Member State agreement. Therefore, the open method of co-ordination has been used
particularly in decisions relating to social policy. How and to what extend the OMC could be
a possibility for a member state commitment in terms of European spatial development is not
yet identified and justifies more detailed study.
Of course these suggestions are not final. Various alternatives can be discussed further in
order to find possible solutions for a practical and effective co-ordination of EU sector
policies in order to achieve more balanced, coherent and well-structured European spatial
development.
5. Concluding Remarks
The need for co-ordination as described above is undisputed. A co-ordination competence on
European level could help to duly consider the wide cross-section of aspects of spatial
development. Particularly according to the competency issue an objective and differentiated
discussion will be needed to act in agreement with the principles of subsidiary whilst at the
same time transferring those competences needed to the European level. A clear co-ordination
responsibility offers the chance to instil in the sectoral policies a higher level of spatial
effectiveness; and it serves to promote better use of financial assistance. It is urgently
necessary to discuss the type of organisation, the form and content of the co-ordination of
spatially relevant policies in terms of sustainable and comprehensive European spatial
development and to decide on how to approach their implementation. This is especially true
against the backdrop of the eastern EU expansion and the associated challenges. The aspects
outlined above are intended as a contribution to this discussion.
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