Evaluating the Implementation of Administrative Capacity Enhancement Projects in Romania: The Multidimensional Role of POCA (2014-2020)

Abstract

This research examines the implementation process of projects under the Operational Programme for Administrative Capacity (POCA) in Romania, an instrument for enhancing administrative capacity in EU member states. Utilizing a dataset from the Ministry of Investments and European Funds, we evaluated and interpreted financial distributions from both EU funds and Romania's National budget across development regions and POCA's priority axes. The research reveals a strategic commitment to enhancing administrative capacity, particularly in areas aimed at improving public administration and judicial systems. Our findings indicate an intentional focus on less developed regions and on key areas such as public procurement system transparency. Additionally, the study assesses the EU co-financing rate and the status and progress of projects under POCA, illuminating the relative importance placed on different axes and objectives. The effectiveness of these interventions, however, will depend on their execution, monitoring, and beneficiaries' capacity to exploit the improved systems and processes.

Keywords

• public administration reforms
• eu funds
• administrative capacity building
• regional disparities
• project analysis