EuroRaum

EuroRaum is a transnational European platform that coordinates research, policy analysis, and pilot projects related to urban space, regional development, and cultural heritage within Europe. It unites universities, research institutes, city administrations, and cultural organizations in a collaborative network designed to address cross-border spatial challenges.

Founded in 2012 by a coalition of stakeholders across five countries, EuroRaum operates through regional nodes and a central coordinating secretariat. Its stated aims include advancing evidence-based spatial policy, promoting inclusive urban design, and supporting the conservation of European cultural landscapes while enabling functional mobility and housing growth.

Its activities cover collaborative research, comparative urban studies, data standardization, and the dissemination of best practices. The network hosts annual conferences, joint research projects, and an open-access portal that publishes indicators, policy briefs, and case studies. Pilot projects in selected cities test interoperable planning tools, shared GIS datasets, and cross-border governance approaches.

Governance is carried out by a rotating steering board with representatives from academia, local government, and civil society. The secretariat coordinates funding sourced from European Union programs, member contributions, and research grants. While EuroRaum has been credited with improving cross-border exchange and providing a neutral platform for dialogue, it faces challenges such as bureaucratic complexity, data protection considerations, and the sustainability of long-term funding.

See also: European Union; spatial planning; urban design; cross-border cooperation.