Development programmes

1. The purpose and aim of the EU investment

The programme’s overall aim is to produce a harmonious region founded on co-operation in combination with a sustainable and secure environment. This global objective has been broken down into five specific objectives by the participating countries. These are:
- Reducing isolation in border areas by improving cross-border accessibility;
- Supporting environmental sustainability and safety in the border zone;
- Creating synergies and co-operation within the economy;
- Managing the common cultural heritage with a view to promoting cultural values, traditions and tourism development;
- Strengthening cultural, educational and research interactions.

2. The expected impact of the investment

A series of indicators, applicable to each of the programme‘s priorities, has been developed by the participating countries in order to allow progress to be evaluated over the course of the programme’s implementation. Results will be measured in terms of: facilities built, reconstructed or refurnished; interventions on flood protection; developed studies, research efforts and strategies; developed observation/monitoring systems; impact on businesses; joint training and joint project implementation; new cross-border contacts, etc.

3. Priority axes

In order to achieve its objectives, the programme works on two main thematic priorities, with a third priority dedicated to the management of the programme (‘technical assistance’ priority). The Hungary-Serbia IPA Cross-border Co-operation Programme 2007-2013 is subdivided into the following priorities:

Priority 1: Infrastructure and environment [approximately 52% of total funding]
The aim of this first priority is to reinforce physical links between the two sides of the border in order to reduce the level of isolation within the area. It is also aimed at apportioning equal responsibility for improving the border region’s environmental heritage and waterways. The priority also supports infrastructure, environmental and water management development in the border region.

Priority 2: Economy, education and culture [approximately 38% of total funding]
This second priority is directed at supporting interactions between actors from both sides of the border as a means to enhance competitiveness, facilitate economic growth and create jobs. The priority is also aimed at supporting Research, Development and Innovation (RD&I) efforts on the part of research institutions and business partners acting within a co-operation framework, and at interactions between educational, research and cultural institutions in order to create a common educational and cultural space. Support is also being given to municipalities and non-governmental organisations that are willing to co-operate on the forging of a common regional identity.

Priority 3: Technical assistance [approximately 10% of total funding]
This third priority aims to contribute to effective project generation in order to increase overall project quality. It supports activities in connection with the preparation, selection and evaluation of projects.

4. Managing Authority