Transgression of European Border Regions: Using Borders as Catalysts for Collaboration

This discussion explores how European border regions can serve as catalysts for greater collaboration within Europe. It focuses on the transformation of borders, not only in a physical sense, but also in terms of governance, policy, and spatial thinking. Due to European unification, border regions are acquiring a new role, these areas are increasingly becoming spaces of opportunity, places where innovative ideas and collaborations can emerge.

New approaches to cross-border collaboration are needed. The book Grensland by Mark Eker and Henk van Houtum highlights some of these possibilities, offering fresh perspectives and exploring new ideas for re-imagining the potential of these regions.

While policymakers and politicians are often preoccupied with socioeconomic concerns, this discussion highlights the importance of the spatial characteristics of border regions. These should not be an afterthought, but a starting principle in shaping policy and planning. Border regions have the power to act as “quick starters”, ideal places to explore and implement new forms of cooperation. Yet, working across borders remains a challenge. Designers often feel restricted by national boundaries, and for policymakers, these obstacles are even more pronounced. There is often a sense that one cannot “draw” or intervene in another country’s territory.

This event invites policymakers, politicians, and designers to reflect on both the challenges and opportunities of working in border regions, and most importantly, to explore how these spaces can help lead the way toward a more connected and unified Europe.

Register here

Speakers

Mark Eker is a (regional designer at the Province of Noord-Holland, with a strong focus on cross-border regions in Europe. He is co-author of Grensland, a publication that explores the spatial, political, and cultural dynamics of European border areas. Through his work, Mark advocates for rethinking borders as spaces of connection rather than division. His practice combines design, research, and policy to highlight the untapped potential of these often-overlooked regions.

Program

9:30 Welcome and introduction by Alankrita Sarkar

9:40 Panel discussion

10:20 Q&A

10:30 Informal Networking with Coffee