, Ireland, that innovation is only possible through promoting entrepreneurship and, in particular, by an increased number of and President of the Monitoring entrepreneurs. He stressed the close interconnections between the European industrial system and all the new fast- Committee of the Border, Midland growing economies, arguing that a far-looking industrial policy cannot ignore global challenges like demographic and West Regional Assembly transition and environmental approaches. He then turned to young people, noting that it is important for politicians Markku Markkula, Member of and policies to encourage the youth to start new businesses and to make it easier for these businesses to grow fast. Espoo City Council, Finland, and European politicians at all levels have to shift their attention from large plants and huge corporations to small and Chairman of the EPP/CoR Task Force successful entrepreneurs and start-ups. ‘Europe 2020’

Emilia Müller presented the positive experience of regional clusters in Bavaria. The 19-cluster strategy was set up five years ago, based on the region’s strengths, and aimed to assure creativity and sustainable growth. From this experience she concluded that successful clusters generate a rich harvest and drive a huge social return. She also proposed that Europe’s future lies in sound finances, in self-conscious regions, in the talents of the people and in strong regional and European networks. In her view, it is important to learn from each other and work together for a Europe of future opportunities.

Constance Hanniffy said it was necessary to deliver appropriate intervention to support entrepreneurs and small businesses because they drive regional development, deliver economic and social benefits, and build strong regional and local economies. She drew attention to some of the main regional challenges and presented two of the initiatives undertaken at local and regional levels (Business Mentoring for Winners Programme and Roscommon Innovation House). She also highlighted the key points to encourage SMEs: relevant identified localised needs analysis, minimised bureaucracy and facilitated service access for entrepreneurs.

Marek Wozniak presented concrete examples of policies and facilities for entrepreneurs in Wielkopolska Region, such

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 67 Workshops Europe 2020

Regions and cities shaping industrial policy in the globalisation era

More information: as a digital database of service centres for investors and exporters, and initiatives on social economy. He stressed the www.web.cor.europa.eu/ need to create conditions for the proper functioning and development of business and for implementing a sustainable epp/Events/OpenDays/ industrial policy in the regions. The importance of a financial support mechanism to encourage risk-taking was Pages/2011OpenDays.aspx underlined by the Marshall before summarising the industrial policy in an era of globalisation: any action to improve www.epp.cor.europa.eu the business environment, particularly for SMEs, and to promote sustainable industry so that it is able to compete in a global world. Local governments have to create an environment conducive to business, R&D, competitiveness, job creation, dynamic growth and cooperation, he explained.

Markku Markkula pointed out that Europe should start to deal with the gap that exists between the latest research knowledge and its implementation in the business environment. He stressed that more has to be done in partnership between academia, private and public sectors, placing a focus on creating pioneering regions and encouraging them to form European consortiums, thereby integrating the different capabilities that our regions can offer to create ground-breaking societal innovations for Europe-wide use. He concluded that through its various actors, each region can become a pioneer focusing on its own needs and strengths.

Conclusions: The conclusions drawn from this debate are:

• There is a need to invest in human capital in order to get new ideas and products onto the market. Innovation and research are of great significance in order to successfully increase exports and competitiveness. • Local and regional authorities play an important role in promoting a competitive industry. For instance, by nurturing local clusters, ensuring a reliable and business-friendly local administration and providing good local infrastructure. • European development and economic growth have to be well coordinated and assured at all levels, particularly in cities and regions. • In order to build strong regional and local economies, bureaucracy should be reduced and access to services made easier so that entrepreneurs and SMEs can thrive. • The younger generation should be encouraged, through the relevant EU policies, to follow the entrepreneurial sector in their professional development.

”Innovation comes from transparency and cooperation and is the key of the door to the future.” Emilia Müller

68 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

Active ageing Outline 12A44 While the promotion of active-ageing policies can help address the challenges of demographic change, it is vital not to 12 October 2011, reduce them to mere strategies of prolongation of the working life, thus making them purely instrumental in responding 14:30-17:00 to simply economic concerns. Full respect of the rights of the elderly goes hand-in-hand with intergenerational solidarity, the overall aim being a better quality of life. To this effect, a holistic approach is required in order to empower Organiser: elderly people to realise their potential, address demographic change as an opportunity, and find innovative solutions Party of European Socialists (PES) to the current economic and social challenges facing our ageing society. The PES Group in the CoR fully subscribes to Group in the Committee of the this approach. The question then is, on the upcoming tenth anniversary of the above-mentioned action plans, where Regions are we today? Chair: Debate Irene Oldfather, Lead Consultant Ralk Jacob focused on the motivation for dedicating the European Year 2012 to the topic of active ageing. Given Dementia at Life changing Trust, the changes in the population pyramid in Member States over the next 50 years, there will be an increased need for Former PES Group Vice-President social spending on pensions, health and long-term care for older people, but also a rise in taxes to be paid by the in the Committee of the Regions, younger generations. Promoting active ageing policies is therefore the precondition for solidarity between generations former Chairperson of the European and need to include both employment strategies (e.g. the promotion of healthy work places) and measures for social and External Relations Committee in participation (e.g. senior volunteering and adult learning). the Scottish Parliament

Anne-Sophie Parent outlined the perspective of one of the leading NGOs involved in active ageing and the European Speakers: Year 2012. She underlined the need to mobilise a wide range of stakeholders from all levels of government in an effort to Ralf Jacob, Employment DG, create a more age-friendly environment. “We need to implement a shared vision of society of all ages, an age-friendly EU European Commission that goes beyond the targets set for 2020,” she stressed. She also welcomed the creation of age-friendly networks, such Anne-Sophie Parent, Secretary as a European Covenant of Mayors on active ageing, calling for the provision of adequate funding for such initiatives. General of the AGE Europe Platform Giuseppe Porcaro, Secretary Guiseppe Porcaro presented the view of the youth on the topic of active ageing. “What we urgently need is a new General of the European Youth solidarity pact amongst the generations and appropriate reform policies,” he said, underlining that regional and local Forum authorities can play an important role in this process. He also referred to the relationship between volunteering, Claudia Menne, Confederal participation and active ageing. Secretary of the European Trade Union Confederation Claudia Menne focused on the need to create the right conditions in the labour market for all and provide citizens with Clemens Lindemann, President of adequate public services. She continued, saying that “active ageing is also linked to the educational level”, explaining the District of Saar-Palatinate and that people who have embraced lifelong learning throughout their life, also tend to age more actively. Member of the PES Group in the Committee of the Regions Clemens Lindemann presented the action programme ‘50 fit – Employment and health orientation in the Saar- Per Bødker Andersen, Deputy- Palatinate district’, targeted at older people who are long-term unemployed, suffer from health problems and are Mayor of Kolding and Member of the socially excluded. The project is based on four pillars: health promotion activities, actions for social inclusion, labour PES Group in the Committee of the market integration and consulting activities. “According to my experience on the ground, what matters most is to Regions offer people a real perspective and give them the feeling of being part of society,” he said, highlighting the successful Dr Jörg Peschner, Employment DG, outcome of this regional initiative. European Commission

Per Bodker Andersen reported on his experience with projects on care for elderly people, such as projects that prevent More information: dependency of people who suffer from dementia and training programmes for their family members. He reminded www.pes.cor.europa.eu/ his audience that “the development of policies for active senior citizens at local level needs to be openly discussed activeageing.html between the local authorities and citizens of all age groups”.

Conclusions To conclude the discussion, Irene Oldfather said that the overall political message was that older people need to play an active role in their communities and mix with younger generations, and have more opportunities, both on the job market and in society. Being close to the citizens, local and regional authorities are well placed to contribute to the formulation and implementation of active-ageing policies and encourage various forms of mobilisation and participation on the ground.

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 69 Workshops Europe 2020

The role of corporate social responsibility in building sustainable growth 12A45 Outline 12 October 2011, Community involvement is one of the major issues of corporate social responsibility. It aims at building lasting 14:30-17:00 relationships between companies and local players, making synergies possible in order to strengthen local economic development. This approach often leads to the establishment of public-private partnerships. The objective of this Organiser: workshop was to highlight several examples. World Forum Lille Debate Chair: Alistair Gould outlined the work of the Bay Trust. Based in St Margarets Bay near Dover, it provides courses and amenities Geert Demuijnck, Expert, World for children and adults from around the United Kingdom. The Bay Trust is committed to activities and initiatives that are Forum Lille Institute (organised by working in harmony with the earth’s life-sustaining systems, which in turn help enrich the local community and provide Alliances Network), France appropriate resources back to the organisation – i.e. the triple bottom line of environment, community and economy. The trust’s core values are expressed through the themes of collaboration, ‘cradle-to-cradle’ sustainability and Speakers: community benefit. Alistair Gould, President, The Bay Trust, United Kingdom Following 50 years of progressive and radical changes in the construction sector, Claude Lenglet said that it was now Claude Lenglet, Scientific Director, time for new commitments. Thanks to public-private partnerships, something new in the world of construction, the Rabot-Dutilleul, France resulting designs are numerous, which also affect the future of large buildings. Now it is not only about building but also about designing, and PPPs are considered to be the drivers for responsible and long-term changes, since time has More information: returned as a value of the construction process. Now growth takes into account not only economic values, but also www.worldforum-lille.org/en people and the environment. www.baytrust.org.uk www.rabotdutilleul.com Conclusions In conclusion, Geert Demuijnck said that public-private partnerships appear to be an opportunity for CSR since they are contracted for the long term. They therefore contribute to a sustainable economic approach.

70 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

Atlantic Ocean – The sea as a competitive advantage 12A46 12 October 2011, 11:15-13:00 Outline The importance of the ocean as a competitive advantage lies in the ability of regions and cities to add value to Organiser: widely different economic activities. The implementation of the EU integrated maritime policy has to consider a Lisbon and Tagus Valley Regional Development sea-basin approach, which is fundamental to achieve significant and tangible progress towards the promotion of Coordination Commission the Atlantic Region. Chair: The main goal of this workshop was to present the results of three public-private partnerships as examples of good Rui Azevedo, Executive Director of the practices in the fields of energy, environment and maritime engineering. Association Ocean XXI – Cluster of Knowledge and Maritime Economy, Portugal Debate Amelia Gutierres Ortega talked about the improvement of environmental management and support to the Speakers: decontamination in Agadir harbour. The main goal of SIGMAC is to reduce the contamination caused by port Amelia Gutierres Ortega, Director of the activity in Agadir, using technologies and methodology transfer, with the aim of homogenising joint systems of Centre of Technologies and Sea Sciences, environment protection and maritime safety between Europe and Morocco. This PPP integrates Moroccan and Canary Islands, Spain Spanish partners. Florian Carre, Responsible of the Pole de Competitivité ’Mer Paca’, France Florian Carre presented the Deep Offshore Testing Facility. This is the test centre where the deep-sea project António Correia, President of the Municipality ABYSSEA will be supported, which will validate equipment and procedures for exploration and exploitation of the of Peniche, Portugal sub-marine, in order to improve security and participation in sustainable development in these areas. Debate participants: António Correia presented the SURGE project, the first system created to explore SURGE phenomenon in deep António Costa, President of the Municipal sea waves on the near-shores. Wave Roller is a unique system, proven and patented, and created to convert wave Council of Lisbon, Portugal energy into electricity. This PPP has partners from Finland, Germany and Portugal (Lisbon and Tagus Valley and Peter Heffernan, Chief Executive, The Marine Centre Regions). Institute, Ireland Julie Gourden, Director for the CPMR in Conclusions charge of cohesion policy, interregional In conclusion, the workshop highlighted the main following points: cooperation and monitoring of the Atlantic Arc Commission - the relevance of Atlantic transnational cooperation to respond to the challenges of ocean exploration; Luis Cuervo Spottorno, Policy Officer for the - the need for a global and integrated approach to maritime affairs to bring together economic, social and Integrated Maritime Policy for the Atlantic environmental dimensions; Ocean area, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries DG, - the role of knowledge and innovation to foster the development of a maritime economy; European Commission - the role of the regional level for the governance of the Atlantic marine basins; Henrique Villa da Costa Ferreira, Secretary of - the potential for cooperation between the two sides of the Atlantic Ocean. Regional Development Policies of the Ministry of National Integration, Brazil

More information: The workshop was followed by a networking “Learning and sharing session. All the participants were invited to take part in order to meet the speakers, to get more for the sustainable information related to the presented PPPs, and exploitation of the oceans.” to share experiences and good practices. Peter Heﬀ ernan SURGE project: www.aw-energy.com/concept.html www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/ article/2009/10/waveroller-demonstration- planned-for-portugal SIGMAC Project: http://sigmac.cetecima.com/index. php?option=com_content&view=frontpage& Itemid=226 ABYSSEA Project www.polemerpaca.com/actualite-24/abyssea- linnovation-au-service-de-lexploitation- durable-des-grands-fonds-901.html

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 71 Workshops Europe 2020

Sustainable (LED) lighting in local communities 12A47 Outline 12 October 2011, Lighting plays a key role in making communities vibrant, secure and liveable. At the same time, public lighting has a 14:30-17:00 significant impact on CO2 emissions, the availability of electricity and on public spending. Sustainable lighting solutions have the potential to help cities meet all of these challenges. To succeed with these goals, Philips is building alliances, Organiser: notably with cities and regions, as catalysts of change and innovation. This year, the workshop offered a testimonial of Philips our partnerships in Derby (UK) and Florence (Italy). Our aim is to assist local decision-makers and experts across Europe to make informed decisions when switching to green urban designs. Chair: Claudia Carta, Senior Manager, Debate Government Affairs EMEA, Philips Claudia Carta began the workshop by sharing insights into the remarkable transformation the lighting industry is undergoing due to urbanisation, surging demand for energy and growing connectivity. Cities are key to solving the Speakers: world’s energy and climate-related challenges as they are responsible for 75% of global total energy consumption. Bob Dutton, Senior Technical Claudia also talked about Philips’ vision on energy-efficient lighting solutions and new public-private cooperation Advisor, Highways and models to renovate, improve and innovate in public lighting. Transportation, Atkins plc Mark Harris, Business Development Bob Dutton gave a clear view on the elements municipalities have to take into account when facing renovation in Director, Balfour Beatty plc public lighting. They include not only tangible topics, i.e. technical and financial, but also intangible aspects, such as Simone Tani, Director for Economic safety, comfort, well being, etc. He gave an example ofa public lighting project done via private financial incentives Development and Innovation, City of (PFI) in Derby, United Kingdom. PFIs are cost-effective and can be a tool to introduce an economy of scale. The size of Florence, Italy the project is what really drives innovation. As municipalities manage big projects, they should have a leading role in installing innovative lighting solutions, thus cutting costs for energy consumption. More information: www.lighting.philips.com Mark Harris shared the contractor’s perspective on balancing the needs of municipalities with its own business plan, i.e. considering both the decision process (five to seven years) and the length of the contract (25 years). He underlined the importance of having a reliable and knowledgeable technological partner who will provide constant support throughout the process. Based on Mark’s experience, it is essential to have good dialogue among the different partners as it might take around six months from recognising the problem to finding a solution.

Simone Tani shared his insights into how the city of Florence has used an innovative and efficient public lighting system to meet the needs of the city and its citizens and enhancing the identity of the city, while reducing public spending. Over the years, lighting has become an important marketing tool for cities. The LED revolution and flexible application of the technology have helped not only citizens and tourists to have a new and better perception of the city (e.g. its monuments, bridges, parks), but also has enhanced the delivery of public services(e.g. safety at night) and tourism.Their political agenda is strongly linked to the Covenant of Mayors commitments.

Conclusions “By applying LED lighting After very rich and stimulating discussions among the panellists and several city representatives, Claudia Carta concluded the workshop by summing up the discussion as follows: solutions we could - Public-private partnerships are cost-efficient mechanisms for significant energy and cost savings in municipalities and ﬂ exibly satisfy both the encourage a faster penetration of new technologies. - Energy-efficient lighting solutions make a considerable difference to public expenditure. Innovate your way out of needs of the city and its the crisis! citizens.” - The switch to LED lighting solutions and energy-efficient lighting systems means investing in both modern public infrastructure and in real benefits for people, making them feel safer on the streets, reducing the number of accidents, Simone Tani enjoying the city at night ,etc., whilst contributing towards a reduction of CO2 emissions.

72 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

Reactivating older workers in EU regions Outline 12A48 The aftermath of the economic crisis, the ageing work population, the reform of pension systems and budget cuts in 12 October 2011, the EU necessitate an increase in the participation and employment rates of older workers. The discussions about re- 14:30-17:00 skilling and re-integrating older workers and the demographic challenges will continue in the coming years. Regions need to be proactive and show EU institutions and Member States how to attain high levels of employment. The Organiser: European Year 2012 on active ageing, the flagship initiative New Skills for Jobs and the all-round target of 75% labour Liaison Agency Flanders, Europe market participation make the subject all the more relevant. The participating regions all showed their best practices on the reintegration of older workers in the labour market. Chair: Claudia Villioso, LABORatorio Debate Riccardo Revelli (LABOR), Center for Vendulka Raymova mentioned that due to the closing of the mines in the Karlovy Vary regions, the area would need Employment Studies and Collegio help from the European globalisation fund to reskill older workers without relocating them. Carlo Alberto

Carla Collesi talked about the ANCORA project in Umbria, which was funded by the ESF. Speakers: Vendulka Raymova, President of Aneta Niegierysz presented a study about economically active persons over the age of 50 in Podlaskie. The study Karlovy Vary Region, Czech Republic, wanted to diagnose the situation of the elderly in the labour market and analyse the support that was given to them. and Member of the Committee of the Regions Lieve de Lathouwer outlined a best practice on how Flanders invests to keep older workers at work for longer. Carla Collesi, Head of the The agreement ‘all together for 50+’ between the social partners and the Flemish government focuses on specific, Employment Policy Management individual and targeted guidance for elderly workers, employed as well as unemployed. It started with a specific Office in Umbria Region, Italy activation approach and an awareness-raising campaign. Aneta Niegierysz, Project Manager, Labour Office of Podlaskie Krzysztof Borys talked about ESF support in Lubelskie to ageing employees with a project called ‘Experience and Voivodeship, Poland knowledge – strengthening potential of medical personnel’. The main goal was to increase competitiveness and Lieve de Lathouwer, Coordinator develop the adaptive potential of health sector employees in the area of new technologies and work organisation. of the expert group on age and employment, Department of work Selami Öztürk discussed the integration of women and retired workers in the labour market through the Kadikoy and social economy, Flanders, municipality education and social assistance centre, where the target group can follow computer courses and 35 other Belgium different training courses. They are assisted by the employment office and the social assistant office. Krzysztof Borys, Department of European Social Funds in Lubelskie Tunc Soyer talked about the situation in Seferihisar and about how the European Year should support actions to increase Region, Poland the employment rate of the elderly. He focused specifically on the fight against prejudices and age discrimination and Selami Öztürk, Mayor of Kadikoy highlighted the need for an awareness-raising campaign. He also recognised that telework needs to be encouraged Municipality, Turkey and people continuously need to receive training on the labour market. Tunc Soyer, Mayor of Seferihisar Municipality, Turkey Conclusions: The presentations showed that extending the working life is possible if appropriate measures are taken in order to More information: remove the barriers to working longer. We should never forget that population ageing is a human success story: we are www.vleva.eu/event/open-days- living longer and healthier lives. The prevailing negative view about ageing neglects the contribution that older people reactivating-older-workers-eu- can make to the society. We have learnt from the workshop that measures like ‘one size fits all’ do not exist and that regions interventions should be tailored to the context and local situation. Second, the involvement of stakeholders at all levels, from public authorities to social partners, from firms to workers and citizens, is a necessary prerequisite for successful interventions. Third, the interventions shown in this workshop have demonstrated the importance of life-long learning. Learning and training should not stop after a certain age. The idea that ‘you cannott teach an old dog new tricks’ “The older worker does has to be revised. not exist. The elderly are Finally, if we want to promote a more positive view about workers aged 45, 50 and 55, we should stop defining them as ‘older workers’. They are mature, adult and experienced, but not old. The a heterogeneous group terminology we use can contribute towards removing some of the prejudices against extending working lives. and need individual and targeted guidance.”

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 73 Workshops Europe 2020

Europe 2020: Challenges and opportunities for the outermost regions 12A50 Outline 12 October 2011, The objective of the workshop was to present the outermost regions as dynamic actors that are implementing the 14:40-17:00 Europe 2020 strategy. The projects conducted in the outermost regions demonstrate how those regions contribute to the two flagship initiatives of the strategy, namely Innovation Union and Resource efficient Europe. The aim is to focus Organiser: on these challenges and opportunities, such as R&D and innovation, climate change, energy and resource efficiency. Regional Policy DG, European The potential that the outermost regions have in that area is undeniable. There is a common interest in stimulating and Commission developing it in order to tackle the challenges that Europe will have to face in the future.

Chair: Debate I: Panel discussion Serge Letchimy, President of the Mikel Landabaso reported that the regional innovation strategy (RIS) for smart specialisation is a strategy aimed at Regional Council of Martinique, developing a high performance system of regional research and innovation. It defines a policy mix that focuses on a France limited number of priorities aimed at stimulating smart growth. It is based on a strong partnership between the private Ana-Paula Laissy, Head of Unit, sector, public entities and knowledge/academic institutions. The ‘quality’ of this partnership is essential for its success. Regional Policy DG, European Commission Nathalie Chevon described Synergîle. This is a cluster in Guadeloupe which brings together business associations, research centres and training organisations with stakeholders in Martinique and French Guyana. It is engaged in Speakers: creating synergies around innovative projects in two areas: renewable energy and tropical materials for construction. Panel I: Synergîle helps stakeholders realise their projects by monitoring every stage of project development, finding the funds Mikel Landabaso, Head of Unit, and promoting the projects, both in the region and abroad. Regional Policy DG, European Commission Rodrigo Vasconcelos de Oliveira reported that the Azores have a wealth of potential to be developed. Several Nathalie Chevon, Cynergîle, programmes have been promoted in the region: a new regulation for access to natural resources; support for marine Guadeloupe, France research and exploration; centres for R&D in the fields of oceanography, vulcanology, biology and agronomy; and a new Rodrigo Vasconcelos de Oliveira, RDT campus for renewable energy and ICT. The universities create networks to cooperate with each other and with Member of the 10th Regional universities in the United States of America in order to enhance the potential of human resources. The importance of Government of the Azores, in charge stimulating entrepreneurship, especially for SMEs, is also one of the regional priorities. of European Affairs and External Cooperation Conclusions The outermost regions face problems related to their handicaps. Their traditional economies are based mostly on very small-sized companies and small markets. This makes it more difficult for them to take advantage of innovation. It is very important to address these unfavourable conditions by enhancing adequate professional training and better communication between the stakeholders, as well as concentrating efforts on developing centres of excellence, R&D, renewable energy, biodiversity and agriculture.

74 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

Europe 2020: Challenges and opportunities for the outermost regions

Debate II: Panel discussion Panel II: Werner Bosmans stressed that the world is running short of resources, as man is overexploiting them. There is a need Werner Bosmans, Environment DG, to focus on the sustainable management of natural assets and their optimisation throughout the entire life cycle. The European Commission Europe 2020 strategy, with its flagship initiative ‘Resource efficient Europe’, is coming with a new approach and new Agostinho Figueira, Electricidade objectives. Many stakeholders, especially Member States − who play a crucial role in the implementation of targeted da Madeira, Portugal actions − need to be involved in order to successfully achieve these goals. It is possible to produce more value with Isabelle Bonjour, Responsible for fewer inputs, and thereby both lessen our impact on the environment and consume in a more intelligent way. the House of the Forest and Wood of Guyane, France Agostinho Figueira discussed the Calheta Hydroelectric Reversible System in Madeira (Calheta III), which has been developed to optimise the production of energy with a stable output all year round. Using a system of tunnels and More information: canals, the project makes the most of the island's geographical layout – collecting water in the mountainous north and http://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/ transferring it to the south. This project is in line with the regional strategy and seeks to contribute towards the target activity/outermost/index_fr.cfm fixed for 2020: namely 50% of energy production based on renewable energy.

Isabelle Bonjour presented La Filière Forêt et Bois in French Guyana (MFBG), which specialises in the forest industry, using its natural resources in a sustainable way. A wide variety of tree species are grown there, using appropriate equipment and exploiting the conditions according to the seasons. Given the rich biodiversity of French Guyana, the functions of forestry planning and management can be optimised and the negative impacts of industrial activity minimised. The eco-label certificates PEFC and FSC are the tangible result of the efforts of MFBG.

Conclusions The outermost regions need a greater differentiation in the area of agriculture in order to increase the commercialisation and consumption of local products. This objective is confronted by two main challenges. On the one hand, current imports from Europe prevent that goal from being achieved, which means that a minimum level of protection of local production is needed. On the other hand, there is strong competition between the neighbouring regions and countries, where prices (for labour and goods) are much lower. There are also other challenges, especially economic and ecological ones, and it is essential to strike a balance between them. Biodiversity is an added value for continental Europe, but it must be exploited with care and bear the objectives of the Europe 2020 strategy in mind.

“The principle of free trade comes from continental Europe but it condemns the local diversiﬁ cation so needed in the outermost regions [...]. Our development depends above all on us, not on Europe.” Serge Letchimy

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 75 Workshops Europe 2020

Smart specialisation strategies for regional growth 12A51 Outline 12 October 2011, Smart specialisation is about pursuing growth focusing on innovation-driven competitive advantage, starting from an 14:30-17:00 assessment of regional strengths and weaknesses, and being mindful of the region's history, territorial characteristics and geographical context. Organiser: Regional Policy DG, JRC-IPTS, Based on strategic intelligence about a region's assets, it enhances the capability to learn what characteristics can be European Commission developed in relation to those of other regions in the globalised economy. Regional innovation strategies for smart specialisation are important tools for regional competitiveness in the 2020 perspective. Chair: Claire Nauwelaers, Policy Adviser, Following the launch of the smart specialisation platform at the Regions for Economic Change Conference, the Regional Innovation, Member of S3 workshop offers a first opportunity for providing an update on progress achieved and for a discussion with the European Platform/Mirror Group institutions on this topic.

Speakers: Debate Johannes Hahn, European In his opening speech, Commissioner Hahn stressed that there are no shortcuts to economic growth and that there Commissioner for Regional Policy was simply no other way than investing into a country’s and region’s competitive advantages. In terms of regional policy Prof. Phillip McCann, Professor for this meant that there must be a move beyond an era of ribbon cutting – beyond a focus dominated by infrastructures Economic Geography, University – towards more knowledge-based investments. This required a fresh strategy process, a strategy for smart investments, of Groningen, Special Advisor to namely regional innovation strategies for smart specialisation. Commissioner Hahn Lambert van Nistelrooij, EPP In his input presentation Prof. McCann emphasised, inter alia, that rather than being about specialisation per se, smart Coordinator in the Regional specialisation was about specialised technological diversification and seeking competitive edges and niches. At its Development Committee, European very basis it was about taking an inventory of a region’s assets, capabilities and weaknesses, and asking what the real Parliament potentialities are and how to move forward. Markku Markkula, Chair, EPP/CoR Task Force ‘Europe 2020’ The panel discussion and contributions from the audience highlighted, among others, the critical issue of the readiness Stefan Zotti, Member of the Cabinet of local and regional administrations to perform such a strategic learning process, the need to break down silos and of European Commissioner Hahn make connections, the importance of process, and not only substance, for instance with regard to establishing the David Harmon, Member of evidence-base of the policy and of deeply engaging with stakeholders to determine regional investment priorities. Cabinet of European Commissioner Geoghegan-Quinn Conclusions Krzysztof Gulda, Director of the Claire Nauwelaers summarised the debate with four key points: Department of Strategy, the Ministry • We need more variety in innovation policy and less copy/paste strategies. S3 strategies should have a range of of Science and Higher Education, quantitative and qualitative indicators and evidence-based policies, and needs to seek out hidden innovations. Poland • Regional policy-makers are often myopic and have been influenced by a supply-and-demand model based on new technologies within the borders of a region. Regional specialisation has to make sense within a broader context, i.e. a More information: global supply chain. http://ipts.jrc.ec.europa.eu/activities/ • Integrated policies are required and this can mean working at the interfaces of clusters. research-and-innovation/s3platform. • Administrations need to develop strategic intelligence and to make sure that S3 contains strong methodologies and cfm evaluation procedures. S3 is not just doing but learning and this involves learning from experimentation.

“The jobs we need to create now and in the future to outgrow the eff ects of the crisis can only come from innovation and a relentless eff ort to become better, fi tter and faster.” Johannes Hahn

76 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

Towards the 2012 Annual Growth Survey: Reviewing the progress of territorial pacts between regions, cities and national governments in implementing Europe 2020 Outline 13A53 The Europe 2020 National Reform Programmes needed to be implemented by national governments in partnership 13 October 2011, with local and regional authorities: this had not been the case until now. The pending decisions on sovereign debt 09:00-10:45 management and economic governance represented an obstacle to growth and to making the most of the European semester. But how could growth be boosted at a time when public budgets were being cut? Europe 2020 and cohesion Organiser: policy should go hand in hand with each other and structural funds needed to be approved for all regions. They were Committee of the Regions, Europe ‘the face of Europe’ and should be coordinated with other policies through the territorial pacts (Poland was a forerunner 2020 Monitoring Platform in this field with its territorial contracts). The EC partnership contracts provided an integrated and coordinated framework for all relevant strands of public expenditure and it was important to ensure they were carefully prepared. Chair: The EP supported the idea of issuing EU bonds; in the case of infrastructural projects, IEB (Innovation in European Markku Markkula, Member of Business) support was also foreseen, along with private funding, whenever public-private partnerships were possible. Espoo City Council, Member of the Committee of the Regions, Debate Rapporteur of the Outlook Markku Markkula stressed, among others, the need to integrate the national reform programmes with national opinion on ‘The role of local and budgetary procedures and the added value of territorial pacts, which helped focus policy efforts on territorial needs regional authorities in achieving in a coordinated manner. There was a need to create a “joint regional innovation ecosystem", to boost research and the objectives of the Europe 2020 innovation under a "smart specialisation" approach. He also stressed the need to implement the Europe 2020 flagship strategy’ (EPP/FI) initiatives on the ground. Speakers: Corien Wortmann-Kool felt that financial instability impeded growth. The European Parliament was pushing the new Corien Wortmann-Kool, Member economic governance package ahead and believed that national parliaments, as well as local and regional authorities, of the European Parliament, Vice should be involved. She encouraged the EU's local and regional authorities to do their best to implement Europe 2020 President of the EPP Group, (EPP/NL) on the ground, as this was in their own best interests. Ms. Wortmann-Kool said that the EP supported the proposal to Ralf Christoffers, Minister for set up European project bonds for energy and ICT in order to help finance investments in infrastructure, and called on Economic and European Affairs the EIB to help with additional funding. of the State of Brandenburg, CoR Member, Member of the Europe Ralf Christoffers stressed that the State of Brandenburg was focusing on its strengths and that it supported regional 2020 Monitoring Platform (PES/DE) growth clusters with specific policy interventions, including public-private partnerships involving banks. He agreed Senén Florensa I Palau, Secretary on the need to overcome the current climate of financial uncertainty, and insisted that local and regional authorities General of Foreign Affairs of the should get more involved in the implementation of the Europe 2020 flagship initiatives, particularly the digital agenda. Regional Government of Catalonia, Structural funds, he argued, were "the face of Europe"; under the new regulations, they should become more flexible CoR Member, Member of the Europe and enable higher co-financing rates and new financial facilities. 2020 Monitoring Platform (ALDE/ES) Ewa Wnukowska, Director of Senén Florensa I Palau noted the dilemma facing policy-makers – the need to ensure that investments boosted Coordination and Implementation of growth at a time when public budgets were being cut in response to the debt crisis. There was a need to build a Regional Programmes Department, consensus regarding the choices to be made. Territorial pacts could play a role in the process of involving the local and Ministry of Regional Development, regional authorities. This approach had been taken with regard to rural areas in Catalonia and had shown the added Poland value it could provide. In Spain, regional strategies were in line with Europe 2020; all government levels were involved, Marcel Haag, Head of Unit, and the national government cooperated with territorial administrations. However, the regions still had a greater role Secretariat-General of the European to play, with greater responsibilities. Commission

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 77 Workshops Europe 2020

Towards the 2012 Annual Growth Survey: Reviewing the progress of territorial pacts between regions, cities and national governments in implementing Europe 2020

More information: Ewa Wnukowska presented the concept of the territorial contract (TC), as adopted under Polish legislation, which http://portal.cor.europa.eu/ was used as a planning instrument to implement public policies with a territorial impact. It involved the national europe2020/news/Pages/ government and regional and/or local authorities. It aimed to take account of the specific needs of a given territory OpenDays2011.aspx in public policy-making – most probably at regional (voivodship) level – thereby making policies more effective and increasing cohesion. TCs would be financed through a mix of European, national, regional, local and possibly also private funds. The process of drawing up these types of contracts would involve negotiations between the national government and regional and/or local authorities.

