The Analysis of the Polish-German Cooperation within the Framework of Interreg. Cooperation Programs in the Financial Perspectives 2014–2020 and 2021–2027: Case Studies

Abstract

Goal – The article aims to provide a comprehensive comparative assessment of the Polish-German cross-border cooperation within the Interreg framework across the 2014–2020 and 2021–2027 financial perspectives. Its purpose is to identify thematic continuitiesand shifts, to evaluate the strategic role of the selected flagship projects, and to analyse how evolving EU priorities – particularly innovation, climate transition, digitalisation, and trust-building – shape cooperation along the Polish-German border. Research methodology – The study applies a qualitative research design based on the in-depth content analysis of programme documents, official data published by Interreg managing authorities, project descriptions, evaluation reports, and complementary academic sources. A comparative analytical framework is used to examine the three Interreg A programmes (Mecklenburg–Vorpommern / Brandenburg–Poland, Brandenburg–Poland, Poland–Saxony) across two programming periods. Three model projects from 2014–2020 were selected using criteria related to representativeness, data availability, and thematic diversity. Score/results – The analysis demonstrates strong continuity in the areas of natural and cultural heritage, education, tourism, and institutional cooperation, which remain the backbone of the Polish-German cross-border partnerships. At the same time, the 2021–2027 programmes show a qualitative shift toward innovation, climate adaptation, biodiversity protection, and enhanced social trust. Case studies confirm tangible cross-border impacts: improved mobility infrastructure, strengthened management of joint natural heritage, and increased interoperability of emergency services. Evaluation reports referenced in the study indicate measurable outcomes, including increases in tourist flows (up to 15%), strengthened community contacts (up to 25%), improved crisis-response capacity (approx. 30%), and persistent administrative and linguistic barriers affecting long-term sustainability. Originality/value – The article offers one of the few systematic comparisons of all the Polish-German Interreg A programmes across two programming periods, enriched with empirical evidence from evaluation studies and project-level analysis. It highlights the maturation of cross-border cooperation as a policy laboratory for the EU, showing how investment in infrastructure, environment, culture, and crisis management generates broader social and institutional cohesion. The findings provide practical value for policymakers, programme managers, and regional stakeholders, offering guidance for designing next-generation cross-border initiatives aligned with EU priorities such as the European Green Deal and digital transformation.