Rural areas should not be passivated by centralized development

A proposed shift in the European Union's financial framework for 2028-2034 threatens the way rural development is funded and managed. Currently, rural development is part of the common agricultural policy, but the new proposal suggests moving it under cohesion policy. This change could significantly impact rural areas' involvement in decision-making, their access to resources, and the effectiveness of development tools.

The article points to the success of current EU programs, which have supported businesses, community initiatives, and improvements in environment, infrastructure, services, and well-being through localized, small-scale projects. These efforts have actively engaged rural communities and small businesses. The proposed new structure, however, emphasizes common EU-level policy objectives, requiring member states to create national and regional plans. While agricultural support remains separate, the broader rural development strategies might become centralized.

Concerns are raised that large-scale, overarching initiatives may not suit Finland's dispersed rural structure. The authors advocate for development strategies that are tailored to local needs, emphasizing that Finland's current regional development system is more urban-centric. With a significant portion of the Finnish population and businesses located in rural areas, ensuring their participation and adequate resource allocation is crucial. The piece concludes by warning against a centralized approach that could inadvertently 'passivate' rural areas instead of empowering them.