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Cross-border
economic
development
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Cross-cutting themes in cross-border economic development
Employment and training
This is why employment and vocational training are frequently the first
issues tackled by cross-border governance on the northern and eastern
borders of France. In the territories with the largest differentials (North
Lorraine, French Greater Geneva), where in some cases over 50% of
workers cross the border to work, improvements in mobility options
for households (which sometimes have few professional opportunities
in their place of residence) are the first form of cross-border economic
development. This objective is also ultimately compatible with that of
residence/workplace rebalancing. For example, the CEVA project for
the construction of a cross-border train service between Geneva and
Annemasse should also lead to the development of a business centre
close to Annemasse station.
Removing obstacles to cross-border mobility requires structural
and long-term initiatives.
It is not merely necessary to support job
seekers in their search for employment on the other side of the border,
but also to think upstream about the employability of potential cross-
border workers.
Cross-border cooperation in the area of employment focuses on
addressing issues relating to in-service and vocational training
(apprenticeships), instruction in the language spoken in the
neighbouring country, equivalence of diplomas and recognition of
experience and qualifications.
© European Union, 2005
INFOBEST Kehl/Strasbourg