Rural Pact Coordination Group calls for stronger rural dimension in Europe’s post-2027 policies and budget

Securing a stronger rural dimension in the post-2027 EU framework

The meeting reaffirmed the importance of ensuring that the forthcoming Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) visibly reflects the needs and potential of rural areas. The rural dimension must be measurable and verifiable, supported by consistent definitions, territorial tagging, and rural proofing mechanisms.

The European Commission outlined the ongoing negotiations on the legislative proposals for the post-2027 budget, including the framework for National and Regional Partnership Plans (NRPPs). This is a crucial window of opportunity to shape the definitions, partnership requirements and planning parameters that will determine future programmes/plans before detailed guidance is finalised.

Translating the RPCG Declaration into actionable amendments

Building on discussions at the Policy Lab of 5 November, members examined how the priorities of the RPCG Declaration are reflected in the draft MFF proposal.* While the multi-fund approach and simplified cost options have been integrated in the current draft, rural proofing, partnership, ring-fencing, and territorial tagging provisions remain insufficiently addressed.

Discussions stressed that a credible earmarking of funds depends on clear statistical definitions of ‘rural’, drawing on existing EU typologies (such as DEGURBA) while allowing national flexibility. Reliable data and indicators are essential to track whether resources actually reach rural territories and to underpin effective advocacy.

The group agreed to consolidate analytical work into a joint position paper proposing targeted amendments – including clearer territorial definitions and improved partnership arrangements inspired by the Rural Pact model – to be shared with EU institutions as part of the ongoing negotiations.

Updating the EU Rural Action Plan

The European Commission confirmed that the updated Rural Action Plan (RAP), expected in early 2026, will aim to align existing actions with new political priorities – competitiveness, resilience and sustainability.

RPCG members contributed proposals in four focus areas – housing, services, competitiveness and tourism – emphasising the ‘right to stay’ approach, stronger local governance through LEADER and Smart Villages, and simpler access to funding for smaller actors.

The meeting also reviewed inputs from the Rural Pact Conference of September 2025, where participants identified actions to strengthen rural innovation, improve digital and physical connectivity, support local economies and promote fair energy transitions.

* At the time of the RPCG discussions, the proposal on spending target for rural areas was not yet on the table.