The Role of Local Communities in the Construction of the European Territory: Evidence from Romania

Authors

  • Dana Georgeta Alexandru Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.4335/15.3.605-624(2017)

Keywords:

local communities, European Union law, territorial cohesion, spatial planning, Romania

Abstract

European integration has notable impact on the territorial organization of Europe, especially after the adoption of the Treaty of Lisbon. Therefore, it became urgent to develop guidance and best practices in the fields of territorial cohesion, urban matters and spatial planning, including with regard to local governments. Despite complicated relations in a multi-level governance setting, or because of this setting, local governments are an integral part of the construction of an European territory. The paper argues that territorial cohesion and spatial planning goals will not be achieved without a complementary focus on local communities as the engines of growth. It aims to clarify issues relating the local communities’ role in shaping and implementing European strategies and concludes with some recommendations on territorial perspectives and new goals and tools that should drive the European Union towards higher democratic integration.

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Published

2017-06-28

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