Fostering agricultural and rural policy dialogue: Towards common goals

Agricultural policies focus on farms and food production, while rural policies aim to develop territories and improve the well-being of rural populations. The paper identifies shared interests, including environmental sustainability, well-being, food security, and innovation, and emphasises the need for policy coordination to address common challenges.

One area of convergence is the role of agriculture in structural change. Agricultural policies can impact rural employment and the transformation of rural economies, while rural policies should consider the potential contribution of the agricultural sector. Bridging digital divides between rural and urban areas can enhance rural innovation and adjustment.

Another important aspect is the diversification of farming and rural economies. Some agricultural policies may promote farm diversification at the expense of other rural businesses, and vice versa. Broad diversification strategies that benefit all rural citizens can enhance synergies between agriculture and rural policies.

Achieving environmental sustainability is a shared goal. Agricultural policies are shifting towards promoting sustainable practices. Co-development governance processes can help identify and prioritise the most appropriate investment objectives and projects.

A constructive dialogue between these policies can enhance their coherence and coordination. Learning from other policy areas and adopting new modes of governance are vital steps towards a common vision for agricultural and rural policies.

If you are interested in learning more, you can read the full paper on the OECD online library.