Networking

Networks and networking provide crucial support to the achievement of rural development objectives in Europe through, for example, the sharing of knowledge and exchange of ideas.

Rural networks have a specific role in supporting improved design and delivery of Rural Development Programmes (RDPs) and better rural development practice across the EU. This role was increased significantly in 2007 with the set-up of the National Rural Networks (NRNs) and the European Network for Rural Development (ENRD).

The common objectives of the NRNs (Article 54) and the ENRD (Article 52) for the 2014-2020 programming period are defined by the Rural Development Regulation[1] [PDF ] as being to:

  • increase the involvement of stakeholders in the implementation of rural development;
  • improve the quality of implementation of Rural Development Programmes;
  • play a role in informing the broader public on Rural Development policy.

Substantial rural networking experience has been accumulated amongst the NRNs since 2007 and the ENRD has an important role in sharing and providing access to this knowledge and experience.

Explore this section to find out more about the work, operation and experience of the NRNs:

  • NRN Profiles: summary information on the structure and functioning of NRNs and NSUs;
  • NRN Mapping Reports: synthetic information on the state-of-play and activities of NRNs and NSUs;
  • NRN Toolkit  provides a range of lessons and good practices for networking based on the experience of NRNs
  • Network Self-assessment: collection of useful materials intended to assist NSUs in achieving key NRN objectives and tasks;
  • NRNs’ Meetings & Workshops: links to all of the European meetings of the NRNs in the 2014-2020 period.


Further information

[1] Regulation (EU) No 1305/2013