Marcel Haag stressed that, while in 2011 the European semester had focused on how to face the crisis, growth should hold centre stage in 2012. The involvement of local and regional authorities in the Europe 2020 national reform programmes was no greater than it had been under the Lisbon strategy, and this was not in line with Europe’s ambitions. In view of the new multi-annual financial framework, which would include partnership contracts between the Commission and each Member State, it was important to ensure that local and regional authorities were involved in their country’s priority-setting processes.

Conclusions The final part of the workshop consisted of an exchange of views between the public and the speakers. Markku Markkula summed up the main points discussed by the speakers, in particular how important it was for LRAs to play an active role. Germany and Catalonia were given as examples of this, both of which were working on innovation strategies and which had managed to establish a good working relationship with local authorities. He also referred to the five priorities which President Barroso included in the new roadmap to stability and growth. Markkula concluded by noting that the second monitoring report on the Europe 2020 strategy, which would feed into the 2012 Annual Growth Survey, would be published in December 2011.

“We cannot reach the Europe 2020 strategy target by small incremental steps.” Markku Markkula

78 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

Local government PPP: Delivering sustainable infrastructure Outline 13A54 The topic of this session concerned public-private partnerships (PPPs) for local administrations. In the coming years, 13 October 2011, local administrations will be facing major challenges. Financial resources are becoming scarcer, social challenges are 09:00-10:45 immense and require considerable investments. Evolutions in regulation saddle administrations with serious obligations or confront them with very difficult challenges. One only has to think of the regulations concerning swimming pools Organiser: which have become so complex that specialised expertise is necessary, or consider European obligations to achieve Flemish PPP Knowledge Centre: almost zero-emission buildings by 2020. Department of Services for the General Government Policy In order to overcome these challenges, local authorities will have to cooperate more and more, and more intensely, with the private sector and appeal for innovative solutions, expertise and private financing from this sector. Chair: In this session, Flemish experiences with PPP at local level were addressed. While PPP is particularly known in the Prof. Dr Steven Van Garsse, context of extremely large projects at the central level of government (for roads, bridges, tunnels, water infrastructure), Vlaams Kenniscentrum PPS (Flemish it is also increasingly receiving attention at the local level. PPP Knowledge Centre), Antwerp Management School, Belgium Debate Prof. Dr Steven Van Garsse outlined the role of the Knowledge Centre itself, which makes expertise available to local Speakers: administrations at regional level. Prof. Dr Koen Verhoest, Over the last few years, much has been learned with regard to local PPP projects. One of the most important aspects is a Instituut voor de Overheid (Public thorough preparation of the project, achieved through techniques like market research. This contributes to the creation Management Institute), University of of an intelligent customer. Leuven, Belgium Jeroen Buyck, Vlaams Kit Van Gestel first explained the theory and framework of the market consultation. Jens Debièvre then presented a Kenniscentrum PPS (Flemish PPP case study on the municipality of Ham (BE), which has successfully implemented a market consultation in anticipation Knowledge Centre), Belgium of an urban regeneration project. Kit Van Gestel, Vlaams Another factor of success is standardisation. Standardisation can occur in the field itself by successful planning and Kenniscentrum PPS (Flemish PPP revision of projects, but also through intervention by central authorities or organisations which develop specific models. Knowledge Centre), Instituut voor de Overheid (Public mManagement Prof. Dr Koen Verhoest, for his part, outlined two cases concerning local PPP swimming pools. During his presentation Institute), University of Leuven, he elaborated on their development, the problems faced, their pioneering role, the useful lessons learned and the Belgium factors contributing to success and failure of local government PPPs. Jens Debièvre, Public Law Finally, clustering and subsidising, whether combined with expertise or not, may also be an important lever for Department, Free University of promoting PPP at the local level. Through clustering, smaller projects can in fact be combined to achieve a certain ‘size’ Brussels / Lawyer at the Brussels bar so that financing can be more easily attracted and the transaction costs can be spread across multiple projects. (Lydian), Belgium Each from their own points of view, Jeroen Buyck (regional government) and Steven De Meyer (local government) Steven De Meyer, City of Antwerp, discussed the Flemish sports infrastructure plan. Belgium

Conclusions More information: Compared to large PPP projects at the central level of government, implementing PPP at the local level differs on a www.flanders.be number of points. Prof. Dr Steven Van Garsse pointed out that projects are often much smaller than is customary for www2.vlaanderen.be/pps/english/ project financing. Local authorities often lack expertise and also do not have the resources to invest in expertise needed index.html to get PPP projects off the ground, and so forth. Thus PPP projects usually have to be qualified as public procurements www.antwerpen.be or concessions so that national and European public procurement law must be taken into consideration. This means that an award procedure will have to be initiated, that there will often be a long and complicated negotiation procedure, or perhaps “In the coming years, local administrations will be facing a competitive dialogue, that there will be contract negotiations, that tenders will have be judged, and so on. major challenges. In order to overcome these challenges, local authorities will have to cooperate more and more, Despite all of these factors, experiences in Flanders with PPP at the local level can be considered positive. The workshop provided a and more intensely, with the private sector and appeal for number of techniques and experiences that have contributed to this innovative solutions, expertise and private ﬁ nancing from positive evaluation. Based on the feedback from the audience, the Flemish practice can serve as a source of inspiration for strengthening this sector.” local PPPs in other European regions.

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 79 Workshops Europe 2020

Thinking new – Models of urban PPPs delivering Europe 2020 13A55 Outline 13 October 2011, Public-private partnership (PPP) projects in urban regions have often provided the impulse for reshaping the 09:00-10:45 metropolitan landscape and the surrounding territory. At present, the challenge is to match sustainable development guidelines and Europe 2020 priorities with requirements in terms of mobility, social services, housing, tourism, culture Organiser: and the environment. HAL9000 Ltd The workshop presented three paramount cases, based on innovative models of partnership: Barcelona, which Chair: represents an EU benchmark for the implementation of the ELENA Facility, London, which has already created a JESSICA Mattia Crosetto, CEO, HAL9000 Ltd ‘Green Fund’ at metropolitan level, and Rome, which has launched a true urban revolution with more than 225 projects aimed at redesigning the portrait of the city in the perspective of the year 2020. Speakers: Gianluca Spinaci, Cabinet of the These examples showed the huge potential for contributing to the economic growth that urban regions have. They President, Committee of the Regions also demonstrated the effectiveness of innovative financial solutions in raising funds for urban investment initiatives. Domènec Cucurull i Descàrrega, Head of the Environment Debate Department, Diputaciò de Barcelona, Mattia Crosetto opened the workshop by outlining the reasons for its organisation and introducing the speakers. He Spain underlined the importance of devoting attention to metropolitan areas and urban regions within the Europe 2020 Mark Kleinman, Assistant Director perspective. In the medium term, the quality of life across the European Union will actually be strongly influenced for Economic and Business Policy, by the conditions in its urban agglomerations. His key message was that investments in these areas would naturally GLA produce positive follow-ups in the general scenario. He then passed the floor to the speakers. Frank Lee, Head of Holding Funds & Advisory, Northern Europe, European Gianluca Spinaci welcomed the participants at the Committee of the Regions and underlined the importance that Investment Bank such events take place at the ‘house’ of the EU cities and regions during the OPEN DAYS. He continued by briefly Hon. Federico Rocca, Delegate of outlining the activities of the Committee of the Regions in the framework of the Europe 2020 strategy for the urban the Mayor for the Relations with the dimension within the future cohesion policy. He reserved specific attention for the next summit on the EU urban policy, EU, Roma Capitale, Italy which the Committee is organising in Copenhagen for March 2012. He concluded by recalling the next key steps of the Franco La Torre, General Manager, interinstitutional dialogue for the implementation of Europe 2020. Risorse per Roma SpA, Italy Stefano Tersigni, General Manager, In his intervention, Domènec Cucurull i Descàrrega described the Province of Barcelona’s model for the REDAIS – BROSS Srl implementation of the energy action plan, scheduled by the Covenant of Mayors’ approach. The plan now involves 141 Hon. Roberta Angelilli, Vice municipalities and more than 100 local initiatives. The first results from the activities are tangible for renewable energy President, European Parliament production (especially solar and biogas), and show efficiency in public buildings and the structure of new realisations. He then outlined the mechanisms for financing the projects, stressing the difference between commercial and non- commercial investments.

Mark Kleinman presented the Mayor of London’s approach towards urban development. To face the present challenges – i.e. immigration, international competition, high levels of unemployment, lack of skills and the promotion of economic growth decreasing with the use of energy – the Mayor has defined a new vision focused on quality of life, climate change mitigation and promotion of renewable energies. These elements are part of the economic development strategy (EDS) that will transform London into “the best big city on earth”. Within the EDS, London drives the public investments, but a key partner is obviously the private sector.

Frank Lee described the functioning and management scheme of the London green fund, one of the tools that implement’s the city’s EDS. The fund amounts to GBP 100 million, 50% from the ERDF and 50% from local sources. It promotes carbon reduction projects in line with the EDS climate change agenda. So far, it has supported interventions in urban waste and energy efficiency sectors, establishing two urban developing funds, both based on new PPPs. With GBP 35 million, the waste fund targets high-risk equity-type investments; the energy efficiency fund has a base-capital of GBP 50 million that is available for low-risk investments.

Hon. Federico Rocca offered an overview of the new urban strategy of Roma Capitale. With the help of a video, produced solely for OPEN DAYS, he explained that the Eternal City cannot rely anymore on its past, but has to complete its transition to a modern metropolis, providing a high quality of life for both residents and tourists. The new strategic development plan for the city, the first from the municipality for 50 years, provides the solution to that challenge. The plan is a true road map for urban restructuring and paves the way for Rome’s candidature for the 2020 Olympic Games.

80 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

Thinking new – Models of urban PPPs delivering Europe 2020

Franco La Torre illustrated the key features of the development plan (SDP) for Roma Capitale. He outlined its four More information: overall objectives: environmental sustainability, solidarity, competition, and culture-tourism-entertainment. These www.hal9000ltd.eu objectives are covered within 12 design themes, each corresponding to several priority projects. The SDP covers 256 projects which will cost a total investment of more than EUR 25 billion. Of this, 10% has already been allocated, a further EUR 10 billion has to be found from national and EU funds, and EUR 12 billion has to be raised through public-private partnerships.

Hon. Roberta Angelilli provided the audience with an insight of current discussions at EU level on the measures for recovering the economy and supporting the realisation of the Europe 2020 strategy. She specifically underlined the role that urban areas will have in promoting growth and job creation, as well as the attention that they are receiving from EU institutions in the development of future EU policies. She concluded with a positive message, highlighting the potential of European people and their capacity to overcome the present difficulties.

Stefano Tersigni presented the point of view of the private sector engaged in the field of urban restructuring. He showed a palette of innovative projects developed by his company, the BROSS-REDAIS Group, in the framework of Rome’s SDP, from efficient buildings to intelligent mobility. He confirmed that entrepreneurs are ready to invest in urban areas because they see opportunities and possible returns, but rules must be clear and stable. Public support is useful, notably in the high-risk initiatives, but comes without the detailed procedures and bureaucracy.

Conclusions Mattia Crosetto concluded the discussion by saying that PPP projects in metropolitan areas and urban regions are essential components of the ‘engines’ for economic growth and occupation. In recent times, local administrations in the Province of Barcelona, London and Rome have defined innovative instruments for combining public and private financial resources, creating models for other similar entities. EU funds can provide a key contribution for launching supporting measures that are capable of producing tangible results. This is the case for both London and the Province of Barcelona. Rome has prepared an integrated development strategy and considers the EU as one of the top partners for its realisation. Thus, PPP models in the future are based on the fundamental alliance with EU institutions.

“Projects in urban areas need visions for the future, careful planning and ideas. Roma Capitale has based its urban development strategy on them and presents its plan as a model to investors for new public-private partnerships.”

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 81 Workshops Europe 2020

The jilted generation? 13A56 Outline 13 October 2011, This debate centred on the issue of youth unemployment. One in four young people are out of work and many more 09:00-13:00 are in temporary work. Europe 2020 recognises the situation facing young people as being significant. ‘Youth on the move’ is one of the flagship initiatives. This debate will seek to include the views of young people, local policy-makers Organiser: and those responsible inside the European Commission to discover the extent that local and EU actions are reflecting Consortium ‘Local Urban the needs of young people, and what input young people can have in determining local and EU actions. Development European Network’ (LUDEN) Panel I discussion The workshop was opened by Haroon Saad who set the broader context in which the topic of the jilted generation Chair: has to be discussed. He specified that the issue is not just a lack of work; unemployment affects health, social and Haroon Saad, Director of LUDEN, financial issues and delays youths’ ability to build a life project. He also focused the audience’s attention on the issue Brussels, Belgium of the quality of human capital, by underlying the huge gap between the jobs created in EU, which often require no more than the basic minimum level of secondary education, and the highly skilled youth on the employment market. Speakers: After this introduction, Mr Saad began the first discussion by inviting two young speakers to give concrete examples Panel I speakers of their situation. Following a bottom-up approach, local policy-makers responded by presenting a series of measures Manoj Budhauliya, Medical undertaken at their level in order to tackle youth unemployment. Resident, second year Gastroenterology Manoj Budhauliya pointed out several interesting issues when he shared with the audience his experience as a young Charalambos Kikidis, doctor who had migrated from India to Romania. First, there was the difficulty a family encounters in affording a child’s Communication Officer, district of education. Secondly, there was the vicious circle that underpins the youth struggle for accessing the employment Saint-Josse-Ten-Noode, Belgium market: “Young people cannot get a job without experience but they cannot get experience without a job”. He also Jean-François Baillon, Vice talked about the unfairness of a system that advantages employers and disadvantages young people, when the latter, President for solidarity and social just to acquire experience, are eager to work overtime with little or no salary. inclusion, social economic, international relationship and Charalambos Kikidis, also a graduate, has passed through long-term unemployment. After four years of frustration European affairs, General Council of and depression, he finally got a job after he reviewed his prospects and decided to lower his ambitions. He strongly Seine-Saint-Denis, France deplored the lack of trust amongst employers who demand years of experience and high professional competence Ahmed Medhoune, Vice President from young people who have just entered the job market. of culture, employment and training, district of Saint-Josse-Ten-Noode, Having focused on the concrete daily issues faced by the youth to enter the market job, the debate switched to the Belgium dedicated actions proposed at the local level by public authorities. Drawing on the experience of the first speaker, Carla Maria Nunes Tavares, Ahmed Medhoune identified the limits of a system that requires a third-country national to leave a European country President of the Local Council for as soon as studies are completed. His proposal to help these talented migrants would extend their resident permit in Social Action of Amadora’s social order to allow them to complete their educational training with practical experience via internships or apprenticeships. network programme, Education He also pointed out the need for young people to develop interpersonal skills and a network which represent key assets Councillor of the Municipality of for the young unemployed beyond knowledge and qualifications. Amadora, Portugal Jean-François Baillon stressed the need to address young people as a whole. He therefore called on the European institutions and national public authorities to departmentalise youth unemployment policy. Addressing solely education and work is not sufficient, whereas resorting to a transversal approach integrating health and housing issues “The young can’t get (among others) is now of paramount importance. Following Mr Saad’s question about the extent his area was involving young people in the process of decision-making, he highlighted a successful example of youth active participation in job without experience Seine-Saint-Denis: the creation of a Youth Council (le Conseil Local de la Jeunesse) that enables the young to give voice but the young can’t get to their opinion by debating directly with the local politicians. experience without a job.” Manoj Budhauliya “Too often, young people are looked down on as lazy, the ‘lost generation’. However, because of the ﬁ nancial crisis, the youth will need to work harder and longer than previous generations to sustain pensions and social beneﬁ ts.” Philippe Adriaenssens

82 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Europe 2020

The jilted generation?

Panel II discussion Panel II speakers The second discussion focused on EU policies regarding younger generations, in particular the ‘youth on the move’ Raymond Maes, Head of Unit, initiative. The debate aimed at understanding what has been done so far, what the gaps are and how the existing Employment, Social Affairs policies can be improved. To answer these questions, EU institutions’ representatives and members of young civil and Inclusion DG, European society organisations presented diverse opinions. In order to ensure an involvement of as many young people as Commission, Youth Employment possible in this dialogue, a real-time connection via Twitter was provided and managed by Chiara Mazzone. Entrepreneurship, Micro-Finances Luca Scarpiello, Vice President of Raymond Maes, in his position as Head of Unit for youth employment, explained the different initiatives undertaken by European Youth Forum the EU in order to tackle the issue of young unemployment. He made references to the effort made at the European level Romina Matei, President of the to monitor the quality of the traineeships ongoing in Member States. He also stressed the importance of cooperation Youth Express Network between different DGs, as certain measures, such as the increase of entrepreneurship skills, require a combined effort at Flavia Biuarelli, Business Manager, an educational, economic and financial level. Finally, he pointed out the importance of increasing youth awareness on EARALL what the expectations are in labour market. Philippe Adriaenssens, President of JEF (Jeunes Européens Fédéralistes) Luca Scarpiello began his presentation by quoting an impressive economic figure: the cost of youth unemployment Chiara Mazzone, Journalist at Lo could add up to EUR 2 billion per week, which represents EUR 104 billion per year. This is a huge amount that each spazio della politica Member State will need to cover in the debt crisis or leverage its growth. He also focused on mobility, by saying that it has to be a voluntary choice: young people have to be provided with the chance to move from their country, but they More information: should not be forced to leave their country. www.ludenet.org

Romina Matei expressed her satisfaction towards the European ‘Youth on the Move’ initiative, as it gives priority to supporting mobility and ‘flexicurity’. In her opinion, what was missing was the implementation of EU initiatives at local level: there is a need to build policies closer to the young people by involving them in the decision-making process. Ms Matei had every confidence in the ability of young people to identify and promote solutions. She also stressed the importance, once policies are implemented, of monitoring and evaluating them. And why is it so urgent to sort out the issues of youth unemployment? For her, having a job and being integrated is a human right.

In showing the initiatives undertaken by her organisation in drafting regional indicators on youth policies at the regional level, Flavia Biuarelli focused the attention of the audience on two main points. First of all, the solutions to the problem of youth unemployment depend on the context (the economic, social and demographic situation, regional/national legislation and barriers). This means that different solutions have to be found depending on the region. Secondly, youth “In Europe, the quality policy should be a transversal element and must not only come under employment issues, housing, justice, etc. of human capital is at Philippe Adriaenssens started by saying that too often young people are looked upon as lazy, the ‘lost generation’. an all-time high and However, because of the financial crisis, youth will need to work harder and longer than previous generation to sustain pensions and social benefits. Regarding EU policies, as a federalist, he would prefer stronger EU economic governance yet we have 50% of (i.e. the community method rather than intergovernmental). In his opinion, the exchange of best practices and jobs that were created recommendations to Member States is not enough: there is a need for more compelling measures to let the Member States guarantee better employment opportunities for young people. Secondly, he expressed some criticism toward between 2000 and the youth on the move strategy, as it is only focused on education and work and lacks a focus on civil society. He 2008 were jobs only underlined that the strategy pays no attention to the important, relevant skills young people can acquire if they are involved in civil society, for example through volunteering, or those learning by doing skills that cannot be taught in requiring basic minimum schools. He called for cooperation between youth NGOs and representatives of local, regional, national and European level secondary level administrations. education.” Conclusions Haroon Saad Haroon Saad said the debate underlined several interesting points. The first part showed how the lack of work affects all aspects of young people’s lives. In that perspective, politicians should consider the interconnection between employment, well-being, mental health and other policies when they plan youth policies. Secondly, the speeches from the youth civil society organisations told how young people are not simply recipients of youth policies; they have to be primarily involved in all stages of the decision-making process, as they have ideas on what has to be done. Finally, it “It is a human right for is important that the European Commission starts giving youth serious consideration. Until 2010, the EU did not have young people to have a a strategy for its 60-million young people aged between 15 and 24; just a small team working on youth employment policies in the EC, which will not be enough. The debate showed that there is the need for more compelling measures job and to be integrated.” from the EU, in order for the Member States to respect young people and give them what they deserve. Romina Matei

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 83 Workshops Europe 2020

Achieving social cohesion, security and resource-efficiency through available satellite services

13A57 Outline 13 October 2011, This workshop provided four case studies from different Member States where satellite communications offer crucial 11:15-13:00 services to regional actors.

Organiser: Debate ESOA/ NEREUS Udo Komijn presented the partnership of the fire brigade based in Zaandam with the satellite operator SES Astra. He showed how they use their communication vehicles with two-way satellite broadband equipment so as to be able to Chair: always provide an available and cost-efficient communication network during a disaster (e.g. a forest fire). Aarti Holla-Maini (ESOA) and Roya Ayazi (NEREUS) Susana Garcia Dacal described Castilla y Leon’s new plan for broadband deployment in rural areas (2010-2013). Using satellite technologies provided by Skylogic, they are able to guarantee equal and affordable opportunities to all Speakers: citizens and thus meet the digital agenda’s 2013 objective. To do so, they provided funds to the potential users via the Udo Komijn, HERTZinger Satelliet Department of Development to cover the total cost of installing the satellite ground equipment. Ontvangst bv, The Netherlands Susana Garcia Dacal, Department Mario Di Gennaro gave a presentation on how the police in the region of Hessen and the German Red Cross partnered of Telecommunications and Public with a satellite service provider, Inmarsat, to improve their capabilities in the field of civil protection. By using mobile Works of the Government of Castilla broadband satellite solutions when terrestrial infrastructure is overloaded or unavailable, they are able to maintain y Leon, Spain 'command and control' so as to communicate and better respond during incidents, such as riots or natural disasters. Mario Di Gennaro, German Red Cross, Hessen, Germany Aleksander Maracic focused on the partnership between his company, a major satellite operator, and the UNCEM in Aleksander Maracic, SES Astra Tuscany to collect data from wind, hydro-electric and solar plants using telemetry and video surveillance. This allowed Broadband Services, Betzdorf, the municipalities to substantially increase their access to renewable energy resources. Given the project’s success, it Luxemburg was decided to connect 5 000 renewable energy plants throughout Italy.

More information: Conclusions www.esoa.net Satellite services are available immediately to help regions achieve a variety of objectives from connecting their remote http://nereus-regions.eu users to broadband Internet to enabling civil protection or remotely controlling and monitoring energy plants. Regions can make use of EU funds to invest in eligible satellite equipment and solutions to implement such challenges, which make a direct and immediate impact.

ESOA and NEREUS are available for more information and will continue to work to promote satellite services for the regions.

“Castilla Y Leon achieved 100% coverage for its citizens with broadband Internet using satellite.” Susana Garcia Dacal

84 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Geography matters

OPEN DAYS DAYS 2011 2009  Proceedings– European - WeekEuropean of Regions Weeks of and Regions Cities and Cities 85 Workshops Geography matters

Adriatic-Ionian macro-region: A new framework for cross-border cooperation 11B01 Outline 11 October 2011, The debate was in two parts: the first focused on the Adriatic-Ionian macro-region and on common challenges and 09:00-13:00 opportunities linked to EU enlargement. It identified shared strategies and policies and a new model of governance for a better and more sustainable development and for a common regional policy. Organiser: The second part centred on the Adriatic-Ionian macro-region and successful cooperation and projects, which were Adriatic-Ionian macro-region/ presented by the partner regions and local authorities. They showed how a shared strategy can be managed to achieve Marche Region common future challenges. Co-organiser: Region of Istria Debate Gian Mario Spacca explained that in the framework of subsidiarity, the macro-regional strategy is a key tool for Chair: strengthening EU democracy. It also will also foster economic and social growth and sustainable development, and Jose Palma Andres, Director create synergies, infrastructural connections and a shared multilevel governance. Furthermore, the Adriatic-Ionian Territorial Cooperation, Regional Policy macro-region will strengthen cohesion policy and so overcome the weaknesses of South-East Europe, where the DG, European Commission Adriatic-Ionian Initiative was born. It will benefit from a large participation of all involved territories through the already Speakers: active network of regions, cities, chambers of commerce and universities. Enrico Cocchi, Director General, Territorial Planning, Institutional Nebojša Ćirić expressed deep appreciation for the support of the Marche Region and the Italian Government in Negotiations and Agreements, developing the Adriatic-Ionian Initiative. Serbia presides over several regional initiatives, including the Central European European and International Relations, Initiative, the Migration Asylum and Refugees Regional Initiative, the South East European Cooperation Process, and Emilia-Romagna Region, Italy the Adriatic-Ionian Initiative. In addition, Serbia will take over the chairmanship of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation Marija Ćatović, Mayor of Kotor, Organisation in 2012. Montenegro Nebojša Ćirić, Minister of Economy The region of Istria has already participated in many different European projects related to cross-border cooperation. and Regional Development, Republic Oriano Otočan spoke about Istria’s experience in the area of international cooperation and European integration, of Serbia particularly through the development of the Adriatic Euro-region and its cross-border cooperation projects. The Nikola Dobroslavić, President of examples he gave are the project Pitagora, which is building a broadband Internet network in Istria in cooperation with Dubrovnik-Neretva Region, Croatia, the rest of the Adriatic region, and the SEENET programme, which is strengthening local governance and development. Vice-President of Adriatic Euroregion Dino Elezović, European Affairs Marija Ćatović explained that the role of the macro-regions as new, enhanced forms of governance for the EU is crucial Adviser, Head of Representation at in terms of facilitating consensus on issues of common interest between territories of Member States belonging to a Regional Representation to the EU, given area through promoting synergies rather than any form of discrimination or duplication. In this context, regions Sarajevo Canton, Bosnia-Herzegovina and local authorities and their partnerships played a big part in bringing the strategy of the Adriatic-Ionian macro- Ivan Jakovćić, President Region of region to institutional recognition. Istria, Croatia Gregor Krajc, Deputy General Miloš Simonović told the group that the city of Niš, the third largest city in Serbia and the biggest one in Central Director, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Serbia, wants to actively participate in the process of bringing Serbia closer to the EU and improving the country’s Republic of Slovenia competitiveness. They also want to follow European and regional trends, and strongly believe the Adriatic-Ionian Dobrica Milovanović, Deputy Mayor macro-region can play a crucial role in the multi-level governance of the EU. City of Kragujevac, Serbia Alberto Petrangeli, Diplomatic Conclusions Representative, Italian Ministry of Jose Palma Andres highlighted that although there’s still much to do, it is clear that the Adriatic-Ionian macro-region Foreign Affairs is already a key actor in the multilevel governance of the Mediterranean area, as shown by the Adriatic-Ionian Initiative Fabio Pigliapoco, Ambassador, and the cohesion of its territories. Subsidiarity requires a strong commitment and thanks to the involvement of the Secretary General of the Adriatic- territories and their institutions, a wide net of relationships has been established, allowing an effective cooperation Ionian Initiative between regions and cities. Rusmir Sendić, Minister of the Economy, Sarajevo Canton, Bosnia- Herzegovina Miloš Simonović, Mayor of Niš, Serbia Antonio Sorgi, Director of Abruzzo Region, Italy “The EU approval of the Adriatic-Ionian macro-regional Gian Mario Spacca, President of the strategy represents a useful and eﬀ ective tool in order to Marche Region, Italy Oriano Otoćan, Head of the strengthen European cohesion and a major step towards a Department for International wider Mediterranean macro-regional strategy.” Cooperation and European Integration of the Region of Istria, Croatia Gian Mario Spacca

86 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Geography matters

Islands: How can EU policies help fill the gap? Outline 11B02 Islands face common challenges and handicaps which place them at a disadvantage. Articles 170, 174 and 175 of the 11 October 2011, Treaty of Lisbon recognise the particularities of insular territories, and the need to attend their specific needs. 09:00-10:45 The object of the debate was to discuss how the different EU policies affect islands, and what can be done in order to overcome the challenges so that their citizens can have opportunities equal to those in continental regions. Special Organiser: attention was paid to the new regulation of cohesion policy, particularly regarding territorial cohesion. Islands for Equal Chances Partnership / Balearic Islands Debate Regional Office Antoni Grimalt explained that the competitiveness of island companies depends on convenient transport connections, particularly in the tourism sector. This dependence means that the new regulations on CO2 for air transport emissions Moderator: have a direct impact on island economies, and there is no alternative means. Alyn Smith, Member of the European Parliament Territorial cohesion cannot only be assimilated with regional policy aid, but should be mainstream, with the involvement of all European policies with territorial impact on the development of these regions. Speakers: Alyn Smith, Member of European Ioannis Firbas made the following points: Parliament for Scotland and Vice • The modulation of a European policies framework (Europe 2020 strategy, agriculture, transport, energy, environment, President in charge of island issues of innovation) must work with local priorities, identifying the unique nature of these areas, whether these are specific the Intergroup 174 of the European needs or special conditions, the additional cost of insularity or their endogenous potential and their effective Parliament competitiveness. Antoni Grimalt, Secretary of the • Additional indicators must be considered, such as those of unemployment, intra-regional inequality and accessibility, Chamber of Commerce of Mallorca, in order to document the appropriate European policies to be implemented in these areas. Balearic Islands and of INSULEUR • State aid should be granted to insular areas that will be de facto eligible within the internal market framework. Ioannis Firbas, Director for Strategy, Planning & Evaluation of Jean-Michel Palazzi pointed out the following: Development Programmes, Ministry • Main characteristic of water management in the Mediterranean islands: the weakness and inter-seasonal irregularity of Economy, Greece of rainfall, the limited character of the conventional resources, the seasonal variation of needs, the perfectible water Jean-Michel Palazzi, Office of management methods. Hydraulic Equipment, Corsica • The water framework directive: socio-economic approach, non-degradation and polluter pay principles, transparency Adonis Constantinides, Senior of costs. Planning Officer, Directorate of • Orientations to be taken: implement policies adapted to natural, human and environmental constraints, increase water Structural Funds and Cohesion Fund, supply, fight against waste, and implement tariff systems to save water. Planning Bureau, Cyprus Maria Cristina Stimolo, Director of Adonis Constantinides talked about new cohesion policy and islands: Sicily’s Regional Office in Brussels • Territorial cohesion objective is not adequately addressed and territorial specificities are not taken into account (as Gabriella Massidda, General islands); Director, Presidency of Sardinia • No territorial indicators are used for allocations of funds; Region • Thematic concentration problematic for island regions; Eveline Petrat-Charlety, Policy • ETC: parameters are not favourable for islands. Analyst, Conception, forward studies and impact assessment, Regional Other policies: Policy DG, European Commission • CAP: the specificities of islands are taken into account for rural development regarding fund allocation; • Trans-European Networks-Connecting facility: island needs are not there, i.e. territorial indicators; • Energy Policy: the particular needs of islands are taken into account; • Environment/Climate Change: adaptation strategy is delayed, e.g. water issues.

