Regional policy, structural funds, and real convergence in the European Union

Abstract

This study is focused on Regional Policy of European Union, mainly on its effectiveness. It describes current history and evolution of Regional Policy. The main goal is to prove whether the fulfillment of its aims is successful. The stress is put on reducing gaps in life standards represented by GDP per capita between Member States and between Regions of Member States. The study also investigates functioning of Structural Funds -- main instrument of EU Regional Policy.