Citizens’ Perceptions on the IMPLEMENTATION of Romania- Moldova Joint Operational Cooperation Programme

The present pilot study analyzes citizens’ perceptions of the project implementation of Romania- Moldova Joint Operational Cooperation Programme (JOP). The main objectives of the study are: (1) To investigate the influence of different factors on the successful implementation of the projects funded by the Romania-Moldova JOP 2014-2020; (2) To analyze the main aspects that could enhance the implementation of Romania-Moldova JOP 2014-2020; (3) To propose recommendations to improve the future Cross-border Cooperation Programme between Romania and the Republic of Moldova. The research methodology consists of an opinion survey based on a questionnaire conducted among citizens living and/or working in areas close to the border and who benefited or can benefit from cross-border cooperation projects. The main findings of the study are: (1) the main challenges in projects’ implementation are represented by insufficient financial resources for co-financing as well as the lack of human resources with expertise in the field; (2) the most important technological resources for a successful implementation of cross-border cooperation projects are project management software as well as modern communication equipment and (3) the need of harmonizing the legislation between the two participating countries that would lead to reduced implementation time and increased transparency.