The way forward: • Taking common actions between islands; • Cohesion Policy and Territorial Cohesion must have a special approach to islands; • Lisbon Treaty must be fully implemented.

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 87 Workshops Geography matters

Islands: How can EU policies help fill the gap?

Maria Cristina Stimolo said that in the context of the cohesion policy, greater attention to the Mediterranean mountainous regions is essential for the survival of many European citizens, whose economy is strongly linked to these territories.

These regions represent a unique natural and cultural heritage, and the people living in mountainous islands should be guaranteed equal rights and opportunities. The disadvantages are more pronounced in these areas than elsewhere: these territories are islands within islands where the challenges of the mountain are in addition to those of insularity.

Transport, energy and telecommunications are the main limitations, which weigh heavily on the production system and on local society trying to modernise. They also influence professional and cultural exchanges, and training and education. Mountainous areas and conditions of insularity should be essential parameters for the cohesion policy.

Gabriella Massidda stressed the structural weaknesses of Sardinia’s economy, common to many insular territories: higher energy costs than on the mainland, insufficient energy distribution network and pressure on the island's ecosystem during the high season. She pointed out some successful initiatives implemented by Sardinia Regional Government in the renewable energy sector involving regional municipalities.

Requests have been put forward for EU-funded initiatives and programmes specifically focused on insularity issues and sustainable energy production, as well as special attention to the condition of insularity within the future Cohesion Policy for the period 2014-2020.

Eveline Petrat-Charlety gave a presentation on behalf of the European Commission for the new legislative package of regional policy. Especially outstanding were the PEF and CAP policies included in this comprehensive legislative package. Connections between regions need to be much better and a new regulation is necessary to better implement and establish EGTC. There also needs to be better funding within the Connecting Europe Facility (EUR 376 million). The principle of governance would be applied and this is included in the contract that creates partnerships between different levels of governance. Europe 2020 strategy has been translated into all European policies and funding “Transport, Energy strategies. The Strategic Common Framework, includes a key for territorial cohesion within regions, as per art. 174. and Environment are Conclusions Alyn Smith concluded the debate by saying that the periphery is relative and there are many things that can still make policies where the EU the EU realise the enthusiasm of insularity regions. should develop impact This debate is not about more money for Europe’s island communities; this is about better policies that actually feed our assessment for Islands.” needs, and we have the opportunities to make that happen within the Parliament, and within the Commission and the Ioannis Firbas Council. This means we have plenty of things to do and much to learn one to each other.

88 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Geography matters

Super grid – Smart regions: Cooperation in the North Sea – English Channel Area

Outline 11B03 The main objective of the workshop was to discuss the development of the offshore grid in the North Sea – English 11 October 2011, Channel area. The discussions centred around the plans to develop a super grid in the North Sea within the next 10 11:15-13:00 to 20 years which will link up offshore wind farms and other forms of renewable energy. In the long term, the purpose of this is to contribute to a safe and sustainable energy supply for Europe as well as other Europe 2020 aims. Many Organiser: implications are linked to the regions and their hinterlands and therefore questions will arise concerning how these Advanced cooperation in the North regions may contribute to, and benefit from, the successful implementation of this project. Sea – English Channel area

Debate Chair: Kees Visser explained clearly that the role of Europe within the maritime and transport sector is crucial if it is to be a Iain Shepard, Chairman Marine global resources player alongside China. South East, United Kingdom Achieving strong development entails that ports are the future of Europe with the result that local economies benefit from the development in this industry. Effective and capable ports are the key for engaging in sustainable offshore Speakers: energy. It is easier for people living in the regions to understand the super grid/energy development if there is an Kees Visser, Alderman, City of Den investment in job creation as well. Helder, The Netherlands Dörte Fouquet, Director of EREF, The use of renewable energies is reaching mainstream thinking in Europe. Discussions upon the centralisation of Renewable Energies Federation, energy power as the way forward for Europe remain the same. However, Dörte Fouquet’s presentation explained Brussels, Belgium that decentralised power stations are more suitable. The core view is to create the right balance between the use of Ana Aguado Cornago, Friends of centralised and decentralised stations. The suggestion was made for creating an advantageous way for implementing the Super Grid, Brussels, Belgium renewable energy policies by mainstreaming climate issues into all policies, including the industrial sector. Christophe Schramm, Chief Executive, Policy Officer, Energy DG, Ana Cornado stated that the vision was to involve a European view to offshore wind energy. Focusing on the European Commission development of a super grid involving all sectors in Europe is beneficial for the overall industry. Political agreements and strategy development are beneficial for industrial development as new factories and technology companies can More information: be established alongside new jobs. Engaging students in this sector will create new technological innovation, providing http://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/ further education and bringing more opportunity for people to learn the required skills for innovation in the future. conferences/od2011/index.cfm www.friendsofthesupergrid.eu Christophe Schramm explained that discussions in the forthcoming years will be on how to respect the different www.denhelder.nl/index.php?t_id=2 opinions of the EU Member States according to the management of distribution and local and common systems for the www.eref-europe.org super grid. It will be necessary to have a shared vision and definition for the development of what a grid really means, http://ec.europa.eu/energy/index_ what it will be comprised of and what its impact will be on the citizens in the various regions. en.htm www.marinesoutheast.co.uk

Conclusions Iain Shepard concluded the discussion by saying that Europe is facing both the challenges and benefits of the different aspects of renewable energy. On the one hand it is clear that the technology is not yet fully developed and will result in economic insecurities. Nevertheless, Europe is a society based on electricity and energy needs and that fact cannot be ignored. Money and jobs are to be found in this industry and all sectors need to be involved. Therefore it is important that the European ports are well suited for this new development which will generate growth. Political will is important for further development. It is also the future for young, well-educated people as we are talking about long-term job creation in all sectors.

“The North Sea has an important avant-garde role to play... By collaborating and learning in speciﬁ c parts of Europe, knowledge and experience can be used for development in other parts of Europe. The EU will play a signiﬁ cant role in relation to a future grid.” Christophe Schramm

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 89 Workshops Geography matters

Elaboration and implementation of governance tools for cross-border and inter-regional cooperation

11B04 Outline 11 October 2011, This workshop aimed at presenting best practices and innovative solutions for cross-border governance and inter- 11:15-13:00 regional cooperation. In order to view the topic from different angles, different forms of cooperation were presented. On the menu of enforcing cooperation, policy-makers today find new governance forms such as an EGTC, networks in Organiser: the form of clusters and working groups between the staff of public authorities, and the creation and dissemination of Bureau Alsace common statistics that enable policy-makers to make better choices. The workshop ended with a discussion on what characterises profound cross-border cooperation. Chair: Norbert Euba, former Director of Debate the Chamber of Commerce and Boris Stern presented the project SIGRS – GISOR that provides a common digital database containing common Industry, Freiburg, Germany territorial mapping, analysing and planning tools for the regions of the Upper Rhine Conference. So far, SIGRS-GISOR has elaborated a great variety of maps that provide an analysis of the development in the Upper Rhine area and can Speakers: therefore improve decisions made in the participating regions. Boris Stern, Geoinformatic Engineer, General Council Haut-Rhin, Germany Bernard Spichtig described the work of one of the regional offices of EURES, the EURES-T Upper Rhine. Similar to Bernard Spichtig, Statistics SIGRS-GISOR, the geoinformatic engineers of EURES-T have developed an online tool that monitors and analyses Administrator, Canton of Basel City, the development of the cross-border labour market of the area. The web tool also aims to provide citizens with the Switzerland necessary information about the neighbouring country’s labour market. Jens Gabbe, President of the scientific committee, German Jens Gabbe, a former President of the Association of European Border Regions, shared his vision of the key elements speaking community of Belgium. of successful cross-border cooperation. The most important element in cross-border cooperation is the citizen: they Dr Miroslaw Karapyta, Marshal of should always be involved. Furthermore, it is important not to multiply the structures. the Podkarpackie Region, Poland Josiane Madelaine, Vice President Dr Karapyta illustrated the importance of the role of cross-border cooperation in industrial development and vice- in charge of international relations, versa with the example of the Polish-Ukrainian-Slovak border. Cluster development and infrastructure investments have Lorraine Region, France greater impact when they are part of a wider cross-border strategy. Christophe Mazza, Advisor in the cabinet of the Minister President, Josiane Madeleine presented the inter-regional cooperation project between the Lorraine, the Alsace and Wallonia Region, Belgium Champagne-Ardenne that was initiated after the regional decision-makers had realised that these three territories were performing very well in cross-border cooperation but had only delivered a few genuine European projects. The aim of More information: Eurosynergies is to present the different European funds and programmes to public authorities and important actors www.bureau-alsace.org/fr/ in the region. opendays2011/open-days11.html Christophe Mazza talked about the work of the Eurométropole Lille-Kortijk-Tournai. At first sight, this ECTC seems to have adopted a quite complex governance method, but has actually achieved something that should not be "Especially in this time underestimated: parity between the partners and close links to the organised civil society. of negotiation of our Conclusions The chair, Norbert Euba, highlighted the importance of the European programmes in the initiation and Europe-wide future cohesion policy, dissemination of cross-border cooperation. At the same time he stressed the fact there is not one model of territorial we have to highlight the cooperation that can be applied to all regions, but that each border situation is different. The regions have to show concrete best practices commitment in finding the best solutions for them which produce visible results, especially for the citizens. that illustrate the great beneﬁ ts of cross-border cooperation." Norbert Euba

90 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Geography matters

Euroregions to develop their territories

Outline 11B08 Euroregions play a key role in tackling inequalities within their territories. Through the presentation of concrete 11 October 2011, projects, the workshop discussed the weaknesses and strengths of territorial cooperation, as well as the contribution 14:30-17:00 of Euroregions in implementing the Europe 2020 objectives. Which are the best instruments to foster growth in their territories? How can the use of structural funds be improved in order to facilitate cooperation projects? Through an Organiser: open discussion with the audience, the partnership debated on such questions and worked to define the parameters Conglomerate ‘Euroregions for for a better territorial cooperation towards more sustainable, inclusive and smart regions. territorial integration’

With regard to the inter-regional policy, the voice of the European regions has been heard by the European Commission. Chair: The budget has indeed been increased and the importance of the territorial cooperation admitted. However, this policy Frédéric Simon, Editor-in-Chief, has still to be improved. Euractiv

Debate Speakers: David Sweet outlined the proposal for the future cohesion policy which is organised around three new concepts: Bernard Soulage, Vice-President of - clear purpose, the Rhône-Alpes Regional Council, - better performance, and Member of the Committee of - simpler procedures. the Regions Three concepts will guide the reviewed regulation on the EGTC: David Sweet, Adviser to the - continuity: because the existing EGTC works very well, Director-General, Regional Policy DG, - clarity: the regulation clearly defines what a EGCT is, what it can do, what goes in the convention, and what goes on European Commission the statute, Salvador Sedo, Director-General for - flexibility: by opening the participation to a EGCT to authorities and regions from third countries and by limiting the International Relations, Government examination time of the Member States to six months. of Catalonia, Spain Teresa Siaskiewicz, Head of Bernard Soulage said that the macro-fiscal conditionality is a problem for the regions. Indeed, taking into account Department, Euroregion Tatry, that no budgetary link exists between the French regions and the state, and that it is formally forbidden for the French Slovakia region to be in deficit, the macro-fiscal conditionality does not make any sense. Moreover, the French regions are not the management authorities of the structural funds. With regard to territorial cooperation, the structures called More information: Euroregions or macro-regions should be able to lead programmes and projects. www.euroregio.eu www.euroregion-alpes- Salvador Sedo explained that CREAMED is the first project to be managed by the GECT Pyrénées-Méditerranée. This mediterranee.eu project consists of grouping the networks of enterprises in order to boost innovation, encourage exchanges between http://portal.cor.europa.eu/egtc/fr- SMEs and to promote enterprise development at international level. The GECT has been a good instrument to lead FR/Pages/welcome.aspx transnational and cross-border projects. It enables the Euroregions to get European funds. However, some problems still remain. One of them concerns staff contracts. A good solution could be to give the same statute to the GECT staff as is given to the European agencies.

Teresa Siaskiewicz explained that the Euroregion Tatry (composed of Slovakian and Polish structures) managed different micro-projects, and shared cross-border activities, aimed at bringing people and institutions together. The “Europe is built through creation of a GECT enabled the Euroregion to lead projects and to profit from the European funds. Those small projects with local impact but important effects contributed to building long-term partnerships and cooperation. local projects and constitutes a bottom-up Conclusions Frédéric Simon concluded the workshop by summing up the discussions as follows: process, which is why - Macro-fiscal conditionality is a problem for the regions because they are not responsible for the deficit in the state. territorial cooperation - Macro-regional strategy could be a good instrument to achieve territorial cooperation objectives. In the macro- regions, the projects are led by the regions themselves so there are no contradictions between this strategy and the has to be maintained Euroregions’ one. This structure could be a new route to territorial cooperation. and improved.” - The GECT regulation has been reviewed to facilitate its use and to promote territorial cooperation. Nevertheless, this Bernard Soulage instrument has to be improved because many problems still exist.

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 91 Workshops Geography matters

The Atlantic – A source of opportunities for sustainable growth 11B09 Outline 11 October 2011, The debate was focused on how regions can integrate the European Maritime Policy in their own economic development 14:30-17:00 policies. The importance of the ocean as a competitive advantage lies in the ability of the regions and cities to extend an added value to wider economic activities among EU countries, and also third countries to some extent. Organiser: Lisbon and Tagus Valley Regional In Panel 1, high-level representatives from the Parliament and the Commission shared with the audience the most Development Coordination important aspects related to the European Strategy for the Atlantic Area (EUSA). In Panel 2, there was an open debate Commission with contributions coming from practical experiences, with all the 11 partners having ‘active participants’ who were able to discuss the various questions raised during Panel 1 and other additional issues. The main role of these active Chair: participants was to highlight specific relevant initiatives in their regions, to raise related pertinent issues and to ask João Fonseca Ribeiro, Assistant questions. Portuguese Task Group for Maritime Affairs Debate Alain Cadec highlighted the Atlantic area’s specific characteristics and the importance of an EU strategy based on two Speakers: pillars: maritime and territorial. A dynamic maritime policy will take account of the most important subjects, like the Alain Cadec, Member of European sustainable exploitation of the Atlantic Ocean, the growth of maritime and coastal regions, marine research and marine Parliament and promoter of the energies, and the quality of life, economic development and environmental sustainability. European Parliament’s resolution on the Atlantic strategy Bernhard Friess focused his speech on the challenges and opportunities of an integrated strategy for the Atlantic area José Palma Andres, Director for (i.e. implement an ecosystem approach, reduce the carbon footprint, exploit the seabed, manage risks and emergencies, territorial cooperation in Regional have inclusive growth), and the potential for the stakeholders, the instruments and the timeline concerning the Policy DG, European Commission implementation of the EUSA. Bernhard Friess, Director for Atlantic Regions in Maritime José Palma Andres brought to the debate some crucial questions related to EUSA which, besides sustainable Affairs and Fisheries DG, European development, should also consider the market and the cooperation between both sides of the Atlantic. Some of the Commission questions launched by this speaker were is there any global strategy for the Atlantic?; should this strategy be thematic or territorial?; shall we have an integrated or partly divided approach? Everyone must be engaged in this discussion: European Commission, Member States, public administrations, stakeholders and civil society. The economic aspect of the strategy is very important, especially in the actual context, in which every aspect that could increase employment is vital.

“The future European Strategy for the Atlantic Area will be transversal, appealing to the contribution of multiple European policies. Regions have an important role to carry out in this strategy; therefore, in its implementation, it is important to consider the regional territory as a whole and not only the coastline.” Alain Cadec

92 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Geography matters

Cross-border cooperation from a research and innovation perspective: Focus on European grouping of territorial cooperation

Outline 11B11 This workshop highlighted the research and innovation component of successful cross-border cooperation from a 11 October 2011, regional perspective. It showed the concrete added value in this field of projects funded by INTERREG in the Upper 14:30-17:00 Rhine Trinational Region and by the ‘Regions of knowledge’ (FP7) programme in Hungary. It also underlined the growing importance of the European Groupings of territorial cooperation by presenting innovative initiatives launched Organiser: by the Eurométropole in Lille-Kortrijk-Tournai and in Galicia – North Portugal. Research and Innovation DG, European Commission, in Debate cooperation with Regional Policy DG Elvira Vieira highlighted the strong added value of the EGTC set up between the North of Portugal and Galicia, two and the Committee of the Regions regions of Europe which are still lagging behind, particularly in research and innovation, and want not only to share their limited resources in a competitive environment but also to build a long-term strategic plan together. She highlighted Chair: the important role played by clusters, universities, research centres and business innovation centres with support from Olivier Brunet, Research and the EGTC. Development DG, European Commission Mona Boyé described the difficulties and successes of the BioValley's experience. BioValley is one of the leading international life science clusters; it is also a unique project bringing together the regions of Alsace (France), South Speakers: Baden (Germany) and Northwest Switzerland, within the Metropolitan Region Upper Rhine Valley. She particularly Elvira Vieira, Galicia Norte Portugal highlighted the input given by the INTERREG programme over the last 12 years and stressed the importance of face- EGTC Director to-face contacts and established services of the trinational BioValley team for foreign companies seeking partners, Mona Boyé, Trinational Affairs suppliers and location sites. Manager, BioValley, Germany Orsolya Gregan, INNOVA Eszak- Orsolya Gregan explained how a ‘Regions of Knowledge; project funded by the Seventh Framework Programme Alföld, Hungary CLUSTHERM could enhance the structuring of a cross-border cluster focusing on the use of thermal water. She Wim de Jaeger, Eurométropole, underlined the added value of such a project within the various initiatives launched by the Regional Innovation Lille-Kortrijk-Tournai Agency of a cross-border Hungarian region which contributed to a ‘Debrecen declaration’ at the end of the WIRE 2011 Conference on cluster development and research infrastructure policy. More information: www.gnpaect.eu Wim de Jaeger described the services offered by the innovation platform just launched by the EGTC Eurometropole www.biovalley.com (the first EGTC in Europe) involving four major innovation clusters. He stressed the assets of an EGTC support, which www.innova.eszak-alfold.hu should be policy driven and not only based on funding opportunities. He insisted on the double governance www.clustherm.eu opportunity: ensure cooperation between three regions within individual clusters and provide services fully suited to www.wire2011.eu the cross-border nature of the projects to be developed. www.eurometropolis.eu

A lively debate offered an opportunity for a further exchange of information amongst a very large audience. Several participants welcomed the proposal for a revision of the EGTC regulations.

Conclusions Olivier Brunet underlined the diversity of means, which allows cross-border regions to lead excellent initiatives in the field of research and innovation, in line with the Europe 2020 priorities. He stressed the added value of the EGTC which should not be considered only as tools to service the implementation of the cohesion policy but also as useful instruments for research and innovation. The diversity of EU, national and regional funding opportunities should lead to enhanced synergies. Participants were encouraged to become active players in the platforms recently set up by the European Commission (Smart Specialisation platform) and the Committee of the Regions (EGTC Platform).

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 93 Workshops Geography matters

Putting urban development into an international context: Exchanging best practice between Europe, Japan and Latin America

11B13 Outline 11 October 2011, Through the URBELAC (Urban European and Latin American and Caribbean Cities) programme supported by the 14:30-17:00 Commission and the Inter-American Development Bank, Latin American and European cities have begun exchanges of best practice on urban development topics, such as urban revitalisation, mobility, environment and education. Organiser: URBELAC (through round tables, working groups, field visits and permanent exchanges) is a platform to encourage Regional Policy DG, direct exchanges between cities facing similar problems by sharing information, best practices and lessons learned; to European Commission facilitate the identification of a common set of indicators needed to measure the impacts on sustainable development and to conceptualise integrated development processes of cities according to the guidelines for sustainability. Chair: Ronald Hall, Director, Regional In the same way, the Commission and the Japanese Government are exchanging experiences on topics such as Policy DG, European Commission ‘compact city’, sustainable development and competitiveness. Japan and the EU have indeed many common challenges, including sustainable urban development, ageing societies, preservation of historical heritage, innovation, Speakers: competitiveness of big cities, public transport and eco-cities. Paulo de Siqueira Garcia, Mayor of the city Goiánia, Brazil Debate Antonio Lucio Gil, Empresa Paulo de Siqueira Garcia explained that in Goiánia (with over 1.3 million inhabitants), more than 62% of people Municipal de Transportes de Madrid, depend on public transport; however there is actually a migration from using public transport to individual means (car). Spain The number of private vehicles circulating in the metropolitan area (over 1 million) is rapidly increasing and negatively Hanaoka Hirofumi, Deputy impacting public transport services, especially during peak hours when it causes traffic congestion, larger displacement Director-General, City Bureau, time, discomfort and unpredictable or delayed services. Goiania has requested Madrid’s best practices regarding Ministry of Land, Transport, displacements of commuters and other collective transportation solutions. Infrastructure and Tourism, Japan Mercedes López, Mayor's Advisor, Lucio Gil focused his presentation on the exchange of information with Goiánia, and referred not only to punctual City of Trujillo, Peru projects and programmes implemented by Madrid to develop public transportation systems, but also provided details Ola Nord, Head of Office on the collaborative process used by Madrid stakeholders for the identification of a mutual public transportation policy Community Development, and strategy: the best practice, called ‘Mobility roundtable’, involves all the main stakeholders from public and private Municipality of Malmo, Sweden sectors and civil society who are directly or indirectly involved in the public transportation system. Imai Kunimitsu, Programme Promotion Section Manager, Hanaoka Hirofumi delivered a very interesting presentation on the main actions carried out in Japan to reinforce Global Warming Policy Office, the international competitiveness of cities, in particular the New Growth Strategy and the creation of Special Urban Environmental Policy Bureau, Kyoto Renaissance Emergency Development Areas, which allow development plans to be drawn up by cooperation between Municipal Government, Japan public and private sectors, promote the use of the upper part of the roads, implement supporting tax systems and create new financial support instruments. He spoke as well on the impressive reconstruction efforts of towns affected by the Great East Japan earthquake and tsunami (relocating to higher grounds, a law on creating tsunami disaster prevention area, etc.).

Mercedes López García, explained that Trujillo (around 300 000 inhabitants, 900 000 inhabitants in the metropolitan area) has exchanged best practices not only with Malmö, but also with other URBELAC cities, such as Goiania (participative planning processes), Concepcion (public safety), Madrid (governance) and Bucaramanga (SME development). The collaboration with Malmö was referred to the Environmental Education. Trujillo actually produces 0.569 kg of home waste per person per day with a daily waste collection of around 312 tons. In addition, the municipality collects around 329 tons of construction waste per day.

94 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Geography matters

Putting urban development into an international context: Exchanging best practice between Europe, Japan and Latin America

Ola Nord focused his presentation on the assisting process that was activated within URBELAC initiative with the More information: municipality of Trujillo. Mr. Nord explained that Malmö has almost the same number of inhabitants as Trujillo and said http://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/ that, considering the specific requests submitted by the municipality of Trujillo, the exchanging process has mainly cooperate/international/index_ focused on the following items: water use and waste water; organisation of the Environmental Department; and waste en.cfm management and treatment. www.iadb.org/en/projects/ project,1303.html?id=rg-t1785 Imai Kunimitsu presented the impressive work carried out by Kyoto, Environmental Model City (only 13 cities currently www.mlit.go.jp/en/toshi/index.html have such status in Japan), towards the realisation of a sustainable low-carbon society. Kyoto has introduced compulsory regulations (e.g. eco-cars for large business operators and renewable energy for large buildings) to achieve a reduction of 25% of greenhouse gas emissions by 2020 (and 40% by 2030) (compared to 1990). He detailed as well a number of low-carbon initiatives in transport (biodiesel), children's eco-life challenge promotion project in schools, revitalisation of the city as a walking city and the smart city development project.

Conclusions Ronald Hall concluded the workshop by underlining the importance of strengthening cooperation and dialogue on sustainable urbanisation, including urban planning, urban mobility, water and air quality, and waste management between European, Japanese and Latin American cities. He explained that promoting sustainable urban development is a key element of European regional policy, which seeks to exploit Europe's full economic potential, and underlined that this experience will be available to partners in Japan and Latin America through URBELAC and other networks.

“If we want European cities to be at the cutting edge of smart and sustainable growth, they need to engage in broader cooperation with other centres, including Latin American and Japanese cities.” Ronald Hall

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 95 Workshops Geography matters

EU-Latin America cooperation on regional policy: Contribution to the regional integration process

12B10 Outline 12 October 2011, The seminar took place in the framework of the EU-Brazil and the EU-Chile dialogues on regional policy cooperation. 14:30-17:00 The seminar provided a discussion with main Latin American partner countries on organising territorial development strategies, governance and partnership issues, and cross-border cooperation. The seminar also discussed the main Organiser: conclusions and recommendations of a recent study carried out by the OECD with the support of DG Regional Policy Regional Policy DG, European to examine how the territorial dimension is linked to the formulation of public policy and government action in Brazil. Commission Debate Chair: In his keynote speech, Commissioner Hahn took stock of cooperation with Brazil and Chile to date and spoke on two Ronald Hall, Director, Regional major policy challenges in the EU, Brazil and Chile: efficient multi-level governance and cross-border cooperation. He Policy DG, European Commission underlined that efficient multi-level governance means, first and foremost, empowered regional and local governments. It also means more partnership and cooperation across sectors and administrative boundaries. He explained that there Speakers: is now a large community of cross-border specialists in the EU, with a rich collection of projects, practices and analyses Johannes Hahn, European and he proposed to explore ways of sharing this know-how more systematically. Commissioner for Regional Policy Henrique Villa Ferreira, Director, Mario Marcel presented the OECD study mentioned above. Among the key facts, he underlined that territorial disparities Ministry of National Integration, Brazil have decreased in Brazil but remain high and that in the recent years there has been a process of convergence and Mario Marcel, Deputy Director, catching up, driven mainly by advances in resource-intensive regions. It was mentioned also that resources for regional Directorate for Public Governance development mainly target private firms and that public investment is still not reaching lagging regions. Among the and Territorial Development, OECD governance challenges faced by Brazil, he made special reference to overcoming multi-dimensional fragmentation of Raphaël Goulet, Head of Unit, policies. Regional Policy DG, European Commission Henrique Villa Ferreira gave a very interesting presentation on the current reflection in Brazil on future regional Cristóbal Leturia Infante, Head development policy, namely the governance model proposed for the so-called Phase 2 of the National Policy for of Division, Under-Secretariat Regional Development. This proposes to establish a National Council for Integration and Regional and Territorial of Regional and Administrative Policies at strategic level; a new Regional and Territorial Policies Management Chamber at tactics level, which would be Development of the Government managed by the Ministry of Planning, and at operational/state level, State Committees for Management of Territorial of Chile and Regional Policy. Jorge Mattar, Director, Latin American Institute and Caribbean Raphaël Goulet highlighted the importance of the study carried out, in particular the contribution to current regional Institute for Economic and Social policy-making in Brazil and to the strategic capacity in the territorial development of Brazilian authorities. He underlined Planning (Ilpes/Cepal), Chile the strong heterogeneity of governance models around the EU but reminded the audience that a common trend is Sergio Duarte de Castro, Secretary, decentralisation in almost all countries. However, he said that a good administrative capacity is necessary to increase Ministry of National Integration, Brazil the effectiveness of public spending during decentralisation. José Palma Andrés, Director, Regional Policy DG, European Cristóbal Leturia Infante reported on the good progress made by the project RED-UE to support regional innovation Commission strategies in Chile using EU financial support and the assistance of EU experts. He explained as well that the government Claudia Cybelle Freire dos Santos, of Chile has set high priority on decentralisation with the aim of providing sub-national governments with the tools, Ministry of National Integration, Brazil capacities and legitimacy to improve their autonomy and performance. To this end, several reforms are under way, Federico Perdomo, Delegate, Joint including a reform to elect the regional council directly. Brazil-Uruguay Commission for the Development of basin Lagoa Mirim, Jorge Mattar presented a general overview of territorial development patterns in Latin America, paying particular Uruguay attention to internal disparities. He underlined that 57% of the GDP in the region is generated in only 9% of the territories and that territorial disparities in Latin America are considerably higher than the OECD average. He advocated for public intervention to promote territorial convergence and to focus on a small scale (municipalities instead of provinces; products instead of sectors and local policies instead of national policies).

Sergio Duarte de Castro reported on recent institutional developments in cross-border cooperation policy in Brazil, in particular the Development Program of Border Strip (PDFF) and other federal initiatives and programmes (the project ‘Calha Norte’, Bilingual Border School Programmes, Integration of Regional Infrastructure, etc.). He explained that a Permanent Commission for Integration and Development of Border Strip has been recently created to coordinate and promote the convergence of public sector policies along the border.

