“Territorial perspectives of digital transition in European regions (DIGIREG)” is a new research-led project funded by ESPON to further build up its stock of research and provide new evidence on the territorial dimension of digital transition in Europe, in line with the framework of the Thematic Action Plan “Smart Connectivity”.
Partners of the multidisciplinary Consortium, led by Politecnico di Milano – Department of Architecture and Urban Studies (POLIMI), include Deloitte, Progress Consulting S.r.l. and METREX – The Network of European Metropolitan Regions and Areas.
DIGIREG’s primary objective is to explore the multifaceted aspects of the digital transition at regional scale, to delve into the drivers of digital divides between European territories, and to analyse its interplay with socio-economic development dynamics.
The project will unfold by addressing the following challenges:
- Theoretical Approach. Develop a theoretical and methodological framework for the measurement and interpretation of territorial digitalization trends and divides, and digital transition patterns at a regional scale.
- Applied Research. Apply the developed framework to assess digitalization state of the art and its socio-economic impact within the ongoing regionalization processes.
- Policy Guidance. Translate research findings into actionable insights and policy recommendations aimed at enabling the digital transition, bridging the territorial digital divide and mitigating regional disparities across diverse local contexts within Europe.
By tackling these pivotal aspects and considering successful initiatives already implemented at the European level, and through the engagement of informed stakeholders and local/regional/national policymakers, this project will develop Guidelines for capacity-building actions for local and regional public authorities to enhance their ability to design and implement interventions related to the digital transformation at the territorial level.
By equipping policymakers with practical insights and evidence-based guidance, this objective aims to empower them to implement targeted interventions that foster inclusive and sustainable digital development across European regions.
METREX ACTIONS IN 2025
1/ OPEN CALL TO MEMBERS: BECOME A DIGIREG SHOWCASE
Call for Best Practices: What is the best policy practice developed in your region for tackling the digital divide?
28 January / 20 March 2025
In the context of the DIGIREG Program, METREX members are invited to submit their best policy practice and become a showcase offering a positive example at the EU level while actively and critically contributing to provide indications for general guidelines useful to improve effectiveness in implementing territorial digitalization and reducing digital divides.
On February 25, from 11:00 to 12:00 CET time, a Webinar session open to all interested Members will be the occasion to learn about the DIGIREG project plan for 2025 and the role of METREX within it.
>> APPLY TO THE CALL
>> REGISTER TO THE WEBINAR
INFO FOR SUPPORT & CONTACTS
METREX Team is at your disposal for any assistance and requests for clarification via email at viviana.rubbo@eurometrex.org
To know more about the project please visit ESPON website at: https://www.espon.eu/projects/digireg-territorial-perspectives-digital-transition-european-regions
