‘Cohesion and cooperation are the DNA of the European project’: Juraj Droba on how Interreg supports regional communities

Because of our unique location, right on the borders with Austria and Hungary and very close to the Czech Republic, cross-border cooperation is a natural part of our daily life. It's how we grow, how we solve problems, and how we connect our communities. 

Thanks to Interreg, we have implemented a number of great projects together with partners from Vienna, Lower Austria, Burgenland, and Győr-Moson-Sopron.  

I think what makes Interreg so valuable is that it gives us a space to turn shared challenges - whether in transport, environment, or culture - into shared solutions. And by doing that, we’re not only improving infrastructure or services for our citizens; we’re also building trust, creating friendships, and reinforcing our common European identity. 

What positive impact has Interreg cooperation had in the Bratislava region? 

I believe that Interreg is the most tangible and visible expression of European integration, which our citizens perceive in their daily lives, and which makes them feel European.  

In my region, Interreg has brought tangible benefits through practical and people-focused cross-border projects.  

Some of the projects I’m very proud of are the Freedom Cycle Bridge and the Vysomarch Cycle Bridge over the Morava River, linking Slovakia and Austria. The Morava River, due to the lack of cross-border connections, represents a natural barrier in the border region. Today, these bridges invite people to come together, to cycle, walk, visit neighbours, and feel part of a shared space. 

Another successful project is a complete reconstruction of the historic manor house and the adjacent garden in Modra, a national cultural monument. Thanks to cross-border cooperation and support from Interreg, we were able to restore this beautiful monument and give it new life and traditional cultural purpose.

For my region, it means we’re not only benefiting from European cooperation - we’re helping to drive it and shape its future.   

Interreg projects in action

Many Interreg projects focus on practical, local benefits. Why is it important for political leaders like you to be involved at both the local and European levels? 

For me, real impact only happens when political leaders roll up their sleeves - both at home and in Brussels.  

By staying actively involved on the ground, we can identify challenges early, bring key partners together, and ensure that projects stay on track and deliver results. But many of these successes wouldn't be possible without strong involvement at the EU level.  

As a member of the CoR - where I serve as Head of the Slovak National Delegation and Vice-Chair of the COTER Commission - I actively work to ensure our priorities are heard and reflected in EU decision-making.  

Equally important is bringing local experience back to the EU level - sharing what works and what doesn´t, and what are the real needs of our territories. That’s how we build a Europe that truly reflects its regions. Saying that, I would like to highlight the outstanding work of our Representation in Brussels.  

The green and digital transitions are big ambitions, but they only become real when they’re turned into local actions. That’s where Interreg programmes play such an important role. They help our regions not only to keep up with these transitions, but also make the EU’s green and digital goals more tangible to our citizens.  

A great example from my region is the project of Econcetre in Čunovo, which we developed through cross-border cooperation with our Hungarian and Austrian partners. It’s a place where environmental education, community engagement and innovation come together. It shows how sustainability and learning can go hand in hand – and how we can inspire people to think and act green.