Sub-Projects – Theme 2 – Labour markets

What has been done so far?

To answer the initial needs and to pursue the objectives, the SWG adopted a case-study approach. From January until April 2007, five in-depth case studies of existing cross-border co-operations were carried out which aimed to promote a knowledge-based development. The research study was delegated to the European Institute for Comparative Urban Research (Euricur) which is based at the Erasmus University Rotterdam. Euricur has a lot of experience with international comparative research focusing on both scientific rules and practical relevance.

In each case study, the research institute conducted 8-10 face-to-face interviews with key informants/stakeholders (representatives of local and regional governments, the private sector, public-private partnerships, educational institutions, etc.) in order to gain an insight into the co-operation. The list of meeting partners was assembled in consultation with the participating cities/regions. The participating region was responsible for organising and planning the interviews.

At the first meeting on 8th February 2007, the partners got to know each other and presented their cities, border regions and cross-border activities. The research institute Euricur explained the methodology of the study. The discussion gave detailed answers to questions concerning the relevant projects, issues and interview partners for the study. Furthermore, the benefits of cross-border co-operation in the future, either within trans-national networks or within territorial co-operation were discussed.

The second meeting took place on 26th June 2007 in the framework of the international Final Conference in Aachen. Euricur presented an Intermediate Report which was discussed with the partners and further experts. The key speaker Dr. Martin Hinoul, Business Development Manager of the Technology Region Leuven, also gave an interesting input with his presentation "ELAT - A Knowledge Economy Region in Europe" explaining essential conditions for the success in the knowledge economy.

The Final Report will be developed including the fruitful discussions of the final meeting. It will be presented during the Final Conference of the RFO "Change on Borders" on 23rd October 2007 in Düsseldorf.

For further information, please see also
www.euricur.nl
Draft Conceptual Framework
Knowledge Roadmap Intermediate Report.