ABSTRACT
How can border regions adjust to the challenges of globalisation and the transformation of national borders from barriers to contact zones? This contribution addresses this question from the perspective of political science and organisational theory. First, it is shown how continental integration processes and new production regimes create new paradigms which stimulate stronger economic and political co-operation across national borders. Second, in order to understand political institution building processes the interdependence of the cross-border arena with many other political arenas has to be recognised. Finally, some suggestions for designing institutions for active cross-border regions are provided. A complementary variety of different institutions provides the best opportunities for innovation, social learning and democratic responsiveness.
