Agnieszka Pawłowska

The Accomplishment of the New Paradigm of Regional Policy in the System of Regional Strategy Implementation

The new paradigm of regional policy (NPRP) is analysed. The stakeholders, selected instruments of regional policy, as well as the mechanisms of coordination featured in NPRP are examined. The paper is based on research implemented in the Sub-Carpathian Region of Poland

Public Management in the Polycentric Environment - a (Not) New Research Perspective

Background. Subsequent research of polycentric systems was associated with the processes of metropolisation and seeking solutions to efficiently manage complex territorial structures. This approach, however, was superseded by the approach of multi-level governance. The authors propose a return to the polycentric theory, accepting it as the theoretical framework for research on functional urban areas, which are in Poland the new paradigm of co-operation of territorial units. Research aims. The article is to draw attention to the polycentric approach as a useful framework of research in the area of public management and to verify how the organisation of functional urban areas corresponds to polycentric systems, matching relations between the participating actors and the system of distribution of power and influence. Methodology. The article has been based on the discourse analysis as well as the analysis of the content of reports and other documents. Key findings. Functional urban areas bear the hallmarks of polycentric systems, therefore, it seems advisable to apply the polycentric approach to their research. Moreover, the polycentrism is free from the deficiencies of MLG. In addition, the polycentric approach gives greater opportunity for interpretation and classification of inter-institutional relations.