NRN INFORMATION

The German National Rural Network

Germany’s National Rural Network manages the initiation and fostering of cooperation between regions and actors responsible for rural development. The German network has been fully operational since February 2008.

In accordance with Article 66, Section 3 of EU Rural Development Regulation (1698/2005), Germany opted to prepare a specific programme document for the operation of its National Rural Network (NRN).

Among the objectives of the Network Support Unit (NSU) are the collection and dissemination of knowledge; the provision of access to good and new practices for a wide range of actors; programme implementation support; the running of working groups; and the initiation and fostering of cooperation between regions and actors responsible for rural development.

Besides seminars and workshops, information is provided through the web site, newsletter and magazine. In order to facilitate the development of cooperation projects, the NSU provides technical assistance and continuously cooperates with the ENRD.

Network Participants

The Monitoring Committee of the NRN has about 50 members originating in the EU, the Federal Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection and other federal ministries (e.g. ministries responsible for Rural Development Programmes [RDPs]), federal states and economic and social partners.

Beyond this formal core - actors, stakeholders and beneficiaries of the Länder-based RDPs - are considered members of the NRN. These include: professional and social organisations, cooperatives, business people, private persons, and LAGs operating under the LEADER or similar national / regional support scheme programmes. Those interested or active in general rural development issues are also welcome. .

Read more about the organisational structure of the Network [PDF ]

NRN Activities

The NSU engages in the organisation of a wide range of events, addressing issues such as social farming, bio-energy and climate change

Specific support provided for the implementation of Leader comprises training for LAG-Managers in project management, networking, public relations, organisation of events and and moderation.

Read more about the main Priorities and Activities of the Network [PDF ]

Activities with other Networks/Countries

• Contributions to Relevant Experience Pilot Initiative

The Network in 2014-2020 programming period

See details in the ‘NRN Mapping Report – NRNs in Transition’ (2014) [PDF ]