Ms Gabriela Carmen Pascariu (p), Ms Georgeana-Ionela Cautis

Although one of the constant topic in the Romanian public debats is that of absorption capacity, the fundamental problem in Romania is that of difficulties in implementation (generating a high cost-benefit ratio) and in maximizing impact. Being at the beginning of 2026 at a level of total EU payments of 26% (compared to an EU average of 21%), Romania seems to confirm an absorption capacity that keeps pace with the general dynamics at European level in the implementation of cohesion policy. But what is the relationship on the ground? Can the implementation system be improved to reduce costs and maximize benefits? Is cohesion policy correlated with Romania's strategic development priorities, in the broader context of priorities at European level?
Using both quantitative and qualitative data collected through a survey addressed to representatives of central and regional administrations, local authorities, non-governmental organisations, and private sector actors, this paper examines how actors involved in the implementation of regional policy in Romania assess structural bottlenecks, thematic priorities, and institutional constraints affecting regional performance during the 2021–2027 programming period. It investigates perceptions regarding: (i) regional development traps (infrastructure deficits, limited administrative capacity, labour force out migration, procedural complexity), (ii) the effectiveness of operational programme implementation and the determinants of EU funds absorption, (iii) the integration of key EU strategic priorities (Green Deal, Digital Compass, resilience, energy security, circular economy), and (iv) the need for administrative simplification and strengthened multi-level governance. We tried to pinpoint areas of agreement and disagreement regarding the necessity of modifying the budgetary framework, streamlining regulatory processes, increasing financial flexibility, and fortifying monitoring tools, in order to better direct EU resources toward regional convergence, innovation, and sustainability, as well as to identify strategic directions for the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework.
Methodologically, the research combines descriptive analysis of Likert-scale data with interregional comparative examination, aiming to identify convergences and divergences in institutional actors’ perceptions. The expected findings are likely to highlight the tension between the EU’s strategic orientation towards green and digital transitions and the domestic administrative constraints that limit effective implementation at regional level. The paper contributes an empirical perspective on the adaptive capacity of Cohesion Policy in a Central and Eastern European Member State, outlining implications for the future design of regional policy, budgetary flexibility, performance-oriented conditionalities, and the architecture of European territorial cooperation.

Dr. Tamar Arieli (p)

This study examines technologically based remote work as a potential means to overcome regional peripherality—an issue that remains largely underexplored. It evaluates the theoretical and practical potential of remote work to facilitate inter-regional integration and regional development, focusing on its impacts on employment, income, and population retention in selected peripheral regions of Israel. The analysis draws on theoretical perspectives of regional development, peripherality, and technology-mediated labor mobility.

Remote work has emerged as a technology-driven transformation in the organization of labor, expanding economic possibilities beyond geographic constraints. Beyond enhancing individual work flexibility, it offers potential tools for strengthening inter-regional integration and mitigating spatial inequalities. However, despite its global prominence, the developmental dimensions of remote work have received little systematic study, and its role in reducing peripheral disadvantage remains uncertain.

Recent global labor market trends reveal a growing push by corporations to return employees to offices, restricting or eliminating remote work options. This reversal undermines one of the most promising opportunities for peripheral-region workers, who anticipated greater access to high-quality employment and career advancement through remote connection to metropolitan labor markets. The tension between early expectations and current reversals underscores the necessity of reassessing remote work’s developmental potential and limitations.

The research aims to assess the extent, potential, and barriers of remote work in addressing regional disparities and promoting equitable development. Using qualitative methodologies, it draws on sector-based data, fieldwork, surveys, media analysis, and in-depth interviews—both online and in person—with employers, employees, and local and national officials. This multi-actor approach allows examination of the frequently assumed “win-win” nature of remote work for both firms and regional populations.

Preliminary findings show that low levels of digital connectivity and limited infrastructure in peripheral areas severely constrain remote work opportunities. Rather than constituting an inclusive labor transformation, remote work has become a selective privilege concentrated among urban professionals with stable digital access and organizational support. Peripheral regions, meanwhile, continue to face brain drain and limited local economic growth.

This study contributes to broadening the theoretical understanding of remote work by identifying structural and policy obstacles to its equitable diffusion. It seeks to produce regionally grounded policy recommendations to better harness the potential of remote work in reducing spatial inequality and fostering inter-regional integration.

Dr. Garri Raagmaa (p)

This research analyzes the impact of manors as innovation hubs on population development and on remote rural areas in Estonia after the post-COVID-19 era of expanding remote work and the second-home boom.
Manors have been dominant drivers of the rural economy for centuries, serving as employers and innovators. According to the observations, the well-kept manor complex possesses a considerably better demographic situation in the nearby area. The manor's influence on the place's spirit and identity is the inhabitants' pride and attachment to the place. Hypothetically, well-maintained and used manors surrounding villages have a considerably better demographic profile and higher real estate prices.
We will design a comparative analysis of manor and non-manor settlements using 2021 and previous censuses' village-level population data, the Estonian Land Board transactions database, the manor's database, and the business register. As the intensity of manor utilization depends considerably on their accessibility and location, the intention is to focus on the remote areas that make up 50% of Estonia's territory, but which are home to only about 10% of the population. Another criterion is the maintenance and functionality of manors, which is why a corresponding typology is needed. Then we intend to carry out selected case studies in the pre-defined manor-type villages, investigating:
• place attachment and identity,
• stories about manors and places,
• local cultural and social capital, and
• innovations that have been introduced in the closest vicinity to the manors.