The use of AI tools in managing European funds allocated for regional development in Romania

Abstract

The current study aims to analyze the use of AI tools in managing European funds related to the EU Cohesion Policy in Romania, as part of the policy making process that seeks to reduce regional disparities. Grounded in qualitative research and drawing on the new historical institutionalism approach, the paper presents and examines the perceptions of representatives from organizations responsible for the programming, monitoring, and evaluation of programs funded through European funds. These entities include relevant Managing Authorities from the Ministry of European Investments and Projects and Regional Development Agencies. The research addressed the following variables: openness towards AI, the extent of utilization, perceived benefits, apprehensions, and challenges related to the employment of AI tools, the boundaries of their use, the availability of resources, the regulatory context, the nature of decision-making involved, and potential new spheres of application.