Jobs and local development: European experts toured the Slovak–Hungarian border region start-ing from Košice
On 21–22 April 2026, an international professional study visit started from Košice to showcase four projects implemented under the Interreg Slovakia–Hungary Pro-gramme during the 2014–2020 programming period. The programme was organised by Interact and brought together representatives of Managing Authorities and Na-tional Authorities from different Interreg programmes, staff members of Joint Secre-tariats, as well as an expert from the European Commission. The two-day visit includ-ed several locations on both sides of the border.
The event focused on practical results: job creation, local economic development and improving quality of life in border regions.
The Slovak–Hungarian border region faces a number of challenges, including out-migration, limited labour market opportunities and restricted access to services. At the same time, it has significant local potential. The Interreg programme implemented in cooperation between Hungary and Slovakia aims to unlock this potential through joint development initiatives.
Developments in the region
Projects implemented in the Cserehát region have, among others, created new local marketplaces in Buzica and Moldava nad Bodvou (SK), as well as in Encs, Hidasnémeti and Gagyvendégi (HU). These new marketplaces not only provide sales opportunities for local producers but also serve as community meeting points. The training centre established in the St. Stephen’s House in Gagyvendégi further strengthens the local economy.
Local food production is supported through the development of small-scale pro-cessing capacities, such as the sauerkraut processing facility in Hidasnémeti. These investments contribute to business development and the creation of new jobs.
In the field of cultural heritage, historic wine cellars listed as part of the UNESCO World Heritage in Hercegkút (HU) and Malý Horeš (SK), together with the related in-frastructure, have been renovated, giving new momentum to tourism while preserv-ing local traditions.
In the area of social programmes, centres supporting active ageing in Košice and Miskolc help older people remain engaged in community life, reducing isolation.
Interreg: 35 years of cooperation
Interreg is one of the European Union’s key cooperation initiatives, supporting cross-border development for 35 years. The Interact Programme provides support to Inter-reg programmes to help them use EU funding more effectively and achieve stronger results.
In the current programming period (2021–2027), a total of 86 Interreg programmes operate across Europe and neighbouring regions, connecting partners from different countries. Within these programmes, partners work together to develop solutions in areas such as employment, economic development, environmental protection and social cooperation.
Cooperation that works
The study visit provided an opportunity for knowledge exchange and discussion of shared challenges. Participants could see project results first-hand in operation, providing valuable feedback for future development policy decisions.
The message is clear: cross-border cooperation delivers tangible results. It strength-ens local communities, supports economic development and contributes to building a more liveable and resilient region.
