RPCG discusses post-2027 rural policy framework, stakeholder dialogue and future Rural Pact priorities

The meeting (5 May 2026 – Brussels, Belgium) brought together RPCG members, including representatives of EU institutions, public authorities, civil society organisations and academia, as well as the European Commission and the RPSO. 

Post-2027 policy developments for rural areas 

The session opened with RPCG Vice-Chair Edina Ocsko presenting the group’s forthcoming position paper on the post-2027 EU policy framework for rural areas, highlighting priorities developed through extensive collaboration and consensus-building among RPCG members. 

Discussions focused on the European Commission’s proposals for the future EU budget and policy framework, including the proposed National and Regional Partnership Plans (NRPPs), while touching upon the forthcoming ‘right to stay’ strategy and the update of the EU Rural Action Plan. RPCG members highlighted the importance of ensuring a visible rural dimension across future EU policies through integrated and place-based approaches addressing wider rural challenges beyond agriculture. 

Representatives from the European Parliament, the Committee of the Regions and the European Economic and Social Committee referred to the need for integrated territorial approaches, rural proofing, multilevel governance and the role of place-based instruments including LEADER/CLLD and Smart Villages. 

Future of rural stakeholder dialogue 

The meeting also included exchanges on the future of dialogue and stakeholder engagement on rural issues at EU level. Participants underlined the role of the RPCG as a space bringing together EU institutions, rural stakeholders and civil society organisations around integrated rural development topics.  

Discussions highlighted the importance of maintaining structured dialogue and stakeholder engagement in the context of ongoing discussions on the post-2027 framework and the EU rural vision. 

Priorities for future Rural Pact activities 

The RPSO presented its 2026 Annual Work Programme and planned activities for 2026 and 2027. Discussions with RPCG members helped identify synergies with stakeholders’ activities and highlighted priorities for future Rural Pact work, including support for stakeholder engagement in future NRPPs, rural proofing, youth participation, peer learning and the ‘right to stay’. 

Participants also exchanged information on ongoing initiatives and activities linked to rural development across Europe, including national Rural Pact initiatives, stakeholder events and cooperation activities supporting local development and rural governance.