Carpathian Euroregion as a Form of cross-border Cooperation in Europe

Abstract

The Carpathian Euroregion is considered as an important asset of the Central European regions, which have joined forces for a coordinated pro-European policy, strengthening multilateral relations at the state and local levels in many areas. The evolution of the Carpathian Euroregion as one of the main forms of cross-border cooperation is analyzed. The main aspects of the formation of the Carpathian Euroregion are revealed. The influence of the complex historical past as well as the complex present of the Euroregions on the accession of the countries to the Carpathian Euro region and the evolution of the attitude of Ukraine, Poland, Slovakia, Romania and Hungary to cross-border cooperation within the Carpathian Euroregion are analyzed. Regional cooperation in the Carpathian region has been investigated in the present conditions, in particular the main directions of cooperation within the Carpathian Euroregion are examined and plans for further activities are highlighted. The changes and prevailing trends in the functioning of the Carpathian Euroregion are evaluated. The study demonstrated the dynamic and progressive development of transfrontier co-operation within the Carpathian Euroregion, which intensifies inter-institutional contacts and generates projects that enhance integration processes. In addition, the study found that. thanks to interregional links and contacts, four countries of the Carpathian Euro region have become members of the European Union, which has given the Euroregion legal autonomy and the ability to influence the expenditure side of European Union funds. It is established that a proper institutional and regulatory framework provides countries with equal implementation and implementation of various initiatives and projects and directly helps Ukraine to integrate confidently into Europe