The Current State and Future of the European Danube Region Strategy (EDRS)

The European Danube Region Strategy (EDRS) is a macro-regional development strategy and Action Plan for regions and countries in the Danube River Basin. Its purpose is to regulate the sustainable development of the Danube macro-region and the protection of its sites, landscapes and cultural values. The strategy plays a particularly important role in promoting sustainable transport, in linking energy systems, in environmental protection, and in the preservation of water resources in order to improve the business environment and offer a wide range of opportunities for economic development in the macro-region. This study presents the European Danube Region’s Strategic Action Plan and its priorities, paying special attention to Hungarian activities and businesses. The results of the EDRS are reflected in the international coordination and in the preparation of projects and major developments through resource allocation on the level of the EU and in Hungary. The author gives an overview of the future of European macro-regional strategies and the EDRS.