Built Environment Symposium

The European Union pumps millions of Euros into developing regions. The aim is to strengthen structurally weak areas with bridges, motorways and restored old towns. Fair competition between regions should create a sustainable living space for all Europeans. How close has Europe come to achieving this aim? Can a political approach challenge inequalities using such instruments as space arrangement or financial balancing? Where and when does such approaches make sense?

Various examples can be used to explore the consequences of European or national funding models: at Alpbach this year we will hear from representatives from the Austrian community of Ottensheim, as well as other stakeholders from structurally weak and revitalised regions. We will invite them to share their experiences. During the Built Environment Symposium, we aim to show to what extent the European policy of cohesion and national financial redistribution can impact on people, communities and regions.