Lara Devetak

Successes and challenges of the EGTC GO

In this interview, Lara Devetak, Director of the EGTC GO, provides insights into the establishment, objectives and successes of the European Grouping for Territorial Cooperation (EGTC) Gorizia, Nova Gorica and Šempeter-Vrtojba. She explains the challenges and organisational structure as well as the importance of cross-border cooperation for the regions involved.

The EGTC GO was founded in 2011 by the municipalities of Gorizia, Nova Gorica and Šempeter-Vrtojba. The aim was to create a legal instrument to overcome administrative barriers between different states. The EGTC GO is responsible for the territory of the three towns and is committed to the planning and implementation of joint projects. It no longer thinks in terms of separate municipalities, but in terms of a single cross-border city.

The EGTC GO faces the challenges of cooperation across national borders and plans and implements projects by acting as a single cross-border city.

Laura Devetak

Important steps in the history of the EGTC GO

Administration and decision-making

Since 2013, the EGTC GO has been working concretely thanks to intensive "field work". Committees that reflect the needs of the area are of fundamental importance. The assembly determined that the EGTC GO can decide for itself whether to apply Slovenian or Italian legislation in public procurement law. This was crucial for the implementation of the first ITI projects, including the "Nova Gorica-Gorizia European Capital of Culture 2025" project.

ITI funds and cross-border projects

The single beneficiary model enabled the EGTC GO to manage ITI funds and implement joint projects. This allows the EGTC GO to operate in both Italy and Slovenia in order to promote cross-border cooperation.

Organisational and personnel structure

The EGTC GO is based in Gorizia and works closely with all three founding municipalities. In view of the CEC2025 event, the staff has been increased to 13 employees, including administrative experts, accountants, architects and project managers. A significant part of the dissemination work is also carried out by the members of the Assembly and the committees.

Advice for new EGTCs

Lara Devetak emphasises the importance of shared values and goals for the success of an EGTC. Determination and confidence in one's own goals are crucial for long-term success.

Future plans and priorities

The EGTC GO is currently and in the coming years responsible for managing the title of "European Capital of Culture 2025". One example of ongoing projects is the redesign of Piazza Transalpina/Trg Evrope. Other project proposals focus on health, transport and sustainability.

Cooperation with the EGTC Alpine Pearls

Lara Devetak sees great potential for cooperation with the EGTC Alpine Pearls, particularly in "green" projects and sustainable transport. These joint topics could form the basis for future cooperation and lead to positive results for the communities and the environment.