Barbara DEMETEROVA, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich (LMU) / Department of Geography, Germany
Given the turn towards stronger place-based governance tools in European territorial policies, the challenge remains when it comes to the implementation of sustainable and integrated local measures. Thus, the present article looks at the place specific dynamics that shape the incentives for change towards transformative, sustainable and cohesive development from an actors’ perspective. Since local structures and individual motivation shape regional patterns and policy outcomes, we ask for the specific components enabling long-term change processes. By reflecting on European territorial policy measures under the new funding period, regional governance, interaction and capacity building structures, the article points towards the need for a stronger reflection on systems dynamics and collective action processes. Therefore, we argue that a stronger focus on awareness, knowledge and capacity building within territorial governance is needed to stabilise implementation and qualify future change agents to advocate for resilient, sustainable and cohesive territorial processes in a context sensitive way. Looking at two cities in comparison, namely Thessaloniki and Lisbon, gives the possibility to see actual regional needs, while involving actor centred perspectives on local development, change and implementation of sustainability directed urban policies.
Mots clés : urban governance|sustainable transformation|knowledge and capacity building|European territorial cohesion
A104690BD