Brussels, 31/07/2015 (Agence Europe) - On Thursday 30 July, the Commission gave its green light to the operational programme (OP) of Andalusia for the period 2014-2020, which will be allocated a total budget of €3.6 billion, including €2.9 billion from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). The money will be used to boost the economy and create jobs.
Some 15% of the money available will be allocated to small- and medium-sized enterprises (SME) for research and development, to reach 2.2% of GDP. The programme will invest heavily in the competitiveness of SMEs and the diversification of economic activities in the region, to open it up more to an international playing field. Andalusia is hoping to boost its exports to more than 20% of its GDP.
The main aims include connecting the entire population of Andalusia to the Internet, ensuring the sustainable use of natural resources and cutting carbon emissions by 10%. Lastly, social integration, education, employment services and fighting poverty are other priorities.
Corruption. Andalusia has experienced cases of corruption and embezzlement of European funds in relation to the implementation of the last programme, particularly in the form of fictional support to professional integration and training services for jobseekers (see EUROPE 11068). (Pascal Hansens)