Reliable data is needed to make informed decisions on the development of Europe, its regions and cities.

Scientists depend on reliable data for successful research.The ESPON Database supports scientists with systematic, comparable and reliable data on regions and cities.

To address today’s policy development, territorial diversity and cohesion challenges, the ESPON programme provides a number of tools with valuable information and data for countries, regions, cities, and citizens.

Maps are a useful and easy way to make complex information accessible to a wide audience.

Maps are an important tool for policy makers, who need reliable data and an easy way to visualize information.

Rural, mountainous, sparsely or highly populated – regions have different opportunities and challenges. Decision-makers need reliable data to plan successful development.

When new policies are implemented, some regions are more affected than others. To enable a better understanding of future impact of policies before decisions are made, ESPON has developed territorial impact assessment tools.

For an effective policy development, policy makers take into account the specific characteristics of the different regions.

Intelligent, sustainable and inclusive growth – this is the strategy for Europe 2020. Better European competitiveness, targeted investment and the use of development opportunities related to diversity are the keys to success.

Through ESPON indicators and its database, regions and cities find support to understand their potentials and challenges seen from a European perspective.