ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the extent and the ways that this intensive and systematic search tackles, or aims to tackle, the economic, spatial, and political proximity of European ports. It explains analytically the various reasons why European ports are today more proximate than ever. The chapter presents the progress towards a European Port Policy (EPP) and analyses the ways that this policy advances, restricts, or imposes the potential of ports to develop strategies and practices addressing 'proximity'. It explores specific influence of the EPP on port governance. The chapter highlights the proximity issue from the main EPP pillars, integrating European transport systems, sustainable port development and level playing field. The EPP objective to clarify competition rules and create a level playing field for all ports inter-relates with issues of 'proximity'. The new EPP finally highlights the importance of establishing both a level playing field and co-operation with ports in third countries neighbouring the European Union.
