Between October 2024 and March 2025, t33 conducted the mid-term evaluation of the South-West Oltenia (Romania) Regional Programme 2021–2027, in compliance with Article 18 of Regulation 2021/1060.

The programme is a key EU initiative designed to enhance economic competitiveness, social cohesion, and sustainability in the region. It targets five counties - Dolj, Gorj, Olt, Mehedinți, and Vâlcea - and focuses on priorities such as innovation, digitalization, green infrastructure, sustainable mobility, education, and territorial development.

The evaluation assessed the coherence and relevance of the actions programmed and implemented under the programme. It also examined whether modifications were necessary to address new challenges that had emerged since the beginning of the programming period.

The evaluation process involved a robust methodology, including desk research, stakeholder consultations, data analysis, and field research and provided an in-depth analysis on:

• Alignment with country-specific recommendations;
• Contributions to the National Integrated Energy and Climate Plan;
• Implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights;
• Examination of the region's socioeconomic context and its evolving needs;
• Progress toward achieving programme milestones and performance targets.

The findings supported strategic decision-making and the implementation of a series of changes, ensuring the programme remains relevant and effective in addressing regional priorities and achieving EU objectives.

The evaluation report can be consulted here.
The service was coordinated by t33 expert Andrea Gramillano.