96 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Geography matters

EU-Latin America cooperation on regional policy: Contribution to the regional integration process

José Palma Andrés reported on the good progress made under the ERDF programme Amazonia, and in particular the More information: strategy and action plan on the Oyapock River Basin to create a common administration for cross-border challenges, http://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/ and a permanent and structured institutional dialogue. The pillars for cooperation between French Guyana and international/brazil_en.htm Amapa would be maintenance and protection of the environment, common development of services to the border http://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/ populations, tourism development, economic development and administrative cooperation. international/other_en.htm www.mi.gov.br/ Finally, Claudia Cybelle Freire dos Santos and Federico Perdomo presented a practical example of cross-border desenvolvimentoregional/pndr/ cooperation between Brazil and Uruguay: the development of the basin Lagoa Mirim, a project which has been english working for decades with the help of a Joint Commission and which is now considering the possibility of becoming an http://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/ international organisation with its own funds and the recognition of MERCOSUR. The main actions carried out so far are atlas2007/france/crossborder/ the revitalisation of the Mirim Lagoon Waterway, Environment and Integrated Urban Sanitation Aceguá, a limnology fr10_en.htm study on fishing resources and the promotion of a system of market access for businessmen and farmers.

Conclusions Ronald Hall concluded the workshop by underlining the importance of exchanging ideas and best practices to support "We are keen to further regional development policies in Brazil, Chile and the EU. Through this cooperation, knowledge, talents and resources can be pooled together in order to ensure a more efficient and joint, management of economic, environmental or develop this cooperation social challenges. Strengthening networking inside and outside the region is a key factor to successful development with Latin America. strategies. As the world becomes more interconnected, cooperation between regions and local communities is fundamental to our successful development and we all need to be ready to take up good ideas and adapt to changing times." Johannes Hahn

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 97 Workshops Geography matters

Regional approaches to preserving natural mineral water: Sustainable growth in action

12B12 Outline 12 October 2011, Effective water resource management has always been a top priority for European producers of natural mineral 09:00-10:45 and spring waters. The dedicated efforts of bottled-water producers to safeguard underground water sources from pollution and to ensure their long-term sustainability for future generations has had a positive impact on regional Organiser: and local development, particularly in rural areas. Catchment areas surrounding natural mineral water springs can be European Federation of Bottled several thousands of hectares. Their protection requires an integrated regional approach. This workshop showcased Waters (EFBW) how public-private partnerships can be a model for territorial cooperation and an important driver for the protection of natural resources, sustained regional growth and job creation. Best practices from across Europe were presented, Moderator: highlighting the joint collaboration between local authorities, community groups, agricultural producers, forestry Stephen Jones, Brussels-based services and the bottled-water industry. Attention was also given to how investments made – in terms of technology, Consultant specialised in EU Affairs education, training and sustainable farming – can be a regional vector for economic, social and environmental development. Geography matters for the preservation of natural mineral waters, as they are inextricably linked to the Speakers: region from which they originate and are a product of their natural setting. Johane Derouane, Hydrogeologist, Deprtment for Natural Resources Debate and Environment, Wallonia, Belgium Patrick Lachassagne discussed the sustainable management of Evian natural mineral water and the protection Patrick Lachassagne, Head of strategies involved, including cooperation with local and regional actors. Environment and Water Resources Division, Danone Waters, France. Johan Derouane presented the public-private partnerships between the region of Wallonia, the city of Spa and the Philippe Pierre, Director of Agrivair, Spadel Group for the protection of the natural springs. Sustainable development and the monitoring of the forest and Vittel, France water cycles, implementation of policy, and actions to safeguard the environment and biodiversity were also discussed. Hugo Perez, Marketing Director, Aguas De Mondariz, Spain Philippe Pierre outlined the territorial, economic and environmental value of protecting the water resources around Vittel. The multidisciplinary approach to encourage local sustainable economic development was presented, including More information: the partnerships with farmers, the promotion of a regional green economy and job creation. www.efbw.org Hugo Perez focused his presentation on the public-private partnerships around the protection of Mondariz waters in Galicia. The discussions were on the restoration projects of the River Tea basin and the establishment of a foundation to help protect local history and the sites’ heritage, promotion of tourism and local economic development.

98 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Geography matters

Cooperation boosting the success of macro-regional strategies

Outline 12B14 The workshop focused on how territorial cooperation and other funding sources can work together to mobilise the full 12 October 2011, potential of macro-regional strategies, particularly those for the Baltic and Danube. Speakers included representatives 09:00-10:45 of a territorial cooperation programme, flagship/illustrative projects from the two macro-regions and a priority area coordinator. Organiser: European Commission, Regional The workshop covered four areas of discussion: progress and implementation as seen from EC perspective, the Baltic Policy DG Strategy and its flagship EUSBSR, the EUSDR supporting competitiveness and the clustering of projects. Speakers: Debate Ritta Ahdan, Coordinator, INTERACT Colin Wolfe opened the discussion by saying that a macro-regional strategy is a reference point for investment. The Point Turku expert teams Baltic is the first and has only been in place for 18 months. Not everything with it is right, but it is a long-term project. Dragica Karaic, Head of Department for EU Programmes and Projects, He spoke mostly about BSS and recognised this, referring to the fact that it was the one which was furthest advanced. Ministry of Economy, Labor and Entrepreneurship, Croatia There are some challenges with macro-regional strategies/BSS: Sindre Langaas, Senior Expert/ • Maintain political interest and momentum; Project Manager, Federation of • Move from political declarations to addressing practicalities – developing administrative capacity, supporting Swedish Farmers, Stockholm, cooperation. The structures in place were not conceived in a cooperation perspective, i.e. national systems, agencies, Sweden etc. Macro-regional strategy is a nice idea but it is not yet backed up by structures within organisations; Marta Slezak-Warszycka, Project • Communication, publicity, raising awareness in macro-region. There is not enough knowledge on, for example, Officer, Baltic Sea Region Programme whether Baltic strategy is serious about what it’s doing or trying to achieve. Programmes are not aware that the Colin Wolfe, Regional Policy DG, strategy is there; European Commission • Move from project ideas to project reality. The question of finance is one of the big challenges for macro-regional strategies. There is a need to make sure that the huge funding which is available is aligned with the strategy’s needs.

What is the Commission doing about these challenges? • Issue of political momentum. Baltic Development Forum/PL Presidency is organising major event in Gdansk in November to raise the profile. Danube summit is later; • Issue of administrative support. Gaps analyses have been undertaken – now have good analysis of the issues; • Alignment of funding. Working with programme managers to help it along.

What is the future of these strategies? • The existing ones came in the middle of the programming period. Should be smoother next time as these strategies can be developed in tandem with a new round of programmes. Macro-regions were highlighted in a recent legislative package, and referred to in the references to Common Strategic Framework and PCs. All the new programmes, including TN programmes, must take account of macro-regional strategies and their priorities. Also, the TN programmes will have the administrative capacity/institution building strand, which is new, and could be helpful for macro-regional strategies; • Sea-basin approach is also developing the launch of the Atlantic Area strategy in November and work is underway on North Sea area; • Baltic and Danube – work ongoing. The Danube strategy has had an impressive start, very focused, learnt from Baltic experience; • Adriatic/Ionian; • Alpine region – regions working on it; • Strategies will develop asymmetrically, with varying degrees of intensity and in different directions (some may go it alone; others work more closely with EU institutions). There is no ‘one size fits all’ – the way of working will depend on the needs of each area.

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 99 Workshops Geography matters

Cooperation boosting the success of macro-regional strategies

Question and answer session In response to a question on funding, Colin Wolfe said that wherever existing programmes still have funds (i.e. not fully committed) they should consider financing suitable projects. TN programmes are an obvious first port of call and should be used. But there are also national and regional funding sources. Alignment has happened in a mixed way. In certain countries there is a good alignment, and other countries still have a lot of work to do. But there are also practical reasons why projects do not always get funded. There is a need for more information plus a brokerage platform plus seed money to work up projects as PPPs or as bankable packages. There is also a role for INTERACT in bringing people together. But there is a real issue about TN funding in the Baltic area. There has been drastic underspend in the main Romanian programmes.

There was a question regarding the involvement of the regional level, implying political involvement in macro-regional strategies.

According to Colin Wolfe, the Committee of the Regions is one of the players at European level. Sometimes the voice of the regions is not sufficiently strong when it comes to macro-regional strategies. The questioner is right: the regions must be more involved.

100 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Geography matters

Security across borders – For the benefit of the citizens

Outline 12B15 The workshop was opened by José Palma Andres who spoke of the objectives of European cross-border cooperation 12 October 2011, and described the specific characteristics of the border regions participating in the workshop. One main goal of 09:00-10:45 cross-border cooperation is to reduce the negative effects of borders, in part by finding solutions to shared problems across borders. The cross-border programmes taking part in the workshop cover vast and sparsely populated areas in Organiser: northern Finland, Sweden and Norway. The climate is cold, distances are long and there is a large ageing population. European Commission, Regional However, these challenges also provide opportunities for increased cross-border cooperation, for instance in the areas Policy DG, European Cross-border of healthcare, mountain rescue services and emergency services. Cooperation

Debate Chair: Anna-Greta Brodin outlined Finnish-Swedish healthcare cooperation in the Torne Valley. With the objective to José Palma Andres, Director, create conditions for a free healthcare choice for patients in the region, many improvements have been made within Regional Policy DG, European emergency logistics and e-health. Currently obstacles within the law, insurance, compensation and access to patient Commission records are being tackled. The project has been selected for a pilot test in European Patient Smart Open Services (EPSOS), an EU-project with 12 Member States. Speakers: Anna-Greta Brodin, County Matilda Schön described mountain rescue cooperation in caves, in water and on glaciers along the Swedish- Manager for primary healthcare in Norwegian border. Thanks to EU cross-border funding, mountain rescue teams practice together with common the County Council of Norrbotten, equipment, learning about the whole geographic area and strengthening their bonds. Such experience is crucial in Sweden and Project Leader of life-saving situations. Other tasks include improving GPS positions, digitalising snowmobile trails and implementing Healthcare without Borders search methods. Preventive actions for children and teenagers have also been conducted. Matilda Schön, Climate Adviser at the Municipality of Storuman, Simon Keskitalo spoke about Swedish-Norwegian cross-border cooperation that aims at creating a common spatial Sweden and Project Leader of Cross- data available to medical, rescue and police emergency services. Digital maps simplify planning and coordination, border Mountain Rescue both in daily work and in crisis situations. The data will include topographic and resource maps, names and address Simon Keskitalo, Project Manager, databases, a movement map with emergency response time and high risk buildings. The project Boundless Geographic County Administrative Board of Information II is looking for similar projects in Europe to share experience. Jämtland, Sweden and Project Leader of Boundless Geographic Conclusions Information II In concluding, José Palma Andres said that these relatively small projects show that it is not the size of funding that matters but the interconnections and exchanges that happen within them. The added value of cross-border cooperation More information: consists of creating opportunities to purchase equipment for common use, and meet and conduct common actions www.interregnord.com across borders, things which are expensive, especially in areas with great distances and poor infrastructure. Similar www.botnia-atlantica.eu projects exist in other parts of Europe, for instance at the German-Czech border and at the Estonia-Latvia and Latvia- www.interreg-sverige-norge.com Lithuania borders. Existing European project databases need to be improved to enable increased exchanges across ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/ Europe. index_en.htm www.territorialcooperation.eu

"For some citizens the closest hospital or police station is located in a neighbouring country." José Palma Andres

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 101 Workshops Geography matters

Presentation of the portal of decentralised cooperation 12B16 Outline 12 October 2011, A new web portal developed jointly by the Committee of the Regions and the European Commission’s Directorate 11:15-13:00 General for Development Cooperation (Devco) will help local authorities from across Europe to share their experiences and forge new development partnerships with their counterparts in the developing world. Organiser: The new portal will go live before the end of 2011 and consists of four main elements: the existing Atlas of Decentralised Committee of the Regions Cooperation, which maps the activities and aid contributions of local and regional authorities (LRAs) in the EU and their receiving counterparts in developing countries; a decentralised cooperation ‘exchange’ which allows LRAs to search Chair: for new development partners; an online library and information on development strategies and the European funds Luc Van den Brande, President available to LRAs; and discussion forums allowing LRAs to share their experiences and exchange information and ideas. of the Commission for Citizenship, Governance, Institutional and Debate External Affairs, Committee of the Speaking at the seminar, Luc Van den Brande, Chair of the Committee of the Region’s CIVEX commission which deals Regions with development issues, said that the portal would offer a response to the lack of information about LRAs development activities as well as making it easier for LRAs active in this area to learn from each other. Speakers: But he stressed that “the portal is not the end of the process, far from it. On the contrary, it is the starting point for new Antonio Marquez-Camacho, initiatives that should help raise the profile of decentralised cooperation and its vital role in the overall management of EuropeAid Development and development cooperation.” Cooperation DG, European Commission Antonio Marquez-Camacho added: “The portal is the physical evidence of the recognition within the EU of the Patrice Tirolien, Member of the key role played by LRAs in development policy. It will be an important entry point for LRAs involved in development European Parliament, Development cooperation.” Commission Christophe Rouillon, Mayor Patrice Tirolien, a member of the European Parliament’s development committee, underlined that the portal would of Coulaines and member of be “the catalyst for identifying development actions, sharing experiences and looking for synergies” between LRAs the Committee of the Regions, involved in development cooperation. Like the Atlas of Decentralised Cooperation before it, the inspiration behind Rapporteur on the Communication the development of the portal was the 2008 European Commission communication on ‘Local Authorities: Actors for ‘Local Authorities: actors for Development’, the first EU reference document dedicated to highlighting the role, place and importance of local Development’ and regional authorities in EU development policy. As the institution representing LRAs at the European level, the Jesús Gamallo Aller, Alternate Committee of the Regions has worked closely with the European Commission on developing these new tools to help Member of the Committee of the local actors in Europe and the developing world get the most out of their cooperation. Regions, Rapporteur on the Green Paper on ‘EU development policy in support of inclusive growth and sustainable development’ Josep Maria Felip, Director General of International Cooperation and Immigration, Generalitat of Valencia, Spain

More information: http://portal.cor.europa.eu/atlas/en- US/Pages/welcome.aspx

102 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Geography matters

13 programmes - 1 goal: To improve quality of life in European regions through transnational cooperation!

Outline 12B20 The workshop followed up on the first Joint Conference of European Transnational Cooperation Programmes (Katowice, 12 October 2011, Poland, 15-16 September 2011) and discussed the future of European Transnational Cooperation in light of the recent 11:15-13:00 legislative proposal of the European Commission framework on cohesion policy for 2014-2020. Organiser: The joint conference in Katowice showed evidence of the impact of European Transnational Cooperation on the ground Regional Policy DG, European with regard to innovation, energy, natural risks management, transport, demographic change and enlargement. It also Commission provided a platform for stakeholders to exchange views on the design of transnational cooperation beyond 2013 – potentially in the framework of the Europe 2020 strategy. Chair: Rick Thompson, INTERREG IVB The aim with this workshop was to have the same target audience as at the OPEN DAYS so that they can influence North West Europe (Eva Martinez) territorial cooperation and particularly transnational cooperation, i.e. decision-makers at EU, Member States and regional levels, current and potential beneficiaries of ERDF funds, journalists working for European, national, regional Speakers: and local media. Ruut Louwers, Director of the INTERREG IVB North West Europe Debate Programme on behalf of the Normunds Popens presented the new ETC regulation and gave an overview of the proposed changes. The new 13 transnational cooperation regulation contained a package of new proposals to simplify the rules and harmonise the control and audit procedures programmes for transnational programmes. The new framework for European territorial cooperation is more thematically Normunds Popens, Deputy concentrated and follows a more strategic performance-based approach. It was stressed that the regulation was Director General, Regional Policy DG, still subject to consultations with Member States and other stakeholders (European Parliament) before becoming European Commission operational. Marceli Niezgoda, Under-secretary of State, Ministry of Regional Having hosted the conference on transnational cooperation in Katowice, Poland, Marceli Niezgoda stressed the Development, Poland importance as well as the challenges for transnational cooperation in the next programming period. Representing Marie-Therese Sanchez the EU presidency, he said that the outcomes of both events (Katowice conference and OPEN DAYS workshop) would Schmid, Committee on Regional be presented at the forthcoming informal ministerial meeting of European Ministers for regional development and Development, European Parliament cohesion policy in Poznan on 25 November 2011.

Marie-Thérèse Sanchez Schmid, as a shadow Rapporteur of the European Parliament report on the new ETC regulation, welcomed its strategic approach and integration with other European policies. Clarification is still needed regarding the following proposed tools: the Joint Action Plan, community-led initiatives and integrated territorial investments. She recognised the need to increase the visibility of ETC and the benefits for EU citizens and suggested to look into methods to better communicate and disseminate concrete results from ETC projects.

Ruut Louwers said that there is an urgent need to harmonise the rules regarding state aid, public procurement and auditing. These rules almost always differ in the different countries in which a transnational cooperation project would like to operate. The 13 transnational cooperation programmes expect a great deal from the new ETC regulation regarding the use of financial instruments (engineering) and simplification of rules.

Conclusions Rick Thompson concluded by saying that transnational cooperation can make a difference for Europeans. It can improve daily lives on many topics because it can bring together stakeholders on a geographical level that is adapted to the topic. No existing level of governance can create these adapted cooperation levels. This workshop substantiated the need to continue and even improve this specific way of working, by simplifying the delivery and harmonising the rules.

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 103 Workshops Geography matters

EGTC Platform – The proposal of revision of the EGTC Regulation 12B21 Outline 12 October 2011, The workshop of the EGTC platform has represented an important milestone in the revision process of the EGTC 14:30-17:00 legislative framework. This was the main meeting with stakeholders after the European Commission had presented the communication containing the proposal of amendments to the Regulation (EC) 1082/2006 on the EGTC. Organiser: Committee of the Regions The European Groupings of Territorial Cooperation that are operating in the field, i.e. those who are under constitution, local and regional authorities, other cross-border structures of cooperation, organisations of support and also Chair/moderator: experts, expressed their points of view to the representatives of the Member States, the European Parliament and the Michel Delebarre, President of the Commission. Commission for Territorial Cohesion Policy, Committee of the Regions, The workshop was complemented by a thematic exhibition. President of MOT, Mayor of Dunkirk Debate Speakers: The Committee of the Regions' President Mercedes Bresso opened the seminar stating that the revision of the EGTC Mercedes Bresso, President of the Regulation must confirm the existing framework and improve it. Twenty-three existing EGTC groupings of more than Committee of the Regions 500 local and regional authorities prove that the EGTC is useful and can go beyond the structural funds. The CoR intends Johannes Hahn, European to consolidate the legal stability of the EGTC, confirm its pace-setter nature, work with the EGTC platform and give value Commissioner for Regional Policy to the EGTC in other regulations. Marceli Niezgoda, Undersecretary of State in the Ministry of Regional Commissioner Johannes Hahn presented the proposal of the European Commission and stated that the EU should Development of the Republic of give more freedom to the Member States in some specific areas as its goal is to work for the citizens. According to Mr Poland Hahn, this new regulation will allow for a faster creation of a new EGTC. Marie-Thérèse Sanchez-Schmid, Member of the European Parliament Marceli Niezgoda pointed out that the cohesion policy is one of the main priorities for the Polish Presidency, which Joachim Zeller, Member of the aims to push forward the EGTC regulation and pass it. He stated that the EGTC has the potential to realise objectives that European Parliament go beyond the cohesion policy. Moreover, the experience so far shows that it is important to make easier mechanisms for the use of the EGTC and to identify in advance the administrative needs and costs.

Marie-Thérèse Sanchez-Schmid affirmed that the EGTC is an instrument that pushed and is still pushing forward cooperation among the EU Member States. It is thus very important to create new ones. Moreover, she underlined the contribution of the EGTC in improving not only territorial but also social cohesion. Ms Sánchez-Schmid also mentioned the need for a better eligibility for the EGCT in different EU programmes.

Joachim Zeller highlighted the role of the EGTC to facilitate cooperation, especially if border regions can work together to ensure the growth of the EU. The regions outside the EU should be included. Mr Zeller underlined the fact that the EGCT are legal tools not attached to finance and that more visibility is needed via the EGTC platform. He also pleaded for the creation of a new EGTC in the German-Czech-Polish border area.

Andrej Plenković started his intervention by describing what Croatia has been doing in preparation for accession to the EU and to implement the EGTC Regulation. He pointed out that no legal basis for non-EU Member States had been available, but new possibilities will now be open. He also confirmed Croatia’s interest in being very involved in cross- border cooperation as soon as it becomes an EU Member.

Gilles Pargneaux presented some proposals which, in his opinion, would be relevant for a more efficient EGTC, for example the use of the EGTC platform to reinforce good practices, the development of a greater visibility for the EGTC and cross-border regions, and the creation of a task force within the Commission for the EGTC platform.

Herwig Van Staa stated that, according to him, one the main problems is the absence of a more concrete legal framework. It was only recently that a concrete structure was given to the Tirol, Alto Adige and Trentino region via the creation of an EGTC, which will allow for an improvement in the quality of life for its citizens.

Salvador Sedó underlined the potential of the EGTC and the fact that they must be considered as European projects

104 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Geography matters

EGTC Platform – The proposal of revision of the EGTC Regulation above national consideration. Among his proposals was to give each EGTC the same public status in order to overcome Floor debate: national obstacles, in particular the EGTC could have the legal status of EU agencies; to recognise the EGTC as a Andrej Plenković, State Secretary partnership in its own right; to include the creation of cross-border structures as an objective of European Territorial for European integration of the Cooperation. Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Integration of the Republic Zoltán Nógrádi described the EGTC Bánát - Triplex Confinium. This involves about 150 000 inhabitants in cities of of Croatia and national coordinator different budgetary resources and includes work with Serbia (not a member of the EU). The cohesion policy has helped for the Danube strategy to overcome the differences. However, many problems are still caused by ethnic differences. His main current objective Gilles Pargneaux, Vice President is to implement a programme to provide a future for young people and, in his view, it would be important to increase of the EGTC Eurometropolis Lille- cross-border trust. Kortrijk-Tournai, Member of the European Parliament Antonio Caponetto described the situation in Italy, where there are three EGTCs, and affirmed that it is important Herwig Van Staa, Member of the to remain in the framework of the cohesion policy and cross-border cooperation. A problem still unsolved is that the Committee of the Regions, President Commission proposal does not unify the different national points of view. He proposed to extend the EGTC to the of the Tirol Regional Assembly, EGTC country members of the European Economic Area and underlined the importance of defining the tasks of each EGTC Tirolo - Alto Adige - Trentino member. Salvador Sedó, Director General of External Relations of the Government of Catalonia, in charge Conclusions of the rotating presidency of the Michel Delebarre encouraged the participation in the debate and took note of the contributions of the participants. EGTC Pirineus-Mediterrània In general, the proposal of the Commission has been welcomed as it contains most of the proposals made by the Zoltán Nógrádi, Mayor of Committee of the Regions and the stakeholders. Morahálom and President of the EGTC Bánát-Triplex Confinium Antonio Caponetto, Director of Division (Coordinatore Dirigente) of International Activities and Sectoral Policies of the Ministry of Regional Affairs of the Republic of Italy

More information: www.cor.europa.eu/egtc The EGTC platform in social networks: Facebook: Group and community EGTC Twitter: @egtcplatform

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 105 Workshops Geography matters

2014+ – Will cross-border cooperation in health still matter? 12B22 Outline 12 October 2011, This debate on the future of cross-border cooperation in health, post 2013, took place just a few days after the 14:30-17:00 publication of the new proposals for the Cohesion Policy 2014-2020 by the European Commission.

Organiser: In the first part of the debate, examples of cross-border cooperation in health were presented where regions successfully Lower Austria and Extremadura work together to jointly meet the ever-growing demands of healthcare provision and live up to their key role in securing (deputy leader, conference manager) and improving the quality and availability of sustainable healthcare systems and services for all EU citizens. On this basis a second debate between representatives from the EU institutions and regional experts took place on the availability Chair/moderator: of EU-funding for cross-border cooperation projects in health in the next funding period, post 2013. The aim of this Ourania Georgoutsakou, Senior debate was to ensure that ‘health’ remains within the priority setting in the European regions, despite the necessary Policy Coordinator,Social Policy and concentration of resources in the future. Public Health Committee, Assembly of European Regions Rob Van Eijkeren welcomed about 100 guests from different regions, as well as Mr Becker, MEP, on 12 October to the House of Dutch Provinces. Speakers: Rob van Eijkeren, Head of Office, Debate House of the Dutch Provinces Barbara Schwarz, Minister for Minister Barbara Schwarz emphasised that regional policy is the most important EU matter for the regions, as it allows Employment, Family, Social Affairs, them to initiate and support projects that are of utmost importance for them, such as in the area of health, an area Lower Austria (lead partner) which is especially crucial for the citizens in Europe! In this respect she also mentioned last’s years initiative launched Dr Jacques Scheres, University by Governor Proell from Lower Austria in partnership with 143 competitiveness regions which also ensures cohesion Hospital Maastricht, Coordinator of policy funding for wealthier regions in the future. Euregio Meuse-Rhine, Maastricht, The Netherlands, Association of Dr Scheres, an expert on cross-border healthcare, outlined the current status and prospects for cross-border healthcare. European Border Regions (AEBR), Some major challenges lay ahead. Patients are demanding much more now and the quality of healthcare should be Task Force Cross-border Health high but budgets are under great pressure. Hospitals should specialise and cooperate, including across their borders. A precise implementation of the directive on cross-border healthcare by the Member States should help them. Governments of border regions could support these developments by setting preconditions and giving support to projects. Cohesion funds are essential incentives.

Panel I: Regional cross-border cooperation in health in the past and the present (including practical “It's not about moving examples of EU co-financed projects from the partner regions) the borders but about reducing their separating Debate Dr Michal Čarvas was very pleased that he was able to share ideas face-to-face with other colleagues from the whole of character.” Europe during the OPEN DAYS. Together with his partners from the other side of the border, he presented not only the theoretical attitudes but also practical examples of help that they were able to offer to people in need. Any restrictions Elke Ledl from the EU financial support would definitely be fatal for their efforts to continue in their activities.

Dr Andreas Reifschneider reported that since the fall of the Iron Curtain, Lower Austria has moved closer to its neighbours, the Czech Republic and Slovakia. By leading and carrying out the ETC project ‘Healthacross’ together with “Everything is not just South Bohemia in the Czech Republic, Lower Austria takes responsibility for the regional development of health in the money or just political border region. This project elaborated a feasibility study for in- and outpatient healthcare across borders in the area of Gmünd – Ceské Velenice focusing on legal, economic and general issues. will.” Dr Hans Bamelis said that the Province of Limburg is actively involved in cross-border cooperation in health. To José Miguel Fernandez Mastro illustrate, the ‘euPrevent MRSA’ project combats differences in levels of patient safety and infection prevention between the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium for the Euregio Meuse-Rhine (EMR). This is achieved through building quality networks, coordinating and creating educational programmes, the development of a quality label, providing information to the public and, finally, academic research. The project has clear beneficial results for all Member States involved and would not have been possible without EU funding.

106 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Geography matters

2014+ – Will cross-border cooperation in health still matter?

Dr Markus Frischhut, professor at the Management Center Innsbruck, presented a student project on cross-border Panel I speakers: healthcare between the Austrian region of Tyrol and the two Italian regions of South Tyrol and Trentino. Aimed at Dr Michal Čarvas, Chairman of the developing a new concept on cross-border healthcare between the three regions, the project led to the following hospital Prachatice, South Bohemia, conclusions: Czech Republic, ‘Healthacross’ - EU legislation, in particular the new directive on cross-border healthcare (2011/24/EU) is not transparent to those it has Dr Andreas Reifschneider, Regional an effect on, better communication is needed; Hospital Management Waldviertel, - Certain issues could be solved through contracts between healthcare providers; NOE Landeskliniken Holding - Exchanges of students and medical personnel must be encouraged. (Hospital Trust), Lower Austria, ‘Healthacross’ Fernández Mastro outlined the cross-border cooperation in health issues between Extremadura and the Portuguese Dr Hans Bamelis, Project regions of Alentejo and Centro, which has been further developed by the establishment of EUROACE Euroregion. He Coordinator euPrevent- MRSA, presented the EUROACE Cross-border Strategic Plan 2010-2020 on health and continuous care, where one of the most Limburg, Belgium, important fields of activities is mobility and training healthcare professionals. As a conclusion, he highlighted that in ‘EurSafetyhealth – NET EMR MRSA’ order to achieve the proposed objectives, it is necessary to combine the available resources with the political will. Dr Markus Frischhut, Professor at the Management Center Innsbruck, Chris White explained that the objective of EUREGO III is to make information available to regions, local authorities Austria, Patient Mobility Directive and other actors who potentially apply for and implement structural funds. The recent proposal for the regulation on and ‘Real Life Simulation’ cohesion policy is a welcome development for regions who wish to leverage the structural funds to formulate, pilot and José Miguel Fernández Mastro, evaluate strategies and mechanisms to help improve the effectiveness of structural fund investment in reducing health Director General for Planning, Quality inequalities and meeting the targets of the Europe 2020 strategy. and Consumer Affairs of the Regional Ministry of Health and Social Policy, Gintaras Skamaročius said that Lithuanian municipalities successfully use the EU-financed cross-border programmes Extremadura, Spain, ‘Together for the modernisation of healthcare. He pointed to the EU co-funded ongoing project ‘The improvement of emergency for health’ – Cross-border Health services through cooperation of medical institutions in the cross-border area’ with a budget of EUR 4.5 million. Strategic Plan 2010- 2020 in the According to Mr Skamaročiaus, such projects are particularly useful for improving the basic infrastructure of hospitals EUOACE Euroregion in Lithuania. However, according to the speaker, it will take at least ten years for Lithuania, receiving the same level of Chris White, Senior EU Health structural support, to reach the EU average quality in healthcare. Specialist, North West Health Brussels Office, North West England, ‘Euregio III’ Gintaras Skamaročius, Director of Marijampolės bureau of Euroregion Nemunas, Member of the Executive Committee of the Association of European Border Regions, Lithuania

“For the Province of Limburg in Belgium, cross-border cooperation on infection prevention creates clear European added value, as cross- border healthcare provision in the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium is improved signiﬁ cantly for both patients and healthcare professionals.” Dr Hans Bamelis

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 107 Workshops Geography matters

2014+ – Will cross-border cooperation in health still matter?

