An investment in Europes present and future The added value of Transnational Co- operation at Project level under EQUAL Ruth Santos ECOTEC Research and Consulting

Introduction Purpose of the analysisPurpose of the analysis Based on 26 success stories from Development Partnerships in Round One drafted by the Member States representatives in the Transnational Working GroupBased on 26 success stories from Development Partnerships in Round One drafted by the Member States representatives in the Transnational Working Group An example of thematic work- a community of practiceAn example of thematic work- a community of practice

Working Transnationally under EQUAL EQUAL integrates national level innovation through partnership work with transnational collaboration and exchange of good practice. EQUAL emphasises co-operation between Member States to share positive and effective results across Europe.

Making a difference through Transnational Co-operation Learning from and about the differences: Transnational work has identified solutions that are applicable in different contexts and countries. Developing a true European mindset: Transnational co-operation has fostered formal and informal networks

Making a difference through Transnational Co-operation Using European diversity to strengthen the impact of the national Development Partnerships (DPs): Transnational co-operation increased the potential impact of the national DPs at local, regional and national level. It has also built capacity within the organisations by improving the quality, resources and awareness

Making a difference through Transnational Co-operation Fostering individual and collective empowerment: Transnational work increased self-confidence and self- assurance of individuals involved, and made participants aware of belonging to a large European family. Raising awareness: Transnational work raised awareness of different national Contexts and relevant EU developments.

Making a difference through Transnational Co-operation Making change possible: Transnational work has promoted the dissemination and transfer of results into policy and practice (mainstreaming): locallocal regionalregional nationalnational transnational levelstransnational levels

EUROPEAN COMMUNITY OF PRACTICE on the Re-Integration of Ex-Offenders GB and Germany leading the thematic workGB and Germany leading the thematic work Identified as an important issue:Identified as an important issue: Round 1: 26 DPs from 12 Member States working together in 6 TCAsRound 1: 26 DPs from 12 Member States working together in 6 TCAs Round 2: 52 DPs from 19 Member States co- operating within 14 TCAsRound 2: 52 DPs from 19 Member States co- operating within 14 TCAs MAs and SU were invited to take part. 7 finally joined.MAs and SU were invited to take part. 7 finally joined. Work programme agreed and 2 major events planned.Work programme agreed and 2 major events planned. Aim: to establish a European platform for sustaining the outcomes after EQUAL has come to an end.Aim: to establish a European platform for sustaining the outcomes after EQUAL has come to an end.

The added value of Transnational Co-operation from a project perspective Transnational work under EQUAL shows what really can be achieved when projects across Europe work together successfully and use European diversity to strengthen domestic activities. Across Europe, transnational work continues to offer the opportunity to exchange expertise and develop new approaches, thereby adding value to national initiatives