Ensuring quality of life in Wallonia’s rural areas

Discussions centred on the challenges and opportunities linked to quality of life in rural Wallonia, notably on intergenerational connections, social ties and making the region’s rural areas attractive and desirable places to live for all generations. 

Participants noted that rural quality of life is affected by economic and cultural opportunities, access to infrastructure and services, environmental issues (such as access to nature) and social connections. 

In particular, they stressed the importance of intergenerational links and the problem of social isolation in rural areas. In villages, collective experiences and shared moments are disappearing, which can affect residents’ mental health. 

Healthcare, housing, education, culture and training are all essential for vibrant rural areas and communities, participants said. They recommended reinforcing local services, providing shared spaces for local communities and developing partnerships among local stakeholders to advance projects and promote social ties. In particular, farms could offer meeting places for people and host events. 

Discussions also considered how agriculture, health and cultural policies could be better integrated with rural policies. Participants emphasised the importance of involving all local stakeholders, including Local Action Groups, and determining an area’s individual needs. They highlighted the possibility of mobilising common land for new initiatives and projects.

Participants also suggested streamlining funding opportunities at different levels – European, national and regional – to ensure coherence and centralising communication on these opportunities. 

The Rural Pact Support Office presented the Rural Pact and its activities at the meeting, highlighting the opportunities for Walloon stakeholders in joining the community and taking part in discussions on an integrated approach for rural areas at regional and local level.

The Walloon CAP Network’s permanent commission comprises regional stakeholders involved in implementing the common agricultural policy in Wallonia – including public authorities and civil society organisations working on sustainable rural development.