Panel II Speakers: Panel II: The new legislative package 2014-2020 – Will cross-border cooperation in health still Dr Rudolf Niessler, Director, Policy matter? Coordination, Regional Policy DG, Directorate G, European Commission Debate Carl Johan Sonesson, Chair Health Rudolf Niessler expressed his thanks for presenting these cross-border healthcare initiatives as both cohesion policy and Medical Services Committee and healthcare interrelate, and high quality healthcare contributes to the Europe 2020 objectives. The European Region, Skåne, Sweden Commission is aware of the importance of the cross-border cooperation and thus proposed increased allocation for Agneta Granström, County Council ETC. Dr Niessler assured the audience that health will still be included in the future priorities but he also asked the Commissioner responsible for Public regions to think about health-related strategies in the context of innovation and social inclusion. According to him, now Health, Norrbotten County Council, is the time to bring forward proposals for future projects and discuss these with the European Commission. Sweden Martin Černý, Director of the Carl Johan Sonesson opened by announcing a newly signed agreement between the Copenhagen Region and Regional Development Section, Region Skåne regarding cooperation across the borders in times of patient healthcare capacity problems. Health is and Vysocina Region, Czech Republic will remain extremely important in regional development. Healthy people are needed to reach the goals of Europe 2020 Elke Ledl, Head of EU Department, so the focus should be on redressing health inequalities both within and between cities and regions. It is important to Healthcare and Social Fund of Lower target the weaker groups in our society and because of its importance, health should be made available in all funds. Austria With regard to the European Regional Development Funds, Agneta Granström explained that, in the operational More information: programme of northern Sweden, health is not a priority, although it is high on the agenda. However, everyone agrees www.healthacross.eu that health is important for wealth and economic development. It is important to work with cross-border projects to www.euprevent.eu support cooperation within the healthcare sector, finding new structures that support inhabitants in cross-boarder www.euregio-mr.com/nl regions – for example those that work in one Member State and live in another should have access to and receive high www.limburg.be/eCache/15261/ quality healthcare when needed. The increased mobility of patients in the future when the EU directive is implemented europa-Nieuws.html in the Member States will put increased demands on cooperation within the cross-border health sector. Since health www.saludextremadura.com is a key factor for wealth and regional development, all EU programmes from 2014 to 2020 must therefore incorporate www.euro-ace.eu health and development to support health improvements, including everything from e-health development within http://euregio3.eu the healthcare sector to cross-border cooperation. Otherwise the European Union will never reach its goals set in the www.lsa.lt/index.php?3092405929 growth strategy Europe 2020.

Martin Černý said that the new legislation package solves and reflects the future needs of the EU. However, new challenges are taking over, like the macro-economic conditionalities. The regions, which will take part in the inter- regional cooperation, do not know what the effects of those conditionalities will have on them. This uncertainty needs “Thanks to the EU- to be overcome as the regions cannot be punished for a non-fulfilment they cannot affect themselves. ﬁ nanced cross-border Elke Ledl said that Lower Austria welcomes the fact that the Commission’s proposal for the next funding period healthcare projects, a includes, EU regions continuing to receive funding from structural funds and that the whole amount is going to be number of municipally increased. This provides a greater opportunity to realise many initiatives and makes it easier to live the European idea, to reduce inequalities, to improve conditions of life and to guarantee that every citizen has equal access to healthcare. owned hospitals are still These challenges require a common course of actions between the border regions. continuing to work.” Conclusions Gintaras Skamaročius All the speakers and participants agreed on the European added-value of structural funds for health-related cross- border projects and drew the following conclusions: • Health is a very important topic for European regions as an essential economic motor, but also for their citizens; • Without structural funds, many great initiatives would not be possible and the relevant actors could not be mobilised and brought together; • Sustainability of funding is needed for long-term planning in the regions; • It must therefore be ensured that health remains among the priorities of the future cohesion policy; • All relevant actors should thus make themselves heard and work together, including in partnership with the European Commission; • Regions have to start now to plan and propose projects for the future funding period and to think in a wider scope of, for example, social inclusion and innovation, according to the advice given by the Commission during the debate.

108 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Geography matters

Public authorities for cultural and historical heritage and sustainable development

Outline 12B23 The workshop aimed at presenting some co-funded projects developed by public authorities of the conglomerate 12 October 2011, ‘Europe of Traditions’ to exploit their cultural and historical heritage and to promote innovative local governance tools. 14:30-17:00 The idea behind Europe of Traditions is that cultural identity and historical heritage are necessary resources for a local territory to build its own sustainable future development. The debate was ideally divided in two parts: a first round Organiser: of interventions and discussions about projects where public authorities saved, restored, and exploited historical or Veneto Region as lead partner of the artistic monuments and archaeological sites in order to develop tourism and preserve cultural heritage. It showed how conglomerate ‘Europe of Traditions’ public authorities have given value to buildings and traditional sites to improve tourism and awareness of the territory’s historical traditions. Chair: Francisco De Calheiros, Executive This was followed by a second round of debate about projects where public authorities gave value to cultural capital, Coordinator of the Consorcio Minho folkloric traditions and particular territorial features to unlock unexploited tourism and develop economic activities. It IN, in the region of Guimaraes, showed how public authorities have given value to economic potential based on cultural resources of the territory. In Portugal an informal setting, each speaker presented her/his own example by underlining the background of their territories and the process that led to the project’s idea, implementation and future developments. The attendance was quite high Speakers: and sitting in the audience were many stakeholders and experts/technician/politicians from the regional partners and Roberto Ciambetti, Veneto beyond. The presence of many local authorities and owners of villas and historical houses was also appreciated. The Regional Minister in charge of workshop was also characterised by lively participation and use of multimedia documents (videos, music and images). budget, finance, cross-border cooperation, ERDF programmes and Debate relations with local authorities, Italy The workshop was opened by Francisco Calheiros who briefly introduced himself and explained his role at the Xoán Vázquez Mao, Manager of the Consorcio Minho IN. The consortium is financed by the National Strategic Reference Framework (NSRF), bringing Planning Department of Deputación together public-private partnerships such as the Minho IN Golf cluster; manor houses, villages and gardens network; Ourense, Spain Governance, Infrastructure and Animation Strengthening of the Vinho Verde Route; traditional arts and products, etc. Ľudmila Húsková, Director of the He then presented the outline of the workshop and gave the floor to the speakers. Regional Cultural Centre in Prievidza, Trencin Region, Hungary The first speaker was Roberto Ciambetti, who gave an overview on the role of cultural traditions in Europe as a tool Jósef Sebesta, Marshal of the to build economic development and a European identity. This double role was evident in VIVEN OPEN NET, a project Opolskie Region, Poland which aimed at promoting innovative forms of tourism. Veneto is mainly known for the city of Venice. But the region’s Davide Donati, Piedmont Region, artistic heritage is also composed of hundreds of villas disseminated in its territory, an unexploited economic and Brussels Office cultural capital. The valorisation of such a capital was enhanced by the creation of a web portal, by combining new ICT Karmen Paju, Saaremaa Local tools with the promotion of historical sites. Governments Association, Estonia Christabelle Lewis, Permanent Xoán Vázquez Mao, together with Javier Fejoo and Javier Rodríguez-Nóvoa first introduced Deputacion Ourense Representation of Malta to the and how, thanks to the project Arraiano, they managed to restore typical Galician buildings and preserve them as European Union traditional cultural resources. The preservation of cultural and architectural heritage was only a part of the project as Carlos Martins, Guimaraes, Portugal this action was carried out alongside other actions that promoted the role of information society, environment, access Javier Fejoo, Deputacion Ourense, and mobility. Spain Javier Rodríguez-Nóvoa, Davide Donati introduced the restoration of Reggia di Venaria Reale, one of the royal palaces of Piedmont, the Deputacion Ourense, Spain condition of which was seriously endangered because of the complexity of the estate, the serious degradation of the Agita Kaupuža, Latvian Association buildings and the presence of monumental architectures, each in a different style and made with different materials. of Local and Regional Governments The project showed how the creation of the Venaria Reale Consortium assured the good management of the complex. Prof. Dr Dobrica Milovanović, Private bodies, such as banking foundations, have supported the placement of contemporary works of art and preparing City Council Member in charge of pathways for visitors. international cooperation (City of Kragujevac), Sumadja District, Serbia Christabelle Lewis drew the audience’s attention to Malta’s Ħaġar Qim & Mnajdra Conservation & Interpretation Project, an example of integrated and sustainable management of heritage assets. The two temples, both World Heritage sites, were suffering from deterioration and structural problems. To enhance cultural and archaeological tourism, which is a sector not subjected to seasonality as other sectors are, the project aimed at solving the problems relating to preservation and sought to improve visitors’ experiences at the sites through the construction of a visitors centre and by increasing security at the site.

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 109 Workshops Geography matters

Public authorities for cultural and historical heritage and sustainable development

More information Representing the only non-EU partner of our network – Sumadija district, Dobrica Milovanović focused on the cultural www.villevenete.net/portalVV/faces/ heritage protection and tourism development strategy. He gave a presentation on the revitalisation of industrial public/viven/home/descrizione- heritage, describing the EU project at Senje coal mine, which is coordinated by the Regional Institute for the Protection progetto of Monuments, Kragujevac. He presented the project proposal on the Revitalisation of Zastava Industrial Heritage. He www.visitsaaremaa.ee also communicated the results of the local OPEN DAYS event held in the Sumadija Municipality of Arandjelovac that has www.guimaraes2012.pt celebrated 200 years of spa tourism this year. www.rezekne.lv www.vbii.lv Francisco De Calheiros drew some conclusions on the first series of interventions, underlining how all these www.heritagemalta.org/projects/ experiences faced the problem of preserving archaeological and architectural heritage through a variety of problem- eufunded/eufunded.html solving solutions and different use of European funds and PPPs. He then introduced the second part of the workshop, www.vitalvillages.org which focused on how tourism can be developed and enhanced. http://planificacion.depourense.es www.lavenaria.it The first speaker in the second part was Karmen Paju, who described how the tourism policy for the area of Saarema www.oskunovjan.cz/?page=aktivity- was based on the discovery of traditional resources in the territory and using them as a vehicle for the development sdruzeni of an integrated and comprehensive touristic campaign. Travel Destination Saaremaa, the co-funded project, was www.rkcpd.sk/aktuality/prezentacia- presented by showing the role of PPPs in the valorisation of Saarema’s main strengths and attractions. projektu-tvorive-dialogy-v-tradicii- cez-hranicu.html Jósef Sebesta outlined how it is possible to increase tourism attractiveness in rural marginal territories, thanks to new territorial governance modes and bottom-up approaches, as in ‘Vital Villages’. From the designing of a new governance strategy focused on thematic villages to the definition of real tourism packages, the strategy proved to be successful. The Vital Villages Association was created and its experience has demonstrated how important it is to build networks to find sustainable solutions and future opportunities.

“It is only possible to Ľudmila Húsková explained the role of the Regional Cultural Centre in Prievidza within Trencin Region’s policy for the build innovative and promotion of culture and folkloric traditions. In the framework of the project ‘Creative dialogue in the tradition across the border’, the centre worked to preserve and promote selected types of folk crafts in the Trenčín Region (SK) and sustainable development Zlín Region (CZ). The workshops and symposiums for manufacturers of musical instruments, ceramics, and traditional strategies if we really handicraft production from wicker, corn-husk and other natural products are part of the project activities realised in the know our territories framework of cross-border cooperation. and are aware of our Agita Kaupuža presented two projects from Valmiera and Rezneke city. Valmiera’s project was devoted to twinning activities with the aim of getting the twinned municipalities and their inhabitants acquainted through culture and strengths. European music. Rezekne’s project dealt instead with the construction of a modern multifunctional centre for the organisation of Regions cannot disregard concerts, events, exhibitions, etc. The presence of two different projects provided evidence that public authorities can pursue different kinds of strategies to develop sustainable and coherent development of cultural capital and economic their historical, artistic, resources. folkloric and cultural Carlos Martins presented Guimarães and the ‘Regional Creative Cluster - Guimarães 2012 – European Capital of traditions.” Culture’. The idea is to foster creativity as a powerful engine for city regeneration in three different, integrated ways: Roberto Ciambetti urban regeneration, social regeneration and economic regeneration.

Conclusions Francisco De Calheiros drew general conclusions from the debate and underlined common results of the two groups of projects. He highlighted how such practices can help the preservation of Europe’s cultural and artistic traditions, and help sustainable economic development and touristic potential in different European territories.

During the conclusion, the similarities and analogies among the several good practices were underlined, and their possible interactions/exchanges/etc. introduced, together with the strategies adopted. The final conclusion underlined the importance of the use of innovation in local governance tools, public-private cooperation and environmental sustainability.

110 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Geography matters

EU-Russia cooperation on regional policy: Integrated development plans in former single-industry towns (mono-cities)

Outline 12B24 The European Commission and the Russian Government have begun exchanges of best practice on urban development 12 October 2011, topics, in particular on restructuring and employment programmes that have been carried out in European and Russian 09:00-10:45 cities which depended in the past on single industries and that have gone through or are facing restructuring and diversification (mono-sectoral cities). This workshop focused on what has been carried out, with presentations on Organiser: integrated development plans in former mono-sectoral cities in Europe and Russia. Regional Policy DG, European There are many examples of mono-cities in Europe and successful correspondent restructuring programmes financed Commission by EU regional policy, for example dealing with the consequences of auto industry closures. Equally in the 1990s, when the Soviet Union collapsed, huge areas of Eastern Europe became badly affected, as many smaller towns and cities were Chair: dependent on one type of industry. Ronald Hall, Director, Regional Policy DG, European Commission Debate Flo Clucas presented the successful process of structural change and renewal in Liverpool, a city with a strong Speakers: dependence in the past on a few industries in decline. Mrs Clucas underlined the importance of the support of EU Flo Clucas, OBE, Councillor, structural funds and its partnership approach to put in place programmes to improve the skills of young people and Liverpool City Council, United make them more attractive for employers, to improve the connectivity of the city, to regenerate the city centre and Kingdom, and Member of the develop new cultural and scientific facilities. She also outlined the catalyst role played by the designation of Liverpool Committee of the Regions as European Capital of Culture in 2008. Dmitry Golovanov, Deputy Director of Department of Legal Dmitry Golovanov introduced the current situation concerning developmental trends and state policy for Russian Support of the Ministry of Regional mono-cities, as carried out by the Ministry of Regional Development of the Russian Federation. In Russia there are more Development of the Russian than 330 mono-cities or single industry cities, mainly in the engineering, ferrous metallurgy, timber, and oil, gas and Federation coal industries. The presentation outlined the main problems to overcome: the lack of administrative capacity at local Prof. David Bailey, University of level, the short timeframe and the lack of a good investment climate. A recent progress report showed that more than Coventry, United Kingdom 100 000 jobs have been created in the assisted cities. It is also important to focus on the future and provide financial incentives to attract potential investments, namely in the area of information and new technologies. More information: http://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/ Prof. David Bailey presented a perspective from Birmingham on the issue of dealing with an auto industry rundown international/russia_en.htm and closures, namely the MG Rover case (closed in 2005 with the loss of 6 300 jobs directly and about 3 000 more www.minregion.ru in the supply chain). A government package co-financed by EU structural funds was implemented to deal with this major economic shock, combining training, redundancy payments, a loan fund to help otherwise viable businesses and support MG Rover suppliers sustain trading. The number of ex-workers back in work three years on was 90%.

Conclusions Ronald Hall concluded the workshop by underlining the importance of exchanging ideas and best practices on "The challenges facing integrated development plans in former single-industry towns to ensure their balanced development by addressing mono-sector cities the regional and social consequences of economic restructuring. Both sides, Regional Policy DG and the Ministry of Regional Development of the Russian Federation, underlined that it will be a priority field for future cooperation under need an integrated and the EU-Russia regional policy dialogue and the EU-Russia Partnership for Modernisation. coordinated approach in order to have successful restructuring programmes. This is why the support of EU regional policy programmes has been so important for cities like Liverpool."

Flo Clucas

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 111 Workshops Geography matters

Approaching PPP in urban development projects – Possibilities and challenges

13B25 Outline 13 October 2011, Many cities and regions in Europe are increasingly challenged by their responsibilities to provide public services, 09:00-10:45 social housing or to develop brownfield sites. However in a few European countries, the PPP approach has become an established development vehicle. The INTERREG IV B Central Europe Project ACT4PPP gathered 17 European Organiser: cities, development agencies and consultancies to a transnational platform for the exchange of experience on PPP German Association for Housing, approaches. Moreover, ACT4PPP tested the PPP tool at 12 local pilot projects in different fields of urban development, Urban and Spatial Development possibilities and challenges. The workshop introduced three pilot projects and summarised the main results and conclusions that have been reached within the last few years during a panel discussion. Chair: Jonas Scholze, Association Debate for Housing, Urban and Spatial Jonas Scholze introduced the programme and the background to the ACT4PPP Interreg IV B project. Development, Germany Birgit Nolte talked about the ACT4PPP pilot project from the city of Schwerin in Germany, which is the urban Speakers: development of a waterfront site for housing and recreational purposes in one of Schwerin most important brownfield Birgit Nolte, EGS Schwerin, areas. Development Company, Germany Bartosz Piotrusiewicz, Deputy Bartusz Piotrusiewicz gave an overview of the pilot project from the city of Sopot, which deals with the engagement Mayor, City of Sopot, Poland of private partners in the renovation and maintenance of the heritage site of the Sopot Hippodrome. Andrea Bonifacio, Marco Polo Systems, Venice, Italy Andrea Bonifacio introduced the pilot project from the city of Venice, the re-use of the former military complex Forte Prof. Dr Hans Wilhelm Alfen, Alfen Marghera and the challenges on the development of a user concept for this brownfield site. Consult, Germany Katrin Fischer, Alfen Consult, The presentation was followed by a panel discussion. The topics that were discussed were about the application of Germany PPP for urban development projects, which focused on the PPP legal frameworks in Germany and Poland, the search Jarosław Zysnarski, Doradca for investors, the right communication processes and internal administration concepts, all of which eases the use of Consult Ltd S.P.O.O., Poland complex PPP approaches within municipalities. Jarosław Pucek, ZKZL, City of Poznan, Poland Conclusions Jonas Scholze concluded the discussion by saying that PPP for complex urban development projects will remain a More information: challenging topic but will not substitute the traditional approach to urban development. However, in future we need www.act4ppp.eu to develop further models in order to overcome and avoid investment congestions. PPP will not be applicable for every kind of urban and spatial development issue but bears some potential for various urban development projects. Furthermore, PPP should be regarded in the broadest possible way and not just as a narrow understanding of the classic PPP.

112 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Geography matters

Rural-urban partnership for territorial development

Outline 13B26 The analysis of the experiences in the current policy framework and expectations of the different stakeholders are 13 October 2011, inevitable. The examination of policies and procedures help in reaching a common understanding. The workshop 11:15-13:00 introduced a number of good practices and successful approaches in the field of rural-urban partnership. Partnerships are more than linkages and a special kind of governance is needed. Long-term plans, an integrated approach and Organiser: mutual benefits are indispensable. Stakeholders need good frameworks to realise a successful operation, different European Commission, Agriculture and motivated actors, linkages, shared problems, strategy, governance, experience, time and concrete projects. and Rural Development DG and Furthermore, a particular dialogue is needed between the urban and rural partners to reach the essential success. There Regional Policy DG is also a need to maintain and further strengthen the leader-like programmes and complex interactions between urban and rural areas in the future. Chair: Wladyslaw Piskorz, Head of the Debate Urban Development Unit, Regional Wladyslaw Piskorz opened by presenting the policy content of the rural-urban linkages, which is supported by Policy DG, European Commission different actions: ESDP, Lisbon strategy, EPSON studies, RURBAN preparatory action. Improved rural-urban partnerships minimise negative effects of urban sprawl, rationalise provision services, recognise peri-urban potentialities, facilitate Speakers: inter-municipal management and guarantee the best possible use of resources. The goals of the RURBAN actions are Rupert Kawka, Partnership to analyse territorial partnerships; achieve better cooperation between actors in implementing common, integrated for sustainable rural-urban approaches; promote territorial multilevel governance. development: existing evidences Manuela Sampaio, Local Action Rupert Kawka’s presentation was based on the first results of the ‘Partnerships for sustainable rural-urban development’ Group ADREPES, Portugal study, analysing the diversity of approaches to define urban-rural linkages with corresponding governance solutions. Theau Dumond, General More spatial layers have been identified (urban, peri-urban, rural) with different needs. However, there are certain specific Coordinator, Syndicat mixte du Pays challenges in all areas and many broad fields of intervention in which both areas are interested and can cooperate, such du Mans as internal and external marketing, governance and future strategies, economic development and ecology. Josefine Loriz-Hoffmann, Head of Unit, Agriculture and Rural Manuela Sampaio provided a good example on how to stop the trend of regional decline by the use of integrated Development DG, European projects. The PROVE project started in 2004 under the community initiative EQUAL and LEADER+ and is currently being Commission further developed under LEADER 2007-13. Groups of two to four farmers cooperate locally to create short cuts for the marketing and direct selling of agricultural products. Sustainable and high quality production is reached by the More information: collaborations, providing further added values as well. The project involves 91 agricultural holdings, 1 500 consumers, [email protected] 16 local action groups and 41 delivery locations. www.adrepes.pt www.paysdumans.fr Theau Dumond outlined the development strategy of the area, which puts emphasis on agricultural activities in the peri-urban space, innovative environmental practices, mobility and transnational cooperation activities. The main objectives are animation and engineering of local communities, definition of development strategies, development of “There are diﬀ erent rural- peri-urban public transport and greenways, promotion of local values, raising environmental awareness and sustainable agriculture, sustainable project development. Internal diagnoses for the involvement of other stakeholders and financial urban patterns; certain sources will be inevitable (multi-scale complex approach). situations have similar Josefine Loriz-Hoffmann gave the closing speech. She said that the new policy frameworks have been launched, challenges and solutions. reaching the Europe2020 strategy through a common strategic framework, partnership contracts and national The success depends on programmes. The rural development policy also offers tools for rural-urban linkages, such as the proposed local development tool, which opens up the opportunity of joint actions with other funds (ERDF, EMFF, ESF); the cooperation the locally developed measure, which is supporting a broad range of economic, environmental and social cooperation; and the farm concepts, the funding diversification measures in connection to market and short supply chains. instruments and on the Conclusions motivated people.” Josefine Loriz-Hoffmann and Wladyslaw Piskorz concluded the workshop by saying that there is an increasing interest in rural-urban linkages. Participants get known for being involved with the improved rural-urban partnerships, successful projects and RURBAN. The key challenge is to create a governance framework through strategic planning and funding instruments. The LEADER method and other governance solutions have the possibility of addressing the needs of these areas. Community-led local development, which is proposed by the Commission for 2014-2020 is an instrument for territorial development under four funds (ERDF, ESF, EAFRD and EMFF). This provides new prospects for setting up local action groups in mixed areas or cooperation between urban and rural partnerships. The key actions are identification of needs, development of strategies and inclusion of stakeholders.

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 113 Workshops Geography matters

Sixth EU-China high-level seminar on regional policy 13B28 Outline 13 October 2011, The sixth high-level EU-China seminar on regional policy cooperation looked at the issue of regional disparities, and 09:00-13:00 the governance and coordination of regional policy in the EU and China. Views were exchanged on regional policy experiences. The seminar also presented the main outcomes of a major joint study on regional policies, which compares Organiser: aspects of regional policy in China with cohesion policy in the European Union so as to assess their potential to increase European Commission, Regional the economic growth of regions that are lagging behind. A specific session was devoted to the multi-level governance Policy DG of regional policy, a system by which the responsibility for policy design and implementation is distributed between different levels of government and special-purpose local institutions (private associations, joint local authority bodies, Chair: cooperation across national borders, public-private partnerships). The last session presented an overview of the results Ronald Hall, Director, Regional of the programmes carried out in priority areas in the EU and China (EU convergence regions and Chinese bloc areas) Policy DG, European Commission as well as the results of regional strategies. Fan Hengshan, Director-General, National Development and Reform Debate Commission of People's Republic Commissioner Hahn focused his intervention on the constant deepening of the Sino-European relationship and on of China the potential for further cooperation in the fields linked to the rapid urbanisation process that China is facing, and the development of effective multi-level governance systems. These include urban development and planning, mobility Speakers: and waste management, understanding of rural-urban linkages, inclusion of migrants into cities and climate change. Johannes Hahn, European He explained that EU regional policy is a means of delivering a particular model of economic development, based Commissioner for Regional Policy on respect for open markets and the principles of sustainable development, equal opportunities and participative Du Ying, Vice Chairman, National partnership. Development and Reform Commission of People's Republic Vice Chairman Du Ying pointed out the positive results of the training programme on regional policy carried out of China in 2011, and welcomed the launch of its third session. He also highlighted the disparities currently existing in China, Graham Meadows, Special Advisor which, even though still important, are decreasing due to the policies carried out in the 11th and 12th five-year plan. It to Commissioner Andor is particularly important to promote sustainable development and to ensure that the gap in the provision of public Wang Yiming, Deputy service is bridged. He also noted the need to establish mechanisms to measure performance and to perfect their legal Director-General, Academy of system. In this respect, he noted that the role of the EU is essential, and that China is willing to learn from international Macroeconomic Research, People's experience. Republic of China John Bachtler, European Policy At the session devoted to the joint study on regional policies, Graham Meadows pointed out that one of the key Research Centre, University of questions that the report addressed was how to best organise the process of growth, and how the EU and China Strathclyde, Glasgow, United should do so. The report addresses, among others, the issues of the definition and economic classification of regions in Kingdom the EU and China, the role of governance, the role of financial transfers, innovation, rural development and urban-rural Yu Yunzhou, Deputy Director integration, urban development and urbanisation, migration, sustainable development and climate change. General, Guangdong Province Development and Reform Wang Yiming outlined China's macro-economic and demographic challenges, including the rising cost of labour, Commission, People's Republic of ageing population, gaps in regional development and access of public services, and the economic crisis. These China elements may determine lower growth rates in the future despite the large investments in infrastructure, education and Thomas Wobben, Director of the innovation (R&D target of 2.5% GDP in the 12th five-year plan). He also mentioned that China is attempting to promote Representation of the Federal State inter-regional industry transfers and to develop multi-level regional cooperation, both at domestic and international of Saxony-Anhalt to the EU levels. Li Chengzhong, Deputy Director General, Yunnan Province The session devoted to multilevel governance and legal framework was opened by John Bachtler, who outlined the Development and Reform evolution of multilevel governance in Europe, highlighting the shift that has led to the creation of a supranational Commission, People's Republic of dimension at EU level, as well as the inclusion of para-state organisations and NGOs. The principles of ‘shared China management’ and of ‘partnership’ at regional/local level were also highlighted, along with the need to balance top- Huang Cheng Wei, National down and bottom-up approaches. Training Centre for Officers in Poor Areas, State Council Leading Group Yu Yunzhou explained the priorities and the process of policymaking in the field of regional policy in China. It was Office for Poverty Alleviation and particularly interesting to hear that the planning of Guangdong Province takes into account functional areas, and has Development, People's Republic of two key objectives: to provide special assistance to underdeveloped areas, and to promote cooperation between China different regions. David Sventek, Director, Regional Council of the Moravia-Silesia Thomas Wobben presented the experiences of Saxony-Anhalt in the field of regional development, highlighting the Region, Czech Republic importance of multi-level governance. Systemic challenges, such as demographic trends, were also pointed out with the specific challenges faced at regional level.

114 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Geography matters

Sixth EU-China high-level seminar on regional policy

Li Chengzhou pointed out the need to look at the specificities of each region. He also mentioned that efforts to Speakers: increase the level of participation at local level were made, particularly in order to bridge the gap between public needs Sun Hujun, Deputy Director General, and regulations, and he noted the need to improve China's legal framework. The Cooperation Office of Tianjin Government, People's Republic of The last session focused on regional policy support to priority areas. In this session, Huang Cheng Wei underlined that China income disparities in China are expanding, even though overall poverty is reducing fast. The differences between urban Lukasz Foltyn, Head of Regional and rural areas are particularly noticeable. In addition, he said that western and central regions have 91% of China's Operational Programme poorest population. The concept of ‘block areas’ was introduced in order to address regional development. Finally, it Management Division, Malopolskie, was pointed out that issues such as the lack of investment, remoteness, human resources and ecology highlight the Poland need for an integrated approach and for further coordination at ministerial level. Wang Xiaohang, Deputy Director General, State-owned Assets David Sventek presented a number of interesting and successful projects developed in Moravia-Silesia region and its Supervision and Administration contribution to the regional strategy objectives. He underlined the importance of a large participatory approach in the Commission of Jiangsu Provincial definition and implementation of structural actions. Government, People's Republic of China Sun Hujun introduced the comprehensive development strategy of Binhai New Area, which is the enhancement of financial services, establishment of custom logistic systems, innovative land management model, innovation, reform More information: state-owned enterprises, reform of administrative management systems, urban development, urban-rural integration, http://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/ environmental protection and social reform. He said that the strategy was very successful with an average GDP increase cooperate/international/china_ of 22.5% in the last five years. en.cfm http://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/ Lukasz Foltyn pointed out the importance of capacity building and learning how to manage European funds, cooperate/international/pdf/ something the region of Malopolska experienced. He presented the main elements of the Malopolska Regional brochure_eu_china_v17_en.pdf Operational Programme, namely detailed targets and priorities. He made also special reference to the programme http://en.ndrc.gov.cn implementation system.

Wang Xiaohang highlighted the economic structure of Jiangsu Province and its economic and industrial strategy. He pointed out the key policy support from the Central Government to the Development of the Coastal Area of Jiangsu, “EU-China relations have namely the special customs area, investment promotion, science and technology schemes, and professional training. expanded dramatically over the past years and Conclusions Fan Hengshan stressed that to be able to promote coordinated regional development, China needs legal support, have reached a level of appropriate policies and to perfect its governance structure. In this respect, he noted, the EU has years of research and maturity that allows practical experience. He also noted that Chinese regions need to make use of their competitive advantages and use the market to allocate resources efficiently. us to address issues of common interest. Ronald Hall pointed out that unused resources, such as unemployment, are a symptom of the fact that there is additional unused potential. He also highlighted the similarities between China's ‘block area’ approach and the EU's Today's dialogue on convergence objective, and elaborated on the need for a balance between a fiscal equalisation and regional policy. regional development policy is a testimony to this.” Johannes Hahn

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 115 116 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Better delivery

OPEN DAYS DAYS 2011 2009  Proceedings– European - WeekEuropean of Regions Weeks of and Regions Cities and Cities 117 Workshops Better delivery

How to capture the effects of EU funding. Bringing together qualitative and quantitative methods

11C02 Outline 11 October 2011, Choosing methods is a crucial step in designing an evaluation study. Every region, municipality or administration 09:00-10:45 commissioning evaluations should have at least an overview of the tools available, their possibilities and their limitations. There is no single method that can answer all questions on whether cohesion policy programmes are successful Organiser: or not. But evaluations based on a variety of methods can build up credible evidence. The old debate quantitative European Commission, Evaluation versus qualitative methods is not valid anymore. In the context of cohesion policy where programmes have multiple unit of Regional Policy DG; European objectives and dimensions, a triangulation of methods can better help evaluators capture the effects of the funds. This Evaluation Society workshop will discuss the potential and the limits of experimental methods, as well as the use of new technologies to assess results of cohesion policy interventions. Chair: Kai Stryczynski, Regional Policy DG, Debate European Commission Daniel Mouqué spoke about combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. Counterfactual methods in particular promise to bring a new rigour to evaluation of cohesion policy – harnessing the power of statistics to generate clear Speakers: headline results. Taking three case studies, he demonstrated how counterfactuals are providing new insights into the Daniel Mouqué, Regional Policy DG, impact of cohesion policy. However, qualitative techniques still have an essential role to play in explaining these results European Commission – numbers are the starting point for discussion, not the end of it. Robert Picciotto, Board Member of the European Evaluation Society Robert Picciotto outlined both the potential and limits of experimental methods. Where adequate resources and skills Jennifer Hughes, Pontydysgu, are available and ethical dilemmas can be resolved, rigorously designed and independently implemented randomised United Kingdom control trials are a good way to assess attribution but only for relatively simple interventions, the effects of which are realised in a short period of time and are largely relative to other potential influences. This means that experimental More information: methods have limited application given their high cost and complexity. In most situations mixed methods are the best http://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/ way to ascertain what works and does not work; the reasons why interventions succeed or fail and whether design or impact/evaluation/index_en.cfm implementation problems need to be addressed.

