ABSTRACT

The regional policy of the European Union (EU) in order to reduce inequalities deal with the a set of basic elements: the need of regional policy, the presence of an institutional model and the participation of regions, a set of operating principles, a development objectives with territorial orientation and financial instruments for regional development. The present paper examines the result of this policy and its various elements in Spain. The methodology consisted of the review of variables and findings documented in various studies, monitoring of a set of indicators, which affect the structural funds. It concluded that the financial instruments have been emphasized in particular on the creation of infrastructure and human capital formation; have an impact on national convergence with the EU, but on the regional convergence has been lower. Success is more on improvement institutional, linked to the Regional Development, from the point view of programme management and coordination between national and regional plans, improved institutional evaluation, which has strengthened by public investment.