At a recent Carpathian Convention Implementation Committee (CCIC) meeting under the auspices of the Carpathian Convention, partners showcased the Central Mountains project’s achievements and collaborative approach toward strengthening cross-border governance in mountainous regions of Central Europe. The project brings together partners from multiple countries working to create resilient structures that support cooperation beyond short-term funding cycles and promote sustainable development across the Alps, Carpathians and adjacent mountain areas. 

The Central Mountains initiative addresses shared challenges facing mountain regions — from dispersed governance and fragmented planning to limited long-term funding and stakeholder engagement. By developing a joint strategy and action plans for sustainable development, the project aims to support more effective cross-border cooperation, improve coordination between local communities and regional authorities, and create new governance tools applicable to mountain areas across Europe. 

A key theme at the meeting was the importance of inclusive, multi-level governance processes that bring together public authorities, civil society and local stakeholders. This approach helps mountain regions build shared visions for development that respect environmental sensitivities, cultural identities, and economic needs — including in areas such as sustainable tourism, natural resource management, and community participation. 

For the tourism sector, the Central Mountains project has notable implications. Improved governance and structured cooperation can support sustainable tourism development strategies that balance visitor demand with ecological protection and community wellbeing. By creating action plans that incorporate local perspectives and cross-border partnerships, mountain destinations can share best practices for low-impact tourism, enhance visitor experiences, and make their regions more attractive to travellers seeking authentic, nature-based, and culturally rich experiences.

Overall, the CCIC meeting reaffirmed the Central Mountains project’s contribution to the Carpathian Convention's broader goals, particularly in fostering sustainable, community-driven development across European mountain landscapes. As the initiative moves toward its final phases, its outputs are expected to inform long-term governance solutions that support resilient rural economies, connect diverse mountain communities and strengthen sustainable tourism pathways across the continent.

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