ABSTRACT
The reform of the Structural Funds, encouraged by the entry into force of the European Single Act, marks the start of a new phase in European Economic Community (EEC) regional policy, the purpose of which is to reinforce the economic and social cohesion of the Community once the Single Market is implemented. The extensive regional differences already existing in the European Community could increase, causing a serious threat to the benefits which are expected to accrue from the disappearance of internal frontiers, since the market mechanism has not the capacity to distribute the benefits of integration equally.
