Cross-border cooperation as a factor of tourism development in Poland's border areas

Abstract The scientific literature demonstrates that cross-border cooperation can play an essential role in the development of tourism in border areas. The purpose of this paper is to determine whether cross-border collaboration has influenced the development of tourism in Poland and, if so, in what way. The article examines EU cross-border cooperation programmes in the 2014–2020 period and describes projects that stimulate tourism. The evolution of cross-border cooperation institutions is described, as well as their function in tourism development. An empirical study was undertaken using national and EU documents as well as information gathered from entities involved in collaboration. All programmes contained provisions for fostering tourism development. The project outcomes included creating tourism products, conducting marketing activities, improving tourist infrastructure and providing staff training. Euroregions played a significant role in encouraging tourism activities. The fragile geopolitical scenario impacts cross-border cooperation and travel, highlighting the need for ongoing research in this field.