Thematic Evaluation : Phare Cross-Border Cooperation Programmes 1999-2003 ; Phare Ex Post Evaluation. Phase 3, Thematic Evaluations – Cross-Border Cooperation

The purpose of this ex post thematic evaluation is to review the 1999-2001 Phare allocation for cross-border cooperation (CBC) programmes, as well as allocations in the 2002-2003 period.The overall objective of the evaluation is to provide accountability with respect to the use of European Commission funds. The evaluation draws conclusions, highlights lessons learned relevant for future cross-border initiatives, and makes recommendations. ... This ex post Thematic Evaluation Report has been prepared by the MWH Consortium between April 2006 and July 2006,1 and reflects the provision of Phare assistance through the Phare Cross-border Cooperation (CBC) Programmes between 1999 and 2003. The cut-off date of the Thematic Report is 1 May 2006. It addresses four Evaluation Questions focusing on: the contribution of Phare CBC programmes to preparation for INTERREG; impacts and sustainability of support; appropriateness of instruments used and the contribution of CBC to the Phare pre-accession strategy. The Thematic Report draws conclusions, makes recommendations and highlights lessons learned relevant for future cross-border initiatives under the Instrument for Pre-Accession and Neighbourhood Programmes. The thematic evaluation is based on an analysis of documents produced at the start, during and on completion of the CBC programmes, on interviews with European Commission at Headquarters and European Commission Delegations, CBC Implementing Agencies, beneficiaries of CBC activities across a sample of joint programmes in the new Member States, Bulgaria and Romania.