Project description: The aim of the accompanying research is the evaluation, monitoring and scientific support of the structural change in the Brandenburg Lausitz. In particular, an evaluation and monitoring system is to be established, based on scientific methods, that not only reflects the dynamics of structural change in Lusatia, but can also show the target and legally compliant use of public funds that are granted to actors in Lusatia on the basis of the Structural Change Act. From an economic perspective, such an evaluation and monitoring system must also be able to provide information on the efficiency of the use of funds. This monitoring system should allow evidence-based policy recommendations to allow important policy readjustments, for example the continuous development of the Lusatia Program 2038.

The department is leading the project together with the project partner (IWH) and is responsible, among other things, for developing the regional development monitoring system and the associated indicators. The indicator system for monitoring regional development is closely linked to the monitoring system developed in parallel for the use of funding programs under the Structural Strengthening Act, which is being developed at IWH. In addition to funding, many other factors influence regional development in Lusatia. Therefore, a monitoring of the regional development is needed to get an overall picture. The two monitoring systems are part of an evidence-based answer to the "what?" and "how?" of regional development in Lusatia in the new structural change.