Services of General Interest and Territorial Cohesion: European Perspectives and National Insights

The European societies and economies rely on Services of General Interest - in a historical perspective and in a future outlook. Fair access to basic services - such as transport, energy and communication infrastructures, education, health care etc. - is regarded as a cornerstone of the European Model of Society, as a central means for Territorial Cohesion and lastly as an EU citizens' right. These collective, regional and individual perspectives on Services of General Interest are in the focus of this edited volume. In the light of postmodern societies, demographic aging, migratory patterns, globalization and economic crises territorially sensitive challenges arise and targeted solutions are needed accordingly.