The ESPON InTerAlp project is part of a larger effort to improve the understanding and support territorial governance and spatial development across the Alpine region. The Alpine region is home to several major European cities (among others: Munich, Milan, and Vienna) and is traversed by key transport corridors that connect Northern Europe with the Mediterranean. It is also a region of significant environmental importance, as it provides vital ecosystem services, such as water supply and biodiversity conservation, to the rest of Europe.

The InTerAlp project provides a detailed analysis of governance structures and their impact on spatial and sectoral dynamics in Alpine interface areas. The project builds on previous research conducted by the ESPON Alps2050 project, which focused on the spatial development of the Alpine region. The InTerAlp project extends this research by focusing specifically on Alpine interface territories and by providing a more in-depth analysis of governance structures and their impact on sectoral policies.