Abstract
Magnetic reconnection has long been identified as the source of impulsive energy release in solar flares. The process is also proposed as the energy source for other less energetic phenomena e.g. jets, transient active region brightenings. Examples of its role in heating large coronal structures have been proposed while it could also be involved in supplying energy to the corona through the continuous occurrence of nano-flaring. However conclusive and quantitative observational evidence of its ocurrence has been difficult to establish. In this talk, the available observational evidence will be reviewed and prospects for future advances examined.