Case Study: Reciprocity Contracts in France

In 2015, France launched a pilot program to promote cooperation between cities by requiring local reciprocity contracts. The aim is to reduce the rural-urban gap by promoting partnerships in areas of common interest with common benefits.

Four regional partners selected in the first phase of the plan were the first to sign the contract, namely the Brest metropolitan area and the Pays du Center Ouest Bretagne. Brest wants to improve its competitiveness in the medium and long term, while Pays du Center Ouest Bretagne focuses on the provision of medical services and new opportunities in the wood industry.

The two sectors are now collaborating on innovative projects in areas such as economic development, social inclusion, health, culture and services, environment and energy transition. For each region, local government officials facilitated the development of a common path, which was formally adopted in November 2016. A multi-year framework contract of €2 million was subsequently offered, agreed with regional authorities in Brittany. A year after the signing of the contract, the cooperation started to bear fruit and reports 30 ongoing projects.

An administrative structure is necessary to ensure success, with the Brest Town Planning Agency taking on this aspect. Understanding funding sources is also key, including regional, national and European financial contributions. Another important factor is people, as it is necessary to go beyond political coalitions and actively involve local communities in developing a common vision and a long-term development strategy.