The 'hidden geography' in the EU policymaking

Abstract

This paper investigates the role and influences of Geography and Geographers in the EU policymaking process. On top of this, it both adds to the perennial debate of the ‘utility role’ of Geography in policymaking, and the concerns in concentrating geographical analysis in more relevant and practical issues for designing, implementing, and evaluating public policies. Furthermore, it sheds some light on the Geographer’s influence in the EU mainstream development strategies and policies. This article finds that there is, in fact, a ‘hidden Geography’ within the EU policymaking. Hidden because of the reduced presence and influential role of Geographers in the design of the EU mainstream development strategies and policies. Still, we find with a somewhat translucent and peripheral presence in the existing EU territorial analysis missions, like the ESPON programme.