This report presents the conclusions and recommendations of the research project ESPON DESIRE "Delivery of Essential Services in Lagging Regions", focusing in particular on the synthesis of findings, the clarification of key concepts and the formulation of principles of good practice. The aim of this analysis is to provide actionable insights that can support policy development aimed at improving public service delivery in lagging regions, which often face unique socio-economic and geographical challenges. The core of this report is based on a comparative analysis of several case studies in different European regions, each selected for their particular service delivery context. The research collates and compares findings from these case studies to identify patterns, successes and challenges in the delivery of essential services such as health, education, transport and social care. Through this process, the report identifies critical factors that either support or hinder service delivery in these regions, focusing on governance models, the roles of public, private and third-sector actors, and the accessibility and equity of service delivery.