Key research themes
1. How do institutional quality and non-linear effects influence the economic growth and convergence outcomes of EU Cohesion Policy?
This research area focuses on understanding the nuanced relationships between Cohesion Policy (CP) funding intensity, institutional quality, and their combined impact on regional economic growth and convergence within the EU. Recognizing heterogeneity in CP effectiveness, this theme addresses the challenge of modeling and empirically detecting non-linearities and moderating institutional factors that shape CP outcomes, particularly at highly disaggregated regional levels. It is vital because it underpins policy adjustments aimed at efficient fund allocation and maximizing growth and equity objectives.
2. What are the territorial and governance challenges to effective EU Cohesion Policy implementation in diverse regional contexts?
This theme investigates spatial disparities within and between regions, the role of multilevel governance, and the institutional capacity of local and national actors in shaping CP outcomes. It critically examines how EU Cohesion Policy interacts with national and regional frameworks, the challenges of inner peripheries, local development capacities, and the political economy of fund allocation—especially under pressures from crises, enlargement, and Brexit. Addressing this theme informs policies fostering territorial cohesion and sustainable local development through improved governance and integrated place-based strategies.
3. How can social and territorial cohesion be conceptually defined and empirically measured to better evaluate EU Cohesion Policy outcomes?
This theme addresses conceptual and methodological challenges in defining and measuring social and territorial cohesion, essential for assessing Cohesion Policy effectiveness beyond economic outputs. It explores multi-dimensional, multi-level constructs of cohesion encompassing social relations, identity, inclusion, territorial cooperation, and governance. Improved measurement frameworks and integrative indicators enable nuanced evaluations and support shaping policies that account for diverse social and spatial dynamics, thus fostering durable and inclusive cohesion.