All news

18 nov 2023

Celebrating excellence in Rural Development: vote for Agricultural and Rural Inspiration Awards 2023 by 1st December

The Agricultural and Rural Inspiration Awards (ARIA) 2023 are here, celebrating CAP-funded projects that are revolutionising agriculture and rural areas through lifelong learning, innovation, and competitiveness. Find out more about the 24 finalists, cast your vote by 1st December.

16 nov 2023

France launches the High-level Institute of Rural Studies

As a commitment to the Rural Pact, France has launched the ‘Institut des Hautes Études des Mondes Ruraux’ (IHEMRU). It aims to build capacities to a variety of stakeholders to help address the evolving challenges and opportunities in rural areas.

16 nov 2023

New funding for sustainable energy projects for local authorities

The EU City Facility (EUCF) is getting ready to launch its sixth call for applications, offering a EUR 60 000 grant to municipalities and municipality groupings (including in rural areas) across the European Union, Iceland, and Ukraine. This funding supports the development of sustainable energy and energy efficiency projects. Discover how you can be a part of this initiative for positive change in your community.

16 nov 2023

Empowering Nordic rural youth: A pathway to revitalisation

The report "From Fields to Futures: 40 Action Points for Rural Revitalisation" by the Nordic Rural Youth Panel 2023 serves as a cornerstone document in addressing the complexities and challenges of rural development. The document offers 40 strategic recommendations aimed at reinvigorating rural areas through enhanced education, employment, housing, and community engagement, with a strong emphasis on youth involvement.

15 nov 2023

The costs and benefits of the implementation of LEADER - A new evaluation study just published

The European Commission’s Directorate-General for Agriculture and Rural Development has published an evaluation support study to assess the added value of LEADER and the extent to which the increased costs of implementing it are justified by its additional benefits.

15 nov 2023

The Logroño Declaration for thriving and vibrant rural areas

The declaration, adopted by the Bureau of the European Committee of the Regions (CoR), emphasises the fundamental role of the Long-term Vision for the EU's Rural Areas 2040 and urges policy adjustments and earmarked funds. It highlights the need to address depopulation, climate challenges, and rural vulnerabilities for a cohesive future for Europe.

14 nov 2023

High-level Rural Policy Forum - Highlights report is out!

This report available in EN and ES highlights the main messages voiced by participants at the event and provides access to key knowledge resources such as presentations and recordings.

14 nov 2023

Mountain actors convene in Hungary to forge pathways for sustainable value chains

From 6 to 8 November, around 100 mountain representatives from 16 countries and 22 mountain ranges converged in Hungary for the Workshop 'Unlocking the Power of Mountain Value Chains', organised in the framework of the EU-funded MOVING project (MOuntain Valorisation through INterconnectedness and Green Growth).

14 nov 2023

Harnessing skills in rural areas: the role of local and regional governments

The Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) organised an event on 8 November 2023, within the framework of the Rural Pact, to explore the crucial role of local and regional governments in supporting skills in rural areas empowering them to meet both current and future demands.

13 nov 2023

Good Practice Webinar on energy transition: Presentations available!

Find out more about relevant EU-level initiatives and get inspired from local experiences on renewable energy communities, Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plans and in energy poverty.