The regions as the backbone of Europe
In 1995, the three historical regions of Tyrol, the federal state of Tyrol and the Autonomous Provinces of Bozen and Trento instituted the first cross-border liaison office to the EU. The Representation of the European Region Tyrol-South Tyrol-Trentino to the EU has always been a splendid example of how neighbouring regions with many commonalities may join together at European level. The reasons for a common office are perfectly clear. By the end of World War I, the three regions had been connected for hundreds of years by their common history within the ancient county of Tyrol.
Furthermore, due to their geographical proximity in the Alps Tyrol, South Tyrol and Trentino represent the same interests in many respects. With Austria’s accession to the EU in 1995, the concept of a cross-border European region could be realised via a shared organisation in Brussels.
Despite strong initial reservations from the Italian and Austrian governments, the regional office was able to hold its ground and developed into a positive and effective regional office in Brussels. After ten years in rented offices, the three partners decided to buy a townhouse in proximity to the most relevant EU Institutions, i.e. the European Parliament, European Commission, European Council and the Committee of the Regions.
The office’s common aim is to represent the interests of the involved regions for the benefit of their local authorities and their citizens, in various areas such as regional policy, economy, environment, agriculture, social affairs, education and culture, acting as a link between the European Union and the regions.
By obtaining information and documents at an early stage, arranging contacts with important decision-makers at EU level, ensuring the follow-up of projects and dossiers, preparing and coordinating meetings and visits, and managing media and public relations, the office provides regional and local authorities, citizens, entrepreneurs and organisations in civil society with relevant information. As the alpine region is a very sensitive one it is important to assert common interests at the level of the European Institutions through lobbying activities.
Ten years of co-existence have proved that combined action is beneficial to all partners and that proximity to the European Institutions justifies the existence of a common liaison office in Brussels.
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