euroregiões

Euroregions are transnational territories that promote cooperation between bordering regions of different European countries. They are not formal administrative units but rather cooperative frameworks aimed at fostering economic, social, and cultural development across internal or external EU borders. The concept emerged to address common challenges and opportunities in border areas, such as infrastructure development, environmental protection, and cultural exchange.

The formation of a euroregion typically involves agreements between local and regional authorities from the participating countries. These agreements outline the objectives of cooperation, the governance structure, and the areas of collaboration. Common objectives include promoting cross-border economic activity, improving transport links, coordinating environmental policies, and supporting cultural initiatives that bridge national divides.

Examples of euroregions include the Rhine-Ems euroregion between Germany and the Netherlands, the Baltic euroregion involving countries around the Baltic Sea, and the Pyrenees euroregion spanning France and Spain. These initiatives often receive support from European Union funding programs designed to encourage cross-border cooperation and territorial cohesion. While euroregions lack supranational legal power, they serve as important platforms for dialogue and practical collaboration, contributing to a more integrated and cooperative European territory.