Abstract
This paper explores the practical implementation and effectiveness of the integrated territorial approach (ITA) within the framework of Bulgaria’s rural development policy. It argues that the lack of administrative and fiscal decentralization fundamentally undermines the efficiency of Integrated Territorial Investments (ITIs) and limits their contribution to sustainable and inclusive growth. The study applies to a qualitative institutional analysis based on policy documents, official evaluations, and comparative evidence from Central and Eastern Europe. It identifies critical weaknesses in Bulgaria’s territorial governance model – particularly excessive centralization, fragmented institutional coordination, and weak local capacity for project planning and execution. Drawing on the European experience, the paper proposes an alternative, decentralized model of integrated territorial governance aimed at strengthening local decision-making, financial autonomy, and multi-level coordination. The findings contribute to the ongoing debate on the territorial dimension of cohesion policy, offering practical recommendations for improving the design and implementation of ITIs in Bulgaria’s rural regions.
Keywords: Bulgaria, decentralization, integrated territorial investments, rural development, territorial governance
JEL: O18; R11; R51; R58