Policy Lab: Strengthening a diversified Rural economy in the post 2027 period
Two days of meetings, exchanges and field visits brought Rural Pact members together in Finland for the latest Policy Lab “Strengthening a Diversified Rural Economy in the Post-2027 Period”. This marked the first Lab event held outside Brussels, offering participants the opportunity to discover Finland's rural landscape and learn from its local organisations and networks.
A central topic throughout the event was the future National and Regional Partnership Plans (NRPPs), which are expected to play an important role in shaping EU funding priorities after 2027. The policy Lab sets a compelling example on exploring how local stakeholders can have a stronger voice in influencing development priorities.
Bringing Malta into the discussion
Representing SEED Projects, Malta's National Contact Point for the Rural Pact, Lucy participated in a working group exploring potential measures to consider during the early stages of the plans elaboration.
She presented Merill Rural Network as an example of a social enterprise model that empowers local farmers, artisans and producers to maintain their core activities and autonomy while diversifying their income through rural tourism. While economic activity naturally occupied a central place in the discussions, Lucy emphasised the importance of social and cultural opportunities in making rural areas vibrant places to live. Rural development is not only about creating jobs, but also fostering economically viable businesses in line with the local situations, taking into account cultural life and the environment.
Brainstorming policy ideas within a short timeframe, alongside participants from different European contexts, proved both challenging and insightful. It highlighted the difficulty of identifying common solutions while recognising what makes each rural area unique. The outcomes reinforced the need to strengthen networks even beyond geographical borders, encourage cooperation to accelerate innovation and ensure more equitable access to funding.
Learning from Finland's rural areas
With approximately 95% of its territory classified as rural, Finland offers an interesting perspective on rural development. Its extensive networks connecting villages and municipalities, its reliance on nature, and external challenges, such as the impact of the Russian border on eastern communities, highlighted how rural policies must respond to very different realities.
The programme also included field visits, notably to Strömfors Ironworks, a former industrial site that has evolved into a destination combining cultural heritage, tourism and outdoor activities. It offered an inspiring example of how rural heritage can be preserved while finding new uses that respond to contemporary interests.
What comes next for Malta?
Now is an important time for Maltese rural stakeholders to stay informed, engage in discussions and make their priorities heard. The latest Rural Pact Community Pulse poll – also available in Maltese – invites rural stakeholders to share their experiences and views on engagement in the NRPP processes. The poll is anonymous, takes approximately 3 minutes to complete. Have your say by 20 October
Further information, including presentations, recordings and soon the event highlights, is available on the Rural Pact event page.
Comments