1.7 Significance of transnational and trans-border aspects

The need to consider international determinants in spatial planning appeared already in the 90's. It resulted from economic and political opening of Poland to the West as well as from the need to consider that fact in a long-term strategic planning of the country. During works on the concept of spatial management policy of the country, the international context has been already taken into consideration. It was reflected in the notion of ‘jointer-like' location of Poland. Poland was one of the initiators and actively participates in the programme of planning cooperation VASAB (Visions and Strategies around the Baltic Sea). The cooperation was also taken up by regional planners from Poland and Germany who worked out a common concept of trans-border cooperation. Most trans-border voivodships, towns and rural communes exchanges planning information, mainly informally, with the neighbours from the other side of the border. A significant role is played by Euroregions, especially those located alongside the western and southern border of Poland.

The trans-border cooperation within formal spatial planning is, however, restricted by legally established limitation of planning control in the area that comes within its jurisdiction. Despite their self-governmental competences, voivodships have no competence within international relations.