Methodology Framework to Assess Regional Development Plans: A European Perspective Approach

This paper reviews the European Funding Programs impact on regional and economic development. The case study focuses “Eastern Macedonia & Thrace” (EMTH) Region, a region in nation of Greece. EMTH Region boasts number comparative advantages related to its strategic location, bordering Bulgaria North Turkey East. In addition, is one regions Greece with lowest GDP per capita. Moreover, great importance existing transport infrastructure, widespread network industrial areas, academic-R&D infrastructure dynamics many opportunities renewable energy sources. purpose evaluation Union programs, highlighting supporting main target these funding programs force enable sustainable social growth poorest neighborhoods order achieve average prosperity. framework analysis based an ex-post Regional Operational that “EMTH have participated since Greece's entry into Union. focused some large Support as Mediterranean Integrated (IMPs, 1986-1993), 1st Community Framework (CSF I) (1989-1993), 2nd II) (1994-1999), 3rd (CSF) (2000 -2006) well National Strategic Reference Frameworks (NSRF) (2007-2013) (2014-2020). Valuable conclusions were derived, mainly regarding absorption development features during this period.