Jenifer Hughes drew attention to the new possibilities arising from the use of social software for evaluations. Information is becoming increasingly ubiquitous, and more and more stakeholders can become active in an evaluation process. The new possibilities will make it possible to move from the exchange of information and participation of stakeholders to the forming of communities of practice.

Conclusions Kai Stryczynski concluded by saying that the right evaluation method should be adapted to the question asked. Rigour and quality of research is not a question of a method being quantitative or qualitative; both approaches should complement each other. New information tools bring about more transparency and open up new possibilities for evaluation designs.

118 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Better delivery

Using IPA (Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance) to prepare (potential) candidate countries for participation in the cohesion policy

Outline 11C04 While receiving pre-accession assistance, the core priorities are set out by the Commission within the enlargement 11 October 2011, package and multi-annual indicative planning documents. However, there are many concepts similar to the structural 09:00-10:45 funds and European agricultural fund for rural development in the IPA components III, IV and V (strategic framework, multi-annual programming and empowerment of national actors in the area of financial management and control). The Organiser: aim of this workshop is to discuss with representatives of (potential) Candidate Countries how this ‘learning by doing’ European Commission, Regional approach is helping them to prepare for the challenges that Member States are facing during implementation of the Policy DG, IPA/ISPA, Accession cohesion policy. Negotiations Unit

Debate Chair: Elena Grech explained that it is the IPA's aim is to facilitate the progressive alignment of (potential) candidate countries Elena Grech, Head of Unit, Regional to cohesion policy and rural development component of the common agricultural policy. IPA components III, IV and Policy DG, European Commission V, focusing respectively on regional development, human resources development and rural development, are drawn from the content of the structural funds. Adopting a 'learning-by-doing' approach, the IPA is a very useful instrument in Speakers: contributing to a smooth and easy transition towards implementation of the structural funds after accession. Ana Papadopoulos, Head, Department for EU Programmes in Ana Papadopulos focused on the benefits gained by the competent Croatian bodies in familiarising themselves with the Field of Economic and Social the procedures and expectations of the European Commission, through IPA component III – regional development. Cohesion in the Central Office Some of the lessons learned are strategic and budgetary planning; consultation processes with the partners; inter- for Development Strategy and ministerial coordination; concentration of resources on strategic sectors; the need for realistic indicators; and early Coordination of EU Funds, Croatia preparation of projects and their effective monitoring. Vesna Cvetanova, Deputy Head, Central Financing and Contracting Vesna Cvetanova described an important human resources development project under IPA component IV. For the Department in the former Yugoslav first time in the implementation of IPA, a direct grant has been awarded to the Employment Service Agency of the Republic of Macedonia former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, aiming at co-financing existing national employment measures. Given the Margarita Deleva, State Advisor novelty of the mechanism, the implementation of these measures has been very challenging; however, good results in for Rural Development and head of the improvement of internal procedures have been achieved. the Managing Authority for IPARD Programme in the former Yugoslav Margarita Deleva gave some concrete project examples of IPA component V on rural development for the Republic of Macedonia former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. Within this chapter, interventions can focus on the modernisation and the Ognjen Miric, Deputy Director, entertainment of existing productions, the rural environment and animal welfare. The rural population is also involved coordinator for EU funds, Serbian in the implementation process through the preparation of business plans. The implementation of the IPA rural European Integration Office development component strengthens administrative capacity and promotes standards that will be implemented after accession. More information: http://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/ Ognjen Miric reported that Serbia is engaged in the implementation of IPA component II, cross-border cooperation, funds/ipa/index_en.htm and is gradually preparing for the regional development component. Thus the structures established for this purpose www.strategija.hr/en/funds/ipa- can be a useful starting point for the next phase. However, some difficulties and weaknesses have emerged for actors programme on both sides, i.e. the European Commission and national competent bodies. The speaker proposed some solutions, www.seio.gov.rs/home.50.html such as more flexible procedures. He also felt there could be more political attention and financial means allocated to enlargement issues in the next programming period on one side, and an enhancement of the administration capacity, strategic planning and evaluation culture on the other.

Conclusions Elena Grech opened a questions and answers session after the presentations and some points were raised. It was felt there was a need for the active involvement of lower levels of administration, as well as social and economic partners “IPA promotes European and civil society organisations. Ms Grech concluded with some final remarks. Strategic coherence framework and policies in the (potential) operational programmes have to be based on national strategic documents as this factor contributes to the stability of the whole delivery system, which has to be kept simple with a limited number of priorities. As IPA is a 'learning by doing' candidate countries.” exercise, greater ownership should be granted to the operating structures, which will gain expertise and familiarity with Margarita Deleva the procedures of the European Commission.

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 119 Workshops Better delivery

Is there a future for multilevel cohesion policy? 11C07 Outline 11 October 2011, While the European Commission legislative package for the future of cohesion policy was presented on 6 October, the 14:30-17:00 CREATE regional partnership has been launched to a wide group of cities and regions attending a debate on the crucial challenges and priorities which European cities and regions are now facing and will be certainly dealing with during Organiser: the next decades. This has been the starting point of the event, from presenting concrete results from CREATE’s regions ANCI – Cittalia and cities which were reached due to the EU’s cohesion policy, to debating on new scenarios. Cohesion policy is much more than simply a financial contribution to growth and jobs. Its added value goes further, engaging local and regional Chair: representatives and involving them in the policy design and delivery process. Luca Bianchi, Vice Director of SVIMEZ Debate Piotr Golacki, Head of Office of The debate was opened by Francesco Monaco, which focused on the new European Commission legislative package Swietokrzyskie Region, Poland and the role of the local authorities. Local authorities will have to be in a position to bring the assessments and the most useful proposals to the attention of the European Commission so as to implement the principle of multilevel partnership, which is a condition for making the cohesion policies effective.

“There is a future for Michael Ralph presented the European Commission legislative package for the future of cohesion policy. The policy will continue to focus on the poorest Member States and regions but will remain an investment policy for the benefit cohesion policy which in of all. It will be highly geared to contributing to the objectives and targets of Europe 2020 and will respond to territorial its approach is multilevel, needs using a multilevel approach. The Lisbon Treaty added territorial cohesion to goals of social and economic cohesion and this objective was covered in a new regulatory package by addressing the needs of different territorial multisectorial, territorial, levels. The urban dimension will be strengthened: ERDF will ring-fence funds for integrated actions for sustainable integrate.” urban development (tackling economic, environmental and social challenges). Each Member State will establish a list of cities for such actions, with an indicative annual allocation at national level.

Ramona Manescu outlined the fact that structural and cohesion funding is at the core of the EU policy's goal to reduce disparities in terms of income, wealth and opportunities between Europe's regions. But if better results are to be achieved for the period after 2013, a serious reflection is necessary on how to improve governance and consequently effectiveness within the delivery system of the structural funds. In this regard, she initiated a European Parliament report on ‘Good governance with regard to the EU regional policy: procedures of assistance and control by the European Commission’. The report analyses the principle and practical application of multilevel governance, starting from the valuable contribution provided by the Committee of the Regions through its White Paper and the mechanisms of shared management, in particular the responsibilities of the European Commission and the Member States in supporting regional and local authorities in the implementation of structural funded programmes. The Member States will have to involve all relevant regional and local authorities from the very early stages of negotiations on Union legislation and programmes benefiting from the structural funds, while strengthening their role in the programme’s management and implementation where appropriate.

Axel Priebs commented on the legislative package of the European Commission for the future of cohesion policy and outlined the role that local authorities could play in the policy design and delivering process. The financial resources should be allocated transparently to urban priorities.

Philippe Loppe said that the latest proposals of the Parliament and the Commission are in recognition of the role of cities not only as engines of growth, but also as a place of social cohesion and fighting against climate change. The Grenoble area is moving forward, but needs to go further. Europe must create the tools to help the urban areas achieve this and help the territories to valorise their local resources. An innovative vision is being defended by Europe, which will contribute to new projects with social, environmental and economic values.

Michal Olszewski said that the goal must be to strengthen urban areas in order to achieve economic growth and development within the EU,. The future of Europe will be shaped by stronger metropolises. His first reaction to the Commission’s proposal was positive, but there is a need to improve the role and importance of the policy towards urban areas in the context of implementing Europe 2020. Warsaw expects not only declarative statements and programmes, but also specific solutions related to the urban dimension.

Is there a future for multilevel cohesion? There is no alternative! Local delivery of national or EU programmes as part of a multilevel intervention approach is a key condition of their success and effectiveness.

120 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Better delivery

Is there a future for multilevel cohesion policy?

Speakers: Vito Santarsiero explained that a strong European cohesion policy is as an essential element for the correct Francesco Monaco, responsible implementation and outcome of Europe 2020 in order to ensure its success. Actions to support social economic and for the Mediterranean Area and territorial cohesion need to be strengthened with the aim of avoiding European policies that become only instruments Cooperation, ANCI (National of income distribution. In this context, the significant role of urban development needs to be taken into consideration, Association of Italian Municipalities) recognised within the European Union, in order to achieve the purpose of Europe 2020. Ramona Manescu, Member of Regional Development Committee, A smart, sustainable and inclusive growth: the growth policies and the strengthening of urban areas cannot be European Parliament disregarded when carrying out local development actions. As the scarce attention paid to urban areas has been Vito Santarsiero, Member of the considered one of the main weak points of the Lisbon strategy, it will be fundamental for the cohesion policy post 2013. Committee of the Regions, Mayor of Potenza, Italy In the second part of the event, moderated by Piotr Golacki, concrete results for CREATE’s regions and cities were Michael Ralph, Adviser to the shown, made possible with help from the EU cohesion policy. director general, Regional Policy DG, European Commission Ambra Dina presented Venice’s ‘Second Chance’ project. The innovative nature of the project lies in the fact that in all Axel Priebs, Vice President of the selected sites, art and culture are used as urban catalysts for the valorisation of various areas and their urban regions. Hanover Region, Germany Culture and art have the capacity for promoting the establishment of new economic activities and a diversified use of Philippe Loppe, Community the recovered sites by all social classes. In Venice, the brownfield site is the Arsenale which covers around 48 hectares Councillor in charge of external and was the most important production site of the city until the 19th century. Today the area is largely unused and relationship, Grenoble Alpes many of its buildings are in urgent need of restoration. Some buildings are temporarily let to the Biennale and used for Métropole exhibitions; the Porta Nuova Tower will house an exhibition area addressed to the promotion of emerging artists and Michal Olszewski, Director of the Arsenale Studies Centre. European Funds Department, City of Warsaw, Poland Ryszard Rumiñski presented the creation of a modern teaching system in the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Voivodeship Ryszard Rumiñski, Head of Unit through the introduction of interactive boards in early school education. The whole investment was performed within of infrastructural projects in the the scope of ‘e-Services — e-Organisation — a package of information technology solutions for the Voivodeship’ department of information society, project of the Regional Operational Programme of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Voivodeship, ‘Equipping early education (I Kujawsko-Pomorskie Region, Poland to III classes) of the primary schools in interactive teaching sets’, a task in the e-Education module. Ambra Dina, Director for the Strategic Planning Department, City Tomas Riste and Mikael Lundström presented the project ‘The test lab’. of Venice, Italy The test lab is an independent software test facility offering a highly qualitative and time-effective test environment. The Tomas Riste, Regional member companies of the ICT cluster can together manage orders they would not have been able to deal with alone. Commissioner at Region Värmland, The available infrastructure led to many projects developing the original idea and created new businesses. The test lab Sweden even attracted new companies to the area and thereby created new jobs in the region. The site is a place for research Mikael Lundström, Project Manager and development that requires energy-efficient data halls and software testing. at IT cluster Compare in Värmland, Sweden Allan Nordby Ottesen presented the project of Lubuskie region ‘ENSPIRE EU’, which is a truly inter-regional project Allan Nordby Ottesen, Lubuskie presenting interlinked, innovative and dynamic activities planned and initiated by a balanced partnership. Enspire EU Region, Poland aims to boost the entrepreneurial mindset by identifying and showcasing the best practices of how Europeans are Patric Galeski, Project Advisor inspired to become entrepreneurs, exchange these best practices and provide policy recommendations. at AZRA, Varaždin County development, Croatia Patrick Galeski, spoke about the progress towards structural funds for the Varazdin County. Croatia is not an EU Member State yet, so it is not concerned about cohesion policy, but it will be. Negotiations to become a member of the EU closed in June 2011. The foreseen date of accession is July 2013, and until that date there are still some challenges to overcome, such as the referendum in February 2012 and EU scepticism.

Conclusions Luca Bianchi concluded the workshop affirming that the urban area is the place where all the main paths of European development are concentrated and that these policies must be kept close to the citizens. Throughout Europe, the best performances of structural fund usage are realised in the urban context, because it is in the cities that innovation, development and growth take place. So in answering the main question of the debate: Yes, there is a future for multilevel cohesion policy. There is no alternative.

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 121 Workshops Better delivery

The future of cohesion policy: Incentives and conditionalities 11C08 Outline 11 October 2011, The Commission has put forward a number of proposals to improve the effectiveness of cohesion policy post 2013. 14:30-17:00 One of the key proposals relates to strengthening conditionality and incentives under the policy. If Europe wants to reach its headline targets by 2020, the return on investment in cohesion policy has to be enhanced. The workshop Organiser: participants discussed some of these proposals, how they relate to the key areas of investment in cohesion policy, how European Commission, Regional they would be assessed, and what impact they could have on the effectiveness of the next generation of cohesion Policy DG and Employment, Social policy programmes. Affairs and Inclusion DG Debate Chair: Nicholas Martyn presented the Commission's proposals for improving the performance of cohesion policy, while Nicholas Martyn, Deputy Director focusing on the performance framework, performance reserve, ex-ante conditionalities and macro-economic General, Regional Policy DG, conditionality. European Commission Aleksandrs Antonovs commented on the Commission's proposals for the performance reserve and the use of Speakers: conditionalities. He criticised the introduction of performance reserve because of its unsuccessful experience during Nicholas Martyn the last two periods. He put forward a number of arguments against this proposal: 1. A performance reserve skews Aleksandrs Antonovs, Ministry of strategic planning towards more easily achievable targets; 2. It would be practically impossible to set fair starting points Finance, Latvia and milestones for all priorities in all EU regions, and 3. It is a question of fairness of the assessment procedure. Sabina de Luca, Ministry for Economic Development, Italy As regards conditionalities, he pleaded for the introduction of conditionalities related to cohesion policy. The key Thomas Bender, Head of Unit, element of this reform is to ensure an increased role for the ex-ante conditionalities accompanied by legal clarity. He was Employment, Social Affairs and not in favour of macro-economic conditionalities, which would mean hitting a Member State when it is already down. Inclusion DG, European Commission Sabina de Luca was in favour of introducing the right set of ex-ante conditionalities, which could help avoid implementation problems and could lead to a reduction in administrative burden. As regards the performance reserve, she did not share the view expressed by Mr Antonovs, saying that, from an Italian perspective, it was not possible to talk about an unsuccessful experience during the last two financial periods. For the performance reserve it is important to clarify the relation between the reward mechanism and the sanction mechanism. For her, the best solution and right framework for better performance of cohesion policy is a combination of ex-ante conditionality and performance reserve as opposed to a mix of performance reserve and ex-post conditionality. In conclusion she said she was not in favour of macro-economic conditionality.

Thomas Bender pleaded for the necessity of introducing macro-economic conditionality, which represents a gradual approach to performance and sanctions. He also presented the main lines of what he described as a bold Commission's proposal for the introduction of joint action plans. In his view the history of the performance reserve is not a history of failure. He pointed out that the Commission has taken the necessary measures to prevent the performance reserve from becoming a failure. One example of such measures is that the Commission has taken out of the performance reserve the elements which were difficult to establish, such as a comparison between Member States.

Panel debate "Macroeconomic There were numerous questions from the audience on the macro-economic conditionality, and the performance framework and fixed milestones in the evaluation process. Another range of questions was related to the required conditionality is not indicators for measuring performance and the level of measurement and allocation of the performance reserve: about punishing the programme level, national or regional level. Member States and Conclusions their regions. There In conclusion, Nicholas Martyn said that the large number of participants to this OPEN DAYS workshop shows the enormous interest throughout Europe for the Commission's proposal for the legislative package on cohesion policy will enough ﬂ exibility post 2013. This event represents one of the first opportunities for the Commission to present its recently published so as to avoid any legislative proposals, especially in some of the most innovative and controversial areas, such as ex-ante and macro- economic conditionalities, and the performance framework for delivering a more effective and more results-orientated counterproductive cohesion policy. results." Nicholas Martyn

122 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Better delivery

Young people in the Baltic Sea area: Improving skills to avoid social exclusion

Outline 12C11 The workshop addressed the regions and cities’ contributions to social innovation in relation to reducing social 12 October 2011, exclusion and creating involvement and jobs in the regions of the Baltic Sea. 11:15-13:00

Debate Organiser: Doris Kimer gave a presentation on the close and strategic cooperation with business communities, schools and Baltic Sea Group universities to increase the overall education levels. Chair: Bjarne Stenquist gave an overview of Malmö Community’s engagements and projects to help and foster new Hans Martens, Director of European innovative ideas and allowing them to mature – the concept of ‘social incubators’. Policy Centre (EPC)

Göran Carlsson outlined the strategic project in the Region of Dalarne, where the goal is to attract more young Speakers: academics to come and live and work in a remote part of Sweden. Doris Kimer, Member of the Regional Council, Region of Zealand, Anna Bergdahl introduced the Interreg project, which aims at developing tools and strategies for improving youth Denmark entrepreneurship in education throughout Europe. Bjarne Stenqvist, City of Malmo Community development Magnus Schenström and Evalina Bäckström gave a presentation of a secondary school which focuses on the gender department, Sweden gap and mixes academic with vocational training. Göran Carlsson, Regional Director, Region Dalarna, Sweden Conclusions Anna Bergdahl, Project Manager, Hans Martens concluded by saying how impressed and inspired he was with the obvious level of energy seen in the County Administrative Board of local projects. It is important to realise that entrepreneurship exists in education as well as in the private and public Östergötland, Sweden sectors in Europe. Magnus Schenström, Chief Executive, Curt Nicolin Gymnasiet, Finspång, Sweden Evelina Bäckström, Student at Curt Nocolin Gymnasiet, Finspång, Sweden

“We have to change from saying ‘we have problems’ to begin saying ‘we have the potential to grow’.” Göran Carlsson

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 123 Workshops Better delivery

Beyond environmental compliance: Delivering a sustainable Europe 12C12 Outline 12 October 2011, Regional policy spends billions of euros on economic and social cohesion every year. This funding offers a tremendous 11:15-13:00 opportunity to build a truly sustainable Europe, enhancing environmental sustainability alongside economic growth and job creation. Mere compliance with environmental legislation is not enough to achieve this goal: it is necessary Organiser: to go beyond business as usual and use smarter ways of delivering programmes and projects. But how can this be European Commission, Regional achieved in practice? This workshop showed ways of investing regional policy funding more effectively by drawing on Policy DG and Environment DG innovative delivery methods.

Chair: Debate Georges Kremlis Gyene Gyöngyvér commented that it is difficult to find good practices in going beyond environmental compliance since the focus is mainly on problematic areas. She reflected on motivational ideas that lead organisations and Speakers: individuals to go beyond compliance. Pressure and the existence of a committed manager seem to be among the Gyene Gyöngyvér, National most important factors. Good practices exist but they are not systematically collected. As an example she showed how Development Agency, Hungary her own institution addressed environmental sustainability: recycling, energy-saving lights, bicycle storage, solar panels Alex Huke, the Environment and on top of the office building, and Internet-based calls for project applications. Sustainability Institute, United Kingdom Alex Huke shared his experience from the South West of England in investing structural funds in a low-carbon Harma Albering, Manager at the economy. Defining a low-carbon economy in 2006 was a more challenging task than it is today. It was considered to be Cradle to Cradle (C2C) network, the a priority objective of the regional economic strategy and led to different types of low-carbon economy investments. A Netherlands carbon compass – a tool for comparing carbon impacts of different investments – was implemented in the framework Sebastien Godinot, World Wildlife of the economic strategy for any project with a total financial value in excess of GBP 1 million and for all projects that Fund significantly generate or save carbon.

Harma Albering introduced a concept of cradle-to-cradle, which was followed by an overview of good practices from the project’s partner regions. She also described regional action plans that are being implemented by partner regions for transferring good practices to other regions.

Sebastien Godinot made an NGO forward-looking presentation regarding post 2013 financial perspective. He focused on ‘environmental proofing’ of the cohesion policy. It could be achieved in two ways: smarter spending (phasing out harmful subsidies and mainstreaming the environment through criteria/eco-conditionality); and intelligent investments (increasing positive subsidies from 30% now to 50%; investing in key sectors underpinning a green economy). He also introduced seven tools for a sustainable cohesion policy.

Conclusions Georges Kremlis concluded the workshop by summing up the discussions as follows: • Regional policy spends approximately 30% (EUR 105 billion) of 2007-2013 funding for sustainable growth (direct and indirect environmental projects). • The Communication ‘Regional policy contributing to sustainable growth in Europe 2020’ (January 2011) underlined the need to invest more and better for sustainable growth within the current regional policy. It also prepared the ground for the next financial period. • However, it must be remembered that the current context is different from a few years ago – there is an economic crisis and new priorities. So, it is even more important than ever to spend the regional policy funding very wisely. Lessons must be learnt and the experience gained brought into the next period beyond 2013.

124 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Workshops Better delivery

Adriatic-Ionian established networks: Universities and UNIADRION, Adriatic Euroregions and SeeNet, SMEs and TISAF, enlargement and ALDA (PPP)

Outline 12C14 The workshop showcased: 12 October 2011, • the PPPs established for the SeeNet project, involving all the countries of the Adriatic-Ionian macro-regional partnership 14:30-17:00 including Adriatic Euroregion; • the Serbian city of Niš and its partnership with ALDA (Association of the Local Democracy Agencies) focusing on the Organiser: opportunities of its geographical position in the region as well as on steps to be taken in order to improve the context Adriatic-Ionian macro-region/Marche of territorial cohesion; Region • Sarajevo Canton and SERDA, focusing on education of the regional administration towards EU institutional matters and Co-organiser: funding opportunities; Dubrovnik-Neretva Region • the TISAF project displaying a wide PPP fostering and strengthening cooperation among SMEs (namely in the field of wooden furniture and mechanics) and scientific structures. Chair: Eleni Marianou, Secretary General Debate CPMR Ševkija Okerić’s presentation was aimed at introducing the approach of regional authorities in Bosnia-Herzegovina towards EU institutional matters and funding opportunities. Indeed the Sarajevo Canton is part of the Adriatic-Ionian Speakers: macro-region partnership and as such it plays a crucial role in this area in order to foster sustainable development through Sandro Abelardi, Manager of the its partnership with all the relevant stakeholders. Internationalisation Office, Marche Sandro Abelardi talked about technological tools for the competitive growth of industrial systems. Moreover, his speech Region, Italy focused on the need for improvement in integration and cooperation among the manufacturing firms in the Adriatic Saša Marinkov, Delegate, LDA area. Mr Abelardi introduced the TISAF project, which aims at promoting and enhancing industrial cooperation between Central and Southern Serbia technological and scientific structures in the regions of Marche and Puglia, and regions as well as firms from Croatia, Serbia, Ševkija Okerić, Director of SERDA Bosnia-Herzegovina and Albania. The project aims both to support the settlement of foreign productive structures in the (Sarajevo Economic Region Adriatic countries, establishing appropriate local conditions in order to attract foreign investments, and to support the Development Agency) settlement of new technology-based firms. Oriano Otočan, Head of the Oriano Otočan presented the public-private partnership for the SeeNet project. SeeNet is a network that consists of department for International 46 local authorities to strengthen the governance skills of the territories around the Adriatic Sea and the South Eastern Cooperation and European European countries. Its horizontal actions are institution building, information and dissemination, policy-orientated integration of the Region of Istria research and partnership between local authorities. The vertical actions consist of enhancing cultural tourism, enhancing Fausto Pugnaloni, Universitā rural land and natural development, and the support of SMEs and cross-border business cooperation. Politecnica delle Marche, Italy Saša Marinkov outlined the public-private partnership between ALDA (Association of Local Democratic Agencies) and Jadranka Radovanić, President of the City of Nis. This cooperation led to strengthening the capacities of local authorities and civil society. Moreover, this PPP the Forum of the Adriatic and Ionian helps local economic development and youth empowerment. The project is supported by the Council of Europe within Chambers of Commerce the activities of Local and Regional Authorities since 1993. There are 12 LDAs taking part in the programme and they are Gian Mario Spacca, President of the acting as local NGOs to foster local democracy, respect for human rights and sustainable development. Marche Region, Italy Gian Mario Spacca stressed the importance of public-private partnerships (PPPs). In particular, he underlined the high Gianluca Spinaci, Member of the value of SeeNet PPP project, which involves all of the members of the Adriatic-Ionian Initiative. He pointed out that the Committee of the Regions fundamental role of PPP solutions is to improve coordination among the key players in the field of business innovation and Timo Välilä, Senior Economist, to develop common methodologies that will support internationalisation in the euro zone as a whole in the framework of European Investment Bank the Adriatic-Ionian macro-region. Timo Välilä said that the EIB has been an active partner in the existing macro-regional initiatives (the Baltic Sea and More information: Danube regions) from the very beginning. In these regions, one – but naturally not the only – area of EIB support has www.aii-ps.org/index.php/uniadrion been regional infrastructure. In that respect, as regards the prospective Adriatic-Ionian macro-region, two recent initiatives www.regione.marche.it worth mentioning are: 1. The extension of the advisory activities of the European PPP Expertise Centre (EPEC), located in www.see-net.org the EIB, to countries in the Western Balkans; and 2. The EC-EIB proposal to issue so-called project bonds to help promoters www.dif.tno.it/tisaf/en/index.htm of infrastructure projects attract additional private sources of finance from investors such as insurance companies and www.alda-europe.eu/newSite pension funds. This would be achieved through an instrument to improve the rating of the senior debt of project companies, thereby ensuring that this can be placed as bonds with institutional investors.

