The technical conference “LEADER Cooperation and new Framework 2028-2034”, promoted by the Association for Rural Development of Andalusia (ARA) and the Asturian Network for Rural Development (READER), brought together representatives from both autonomous communities and public administrations. The objective was to share initiatives and address key challenges for the future of rural development.
The importance of administrative simplification to facilitate management and reduce burdens was highlighted at the meeting. The manager of the GDR Comarca de Guadix, Juan José Manrique, participated in a session dedicated to practical experiences in this area, alongside María Jesús Alonso Blanco, manager of the GDR Alto Nalón.
Issues relevant to the future of LEADER, such as inter-territorial cooperation and the configuration of the next Multiannual Financial Framework 2028-2034, were analyzed. The program also included a panel of LEADER cooperation experiences linked to astrotourism, agroecology, and sustainability.
ARA and READER emphasized the need for fixed and stable funding for rural development in the next European period, recognizing the work of Rural Development Groups for over three decades in economic diversification, job creation, and combating depopulation.
Participation in such forums allows the GDR Comarca de Guadix to learn about solutions from other groups that can improve aid management and make LEADER instruments increasingly accessible and effective for businesses and the rural population.
The conference, held at the Alcalde Antonio Carpio Cultural Center in Montilla, addressed the main challenges facing rural territories in the new European programming period 2028-2034.
