Podcast on 'A Europe from below': Matteo Bianchi on regional roles

Context

In brief

• Podcast on EU policies and the role of regions with Matteo Bianchi
• Distinction between 'top-down' and 'bottom-up' Europe
• Cohesion funds to reduce inequalities

Key facts

• What: Podcast on EU policies and the role of regions
• When: 2026

• Who: Matteo Bianchi, Massimo Gaudina, Vincenzo Salvatore
• Amount: Not specified

In the podcast episode “Hands off Europe,” European official Massimo Gaudina, Insubria University professor Vincenzo Salvatore, and Vice President of the Committee of the Regions Matteo Bianchi delved into the role of cohesion policies and the weight of local autonomies in European decisions. The discussion highlighted how Brussels' choices directly impact territories and the daily lives of citizens.

At the heart of the debate is the distinction between a 'top-down' Europe and a 'bottom-up' Europe. In the former, decisions come from central institutions with the goal of standardizing territories. In the latter, the process is built from the bottom up, valuing local specificities. 'We need a subsidiary approach that starts from the territories' – emphasized Matteo Bianchi, Vice President of the Committee of the Regions – highlighting the need to overcome an excessively centralist vision. In this perspective, regions and municipalities become key players in bringing needs and priorities to Brussels.

The role of cohesion funds

Ample space is dedicated to cohesion policies, considered one of the main tools of the European Union to reduce economic and social inequalities. Structural funds finance infrastructure, support employment, and accompany territories in development processes. For Italy, these are significant resources that in some regions have a substantial impact on public budgets. Not just economic transfers, but strategic levers to rebalance differences between more and less developed areas.

Participatory governance

The model described by the speakers is one of participatory governance. Regions negotiate directly with the European Commission and contribute to the definition of policies through the Committee of the Regions, a consultative body that expresses opinions on regulations impacting territories. 'European legislation largely concerns the life of local communities' – stated Vincenzo Salvatore, professor at Insubria University – an aspect that makes the involvement of autonomies fundamental.

Difficulties in spending funds

Criticities are not lacking. Among these, the ability to program and especially to spend the resources. The so-called 'grounding' of the funds remains one of the main issues, with marked differences between Italian regions. A limit that also opens the debate on possible simplifications, but with the risk – highlighted in the discussion – of reducing the role of territories in favor of a more centralized management.

The value of European solidarity

In conclusion, the speakers recall the solidaristic principle of the European Union. A mechanism that cannot be read only in terms of balance between what a State contributes and what it receives, but as a common investment to guarantee stability and development in the long term.

The appointment with Gaudina and Salvatore on Materia is scheduled for May 12 at 9 PM. The process of European integration, from the origins of the Schuman Declaration and the Ventotene Manifesto, is today put to the test of history. The European Union is at a crossroads: renew itself or risk decline. There is a question about the possibility of new forms of integration.

Operational details

Implications for Cross-Border Workers

Cohesion policies and participatory governance have a significant impact on cross-border workers who commute to Ticino from Italy. Structural funds can finance infrastructure that improves the quality of life and working conditions, such as more efficient public transport and improved healthcare services. This is particularly relevant for cross-border workers who cross the border daily to reach their workplace.

Comparison of Governance Models

The 'bottom-up' model promoted by Matteo Bianchi could lead to greater attention to the specific needs of cross-border workers. For example, regions could negotiate with the European Commission to obtain funds aimed at improving border infrastructure, such as the Brogeda and Gaggiolo crossings, making the passage between Italy and Switzerland more fluid. This could reduce waiting times and improve the daily experience of cross-border workers.

Challenges in Managing Funds

The ability to spend cohesion funds represents a significant challenge. Differences between Italian regions in managing these funds can lead to inequalities. For cross-border workers, this could mean that some regions benefit from better infrastructure and services than others. It is essential that regions improve their programming and spending capacity to ensure that funds are used effectively and benefit all citizens, including cross-border workers.

The Role of the Committee of the Regions

The Committee of the Regions plays a crucial role in ensuring that European regulations take into account local needs. For cross-border workers, this means that their concerns and needs can be brought to the attention of European institutions. For example, the Committee could express opinions on regulations concerning cross-border work, such as employment conditions and workers' rights, contributing to the creation of a fairer and more favorable working environment.

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Key points

What cross-border workers can do

For cross-border workers who wish to benefit from cohesion policies and participatory governance, it's important to stay informed and actively participate in local decision-making processes. Here are some concrete steps:

1. Stay informed about local policies: Keep up-to-date with initiatives and projects funded by cohesion funds in your regions. This can help you better understand how these policies can impact your daily life. 2. Participate in public consultations: Join public consultations organized by local and regional authorities to express your opinions and needs. This is a way to make your voice heard and influence decisions that affect the community. 3. Contact local representatives: Reach out to local and regional representatives to discuss your concerns and suggest improvements. Representatives can bring these concerns to the Committee of the Regions and help formulate more effective policies. 4. Utilize available funds: Take advantage of available cohesion funds to improve local infrastructure and services. This can include participating in local development projects or applying for funding for initiatives that improve quality of life.

Useful Tools

For cross-border workers who want to delve deeper into cohesion policies and participatory governance, there are several useful tools available on the Frontaliere Ticino website. For example, the salary calculator can help you better understand the tax implications of European policies. Additionally, the cost-of-living section provides detailed information on living costs in Ticino and neighboring regions, helping cross-border workers plan their finances better.

Conclusion

Cohesion policies and participatory governance represent an important opportunity to improve the lives of cross-border workers. Actively participating in local decision-making processes and taking advantage of available funds can make a difference. By using the tools available on the Frontaliere Ticino website, cross-border workers can stay informed and make more conscious decisions for their future.

Source: varesenews.it