Conclusions In conclusion, Eleni Marianou said that as several success “For PPPs in the Adriatic-Ionian macro-region, the key role of the stories show, PPPs in the Adriatic-Ionian macro-region can Commission and the EIB would be to absorb part of the risk of act as growth facilitators and provide benefits to both the public and private sector through mutual support and a project, consequently increasing the credit rating of the whole sharing knowledge. project.” Timo Välilä

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 125 Workshops Better delivery

Successful convergence regions: What kind of transition is feasible? 13C15 Outline 13 October 2011, The event began with a welcome from the host of the event, the Director General for External Relations of the Galician 11:15-13:00 Government, Jesús Gamallo Aller, who explained the reasons for an appropriate transitional support for the ex- convergence in the next period. Organiser: The debate was opened by the moderator, Angel Catalina, who addressed such questions as: Fundación Galicia Europa • Why do we need a transition objective? • What is its added value compared to the current regimes of ‘phasing-out’ and ‘phasing-in’? Chair: • What is the expected financial contribution concerning the regions with transition objectives? Ángel Catalina Rubianes, Policy • Does the transition objective need to be permanent within the cohesion policy? Analyst, specialist in Regional • In terms of co-financing rates and the so called ‘safety net’, is the differentiation adequate between regions included Development and Public Policies, in the current convergence objective and those which are not? Regional Policy DG, European • What are the expected results of the transition objective at the end of the 2014- 2020 financial period? Commission Afterwards, he invited the keynote speaker, Nicola de Michelis, to explain the European Commission’s proposals on the future of this policy. Then the contributors from the partner regions presented the achievements gained by the Speakers: implementation of this policy in their regions. Nicola de Michelis, Deputy Head, Cabinet of Commissioner Johannes Debate Hahn, Regional Policy DG, European Nicola de Michelis explained that the EU cohesion policy has been a force for change over the last ten years, making a Commission genuine contribution to convergence and growth in the EU. Three intended objectives will be seen as a way of sharing Patricia Eguilior Arranz, Director resources while also forming the new objective of regions in transition, which are faced with the challenging design General, European Funds, Regional of a GDP threshold. He explained that the specific status of the regions leaving the convergence objective for the first Ministry for Economy, Science and time after 2014 would be two-thirds of the allocation, 25% ERDF co-financing rate and 60% of thematic concentration. Innovation, Andalusia Government, Patricia Eguilior Arranz stated that from 1986 to 2008, Andalusia converged 27 points in relation to the EU average. The Spain results were obtained through a large range of indicators that confirmed the growth of the region. When showing these Chris Ridgers, Cabinet Member numbers, she added that Andalusia needs a strong cohesion policy and the same investment intensity to reach the for Economy and Regeneration, objectives of Europe 2020 strategy. She also presented a video showing the effects of the cohesion policy in Andalusia. Cornwall Council, United Kingdom Chris Ridgers focused his speech on the benefits brought in by the Objective One and convergence funding, and Dr Tomas Novotny, Director, Office particularly on case study projects such as the Combined Universities in Cornwall or the Wave Hub. He also welcomed of the Regional Council, Central the Commission proposals for post-2013 cohesion policy, and stated that there was a fairly close match between the Bohemia Region, Czech Republic Commission’s ambition to focus the funds on a more targeted set of priorities and the economic development vision Črtomir Špacapan, Director of for Cornwall up to 2020 and beyond. the RDA Severna Primorska, town Tomas Novotny said that it will be difficult to invest in SME competitiveness, innovation, and energy efficiency in those municipality of Nova Gorica, Slovenia regions where there is a lack of infrastructures such as roads, waste-treatment plants, schools and hospitals. Dr Novotny Dr Ivo Thiemrodt, Head of the highlighted the importance of differentiated approaches to regions as the level of their development is different. department for European Affairs, Črtomir Špacapan presented a video of one of the projects related to the water supply system Banjška planota – Saxon State Ministry of Justice and Banjšice plain, which includes a waste-water treatment plant and a waste disposal and treatment centre. This is one of for European Affairs, Germany the most important investments financed by European cohesion funds found in the region of Northern Primorska. The regional strategic objectives are in line with Europe 2020 and promote innovation and entrepreneurship, which are More information: supported by the diversified programmes of studies at the University of Nova Gorica. Therefore, this region, which will www.fundaciongaliciaeuropa.eu lose the convergence status, welcomes the safety-net instrument for the period 2014-2020 so as to enable continuous support its development. “The European Ivo Thiemrodt welcomed the proposal from the Commission for a safety net for transition regions. This should also be open for regions whose per-capita GDP exceeds 75% of the EU. Regions leaving the convergence objective need Commission recognises convenient funding conditions to consolidate their investments and be able to compete in the new scenario. He the situation of the welcomed the chance to concentrate on the key priorities, but it is also important to provide enough flexibility within the selection of funding priorities. ex-convergence regions and claims for a diﬀ erent Conclusions Ángel Catalina Rubianes concluded by saying that a transitional objective is needed in order to ensure that the support, which should regional policy becomes a permanent tool of the EU in order to acquire a maximum consensus inside the Council, but be at least two-thirds of it would also make this policy fairer and simpler. Some of the participants criticised the requirement of investing 60% of the funds in the key objectives of the Europe 2020 strategy: energy, entrepreneurship and innovation. In fact, some their 2007-2013 structural of them claimed for the necessity of going on investing in infrastructures. There was a general consensus in making a funds allocation.” difference between the regions leaving the Convergence Objective for the first time and the others. Nicola de Michelis

126 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities OPEN DAYS University

OPEN DAYS DAYS 2011 2009  Proceedings– European - WeekEuropean of Regions Weeks of and Regions Cities and Cities 127 OPEN DAYS University

Evaluating regional development initiatives: An EU-Australian comparison 11UNIV01 Outline 11 October 2011, Both the European Union and Australia have strong commitments to regional policy; one is focused on economic, 09:00-10:45 social and territorial cohesion, the other on redressing the urban-regional imbalance, and the implications of an economy distorted by a resources boom. Both have extensive experience in implementing specific programmes which Organiser: seek to redress regional inequalities. Evaluating the impact of regional cohesion policies can be very difficult, given Prof. Bruce Wilson, Director, the diversity of settings in which programmes and infrastructure are established. In Australia, there is a much stronger European Union Centre at RMIT legislative capacity to shape accountability mechanisms, and to monitor progress during the course of a project. This University workshop will compare the regional policy settings in Europe and Australia, highlighting the different approaches to accountability and evaluation, especially where programmes have been set up on a conditional basis. Chair: Ronald Hall, Director, Paul Collits gave a broad overview of regional development policy in Australia, framed in the light of the European Communication, Information, approach to regional policy. David Charles spoke about Australian regional policy, particularly in light of a focus on relations with third countries, regional innovation. Steve Garlick examined issues of human capital in regional policy, drawing on both Australian coordination of outermost regions, and European examples. legal advice, procedures, Directorate General Regional Policy, European Conclusions Commission There was some discussion about whether Australia should be holding a small version of the OPEN DAYS for city and regional development. Apparently Brazil is also holding these events. Ronald Hall, as chair of the session, was Speakers: particularly keen on this idea. Paul Collits, Associate Professor, University of Southern Queensland, Australia David Charles, Professor, University of Strathclyde, United Kingdom Steve Garlick, Adjunct Professor, University of Newcastle, United Kingdom

More information: www.rmit.edu.au/eucentre

128 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities OPEN DAYS University

Early career poster competition Outline 11UNIV03 The Directorate-General for Regional Policy, in partnership with the Regional Studies Association, invited early career 11 October 2011, researchers in the area of European regional policy to present their research at OPEN DAYS 2011. The six finalists 13:00-14:15 presented their research in the OPEN DAYS tent in front of approximately 40 participants. The presentation was made in the form of a poster session. Organiser: European Commission, Regional Debate Policy DG; Regional Studies The winner, Anne Nygaard Tanner presented her research ‘Where do high tech industries of the 21st century locate? Association (RSA) And how can regional policy attract new industries?’ Chair: The runner-up, Andrei Mitrea presented his research on ‘Regional innovation systems within urban-rural relations in Dr Gordon MacLeod, Department Romania. A mid-term regional development strategy based on the wood industry’. of Geography, University of Durham, United Kingdom Steffen Osterloh presented his research on ‘Can regional transfers buy public support? Evidence from EU structural policy’. Speakers: Six finalists were chosen this Alexander Wandl, who studies at the department of Urbanism – Spatial Planning and Strategy presented his research year by the jury from almost 80 on ‘Territories-in-between: A European cross case study on the planning of areas between urban and rural’. applications: Steffen Osterloh, Centre for Marcin Dabrowski presented his research on ‘Assessing the effectiveness and impacts of EU cohesion policy at the European Economic Research, sub-national level in the new Member States: is there capacity to deliver?’ Mannheim, Germany Andrei Mitrea, University of Daniel Sánchez Serra presented his research on ‘Determinants of the concentration of creative industries in Europe: a Architecture and Urban Planning, comparison between Spain, Italy, France, United Kingdom and Portugal’. Bucharest, Romania Alexander Wandl, Technical Conclusions University of Delft, the Netherlands Gordon MacLeod concluded by saying that the increasing number of early career academics who sent their application Marcin Dabrowski, Institute for to participate in the OPEN DAYS University Poster Competition shows the rising interest in the academic world for European Integration Research, cohesion policy developments. This kind of initiative reinforces the cooperation between academia and the European Vienna, Austria and national policy-makers. The quality of the six finalists' research was very high. Daniel Sánchez Serra, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Spain Anne Nygaard Tanner, Technical University of Denmark

Members of the jury: Veronica Gaffey, Head of the Evaluation Unit, Regional Policy DG, European Commission Ana Stankaitiene, Principal Adviser, EU Structural Assistance Management Department, Ministry of Finance, Lithuania “Regional authorities that want to host the ’Silicon Valley of Fuel Cells’ David Bailey, Chair of the RSA, and should base their strategy on regional strengths and either invest in professor at the Faculty of Business, Environment and Society, Coventry advancing the core technology, or invest in the application of the new University, United Kingdom technology within pre-existing related sectors.” More information: Anne Nygaard Tanner www.regionalstudies.org/ events/2011/opendays

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 129 OPEN DAYS University

Mono-sectoral cities 11UNIV05 Outline 11 October 2011, There is considerable interest in ‘mature’ market economies over transitions taking place in mono-sectoral or post- 14:30-17:00 industrial cities and how policy interventions have been framed to assist adjustment and diversification, as well as in formerly centrally planned economies such as Russia. At the same time, we can observe the recent emergence Organiser: of specialised towns and cities in emerging economies such as China, and how such highly-specialised low-cost Prof. David Bailey, Coventry production locations are impacting the global economy. University Business School, United Kingdom Debate Gordon MacLeod set the framework for the session by noting that mono-sectoral cities, regardless of location, are Chair: complex entities. Viewing these cities through the lens of specialised trade and production allows for a broader view of Dr Gordon MacLeod, Department the impact of mono-sectoral cities on specific locations and people. of Geography, University of Durham, United Kingdom David Bailey, whose theme was ‘Dealing with auto industry rundown and closures: A perspective from Birmingham’, tracked developments in that English city, noting the efforts to diversify the city away from the auto industry. In Speakers: particular, he identified proactive and forward-looking interventions ahead of the collapse of MG Rover, as well as Prof. David Bailey reactive policies to respond to the crisis. In so doing, he stressed the need for institutional capacity, an issue which was Prof. Andrew Beer, University of critical with the abolition of the English RDAs. Adelaide, Australia Joan Chicon, Terrassa City Council, Andrew Beer talked on ‘Mono sectoral cities: Restructuring in Adelaide, South Australia’ and emphasised the case Spain of Adelaide in Australia, a city focused on manufacturing. Here the Mitsubishi closure had a profound effect. While Dr Prof. Natalia Zubarevich, the policy response to the closure emphasised the development of new skill sets and an emphasis on a knowledge- Moscow State University, Russia based economy, the failure to properly transition workers represented something of a failure in policy. He concluded by suggesting that strong leadership, both locally and federally, is a key component to drive successful industrial shifts. More information: www.regionalstudies.org Joan Cichon’s theme was ‘Revitalization actions in the city of Terrassa’ and he highlighted recent changes in the city, culminating in the regeneration of old factory buildings into universities, libraries, and places of learning and knowledge creation. Cichon argued that while Terrassa has worked well in the past ten years to develop more public meeting spaces, efficient transportation and has placed a heavy emphasis on sport, education, culture and the arts, he more “Policy-makers looked generally warned against rent seeking and special interest capturing policies. over the edge and did Natalia Zubarevich talked about ‘Russian mono-sectoral cities’ and presented an overview of mono-sectoral cities not like what they saw. in Russia, a legacy of the Soviet era. She argued that maintaining mono-sectoral cities is needed for political stability, thus requiring some form of regional policy initiatives. However, she was critical of to what extent policy was actually They resolved to redouble being used to help such cities diversify and develop rather than simply redistribute resources, and called in particular eﬀ orts to diversify the city for greater government investment in human capital development. and region. That paved Conclusions the way for a number Gordon MacLeod said that a wide-ranging discussion around the presentations touched on issues of resilience, smart specialisation, and variety – both ‘related’ and ‘unrelated’. Mono-sectoral cities were seen as an outcome of growth but of policy interventions which left such localities vulnerable to economic shifts. Links between the presentations focused on the role of policy in Birmingham and in diversifying such cities, whether in a forward looking way or in responding to crisis situations. The role of leadership was noted in such interventions, and the need for institutional capacity/capability. The case of Detroit as a ‘shrinking’ the wider region which mono-sectoral city was flagged up for future discussion. brought genuine beneﬁ ts.” David Bailey

130 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities OPEN DAYS University

Smart specialisation and EU Cohesion: Theory, empirics and policy

Outline 11UNIV06 It is now widely accepted that context matters for technological evolution and pathways in innovation. Over the last 11 October 2011, few years the ‘smart specialisation’ approach has been gaining widespread support amongst European policy-makers 14:30-17:00 as a means of fostering innovation. This awareness has recently also fed through to a shift of discourse from sectoral to regional descriptions of innovation. Explanations of regional problems which emerge from this shift, according to the Organiser: proponents of smart specialisation, suggest that there has traditionally been a weak correlation in EU regions between Prof. Philip McCann, University of R&D, training specialisations and regional structure. As a way of responding to these weaknesses, policy-makers are Groningen, the Netherlands therefore encouraged to build regional development strategies using smart specialisation ways of thinking. In particular, Regional Policy DG sees smart specialisation strategies as a way to help regions concentrate resources on clusters, cross- Chair: sectoral activities or specific research areas, which offer the most promising areas of long-term competitive advantage. Prof. Martin Jones, University of However, economic geography teaches us that lagging regions exhibit combinations of problematic features which Aberystwyth, United Kingdom inhibit development, and to some observers these problematic features appear prima facie to be largely inconsistent with the logic of smart specialisation. More careful analysis, however, suggests that smart specialisation, economic Speakers: geography and regional policy can be dovetailed together in a manner which provides a powerful lens through which Prof. Philip McCann regional policy can be developed. Prof. Ronald Boschma, University of Utrecht, the Netherlands Debate Prof. John Goddard, University of Philip McCann’s theme was ‘Smart specialisation, regional growth and applications to EU cohesion policy’. He asserted Newcastle, United Kingdom that the smart specialisation concept has credence in a place-based EU cohesion policy. He noted that context Dr Raquel Ortega Argiles, matters for technological evolution and local institutional structures are as important as the local players, for example Researcher at IN+ Center for universities, multinational firms, etc. He explained that smart specialisation can underpin regional policy through the Innovation, Technology and Policy concepts of embeddedness, relatedness and connectivity. He argued that it provides a lens for thematic prioritisation Research, Portugal by focusing on self awareness of key bottlenecks, on the need for detailed knowledge of the institutional landscape and flows within it including skills, opportunities, environment, knowledge and sustainability, thus transferring the onus More information: of responsibility to local stakeholders and policy designers to identify market failures and to limit openness and restrict www.regionalstudies.org variation and specialised diversification.

Ron Boschma spoke on ‘Smart specialisation, regional branching and regional innovation policy’. He began by noting “Regional smart that regional variety is a driver of growth and that the more industry is present, the greater the growth potential and hope for knowledge spillovers to other sectors. Learning between industries needs some degree of cognitive specialisation policy proximity, thus related variety is an important component of smart specialisation as it enables learning and spillover design needs to move leading to regional branching where new industry branches out of technologically related industries. Prof. Boschma noted that case study research indicates that new industry is more likely to enter and leave a region dependent upon from a national, sectoral technological relatedness. The three key mechanisms interacting were identified as entrepreneurship, labour mobility or technological and collaboration networks with other factors such as FDI possibly also relevant. He concluded that regional policy based on ‘branching’ accepts that no ‘one size fits all’ is possible. It seeks mechanisms to connect old and new sectors innovation system logic at the regional level and will develop a detailed knowledge base of the existing regional industrial structure so that to a regional innovation interventions can be targeted. Boschma took the view that regional branching had the potential to promote new growth and development whilst building on regional assets. system logic.” Prof. Philip McCann John Goddard’s theme was ‘Universities and smart specialisation. How can universities be mobilised for regional economic, social and cultural development?’ Prof. Goddard addressed smart specialisation from the viewpoint of the role of the university in regional development. He noted that universities operate at scales from local to international and that they can have multiplier effects, particularly in well networked regions where they can act as bridges linking public and private bodies. He explained that they engage in both transformational change and transactional (routine) activities in regions and argued for specific attention to be given them as part of a smart specialisation strategy to develop both the region and its leaders. Prof. Goddard asserted that this effort is better mobilised around a big regional question such as social mobility or developing a sustainable city and should be approached in partnership across public, university and private sectors. He noted that this should be multi-level – a local problem focus in a national framework informed by international experience.

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 131 OPEN DAYS University

Towards a European Union of smart cities and regions: Planning territorial strategies

12UNIV04 Outline 12 October 2011, The primary aspiration of the Europe 2020 strategy is to prioritise smart, sustainable and inclusive growth. This has 09:00-10:45 raised important questions about its territorial dimensions and, in particular, the respective roles to be played by city and regional authorities and associated partners. Further, a range of key factors that need to be incorporated into the Organiser: delivery of Europe 2020 are not least the introduction of new indicators measuring quality of life; the sustainability Dr Gordon Macleod, Department and inclusivity of growth; the role of connectivity in enabling accessible urban centres and hinterlands; and efficient of Geography, University of Durham, infrastructures to foster liveable and smart places. Importantly Europe 2020 also recognises the role of good governance United Kingdom and territorial cooperation on every geographical level, including partnerships at the level of city-regions. This session will interrogate these issues, considering the respective role played by cities, regions and neighbourhoods and their Chair: associated governments and agencies in shaping a European Union characterised by smart, sustainable and inclusive Dr Gordon Macleod growth.

Speakers: Debate Dr Leonie Janssen-Jansen, Leonie Janssen-Jansen said that the first synthesis report by ESPON (ESPON 2010) examined the planning of a Amsterdam Institute for smart city-region in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Beginning with a profile of the Amsterdam Metropolitan Area vis- Metropolitan and Development à-vis population, economy, social inequity, social-cultural fragmentation and governance, the paper acknowledged Studies, Universiteit van Amsterdam, the ‘modest successes’ of regional planning, but that the biggest challenges may be still to come, including aligning the Netherlands interventions at appropriate territorial scales, negotiating a congested institutional fabric, external uncertainty around Prof. Rob Krueger, Assistant spatial planning, resolving ‘planning bubbles’, the effects of crisis, and the need for restructuring and redevelopment Professor of Geography, director, to protect green areas. Worcester Community Project Rob Krueger reported that this paper examined three cases of ‘market-based sustainability’ growth as creditable Center and Environmental Studies exit strategies amid the current economic crisis. While enabled by a dynamic new economy, Luxembourg has been Program, Worcester Polytechnic confronting housing shortage and quality of life concerns; London and England’s South-East have a powerhouse Institute, United States of America financial sector and impressive venture capital funds but acute socio-economic inequality and high living costs; and Prof. James Wesley Scott, Leibniz- the United States of America, where smart growth appears to be more explicitly championed, urban regeneration, Institute for Regional Development housing density, transit orientation and environmentally sensitive suburban development are all working alongside and Structural Planning, Erknel, market-based ‘fair’ decision-making. Germany James Wesley Scott explained that by interpreting smart growth as a reform of urban and regional policy, the Dr Dorothy Stewart, Green Home paper sought to examine how equitable sustainable development can work within while equally influencing market Programme Manager, Environmental logics and enlivening democratic self-consciousness vis-à-vis a ‘politics of space’ (political cultures, values, planning Educational Unit, An Taisce, Dublin, traditions). Drawing on evidence from Portland and Seattle, transit-orientated development, high densities, and mixed- Ireland use developments were considered desirable but politically controversial: public-choice conservatives interpreting smart growth as an assault on democratic rights and leftist radicals concerned about elitist enclaves and backdoor More information: gentrification. www.regionalstudies.org Dorothy Stewart said that this paper aimed to examine the relationship between the rhetoric and reality of smart [email protected] development in Dublin. Revealing the remarkable transformation from a 1920s rural to 2000s urban society, it also http://home.medewerker.uva. charts a shift from a ‘traditional’ reactive planning regime to a proactive ‘modern’ approach encouraging participation, nl/l.b.janssen-jansen/ mixed-use design and an integrated regional approach. However, the aspiration to halt Dublin’s sprawl, the growing www.wpi.edu/academics/Depts/ economic and social division, and the proliferation of ‘ghost housing estates’ reveal the difficulties of urban planning IGSD/People/jrk.html amid the new ‘ethical austerity’. [email protected] http://comparative-research.net/ Conclusions index.php?id=121 The session enabled a most interesting exchange of ideas about how a range of cities and regions from across the [email protected] United States of America and Europe are looking towards ‘smart’ models of development, nimble planning regimes and http://ie.linkedin.com/pub/dorothy- participatory modes of political representation. Certain case studies (not least Amsterdam, Portland, Seattle and Boston) stewart/29/ab9/a9b revealed some progressive and environmentally enlightened approaches with a commitment to social justice. However, [email protected] all this needs to be balanced with considerations about how the spaces strategically targeted for smart growth and new urban models of living are orchestrated through unequal and non-democratic economic and political relations, and often informed by a blind faith in market-supporting policies, which “The OPEN DAYS university oﬀ ers a key possibility for the at times lead to growing social and geographical inequality and a kind of knowledge exchange that we have experienced diminished quality of life for many located ‘outside’ the smart zones. this afternoon.” Gordon MacLeod

132 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities OPEN DAYS University

Regional challenges 2020 Outline 12UNIV07 This workshop presents the results of the study ‘Regional challenges 2020’, which is a follow-up to the 2008 report 12 October 2011, ‘Regions 2020’ that provided a first prospective analysis of the likely regional impact of five of the biggest challenges 9:00-10:45 facing Europe: globalisation, demographic change, climate change, the energy supply and social disparities. This follow- up study argues for more support for economically lagging regions to reach the 2020 targets. It advocates a more place- Organiser: based policy support differentiating it to a larger extent from the cohesion policy. The study argues that other factors Bernd Schuh, Austrian Institute such as quality of life, health and long-term environmental changes need to be taken into account when targeting for Regional Studies and Spatial future cohesion policy. This also comprises the avoidance of an overemphasis on growth poles and overspecialisation Planning; of regions. Co-organisers: Wolfgang Munch and Elisa Roller, Debate Regional Policy DG, European Addressing ‘Challenges in a changing world: the Future Cohesion Policy’, Wolfgang Münch’s presentation set the Commission frame of the study with respect to EU policy and more specifically with respect to cohesion policy reform (facing social, economic and territorial challenges and budgetary challenges). Some selected challenges from the study have been Chair: presented to highlight the potential use of the study for deducting future priorities of cohesion policy. David Sweet, Adviser to the Director General, Regional Policy DG, ‘Regions 2020 – An assessment of future challenges for EU regions: Regional vulnerability to global challenges’. European Commission Bernd Schuh’s presentation provided an overview of the results of the research study. It briefly showed all the challenges covered by the study (globalisation, demography, climate change, sustainable energy, social disparities). Speakers: The methodology was described and it showed furthermore the potential use of the study results for the European Wolfgang Münch, Regional Policy Commission, Member States, regions and cities. DG, Unit C1, European Commission Bernd Schuh, Austrian Institute ‘Regions 2020 – An assessment of future challenges for EU regions: The impact of the economic crisis on regional for Regional Studies and Spatial disparities and vulnerabilities’. Sebastian Beiglböck provided an overview of the results of the self-standing analysis Planning of the impact of the economic crisis at the regional level in Europe. It showed the main elements of analysis – the crisis Sebastian Beiglböck, Austrian of the financial sector, the crisis of household incomes, the crisis of the capital and durable goods industries, the crisis Institute for Regional Studies and of the real estate market and the construction sector, and the crisis of increasing government deficits boosted by the Spatial Planning current situation and its related countermeasures. Prof. Philip McCann, University of Groningen, the Netherlands Philip McCann spoke on ‘Regional challenges in the perspective of 2020 – a forward looking analysis’. His presentation provided a reflection on the findings of the study by touching on the importance of territorial analysis as a pathway for More information: ‘place based’ policy-making. It showed that longer term views are of special interest for policy design; the aspects of Study: http://ec.europa.eu/ wellbeing, participation and engagement were especially emphasised. The presentation also mirrored the findings of regional_policy/information/studies/ the study vis-à-vis other existing analyses such as the 2011 OECD report on ‘How we live’. Lastly, the consequences with index_en.cfm#1 respect to the policy cycle and broader societal challenges were depicted. Interactive mapping tool: http://regions2020.oir.at Conclusions David Sweet concluded by saying that the session had provided a good overview of the regional challenges of Europe which will significantly form the future cohesion policy of the EU. He said that the study on Regional challenges 2020 certainly serves as a good compendium and source book for addressing these challenges and finding optimal policy solutions on various territorial levels, i.e. the EU, Member States and the regions. The integrated approach taken within the study allowing for interlinkages of challenges proved to be especially useful. Another point discussed in the session “We have heard today was the problem of including long-term development in the analysis (foresight vs. forecasting). Apart from the thematic that there is a lot more aspects of the challenges (globalisation, climate change, etc.), the issue of governance and policy design plays a crucial role within the future orientation of policy apt for facing the challenges. information than we realise, which will help the proper adaptation of regional policy to regional needs.” David Sweet

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 133 OPEN DAYS University

Beyond the capitals: Prospects for middle-sized cities in Europe 12UNIV08 Outline 12 October 2011, Cities have attracted increased attention from academics and policy-makers as drivers of economic growth. Major 11:15-13:00 urban areas in Europe, notably capital cities, have tended to benefit disproportionately from development of the global knowledge economy. This session was concerned with the fate of smaller, medium-sized cities. What are their Organiser: prospects in the face of current social and economic trends? What forms of policy intervention are best matched to Prof. John Tomaney, Newcastle features of mid-sized cities? What are the lessons for Europe from other parts of the world? University, United Kingdom Debate Chair: John Tomaney, the chair of the meeting, set out the challenges for the session noting that mid-sized cities can grow Prof. John Tomaney quickly, they often have high levels of productivity but they can have diseconomies, such as social exclusion. He illustrated the growth of mega-cities, particularly in Asia and China, and highlighted their role in the world economy, Speakers: explaining that in Europe and Australia the pattern is more distributed leading to new thinking about the contribution Monica Brezzi, OECD that can be expected from mid-sized cities. Peter Schmitt, Nord Regio, Stockholm, Sweden Taking as her theme ‘Redefining urban: a new way to measure metropolitan areas in OECD countries’, Monica Brezzi Prof. Ivan Turok, Human Sciences presented a recent work by the OECD which uses a differentiated approach to produce a typology of regions. She began Research Council, South Africa by posing some policy questions on growth rates, quality of life and institutional arrangements. A key point was that population growth was strongest in larger cities but economic growth was not. She concluded that a strategic place- More information: based approach integrating policy was required to encourage public intervention; that more research was needed www.regionalstudies.org to address knowledge gaps on the relationship between forms of urban systems; and the sustainability of current use of natural resources and complementarities within cities needed to be further tested alongside an assessment of governance models.

“City distinctiveness Peter Schmitt talked about ‘Middle-sized cities in the Nordic Countries – key characteristics and policy implications’. can take many forms, ‘Size matters’; the smaller the area for commuter catchments the more likely it is that a city will shrink. He said that another key indicator for growth was the presence of a university because they draw high tech manufacturing and for example a historical research and development activity. Schmitt articulated his policy conclusions as the need to recognise territorial artefact, but it must have diversity and pointed out that mid-sized cities are different. He asserted that building transport connections between mid-sized cities rather than just from them to metropolitan regions would aid their growth. He recommended the an economic value to be exploration of partnership building between cities which would have social capital and functional complementarities worth investment.” as keys to stabilisation.

Ivan Turok’s theme was ‘How can mid-sized cities become more distinctive?’ He noted that globalisation poses a possible strategy for mid-sized cities – one of lower cost/efficiency, which carries two risks: one of dependence on the national capital city (in the manner of a branch plant) and one of zero sum (the race to the bottom, i.e. to be the cheapest). He noted that a better approach is to seek differential advantage in ‘capability’ relative to the external market and that this should have an economic value. He identified four possible areas: image and identity; built environment; key industries and skills; and knowledge. He concluded by advising a sound understanding of existing capabilities, responsiveness to emerging opportunities, alignment, and coordination and attention to everyday requirements.

Conclusions In the debate following the presentations, the audience expressed interest in how mid-sized cities could differentiate themselves. What were meaningful choices with economic impact? They queried the role of higher education institutions and were interested to know that although large cities attract more young migrants they don’t always keep them. The economic future of mid-sized cities was seen to hinge around ideas of inclusion and sustainability and not necessarily around good governance.

134 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities OPEN DAYS University

Outcome indicators and targets: Towards a performance-orientated cohesion policy

Outline 12UNIV09 The objective of the session was to present the results of the work of a task force on outcome indicators. The task 12 October 2011, force, made up of international experts from Europe, the United States of America and Australia, as well as the OECD, 11:15-13:00 met four times during 2010 and 2011 and came up with a paper recommending a focus on outcome indicators for the future cohesion policy. This session contained a detailed presentation of the paper produced by the task force and was Organiser: followed by a discussion. Veronica Gaffey, Acting Director for Policy Development and Head Debate of Evaluation in Regional Policy DG, Veronica Gaffey opened the session and introduced the work of the task force. The background information she gave European Commission included the results of the ex post evaluation of 2000-2006 which found that programmes were not designed in a way where it was possible to capture results. Chair: Veronica Gaffey Philip McCann presented the recommendations of the task force. Speaker: Conclusions Prof. Philip McCann, University of The approach recommended by the task force is reflected in the Commission's proposals for future cohesion policy. Groningen, the Netherlands and There was agreement in the workshop that the approach is challenging and will need to be adapted to the needs Special Advisor to Commissioner of each region and to the scale of structural funds involved. Some reflection also needs to be given to the inter- Hahn relationships of domestic policies. Concerns were raised that the administrative burden would increase and there was a call for fewer resources to be allocated to financial and audit issues to allow a focus on outcomes and results. More information: http://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/ impact/evaluation/performance_ en.cfm

“This initiative represents a sea change in how structural funds are spent. There will still be tensions however, as the imperative to spend the money faster will still exist. The Commission will need to support the Member States to move to this new logic.” Peter Smith, Consultant North East of England

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 135 OPEN DAYS University

Regional resilience 12UNIV10 Outline 12 October 2011, The Fifth Cohesion Report acknowledges some of the challenges facing Europe’s regions including the economic crisis 14.30-17.00 and the resultant austerity and unemployment. The targets set in some areas such as employment, innovation, education, social inclusion, energy and climate change in the Europe 2020 report will be challenging to meet. In this context it is no Organiser: surprise that resilience as a concept has gathered credence among researchers and policy-makers seeking to understand Prof. Martin Jones, Aberystwyth what makes one place more able than another to withstand both external shocks and indigenous change. Differences in University, United Kingdom, and approach are emerging between theoretical relational approaches to regional development, which move away from a Sally Hardy, Chief Executive, focus on indigenous development, to more policy-orientated approaches concentrating on institutional methods based Regional Studies Association on innovation and learning.

Chair: Debate Prof. Andy Pike, University of From the Chair, Andy Pike outlined the need for regions to have the ability to withstand shocks such as hazardous weather Newcastle, United Kingdom events or energy network blackouts, as well as plant closures and systemic volatility, for example the recent financial crisis. He noted the variability between places in their ability to respond and pointed to a lack of clarity around the concept of Speakers: resilience. He questioned how it could be recognised before it happened. He also queried a gap between policy and Prof. Ronald Boschma, University of practice and asked how policy interventions should be evaluated in this context. Utrecht, the Netherlands Ron Boschma outlined the driving forces of regional resilience and discussed three of them – industrial relatedness; open Prof. Susan Christopherson, network structures and institutional responsiveness. He noted that the equilibrium approach to resilience recognises that Cornell University, United States of recovery from shock does not return a region to steady state but rather to a new equilibrium. He stressed that change America is irreversible and can be endogenous. In this context he argued that resilience is an ongoing process of adjustment, Dr Gillian Bristow, Cardiff University, not only to shock but to change. He identified two forms of industrial relatedness – unrelated and related – that reflect United Kingdom spillovers between industrial sectors, and argued that having some degree of relatedness between industries was critical Prof. Martin Jones to maximise the shock-absorbing effect. Susan Christopherson adopted a strongly anticipatory approach to resilience. Her theme was ‘The other side of the coin: More information: Can resilience theories tell us which regions may regain manufacturing?’. She noted three characteristics of resilience www.regionalstudies.org as sheltering from processes that undermine a region’s capacity to adapt and respond; to have the capacity to weather adverse events; and to have power in regions of potential risk to influence the direction of adaptation. She noted that regional policy-makers have restricted choices in the face of a challenging event and that policy impacts in this situation “We need policy-makers have been shown to be minimally effective. She asserted that most regions typically bounce back when the adverse event dissipates rather than as a result of strong policy intervention. She argued for planning ahead and building diversity into to become ‘change regional economies to mitigate the effect of an external shock in one sector. agents’ or ‘policy Gillian Bristow took as her theme ‘Pursuing regional resilience: The policy challenge’ and concurred that anticipation is a key part of response that includes both adjustment to shock and adaptation to change. She pointed to the need entrepreneurs’.” to consider the role of place in consideration of resilience, to the asset’s historical development cycles and the adaptive capacities, resistances, strengths and weaknesses of a region. She stressed the need to avoid regional ‘lock-in’, arguing for Prof. Andy Pike dynamism incorporating aligned active governance that can be anticipatory, with evolution across levels of governance and including active business leadership involvement, long-term visioning and shared strategy. She called for a related variety with spaces for knowledge exchange and transition to green economic sectors exploiting and renewing development trajectories over time by reconfiguring dynamic capabilities. She noted that formulaic responses were unlikely to succeed and policy-makers must become agents of change. Martin Jones suggested during his presentation on ‘The governance of resilience and the resilience of governance’ that the notion of resilience allowed a rethinking of the nature of both space and governance. This proposed that thinking of space in terms of territory, place, scale and networks offered a path where geopolitical history could be recognised along with community, neighbourhood and regional influences. He noted that regulatory experimentation had taken two paths – attempting either to make one level of state space predominant or trying to stitch together two or more dimensions into a new framework for political life. He explained that multilevel governance saw territory in scale terms, ordering actors hierarchically arguing, so that when considering resilience a polymorphic reading of space and governance offered more flexibility, and that the resulting requirement for higher levels of coordination and partnership would considerably strengthen regional responses to crisis.

