STRUCTURAL FUNDS IN THE FUNCTION OF REDUCING REGIONAL DISPARITIES

EU structural funds are available to EU member states that have the need for additional investments in a balanced and sustainable economic and social development. Structural Funds are in function of EU Cohesion Policy, which aims at achieving economic and social cohesion as well as harmonious development of the European Union. The role of structural funds are financial support of projects which will help in reducing the gap between developed and less developed parts of the EU, and promote the overall competitiveness of the European society and economy. Regional differences within countries are increasing, creating an entirely lag in the development of certain regions. EU funds are therefore a key for reducing these differences by co-financing development project which will contribute to greater stability and growth. Entering the European Union, Croatia will have on its disposal allocated funds from the EU Cohesion Policy. In this paper, it will be presented the attitude of the experts for EU funding about the importance of EU funds for reducing a regional disparities within the EU countries. Research will include perception survey on the sample of the 69 project consultants in Croatia. The aim of the research is to emphasize the importance of preparing development projects and achieving a satisfactory level of regional development as well as providing guidelines for easier absorption of available EU funds.