Macro-regions

A macroregion is a transnational area which brings together several European countries or regions around shared challenges and which is supported by the European Union within the framework of a jointly defined “macroregional strategy”. The Council asks the Commission to draw up the strategy within the framework of a process of consultation between its different DGs, national governments, local and regional authorities and stakeholders. The strategy is then approved by the Council and is aimed at putting forward initiatives and projects that contribute to the harmonious development of the macroregional territory.

Macroregions can bring together member countries of the European Union as well as non-EU countries in order to create a space for exchanges and joint projects with the aim of strengthening territorial cohesion. Macroregions do not receive European funding and do not have a specifically dedicated structure or legal status; they are designed to optimise the financing (whether European or otherwise) that is already available in the different countries and to pool and develop synergies between their initiatives in order to enhance the territory’s integration. However, certain macroregions are also covered by a transnational programme, like the Danube macroregion.