Would you like to see first-hand how other border regions are overcoming obstacles that hinder cross-border cooperation? What if you could visit another border region and discover how it has managed to address a cross-border obstacle similar to yours?
Until 16/09/2026, a new call for applications is open for the Border Regions Peer Exchange on Solving Border Obstacles programme, offering 100 participants the opportunity to gain first-hand insight into concrete experiences and solutions for addressing administrative, legal and governance obstacles to cross-border cooperation.
The initiative is promoted by the European Commission, through DG REGIO, and the CEER Foundation, in collaboration with the Association of European Border Regions (AEBR). The call is aimed at organisations involved in cross-border cooperation, including public administrations, universities, EGTCs/ECTs, Euroregions, development agencies, chambers of commerce and other relevant organisations.
10 peer exchange visits will be organised, lasting 2 to 3 days each, between November 2026 and January 2027. Each visit will provide an opportunity to explore real-life cases, exchange experiences and learn from other regions facing similar cross-border challenges.
In addition, the 50 highest-ranked applicants may receive financial support of up to €750 to cover travel and accommodation expenses.
The ‘Rio Minho case’
One of the planned visits is “Minho River Natura 2000: Boosting cross-border multi-level governance”, hosted by the Rio Minho EGTC (European Grouping of Territorial Cooperation of the Rio Minho). This exchange will focus on strengthening cross-border multi-level governance in the conservation and management of Natura 2000 sites along the Spain-Portugal border, building on the experience developed through the b-solutions initiative.
📅 Application deadline: 16 September 2026, at 17:00 CET.
More information and application form: visitors.borderexchange.fceer.org