Stronger Rural Areas

27 Jan 2026

Strengthening the Rural Pact: the next phase of facilitation support for rural Europe

The Rural Pact Support Office (RPSO) enters a new chapter as the European Commission launches the next phase of facilitation support from January 2026 to December 2027, building on three years of experience in advancing the implementation of the EU’s rural vision. What began as a new framework for dialogue and cooperation has matured into a stable and recognised community, bringing together public authorities, civil society, businesses, researchers and citizens committed to the future of rural Europe.

26 Jan 2026

National and regional governments embracing EU’s Rural Pact

National and regional governments across Europe are formally acknowledging their political commitments to the EU’s rural vision, showing their political leadership and determination to strengthen rural development in their territories. Through this, they are actively contributing to achieving the ambitions of the long-term vision for the EU’s rural areas (LTVRA) by 2040.

23 Jan 2026

Share your thoughts on the European Heritage Label’s revision

The European Commission has launched a public consultation on restructuring the European Heritage Label, an initiative that promotes heritage sites symbolic of Europe’s shared history and values. For rural areas, the revision could help boost local cultural tourism, stimulate innovation and development, and create job opportunities.