Muszyna, Krynica Zdrój 4-6th September 2012,
Forum of Regions is the most important meeting of representatives of regional authorities from the European countries with representatives of public administration and the European Union. Its also a meeting place for local self-government activists with business, local self-government and non-governmental organizations, representatives of ministries and government agencies.
Since 2007 it has become an integral event of the Economic Forum, which over 20 years has transformed into the biggest and one of the most prestigious events in the European scale (2600 guests from 60 countries worldwide, 140 panels and special events divided into 12 subject areas). Apart from that, the Forum is a platform for exchanging views and meeting place for nearly 300 local government leaders and regional elites from Central and Eastern Europe.
We anticipate a more diverse than last year program, which will consist of plenary sessions, panels, workshops, lectures, presentations and formal galas, both in Krynica-Zdroj and Muszyna. The Regions Forum will address issues concerning finances of local governments, regional development, environmental protection, innovations in regions, cross-border cooperation, infrastructure, informatization and promotion of regions and social policy. Forum remains an additional opportunity for the representatives of Polish and Central European governments to talk about how to increase the efficiency of EU structural funds. It will be also an opportunity to share experiences related to this issue and to establish partnership relations. Local authorities at different levels from Poland and its neighboring countries will discuss with national authorities and representatives of the European Commission about their problems.
Dear Sirs and Madams,
It would be a truism to say that Europe is facing hard times. Its better to say that it is a test of time. This applies not only to economic turbulence, which Europe is currently experiencing, but also to forming of the new shape of the European Community. It must find a new formula for action in these uncertain times for global economy. Hence the need for intensive and in-depth debate on European issues and the Forum of Regions constitutes its integral part. I am deeply convinced that Poland, enriched by the experience gained during its Presidency of the Council of the European Union, is the perfect arena for such discussion. I would like to warmly invite all those who are interested in the issues connected with regions and Europe to participate in the Forum, and thus to a lively debate and inspiring exchange of views.
Elżbieta Bieńkowska
Minister for Regional Development
Partners 
