A delegation of the European Union's local and regional representatives has gathered in Balatonfüred, Hungary for a seminar organised by the European Committee of the Regions' Commission for Territorial Cohesion Policy and EU Budget (COTER), with a focus on functional areas. CoR members were invited by host István Bóka (HU/ECR), Mayor of Balatonfüred, a key functional area, widely regarded as the capital of the northern lake shore of Balaton.

Functional areas, encompassing both urban and rural regions and often transcending administrative boundaries are fundamental components of balanced territorial development. Unlike specific spatial forms, they are characterised by economic, social, cultural, and environmental interactions. Recognised by Member States for their distinct features, these regions are now gaining increasing attention at the EU level.

The seminar featured a discussion on the critical role of functional areas in cohesion policy. Mayor István Bóka highlighted the unique challenges faced by touristic lake areas across Europe. "Lake areas are extremely vulnerable and they respond sensitively to global and local challenges. Despite their diverse geographical features, they face similar environmental and economic problems in Europe. In most cases, the economic utilisation of lakes is primarily based on tourism. As these economies are not diversified, they remain exposed to economic challenges and seasonal overcrowding. Cohesion policy must help address these challenges effectively", he emphasised.

Participants discussed the role of functional areas in territorial development, exploring the conditions needed to fully exploit their potential and the challenges they encounter. Topics included the current state of functional areas, potential partnerships, and the necessary tools for improving knowledge-sharing and territorial cooperation.