Governance

The Nordic Region has a long history and tradition of cross-border, interregional and intermunicipal collaborative governance. Nordregio builds on this legacy by researching innovative approaches to governance, focusing on the drivers, challenges, and enablers of regional cooperation.  

Our expertise spans key frameworks like territorial, collaborative, and multi-level governance. Through comparative and empirical studies, as well as evaluation of governance processes, we provide policymakers with practical insights to enhance collaboration in areas such as regional development, maritime spatial planning, climate issues and public services. Integral to our approach is empowering sub-national institutions and actors through promoting effective regional leadership practice and developing tools for citizen engagement that support inclusive participation. 

We also work directly with public authorities to develop place-based governance structures and smart specialisation strategies, integrating local knowledge into policymaking. Nordregio’s multidisciplinary team brings flexibility and diverse perspectives to address the unique knowledge needs of projects and partners, advancing sustainable governance practices across the Nordic Region.