Beyond "Absorption": the Impact of EU Structural Funds on Greece

Abstract

Since 1981, Greece has been a major recipient of EU funds. Brussels has commissioned a large number of studies to assess the impact of these funds on the Greek economy and society. The authors of this volume do not replicate these reports. Instead, they raise questions that are often overlooked in typical program and project evaluations. They focus particularly on implications for governance. Τhe book provides an innovative analysis of the long-term non-quantifiable impact of EU cohesion policy - from the recipient’s viewpoint. The verdict is not positive: dismal failures lie next to impressive successes. The realization of what has gone wrong may trigger a debate on how to avoid similar mistakes, how to promote modernization and how to invigorate sustainable growth at a critical time in the country’s history.