For centuries, the neighboring nations of Spain and Portugal have shared not only geographic proximity, but also a rich history of cross-border interactions. This longstanding relationship has witnessed the development of trade, culture, and innovation. In this Good Practice article, we highlight the RAIA project as a testament to their enduring collaboration, seeking to address contemporary challenges plaguing their shared border region through innovative cross-border solutions.

What

The RAIA project, which launched in September 2023, embodies a commitment to improving the lives of cross-border citizens. These regions face challenges such as population decline, demographic aging, inadequate investment, and geographical isolation. The project's central aim is to develop an Action Plan designed to mitigate these issues.

The project's methodology centers around creating a collaborative network between Spain and Portugal, with a specific focus on identifying the needs for rural innovation within the Euroregion AAA, consisting of the border regions of Algarve, Baixo Alentejo, and Huelva. To address these issues, the project will craft a cross-border action plan, pinpointing relevant social actors and agricultural innovation projects that align with genuine requirements. The overarching goal is to construct a comprehensive catalog of innovation challenges, ultimately aiming to enhance living conditions within these regions.

Who

The RAIA project is led by the Agrarian and Fisheries Management Agency (AGAPA). It also involves the participation of CIMBAL (Comunidade Intermunicipal do Baixo Alentejo), and the Local Development Deputy of Huelva.

Where

The RAIA project held its inaugural meeting in the town of Almendro, and primarily involves the Euroregion AAA consisting of the Algarve, Baixo Alentejo, and Huelva. Its scope extends to a cross-border region known as La Raya (in Spanish) and La Raia (in Portuguese), encompassing more than 15 municipalities along a vast expanse spanning 1,214 kilometers.

How

The €1M budget project will be co-financed 75% by the ERDF through the POCTEP programme.

Results

The RAIA project aspires to promote synergies between Spanish and Portuguese regions, channeling efforts towards wealth generation and social solutions. By confronting shared challenges such as depopulation and demographic aging, the project strives to improve the quality of life in rural areas within the Euroregion AAA, with the aim of extending its results to the whole cross-border area. This collaborative initiative demonstrates a commitment to addressing societal needs and strengthening these territories, as it bridges public and private sector efforts for the greater benefit of society and the region.

Find out more about the project here!