CESCI

Since the introduction of the EGTC instrument in 2006, extensive experience has been gained by its users, revealing both shortcomings and, in some cases, unforeseen potentials that were not foreseen at the time of its creation.

The EGTC instrument is currently used by 69 collaborative initiatives across Europe. However, these collaborations vary in their purpose, with some focusing on more efficient spatial development of cross-border functional regions. Many of these initiatives first needed to gain experience in spatial planning – traditionally governed by the well-defined frameworks of national policy – before they could develop a more systematic and conscious approach to functioning.

Over the last decade and a half, a considerable number of EGTCs have challenged not only the traditional territorial boundaries, but also traditional governance competencies as well. These attempts, which were literally expanding horizons, highlighted some of the interesting technical aspects of spatial planning. This paper tries to draw some conclusions, considering and evaluating the knowledge accumulated in the field of cross-border spatial planning, during the activities of EGTCs (mainly focusing on regional development) located along the Hungarian borders).