Informal governance in structural policy

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Abstract
This article explores the different ways in which informal governance may variously complement, correct or undermine the formal procedures surrounding Structural Funds management. Although mandated, the involvement of civil society organisations in the Monitoring Committees has turned out to be a disappointment in many national contexts. Yet, civil society representatives manage to interact with their institutional counterparts in a variety of ways that reflect the traditions of state – society interaction in the Member State, the assertiveness of territorial institutions in acting as liaisons between European citizens and institutions, and the capacity of civil society organisations to provide expert input into the decision-making process. Building on extensive research in several Member States, the article suggests that territorial institutions see themselves and are seen also by civil society actors as the main vehicles for citizens' participation in structural policy.