Rural Dialogues

What is the state of play for rural Europe? Are rural places still lagging behind – forgotten, disadvantaged and in need of extra supports? Or is there a rural renaissance of sorts occurring, from smart villages to innovation hubs? Life is becoming increasingly unaffordable and, in many ways, unbearable in cities – rents and mortgages are increasing multiples of people’s earnings, while commuting distances extend, with a range of life, expense and sustainability implications.
In rural areas there can be a deepening frustration at being left behind – of being neglected and looked down upon. There are many evident conflicts, but as of yet, by and large, we don’t see these contexts as opportunities for change. With fewer farmers on ever bigger farms, there is more isolation rurally, and this impacts on good neighborliness and mutual help.

So what works for rural Europe?

We want to learn from what has worked in your countries. Despite the problems, rural Europe has in some significant ways been revitalised, thanks to the bottom-up and partnership programmes within Rural Development Measures of what is known as Pillar two of the common Agricultural Policy.
In many regions around Europe, we see positive developments – so what can we learn from each other?

If you work in rural development sector please submit the following form and we will get back to you soon.
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