Conclusions Andy Pike concluded by noting that there are different types of resilience responding to disruptive economic change. He argued that approaches must take note of where the people are in responses; what kind of resilience and for whom it works; is it a form of self-reliance and self help; is it about people finding their way in market contexts? He asked what role ecology and environment should play. He examined the relationship between smart specialisation and resilience, asking also what kind of planning the resilience approach implies. He asked if our institutions were right for responding to new thinking about the flexibility of space and asked for open mindedness about new ideas. He made a call for a new breed of ‘policy entrepreneurs’ to take our regions forward.

136 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities OPEN DAYS University

Shaping EU cities in a changing environment: Strengthening urban quality in strategies for growth and shrinkage

Outline 12UNIV11 Even though global demographic predictions foresee that the EU population will stabilise at around 520 million 12 October 2011, inhabitants by 2050, the overall picture with citizens’ concentration and dispersal across the European territory and 14:30-17:00 cities will most probably be quite varied. Parallel to this, both EU and OECD sources point out that there is a growing skills and employability gap among the population in various European regions (and cities) on the one hand, and Organiser: among different generations on the other. For example, by 2020, 40% of EU regions are predicted to see a workforce Committee of the Regions, Forward decline due to migration and demographic factors. The Europe 2020 strategy and its flagship initiatives are due to find planning, studies and academic answers to these impending transformations. It is clear that cities are at the forefront of these processes. European cities networks are, for instance, major centres of specialisation and innovation. As the biggest consumers of energy, they are also at the leading edge in solving climate change problems. Cities equally host a disproportionate share of society’s problems and Chair: the poor. With the expected growing costs of food, water and higher education, structural unemployment and poverty Prof. Michael Parkinson, CBE, are bound to increase in certain urban areas across Europe. There is a necessity to analyse the potential effects of Europe Director, European Institute for 2020 on ‘growing’, ‘shrinking’ and ‘stable population’ urban areas in the EU. Urban Affairs, Liverpool John Moores University, United Kingdom Debate The new EU urban agenda has been making rapid progress in recent times, not least under the Europe 2020 impetus. Speakers: Many concrete projects and programmes within various DGs of the European Commission, such as ‘Cities of tomorrow’ Dr Christian Svanfeldt, Policy and ‘CityStars’ (Regional Policy DG), ‘Smart cities and communities initiative’ (Energy DG), ‘European green capital’ Analyst, Urban Development and (Environment DG), have been developed lately. Likewise, the increasingly visible activities of the Urban Intergroup of Territorial Cohesion unit, Regional the European Parliament and the many urban-related events of the Committee of the Regions have been proof of the Policy DG, European Commission interinstitutional dimension of this process. Stefan Kuhn, Director of Urban Governance team, ICLEI Europe Christian Svanfeldt introduced the novel elements and priority lines of the urban agenda of the European Commission Jean Loup Drubigny, Head of for the current and next programming periods. URBACT Secretariat Dr Ivan Tosics, Executive Director, Stefan Kuhn praised the European urban model for its overall eco-efficiency, inclusiveness and social involvement Metropolitan Research Institute, compared to other parts of the world. He posited that Europe will continue to lead the way towards better and more Budapest, Hungary sustainable quality of urban life well into the late 21st century. Dr Domenico Rossetti di Valdalbero, Scientific Officer Jean Loup Drubigny underlined the dramatic social and economic situation within EU cities – most notably with responsible for foresight and forecast respect to the sharp loss of disposable income to city mayors after the start of the crisis in late 2008. He also questioned activities, Research and Innovation the optimism and ‘smartness’ of the Europe 2020 strategy, particularly with respect to the objectives set in an urban DG, European Commission context. Dr Tadashi Matsumoto, Senior Policy Analyst, Public Governance The many complexities and uncertainties facing EU cities call for a coordinated approach between multiple players and Territorial Development and levels of governance. Unfortunately, it takes time for urban planners and politicians to integrate strategies for Directorate, OECD, Paris growth and shrinkage into the long-term visions for their cities. For instance, many policy-makers ignore the shrinking Eurico Neves, Director of Innova trend and continue to see their cities as ‘growth machines’. A dose of critical thinking and realism should be applied Europe and lead expert UNIC project to national and supranational projects regarding urban areas (the so-called ‘bandwagon effect’) especially in terms of (URBACT) implementing the Europe 2020 objectives. Prof. Claude Jacquier, Research Director at the National Centre for Ivan Tosics revealed the stark contrasts existing in EU cities – north and south, east and west. He posited that resolving Scientific Research (CNRS), France various demographic and infrastructural problems in a bold and coordinated manner is at the heart of achieving the ambitious goals of the Europe 2020 agenda.

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 137 OPEN DAYS University

Shaping EU cities in a changing environment: Strengthening urban quality in strategies for growth and shrinkage

More information: Domenico Rossetti di Valdalbero put a stress on the global competition and unfavourable demographic trends www.cor.europa.eu/ateliers facing EU cities. He outlined the original findings of his colleagues and those of the urban-related research projects managed by his directorate, particularly in terms of sustainability and resource efficiency.

It is fashionable today to speak about different models of cities, mainly based upon space, density and networking factors. The visions of cities’ futures and the quality of life there are equally determined by strategic planning and foresight exercises carried out in an urban context. On the whole, experts agree that, in order to be a successful city, development should try to benefit from integrated urban governance. In other words, it should not be based on outdated, exclusionary and sectorial models of activity. Polycentric, transnational and particularly multilevel governance approaches appear especially suitable for future-orientated and emerging local and regional authorities in Europe.

Tadashi Matsumoto related the OECD experience in promoting ‘compact city’ policies across the world. He shared his organisation’s experience in developing indicators and analytical models with respect to studying the growth of built- up areas, social problems and environmental performance of different sized urban centres.

Eurico Neves shared his vision of successful cities as 'hubs', where private entrepreneurs and various partnerships could thrive. He insisted on local elites sharing the city with creators of all kinds, thus promoting quality innovation and sustainability.

Conclusions The workshop was concluded by Claude Jacquier, who raised a number of important points regarding the interplay between ‘integrated urban governance’ and the Europe 2020 objectives. He posited that there is hardly a one-size-fit-all model of integrated urban governance (i.e. in accordance with the different types of EU cities). Taking size, compactness, international exposure, density, regional networks and other factors into account could make decision-makers better prepared to respond to the needs of fast transforming cities. Effective multilevel governance (top/bottom and bottom/ up) approaches were also discussed, mainly in terms of building successful partnerships in an urban context. The role of research-based strategic planning and urban foresight was also highlighted. This was deemed important not only for promoting greater competitiveness and innovation within urban centres, but also in relation to building strategic and political alliances among local elites who could eventually transform the formal institutions responsible for urban governance.

“Everybody constantly speaks about institutional reform and policy sustainability in Europe. However, real transformation is only achieved when one achieves a sustainable change of behaviour.” Prof. Claude Jacquier

138 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities OPEN DAYS Oﬃ cial reception

OPEN DAYS DAYS 2011 2009  Proceedings– European - WeekEuropean of Regions Weeks of and Regions Cities and Cities 139 The OPEN DAYS Oﬃ cial reception

A Culinary Voyage through Europe

The OPEN DAYS Oﬃ cial reception was this year held at the headquarters of the Committee of the Regions. It took place on the evening of the 11th of October, and more than 1000 invited guests were treated to a culinary 'voyage' through the ﬁ ne cuisines of European regions.

In collaboration with Euro-Toques International, chefs from thirteen European countries prepared and presented regional specialities of ﬁ rst-class quality. Euro-Toques is a European association of chefs promoting local food sourcing and protecting culinary heritage. The event was further supported by a number of Belgian culinary and hotelier schools, whose students assisted both chefs and serving staﬀ .

Live music was provided by the eight-man orchestra, Samokhin Band from Polish city of Lodz. Also performers from the Brussels-based Magicland Theatre kept the guests entertained throughout the evening.

Euro- Toques

140 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities The OPEN DAYS Oﬃ cial reception

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 141 142 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Local events

OPEN DAYS DAYS 2011 2009  Proceedings– European - WeekEuropean of Regions Weeks of and Regions Cities and Cities 143 Local events

1 2 3

Alongside the seminars and workshops organised for OPEN DAYS 2011 in Brussels, some 250 local events took place all over the European Union and beyond throughout September, October and November. Thousands of participants from European, national and regional public authorities, financial and business representatives, NGOs, media, students and the general public attended seminars, workshops, debates, etc. focusing on the three 2011 themes: Europe 2020, Better delivery and Geography matters. This double-page layout displays six of the 250 events. More details on other local events can be found on the OPEN DAYS website.

EXAMPLES OF LOCAL EVENTS:

1 European funds boosting knowledge, innovation and innovative solutions for the local tourism sector in Saaremaa Island Saaremaa Local Government Association, Estonia “Estonia - Positively surprising -Travel Destination Saaremaa”

Mr Kaido Kaasik, Chair of the Saaremaa Local Government Association and member of the Committee of the Regions of the EU

With a stronger cultural focus, the PPP tourism project "Travel Destination Saaremaa" was funded by the ERDF and supported by the local government of Saaremaa and the private shipping company Tallink. The project's goal was to increase awareness of the potential target market for tourists. The project increased the number of incoming information queries from foreign markets regarding Saaremaa as a tourism destination and increased visitor satisfaction.

European Conference of Regions on Climate Change Rhône-Alpes Region, France

"The European regions and federated states haven’t waited to reduce their GHG emissions and to prepare their territories for the impact of climate change, as we have been showing in Rhone-Alpes since 2004 by installing an Eco Region”, said Jean-Jack Queyranne, President of the Rhône-Alpes Region.

On the second day, European regions (including Baden-Württemberg, the Basque Country, Brittany, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Lombardy, Catalonia, Sao Paulo Federated State, Scotland, Wales, Région de Bruxelles-Capitale) and the three co-organisers signed the “Lyon Declaration of Regions for Climate Action” which calls on the international community to act on climate change and commits sub-national governments to take ambitious action within their own area of influence. The Declaration was presented to high-level representatives of the European Commission and the United Nations. 2

3 3 Integrating spaces – Crossborder challenges of Europe 2020 EGTC Galicia – Norte de Portugal, Portugal

During this three-day event, cooperation projects developed in the Galicia- Norte Portugal Euroregion were presented as an example of good practice in different strategic areas such as maritime cooperation, the automobile industry, nanotechnology, the textile sector, the environment, food industry, tourism, creative industries, labour market, research, innovation and entrepreneurship.

144 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Local events

4 5 6

4 OPEN DAYS in the Trenčin Self–Governing Region Slovakia

“Knowledge is the power of youth”

Some 170 young people met over two days on the initiative of the Europe Direct Trenčín Office to gather information about the EU institutions, youth organisations and information centres in the region and on the opportunities offered by the regional authority. Videos for young people and teachers were also shown.

5 Public Private Partnerships – Best practices and EU funding opportunities Kragujevac City and Sumadija District, Serbia

For the first time, Serbia hosted two local events, one on Best practices in Adriatic and Ionian macro-region public and private partnerships (PPP), and the other on EU funding opportunities. Bror Salmelin, from the European Commission's DG 1 Information Society and Media, presented the Commission's ideas on the subject.

6 Cohesion policy and 'glocal' development - tools, resources and plans for a 'new green deal' for Euro-Mediterranean areas Potenza, Italy

“The OPEN DAYS event in Potenza has been a really successful attempt to involve a whole local community in the debate on the future of Europe and the effectiveness of EU policies," said CoR president Mercedes Bresso. "A growing number of citizens are taking part in this exchange, showing strong awareness of the impact of the decisions taken at EU level on the everyday life of their town. Local communities are eager to make a contribution to overcoming the crisis and opening up a new phase of growth".

This high-level local event, involving Ms Bresso, President of the Committee of the 4 Regions and Mr Vito Santarsiero, member (PES) of the CoR's COTER commission and Mayor of the Municipality of Potenza, dealt with the future of cohesion policy after 2013 and the connection with the Europe 2020 strategy. Development, innovation, growth, employment, but also inclusion, social cohesion and sustainable development are challenges which European countries must meet to make Europe’s economy a success story.

2 5

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 145 146 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Evaluation

OPEN DAYS DAYS 2011 2009  Proceedings– European - WeekEuropean of Regions Weeks of and Regions Cities and Cities 147 Evaluation

Summary OPEN DAYS 2011 online survey: Organisational affiliation of participants Between 17 October and 7 November 2011, the some 6 000 people involved in OPEN DAYS 2011 as participants, event partners, speakers/chairpersons and journalists were invited to complete online questionnaires to comment Other: 5.5% on their appreciation and views of the event. When the deadline closed, a total of 1 032 questionnaires (-289 compared to 2010) had been filled in, Consultants: 6.2% Regional and local: 48.7% representing a response rate of 17.6% compared to 19% in 2010. In relative University: 8.5% terms, the highest response rate was among event partners (20% vs. 11.3% Civil society: 5.7% in 2010), followed by speakers (19.9 vs. 17.2) participants (17.3 vs. 17.2), and Enterprises/ journalists (14.3 vs. 17.8). Such response rates, which have been rather stable banks: 5.5% over recent years, indicate a good relationship between the organisers of the Public EU: 8.2% administration: event and its ‘users’. The total number of questionnaires by category, which 68.6% were assessed for this report was for National: 11.7% • participants: 825; • speakers/chairpersons: 123; • event partners: 50; and • journalists: 34. terms of intensity of seminar participation, 34.5% of participants said they attended 1-2 seminars, 33.3% between 3-4, and 24.9% said that they went to The most important findings: 5-6 seminars. • The high quality of the event continued to be appreciated by all target groups and significantly improved as regards organisational Some other findings (figures of last year in brackets): issues viewed by the event partners. For all target groups, the quality • When enquiring about their expectations prior to OPEN DAYS, 93.8% of seminars was assessed as either excellent or good in the order of ranked ‘to learn about good practice in regional development’ highest in 92-100%. level of importance, followed by 92.7% expecting ‘the possibility to gather • Expectations of participants were best met as regards learning ‘about information on EU cohesion policy from the European Commission/other management and the future of EU cohesion policy’ and ‘good practice’. practitioners’, and 85% seeking ‘networking with other regions/cities’. While the quality of moderators received the best rankings – one third For about four out of five participants, their expectations were met with found them excellent, ‘communication with the audience’ was less ‘learning about good practice’ ranking highest. well perceived: 26% of participants found it ‘poor’ or ‘bad’. • When assessing the quality of seminars, 92% (89.9%) marked it as either • Concerning the event’s organisation, most of the feedback confirmed ‘good’ 72% (72.9%) or ‘excellent’ 20% (16.9%). The quality of presentations good overall satisfaction with services, namely the online and on-site was judged ‘good’ by 70.7% (68.7%) and ‘excellent’ by 14.7% (14.2%), registration, with about 90% of ‘excellent’ or ‘good’ votes. while the rating of chairpersons/moderators was ‘good’ for 61.5% (63.4%) and ‘excellent’ for 31% (29.3%). When rating the debates arising from the seminars, 74% (70.3%) judged them ‘good’ or ‘excellent’, but 26% (26.1%) Assessment by participants ‘poor’ or even ‘bad’. Finally, 85% answered that the OPEN DAYS ‘facilitates networking’ and 93.7% were convinced that the content of the workshops As in previous years, by far the largest number of questionnaires – 825 – was ‘immediately useful’ for their work. While these figures demonstrate a were filled in by participants, representing a response rate of 17.3%, which high level of satisfaction, a slight decrease in the perception of the quality is about the same rate as in 2010. The geographical split as well as the of seminars can be observed, as compared to last year. organisational affiliation of respondents seems to mirror the total of the • Asked about concrete actions arising from their participation, about OPEN DAYS audience. Surveys were filled in by participants from more than two thirds rated as ‘possible’ or ‘most likely’ developing a joint activity 50 countries, with the highest share from Italian participants (10.3% of the with another regional or local administration, with quite a high number total), followed by Belgium, France, Germany, Poland, the UK and Sweden indicating that there was time and space for networking alongside the – all scoring between 9.5 and 5.5%. In terms of organisational affiliation, last seminars. ‘Making changes to a European regional programme’ came year’s trend was confirmed and shows that more than two thirds of OPEN second with 56.8%, indicating intensive learning experiences among DAYS participants belong to the key audience from multiple levels of participants. government from all over Europe. The remainder is split among business, • On organisational aspects, the overall assessment from about four academia and civil society representatives (see graph below). out of five participants was either ‘good’ or ‘excellent’. With over 90% positive feedback, the OPEN DAYS website came in first, followed by OPEN DAYS continues to attract a relatively young audience: three out of the registration process and handling of badges. The ‘Meeting Place’ four participants who completed the survey were in the age bracket of 21-45 facilities, printed material and the ‘help by hostesses’ had left a good years, an even higher score than in 2010. People travel to the OPEN DAYS: overall impression with positive feedback in the order of 80-90%. about 70% of participants say that they travelled to Brussels for the event, a • The opening session on 10 October was attended by one out of five number which has remained stable over the years. Another continuing trend participants who responded to the survey. Roughly 80% judged the is the fact that the OPEN DAYS audience changes considerably year on year: quality of it good or excellent, while the debate received a significantly 53.8% of respondents did not visit previous OPEN DAYS (53.6% in 2010). In higher score of negative feed-back with 22.3%.

148 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Evaluation

• About one third of the respondents had visited the Meeting Place and Assessment by event partners out of these, around 89% (89%) assessed its concept either ‘good’ 61% (60%) or even ‘excellent’ 28% (28%). Two thirds of the visitors felt they In 2011, some 206 regions and cities (245 in 2010) participated as event had made good contacts at the Meeting Place, while one third found partners, organised into 23 regional partnerships. The latter had been that the number of contacts was not satisfactory. established by mid-February and were led by lead partner regions or cities, • Of the participants responding to the survey, 22% (17.9%) had who were involved in three preparatory meetings ahead of the event. In participated in seminars under the brand OPEN DAYS University. addition, some 30 companies, enterprises, banks and associations were These received a better rating than the average seminar with 95.1% partners in the ‘Meeting Place’, where they either held seminars or were (95%) judging the seminars ‘good’ or ‘excellent’. This holds true for the present through a stand or both. Out of the total of some 240 event partners, quality of the speakers with 94.2% receiving ‘good/excellent’ (96%), 50 questionnaires were filled in representing a response rate of 21% (11%). presentations 92.4% (93%) and quality of debates 75% (78%). Event partners were asked about their expectations and assessment of the • RegioNetwork2020, the online social media platform of DG REGIO, event, as well as about organisational aspects. They were also invited to had a special OPEN DAYS group with about 300 users who subscribed submit their recommendations and ideas. The results in short: during the preparation of the event. More than 50% of the survey • When it comes to partners' expectations prior to the event, the most respondents used this platform before and during the event and 37% important concerned the ‘possibility to network’ and the possibility said that they used it to connect to other people attending. to ‘disseminate information’ about the partners' individual region • 88.8% (90.1%) of all respondents stated they would participate again or organisation. ‘Learning about best practice’ was also high on the in next year's OPEN DAYS. agenda of partners, while expectations to meet business representatives were not mentioned that often. The majority of partners felt their expectations were met reasonably well, namely as regards ‘networking’, Comments and recommendations for which expectations were ‘very much met’. • Concerning the seminars, more than 98% (94%) were satisfied with Better description of seminars needed. the attendance, close to 97% (95%) were satisfied with the quality of presentations and moderators, and satisfaction with debates was just Make it clearer to the organising regions that the workshops are there one percentage point lower. More than 95% judged the content of the for sharing experiences and are not the place for promotion. seminars useful for their daily work. • As regards the event's organisation, 60% (68%) said it was ‘excellent’ Less focus on good practice and presentation of projects. More – by far the most significant change as compared to last year – while discussions and drawing up of proposals in small groups. another 38% (29%) assessed it as ‘good’. The OPEN DAYS website received the most positive feedback with 34% (48%) finding it ‘excellent’ Organise a project market place in particular for cross-border projects. and 60% (33%) ‘good’. Other organisational issues such as registration, attendance, venues and interpretation received all-round ‘good/very Allow more time for switching between venues and seminars. good’ scores at the level of about 90% (80%). Especially when several seminars started at the same time at the same • About 50% (80%) of event partners found the media facilities and venue, there were long queues to get into the venue causing delays in programme ‘good’ or even ‘excellent’; about 46% of event partners the seminars. found the coverage in regional media less convincing.

Many participants are using smart phones these days. It could be an idea to develop a mobile website or app with the OPEN DAYS programme, linked to your location and your personal programme. This could also be a good tool to update participants with practical information and directions. It could even facilitate picking up your badge.

All the sessions should be webstreamed so that people who can’t attend are able to gain the knowledge.

Too many mails sent to participants.

Multilevel governance is becoming more and more discussed, but there is no opportunity to showcase good/bad practices. Would this be a relevant issue for next year?

Demography-related issues, social themes in general, EPSON- workshop could be extended to two workshops.

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 149 Evaluation

Feedback by speakers and Media representatives chairpersons The 230 (342) journalists participating in the OPEN DAYS media programme There were about 650 speakers and chairpersons involved in the 110 were invited to complete a special online questionnaire, which 34 (61) did, seminars during the OPEN DAYS of which 123 (165) completed the online representing a rate of 14.8% (17.8%). Journalists were asked about their questionnaire, which represented an outcome of 19% (20.4%). Their expectations, their appreciation of the media programme's quality and organisational affiliation was as follows: organisational aspects. The main results are as follows: • 43% came from national, regional or local authorities. • The most important areas of interest for the journalists were ‘EU institutions • 15% were officials of the European institutions. and policies’, followed by ‘EU and regional affairs’: 71% answered that their • 14% were from universities and research institutes. expectations were 'very much' met. • 9% came from private companies, banks and others. • In their overall assessment of the OPEN DAYS, 47% (32.8%) of journalists • 4% from civil society organisations. found the event ‘excellent’, and 53% (67.2%) ‘good’. • 5% were consultants. • 90% found the media programme either ‘good’ 59% (60%) or ‘excellent’ • 10% characterised themselves as 'other'. 41% (29.3%). • During their stay, 71% (57.4%) were in contact with their regional office in Speakers and chairpersons were asked about their assessment of the quality Brussels. of the workshops, organisational aspects and networking, and were invited to • 100% (95.1%) would recommend participation in the event to a colleague. give recommendations and ideas. The results in short:

• 94.3% (98.7%) found the overall quality of the event either ‘good’ (66.5%) or ‘excellent’ (28.5%). • 95.1% (96.6%) found the quality of the presentations either ‘good’ or ‘excellent’; moderators received an even better assessment with 54% (53.3%) ‘good’ and 54% (41%) ‘excellent’ votes. • 91% (93.3%) of the speakers and chairpersons would participate again in OPEN DAYS.

OPEN DAYS 2003-2011 in figures

2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 Partner regions+cities 10 67 106 135 212 216 213 245 206 Regional partnerships - 11 16 14 24 22 24 28 24 Number of seminars 16 64 66 135 150 145 122 130 110 Number of venues 10 12 24 37 44 35 26 32 Individual participants 1,200 2,000 2,500 4,000 5,500 7,400 6,046 5,903 4,772 Journalists 70 122 240 275 331 342 237 Meeting Place stands 110 160 150 none 60 none Local events in regions 50 95 220 233 263 254

150 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities Media strategy and coverage analysis

OPEN DAYS DAYS 2011 2009  Proceedings– European - WeekEuropean of Regions Weeks of and Regions Cities and Cities 151 Media strategy and coverage analysis

Overall Media Type Media programme Online Print 44% 34% The media programme was designed to: • provide journalists with a thorough understanding of the objectives of the OPEN DAYS; • enable them to obtain information relevant to their region or city; • offer them interview opportunities with high-profile individuals; • provide general information on how the European Union works; • enable them to meet local and regional representatives at European level. Newswire Participating regions and cities involved in the OPEN DAYS were invited to 10% nominate one regional journalist, who was then invited by the organisers Radio TV 4% 8% for a two-day visit. Journalists were selected in such a way as to ensure a geographical balance amongst Member States.

The largest overall coverage was achieved in Poland, followed by Italy and Quantitative analysis Spain. Pan-European media also paid special attention to the OPEN DAYS. Whilst all kinds of media were represented – from local to pan-European The media coverage of OPEN DAYS 2011 resulted in 415 media references outlets – around 75% of written and online media references appeared in the in 28 countries – including all of the EU countries except for Cyprus and mainstream media. The audiovisual reports were also mainly broadcast in the Latvia – and the pan-European press. Journalists attending the OPEN DAYS mainstream media (BBC, RAI Radio 1, N-TV, MTV3). represented national and regional media. The online press provided the widest coverage (179), followed by the written press (142) and news agencies (40). The remaining media coverage came from the audiovisual press (54, with 37 for TV and 17 for radio). Geographical spread of media Pan-European media The approximate audience figure of 58,056,560 can be broken down as 7% follows: Local media • 12,702,230 readers, 13% • 28,122,330 online readers, Regional/Local • 10,681,000 viewers and 53% • 6,551,000 listeners.

National Regional media media 40% 40%

152 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities

The coverage reached its peak on 13 October, the final day of the OPEN DAYS, Conclusions once the journalists had gathered all the information they needed from the various sessions and had met the people relevant to their reports. From the The coverage of the 9th European Week of Regions and Cities – OPEN DAYS dialogues and interactive sessions (“Overview of EU Regional Policy” morning 2011 was overwhelmingly positive, and the key topics of both the Committee session, meeting with regional experts, round table, opening conference, of the Regions and the European Commission's Regional Policy DG were etc.) and written information (press release, IP, speeches, etc.) which was picked up and extensively reported. provided on the first day of the OPEN DAYS (10 October), journalists gained a clear understanding of the event and the major points of the new legislative Overall, journalists were pleased with the event and satisfied with the press package on cohesion policy for 2014-2020. material distributed before and during it. They felt that they had been given good interview and media opportunities. However, when asked what could be improved in 2012, journalists requested more interview opportunities Qualitative analysis with a wider range of high-level EU representatives and more networking opportunities with other journalists. They also suggested that a more balanced Most of the articles related to EU policy and its relevance to the journalists’ view of the pros and cons of regional policy be provided by inviting more critics regions of origin, the main topics covered being: from the Member States' representations and the European Parliament. • regional funding of EU Cohesion Policy. Many journalists reported on the funding allocated by the EU to their regions, mostly mentioning Geographical coverage the new legislative package on cohesion policy for 2014-2020. Most 60 of them focussed on the region covered by their media. Most media linked the new allocations of EU funds to the current economic crisis. 50 • implementation of EU Regional Policy. Part of the coverage focussed on how EU regional policy works in practice: How was EU money used in 40 the past and how is it used currently? How do local authorities manage these funds? To which kinds of projects are these funds destined? 30 • Europe 2020. The media also covered the impact of the EU cohesion policy in terms of boosting competitiveness, sustainable growth and 20 new jobs in the regions. 10 The media coverage was largely informative, particularly in the case of reports published in the pan-European media and online media. Around 150 0 FI SI IT IE LT EL ES SE EE PL SK FR PT SR BE AT PK LU NL CZ DE UK BG HR DK RO MT articles (39%) covered the event in a very positive way, mainly referring to: HU the new legislative package on sustainable growth and green jobs, the new Pan-EU funds allocated to their regions for the period 2014-2020 and the benefits that an event such as the OPEN DAYS can bring both in terms of networking and exchange of good practices between regional and/or local authorities. However, around 7% of the overall coverage was quite critical and sceptical regarding the legislative package on cohesion policy for the period 2014- 2020, and particularly the new categorisation of regions for the distribution of EU funds and the conditions for maintaining the allocation of those funds.

OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities 153

OPEN DAYS 2012 OPEN DAYS 2012

The OPEN DAYS 2012 (8 – 11 October) will mark the event's 10th anniversary. Looking back over a decade of debates and exchanges of best practice on European cohesion policy, it will be a time for positive reflection during the overall discussions on the future European cohesion policy.

By October 2012, the Committee of the Regions and the European Parliament will both have adopted their positions on the legislative proposals for cohesion policy 2014-2020. The debate will be continuing in the Council and with the Member States, driven by the overall discussion on the Multiannual Financial Framework.

With the OPEN DAYS 2012, over 5 000 participants from all over Europe – local, regional, national and European policy- makers and practitioners, as well as representatives from academia, the business community and the media – will again be able to raise their voice, share their views, come forward with new ideas and remain involved in the discussion.

Under the headline 'Europe's regions and cities: Making a difference', the OPEN DAYS 2012 will be structured around three themes:

1. Smart and green growth for all – How does cohesion policy contribute to smart, sustainable and inclusive growth? 2. Territorial cooperation: an asset for Europe – How can cooperation be used as a tool for regional development and better exploitation of regional potentials? 3. Delivering results – What are the main achievements of the EU cohesion policy? And how to best implement the intentions of the new regulatory framework?

Workshops and debates held during the OPEN DAYS will have to refer to one of the themes mentioned above.

The event should also be an opportunity to join forces with a variety of European Commission Directorates-General (Employment and social affairs, Agriculture and rural development, and Maritime affairs and fisheries), so as to initiate a cross-disciplinary debate on topics such as community-led local development, a new feature for the European Fund for Regional Development and for the European Social Fund after 2013.

Moreover, the finalists of the 'RegioStars Awards 2013' will present their projects and hence how their territories have succeeded thanks to European cohesion policy. RegioStars is a series of European Commission awards to identify good practices in regional development and to highlight original and innovative projects which could be attractive and inspiring to other regions.

For more information, please visit the OPEN DAYS 2012 website: www.opendays.europa.eu.

156 OPEN DAYS 2011  Proceedings - European Weeks of Regions and Cities

Published in December 2011 Edited by the Committee of the Regions and DG Regional Policy of the European Union © European Union, 2011 QG- 3 1-11-4 03 -E N - C