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Cross border activities as regional policy in peri-Alpine region: the example of Croatia

Croatian territory is a transitional and contact area of major European geographical regions, such as Alps, Adriatic, Pannonia and Danube region. In reference to the Alps, the western and north-western border area of Croatia participates in the peri-Alpine region. Basic natural determinants are a number of rivers that originate in the Alps, as well as western mountainous area (Gorski kotar). Culturally, some authors consider this transitional and contact area between Italy, Austria, Slovenia and Croatia as Upper Adriatic. This area should be treated as a unit with overlapping traits and consequently - with the necessity of convergence of developmental goals and measures. The position of Croatia in peri-Alpine region brings not only the same natural advantages and problems, but also the interest in environmental protection of peri-Alpine hydro systems, sustainable tourism development, revitalisation of derelict and abandoned areas, natural hazards protections programmes, as well as in energetic efficiency and in the use of renewable energy sources. Related to the Alpine region, Croatia is eligible for a number of programmes and initiatives, such as SEE Transnational Cooperation Programme, Mediterranean programme, IPA Adriatic Cross -Border Cooperation Programme and cross- border programs Slovenia – Croatia and Hungary – Croatia, as well as Alps – Adriatic Working Community, Adriatic Euro region and many other initiatives. Further on, cross border regional cooperation issues are of particular importance for Croatia due to its wider position, shape and consequently to the total length of the state border and the share of the border regions in the state territory. Among 21 Croatian counties, 18 of them are directly bordering the neighbouring state regions and are active in some cross border activities. Cross border and peripheral regions by joint cooperation i. e. by realisation of joint cross border projects are bringing closer development scenarios of their respective neighbouring countries. In this way neighbouring interstate regions are exchanging best practices in the frame of predefined sectors of cooperation. Common identity of these regions is being gradually rebuilt while borders and border regions instead of peripheries are becoming developmental axis.

Peri-Alpine region; border region; regional development; cross border cooperation; Croatia

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