ABSTRACT
Cross-border co-operation and regional development at the eastern boundary of the European Union, particularly in the area of the German-Polish border region, are the subject of this chapter. The main focus is on the regional economic integration in the German-Polish border area. On the Polish side an expansion of low wage industries is frequently expected as a result of western firms’ strategies which relocate production to reduce costs; however, the other widespread strategy of opening up new markets is likely to “overlook” the border region. Cross-border regional integration is also impeded by communication barriers and a highly competitive regional economic environment. The last part of the chapter deals with the prospects of a “special enterprise zone” on the Polish side of the border area and with approaches to promote regionally based cross-border co-operation.
