The Institute of the Regions of Europe (IRE) was founded in 2004 by Prof. Dr. Franz Schausberger, former President of the Land Salzburg. The main aim was to create a platform for municipalities, regions and enterprises from all over Europe in order to point out the increasing importance of regions and municipalities in European politics and in economic development. With its activities and initiatives, the IRE supports decentralization and regionalization and provides expertise for strengthening these respective processes. A small but competent team in Salzburg offers consulting for regions, municipalities, enterprises, and institutes.
With its impartial and non-profit character, the IRE wishes to cut informational deficits and to foster the economic potentials of the European regions. Cross-border cooperation is seen as a fundamental instrument for supporting social cohesion and sustainable economic development. Currently, more than 130 member regions, municipalities, cities and towns as well as enterprises from 23 European countries comprise their network. They work on behalf of their members and they look forward to expanding their network.
Mission Statement
Principles
European and Regional
Their activities focus on the European regional level. They work in close contact with decision makers from the political and economic systems as well as with the civil society from all European countries. As supporters of the European integration process, they adhere to the European principles of tolerance, international understanding, and subsidiarity.
Credibility and Professionalism
Seriousness is their first priority. They communicate with diplomats, representatives of politics and the European Union every day. They are obliged to work professionally in order to reach their goals and to fulfill the expectations and requirements of their members.
Science and Practice
Where different interests intersect, they combine both scientific and practical work. They pursue an interdisciplinary approach and combine expertise from politics, economics, and law.
Sustainability and Success Oriented
More than 130 regions, municipalities, cities, towns and companies have become members of the IRE network. They are connected by the interest to turn their ideas into action and to strengthen the importance of regional and local levels in the political decision-making process. The IRE helps them by providing a robust network of important decision makers and by offering their expertise in the areas of regionalization and decentralization of different political areas.
