French citizens brainstorm on how to use the Cohesion funds in mountains

The Europe Direct Centre of the City of Grenoble hold several workshops in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Region, France. On the table: what the Cohesion Policy achieved in the region, how actors perceive it and how they would use the funds for the future. 

The Cohesion Policy goes to France!

In between April and July 2022, the Europe Direct Centre of the City of Grenoble organised several workshops to speak about the Montana174 project, respectively one workshop in Chambéry on 6th July, and three workshops in Grenoble.

Overall, approximately 150 people participated to these workshops, among local actors, potential beneficiaries of the Cohesion Policy funds and youngsters aged between 15 and 18 years old.

What do French people think about the Cohesion Policy?

Most of the participants were really interested in the Cohesion Policy and all the topics that it invests into. However, during the discussion, it also emerged that they perceive this policy as not easy to access and understand. In particular, students highlighted that they feel distanced from the European Union and they do not really understand how it affects them directly.

Most participants to the events commented that more workshops – as the one organised by the Europe Direct Centre – should be proposed. In particular, they seemed very interested on how the Cohesion Policy can invest in the cultural field, youth and youth employment.

How would French people use the Cohesion Policy funds in the mountains?

During the workshops, participants were encouraged to reflect on how they would like to use the funds of the Cohesion Policy in their mountainous region.

Participants underlined that particular attention should be given to:

• Projects related to culture
• Initiatives that enable social? inclusion
• Revitalisation of the territory
• Improvement of hiking paths areas in the Grenoble area with the aim to preserve the environment at the same time
• Increase the biking lanes cycle paths
• Help youngsters to find their first job