Cross-border Cooperation in Europe: Experience, Tools and Practice

This chapter provides an overview of the current analytical approaches and tools used in decoding and fostering cross-border co-operation (CBC) processes in Europe. Cross-border cooperation is understood either as a process for overcoming socio-political fractures between states, or as tool in which integrated regional continuity is generated. Within this perspective, CBC is also perceived as a process hindering the Westphalian principle of state sovereignty. Ultimately, CBC establishes a dynamic system of social, economic, legal and political actions that reduce the negative effects of administrative borders in the wake of the enlargement of the so-called Schengen area (ISIG, 2011). Cooperating across borders generates positive spillovers on the territories in which CBC operates, implying that promoting cross-border continuity develops the social and economic opportunities of people inhabiting border areas, thereby contributing to the European integration process. Yet, CBC remains a highly complex subject whose context and time-specific nature limits its comprehensive understanding. Taking stock of the research-led experience on CBC issues developed by ISIG - the Institute of International Sociology of Gorizia, this chapter considers the multifaceted nature and goals of CBC and the tools aiming at its promotion with a specific focus on those developed under the auspices of the Council of Europe.