Distribution of structural funds: Equity, efficiency and public procurement (Czech Republic)

Abstract

This article deals with structural funds allocation for projects realized by Czech regional and local authorities in the programming period 2007-2013. Geographical distribution of structural funds in the context of the equity and efficiency goals is mapped. Two research questions are formulated in this regard. The first research question concerns the position of lagging regions in structural funds allocation. The second research question maps spatial spillovers of public procurement contracts supported by structural funds. The findings point at a rather disadvantaged position of lagging regions in structural funds allocation. This position is further worsened by spatial spillovers of public procurement contracts. Thus, spatial coherence between the EU and Czech regional policies is questioned. © Foundation of International Studies, 2016.