Structural Funds in the Light of the European Union regional Policy Development

Abstract

The paper deals with development and functioning of European Union Structural Funds (European Social Fund, European Fund for Regional Development,Guidance Section of European Agricultural Guidance and Guarantee Fund and Financial Instrument for Fisheries Guidance) and Cohesion Fund, according to the development of the EU regional policy and determining of regional priorities. Each of these funds serves the realization of regional policy specifc goals, and all tohether they contribute to the regional development, reducing disparities between European regions and supporting their cooperation. Funds distribution and functioning of Structural Funds is based on certain common principles, created in accordance with reforms in the Community: Delors’ packages, Agenda 2000, Union enlargement in 2004 and 2007, etc.