Managing the Network
Facilitating thematic and analytical exchanges
In accordance with Article 54(3) of the Rural Development Regulation (RDR) 1305/2013 [PDF 
], National Rural Networks (NRNs) have to include thematic and analytical exchanges as a part of their 2014-2020 Action Plans. Thematic and analytical exchanges are expected to particularly contribute to the objective of improving the quality of Rural Development Programmes (RDPs) implementation (as per Article 54(2) of the RDR). Thematic and analytical exchanges can increase knowledge on specific topics, such as innovation.
Exchanges can be promoted by NRNs in different forms. The most common form of thematic exchanges developed by NRNs, has been permanent or ad hoc Thematic Working Groups (TWGs). NRN TWGs bring together diverse stakeholders to discuss, analyse and share information on common topics, often resulting in recommendations related to RDP implementation and programming.
NRNs have organised permanent TWGs in relation to each RDP axis during the 2007-2013 period. Thematic and analytical exchanges in 2007-2013 period covered a large range of themes. The 2013 ENRD Mapping exercise classified the NRN TWGs by clusters of themes and individual themes. The following clusters have been the subject of thematic exchanges within NRNs, in order of frequency: (a) cooperation and LEADER, (b) economic diversification, (c) rural policy, (c) sustainable use of agriculture and forestry land, (d) quality of life, (e) agriculture, (f) social issues and demography, and (g) planning and territorial development.
Exchange of thematic expertise is also an important part of the ENRD’s remit. Its tasks include “…the setup of thematic groups and/or workshops with a view to facilitating the exchange of expertise and to supporting the implementation, monitoring and further development of rural development policy”. At EU level, the ENRD has also focused on a variety of themes reflecting the diversity of rural development challenges at EU level during 2007-2013. These covered the following topics:
- Agriculture, including small farms, semi-subsistence farms and mountain farming
- Environment, including climate change and environmental services
- Public goods
- Knowledge transfer and innovation
- Rural entrepreneurship
- Local food and short-supply chains
- Forestry
- ICT
- Rural-urban linkages
- Social aspects, including social farming and social inclusion and rural poverty
- LEADER/Community-Led Local Development
- Youth and young farmers
During the ENRD self-assessment, NRNs have indicated that thematic and analytical exchanges are useful for:
- discovering how the themes are addressed by different groups/stakeholders;
- enabling participants to discover aspects they were not aware off;
- informing different levels and stakeholders in a clear and transparent way of the challenges for the implementation of the RDPs;
- finding common challenges and exchange on solutions to those challenges;
- developing closer links and personal contacts, especially when participatory working methods are used (voluntary participation, a wide mix of participants, frequent meetings using participatory approaches).
Info Box
The Scottish NRN developed a series of themed events to help improve the implementation of development support for rural Scotland’s priority sectors. The work also aimed to raise awareness about the opportunities available to individuals and rural communities. Over 600 participants took part in the events from across the country ranging from local voluntary practitioners to university researchers.
Seven themed events (ranging from community services, to green tourism and renewable energy) were run between 2011 and 2012. Each event covered a distinct thematic area and was delivered with the support of specialist partners. They involved presentations, workshops and networking opportunities, which inspired lively debate.
The events have provided a successful forum for networking between a wide range of organisations and people, enabling them to meet, share experiences, hear information relevant to their work and interests and establish lasting connections. The events have also enabled research activities and their results to be presented directly to rural practitioners and local communities. This has brought together two groups of stakeholders who often have few opportunities to communicate and network directly. It is hoped that this approach has encouraged the practical application of much of this research work.
