Ausgestaltung der EU-Strukturpolitik der Förderperiode 2007 - 2013 in den nordwestdeutschen Bundesländern

In the current program planning period (2007-2013) the EU has realigned its cohesion and structural policy with respect to content, regional applicability and financing, which has a strong effect on the structure of the regional development policy in the states of northwestern Germany. Due to the very different starting conditions, structures and development trends of the population, economy and employment market, adaptation of concepts for structural and development policy are needed – both in the non city-states and coastal states as well as the city states. Nevertheless, there are general challenges and interests common to all states of Northwest Germany that speak for basic coordinated action. In view of this situation, the present research project will examine the differences and similarities in the organization of regional structural policy. These include the objectives of the operational programs and their strategies and instruments, the implementation status and, last but not least, integration in other policy areas. On this basis recommendations for the next program planning period can also be formulated.