RPSO activities in 2026: strengthening collaboration, knowledge exchange and stakeholder engagement

The Rural Pact Support Office (RPSO) will roll out a new set of activities this year designed to strengthen collaboration among the nearly 4 000 members of the Rural Pact community. 

Our programme for 2026 builds on feedback from community members and the Rural Pact Coordination Group, as well as experience gained in previous years, taking account of the current EU policy context.

A clear strategic focus supporting integrated approaches for rural areas and stakeholder participation

Two strategic priorities guide the activities planned for the year.

First, the Rural Pact will be a central space for dialogue and exchange on how to respond comprehensively to rural needs, promoting the development of integrated strategies for rural areas and inspiring the future National and Regional Partnership Plans (NRPPs) with innovative good practices in various domains.

Second, the RPSO will place a strong emphasis on building and strengthening the capacity of Rural Pact community members to play an active role in partnerships linked to the development of NRPPs in their respective countries.

Reinforced action in Member States through RPSO national partners and events

A key development in 2026 is the network of RPSO national partners in all EU Member States, building on previous collaboration with national experts. These partners will help promote the Rural Pact at national and regional levels, facilitate exchanges with public authorities and key stakeholders, and support outreach to local actors. 

This year will also see increased engagement in Member States through dedicated events. Two in-person Rural Pact national events will be organised in partnership with national stakeholders, creating opportunities for dialogue and capacity building on future rural policies. In addition, national partners, with the RPSO’s support, will organise ‘Rural Pact in my country’ webinars in four Member States, providing space for stakeholders to explore how to advance implementation of key Rural Pact ingredients in their national contexts.

Together, these activities aim to strengthen the link between European policy discussions and territorial realities, while supporting stakeholders in identifying practical solutions adapted to their specific needs.

Promoting good practices and thematic and policy exchanges

In 2026, the RPSO will identify, develop and publish around 40 good practices illustrating projects, policies, tools and methodologies that can inspire actions to contribute to rural revitalisation. 

Four good practice webinars will also be organised during the year, focusing on topics such as territorial development tools (22 April), generational renewal (10 June), rural competitiveness (tentatively in September) and resilience (in the fourth quarter). 

In addition, two policy lab events will bring together practitioners, policymakers and experts to strengthen capacities for designing future rural development policies. Become a member of the Rural Pact to receive the invitations to register for these events.

Community Groups remain central to peer learning

Community Groups will continue to play an essential role in fostering thematic exchanges and mutual learning. Bringing together stakeholders from different countries and sectors, these groups provide spaces to share experiences, discuss challenges and identify new opportunities for collaboration.

In 2026, the RPSO will work closely with Community Group coordinators to enhance participation and strengthen their contribution to Rural Pact events and publications. By encouraging bottom-up exchanges, these groups help reinforce the collaborative spirit of the Rural Pact and build stronger connections across thematic areas. Join one of the thematic groups and connect with peers!

Communication activities to increase visibility and engagement

Communication will remain a key priority throughout the year. Updates on events, relevant news, policy developments, inspiring initiatives and funding opportunities will be shared regularly through the Rural Pact website, social media channels and the monthly newsletter.

Several new knowledge products are also planned for the year. These include publications such as a policy briefing, the annual Rural Vision Magazine, and a series of thematic good practice brochures. 

Stakeholders are encouraged to register as a member of the Rural Pact to receive these updates and stay informed about opportunities to take part in events and thematic discussions.

Showcasing actions for the vision by Rural Pact members

The RPSO will continue encouraging members to share and display the projects and initiatives they are implementing through the ‘Actions for the rural vision’ functionality of the Rural Pact platform. By becoming an Action Leader, Rural Pact members can showcase concrete contributions to stronger, more connected, resilient and prosperous rural areas, while inspiring others across the community.

Reinforced presence of the RPSO in stakeholder events

Throughout the year, the RPSO will participate in events organised by partner organisations at European and national levels. These missions will help strengthen cooperation with other initiatives, promote key messages emerging from the Rural Pact community and connect with new stakeholders.

Organisations interested in collaboration opportunities or in inviting RPSO representatives to relevant events are encouraged to get in touch with the RPSO.

A collaborative platform for shaping the future of rural areas

Overall, the 2026 programme reflects a continued effort to strengthen the Rural Pact as a collaborative platform where stakeholders can exchange knowledge, showcase initiatives and contribute to shaping future rural development approaches.

By combining participatory formats, targeted communication and stronger links with national and regional actors, the planned activities aim to ensure that rural voices are heard and that practical solutions emerging from the community can inform policy discussions at all levels.

Author: Rural Pact Support Office