Transnational approaches

What does it mean to speak of a transnational dimension?

The INTERREG III programme (cf. Dosch et al. 2005, pg. 662) defined a clear cross-border/transnational character of activities – which is true also for the Alpine Space Programme.

A transnational dimension is given if operations and activities have been

jointly selected and
implemented in two or more member states or associates,
or implemented in only one state, but are significantly affecting other member states or associates.

While the first two criteria are relatively easy to verify, the latter may be difficult to assess and even more to quantify e.g. in the case of flood protection or transport infrastructure.

The relevance of transnational activities for spatial development is also expressed in the objectives of the Alpine Convention Protocol on Spatial Development Article 4. Consequently, transnational needs and requirements of spatial development would refer to

spatially relevant issues that require activities of two or more member states
or to needs or activities of one member state that have far-reaching consequences that also affect other member states or such consequences can be obviously concluded from the type of activity.