The 2007-2013 European cohesion policy: a new strategic approach by the Commission?

Summary:

This paper takes a closer look at the content of the new framework programme, trying to find out whether the European Commission has adopted a new strategic approach compared to the previous period. Since most of the literature devoted to this subject is restricted to a mere description of new features, this paper goes one step further trying to shed light on the reasons explaining the attempt of the Commission to keep some elements while changing others. Besides, special attention is given to the situation after eastward enlargment in 2004.

In order to address these issues, the paper starts by outlining its main research questions and methodological framework, while also presenting some background information on EU cohesion policy. In the following chapters, the four main principles concentration, programming, additionality and partnership are examined for the periods 2000-06 and 2007-13 as described below. Finally, some concluding remarks will bring the paper to a close.