ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in this book. The book provides a comprehensive framework for better understanding the 'territorial dimension' of policies, while revealing crucial aspects of territorial elements associated with policy relevant research. It draws upon a Regional Studies Association (RSA) Research Network on a European Union (EU) Cohesion Policy Workshop, held in Lisbon University on 5–6 November 2015, which focused on discussing the 'territorial dimension' of EU Cohesion Policy. The book intends to provide an updated and fresh theoretical discussion on the precise meaning of the 'territorial dimension' of policies, which is still only vaguely understood, in both academic and political arenas. It presents several empirical findings on the implementation of specific territorial-focused and place-based financial instruments, very much associated with the goals of the Territorial Agenda and the EU goal of achieving a more cohesive EU territory.
