ABSTRACT
It is important to stress that the processes of decentralization began before European integration gained momentum in the middle of the 1980s. But the European integration process has added dynamics to the process of decentralization; and it has worked as a catalyst and has delivered the necessary arguments for reforms. Considering the dynamics of the European integration process and the strength of the mere presence of the European Union, it is not surprising that all the Nordic regions were 'Europeanized'. The mental aspect of the Europeanization process should not be underestimated, neither in the regions nor in the national associations of regions. It comes as no surprise that the Norwegian regions are the least involved in the national EU decision-making, considering that Norway only has a peripheral role in the EU decision-making system as a member of the European Economic Area.
