javier Alfonso Gil Universidad Autónoma de Madrid

Research method Prospective interviews to determine key actors in cooperation and relevant projects. Review of bibliographical materials. On-line questionnaires (CAWI). In-depth face to face interviews. Focus on decentralized cooperation and Interreg program as well in Morocco cases. Telephone interviews. 34/50 answers obtained in Spain. 71/100 in transcontinental territories.

No impact With impact MinimalLittleModerateLargeVery Substantial International trade Foreign Direct Investment Commuting for work Tourism Social Commuting Migration Educational Exchange Source: Gorzelak, In-house compilation. Table 1 Impact of transcontinental cooperation on flows and exchanges (percentage out of respondents) TRANSCONTINENTAL COOPERATION Table 1 Impact of transcontinental cooperation on flows and exchanges (percentage out of respondents)

No impact With impact MinimalLittleModerateLargeVery Substantial Economic growth Job creation Quality of Life Quality of natural environment Service Provision Source: Gorzelak, In-house compilation. Table 2 Impact of transcontinental cooperation on socio-economic indicators (percentage out of respondents) TRANSCONTINENTAL COOPERATION

No impact With impact MinimalLittleModerateLarge Very Substantial International networking cooperation among firms Networking among NGOs Building mutual trust Joint project preparation Joint spatial planning TRANSCONTINENTAL COOPERATION Source: Gorzelak, In-house compilation. Table 3 Impact of transcontinental cooperation on specific activities (percentage out of respondents)

TRANSCONTINENTAL COOPERATION Territorial cooperation has a moderate impact on the general development process in transcontinental partners. International trade, tourism and educational exchanges have received a notably high impact. The results seem to be important enough for economic growth, quality of life and quality of natural environment. Instead of reduced impact observed, building mutual trust, joint project preparation and networking among NGOs are promising item for future cooperation.

MAIN FINDINGS The projects with the best results are those adapted to the area`s needs in agreement with its territorial development strategy. Synergies with different sources of funding have come out thanks to previous mutual trust. Bottom-up approach with many local actors involved. Main areas: administration, health, rural development policy and agriculture, cultural events and urban planning. Relations between partners, not as a aid-givers/receivers. The exchange of experiences and the transfer of ways to confront and solve common problems are indicated as the most valuable aspects of TC.

POLICY ADVISE The need of some type of top down approach for coordination activities. A more rigorous evaluation of the programs. Lack of financial funding. A clear commitment from EU to multi-annual programs and budgeting towards a matching funds among partners. Current partners should work in a dynamic of triangular cooperation