Ems Dollart Region
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Established in 1977, The Ems Dollart Region (EDR) is a cross-border organisation in the northern Dutch-German border area. Its aim is to establish and improve contacts between people, companies and organisations within the border region. The organization is based in the Dutch border village of Bad Nieuweschans. Here, the office has developed into a Dutch-German meeting point, where cross-border meetings and other activities occur. The office also serves as a launching point for many cross border projects.
Members
The EDR consists of approximately 100 members including: Municipalities from the Dutch provinces of Groningen, Drenthe and Friesland, as well as from the German regions of East-Frisia, the Emsland and parts of the Cloppenburg region. Additionally, regional associations such as Chambers of Commerce and Industry are represented.
Goals and Tasks
Since its establishment, the EDR has shown interest in the areas of planning, infrastructure, culture and developing the regional economy. However, the EDR places special emphasis on its efforts to develop and intensify the contacts between the populations on both sides of the German-Dutch border.
In order to reach these goals, the EDR provides financial assistance for regional cross-border initiatives. The basis for these activities is provided by the contributions of EDR members. In addition, the EDR receives financial support from the Dutch provinces of Groningen, Drenthe and Friesland, as well as project associated contributions from the German federal state of Lower-Saxony. An important contributor to the activities of the EDR is the European Union, which contributes to cross-border activities as a part of its INTERREG-IVA program. This program provides subsidies to projects in the following areas: economy, technology and innovation, sustainable regional development, as well as integration and society.
Throughout the years, numerous contacts and networks have been established between the people, businesses and organizations on both sides of the European inner-border. As a result of this closer interaction, participants realise that there remain significant obstacles to overcome. Differences in legal systems present the most significant obstacle to cross-border cooperation, but also differing cultures and customs can add to the difficulties of cross-border initiatives.
EDR Council
The EDR Council is the highest body of the EDR and consists of two representatives from each member. The EDR Council gathers twice a year to receive news on important projects and developments at the EDR.
Board of Directors
The EDR Board of Directors is elected in two year terms by the EDR Council. It consists of sixteen members, eight from Germany and eight from the Netherlands. Generally, the board sits monthly and prepares cross-border projects and initiatives. Further, the board represents the interests of the region in regional, national and European conventions. The position of chairman rotates between a German and Dutch representative every two years.