Cross-border cooperation at the local level. The inhabitants’ of the district of Kłodzko opinions on the cooperation with the Czech partner

Abstract

The study, carried out with the use of in-depth interviews, comprised two communities of the Kłodzko district: Nowa Ruda (rural community) and Szczytna. They referred to the perceptions of cross-border cooperation. The cooperation was initiated in the 90s of the twentieth century. Since the accession of Poland and the Czech Republic to the EU it has been intensified. Cross-border cooperation is not the subject well-known to the residents of these communities. They evaluate these actions positively as contributing to a better mutual understanding and frequent direct contacts between Poles and Czechs. This cooperation has a significant impact on the positive perception of the southern neighbours. Many speakers even considered the Czech Republic as a model of economy. This assessment was, however, superficial and was not supported by any specific evidence. Cross-border cooperation in the district of Kłodzko concerns mainly such spheres as tourism and culture, and it is mostly coordinated by the municipal offices and their subordinate units. The involvement of NGOs in these processes is, in the opinion of respondents, hardly noticeable. To strengthen the cooperation it would be necessary to improve the communication network, in particular railway connections.