The aim of the project is to examine capacities for cross-border co-operation and governance in CEE in anticipation of EU expansion. Cross-border region- building in Europe has developed in response to political and socio-economic challenges of integration as well as to opportunity structures provided by the EU. Still, its overall political (and problem- solving) significance in the context of enlargement is as yet unclear. The project seeks to contribute practical and scientific knowledge to this important policy area through 1) conceptualizing cross-border region-building as a product of social and spatial practices involving formal institutionalizations (explicit political constraints and opportunity structures) and informal integration (social interaction, participation of civil society), and 2) informing wider scientific and policy debate by providing empirical data.