A new publication by the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) examines differences in innovation between urban and rural areas. It reveals significant urban-rural disparities, with some rural areas standing out as innovation hubs.

A new study commissioned by the European Parliament’s Special Committee on the Housing Crisis in the EU highlights the problems facing rural housing. To make housing policy more inclusive and resilient, the report calls for coordinated action in three areas – stronger legislation and standards, increased finance and investment, and enhanced capacity, data and public support.

The Rural Pact Support Office (RPSO) enters a new chapter as the European Commission launches the next phase of facilitation support from January 2026 to December 2027, building on three years of experience in advancing the implementation of the EU’s rural vision. What began as a new framework for dialogue and cooperation has matured into a stable and recognised community, bringing together public authorities, civil society, businesses, researchers and citizens committed to the future of rural Europe.

National and regional governments across Europe are formally acknowledging their political commitments to the EU’s rural vision, showing their political leadership and determination to strengthen rural development in their territories. Through this, they are actively contributing to achieving the ambitions of the long-term vision for the EU’s rural areas (LTVRA) by 2040.

The Interreg project CLUSTERATLAS4MED is looking to collect insights on existing policies, support programmes, and cluster initiatives that promote the digitalisation and sustainable development of rural tourism SMEs. Share your feedback through the project’s open call.