In English - International cooperation

International cooperation contributes to strengthening and further developing the work within the different areas of Region Östergötland.

Mission

Sharing experiences with regions in other countries generates new insights which increase knowledge and provides inspiration for the development process. Participating in international projects, co-financed by the EU, gives Region Östergötland opportunities to implement already planned development initiatives. It also increases the effectiveness of the region’s work. The aim is to make the international perspective an integrated part of the region’s work, and that all units within the region to regularly participate in some kind of international exchange.

Activities

Region Östergötland is engaged in a number of activities in the international arena. The region manages and participates in a wide range of international projects, and is part of different international networks and organizations within prioritized areas. Region Östergötland’s EU office in Brussels works with external monitoring and maintains contact with the EU institutions and other regions in Europe.

Issues regarding the Baltic Sea area are a particualry priority. Region Östergötland actively participates in cooperation around the Baltic Sea and follows the implementation of the EU Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region, EUSBSR. Region Östergötland is also responsible for one of the two Swedish Contact Points for the EU cross-border Interreg Central Baltic Programme during the 2021-2027 programme period.

Policy governance

The Regional Executive Committee has the overall strategic responsibility for international cooperation. The Regional Development Committee, the Transport and Urban Planning Committee and the Health Care Committee are responsible for international cooperation within their respective areas.