Agri-food matters prioritised by National Networks

As the National Networks (NNs) start their operations for 2024, a review of their latest and collective activity highlights a variety of useful topics related to support for the implementation of CAP Strategic Plans (CSPs).  AKIS, sectoral interventions, eco-schemes and LEADER are some of the CSP areas that NNs have been sharing information about recently in their regional and thematic cluster meetings.

Agri-food topics continue to be a priority for the NNs. For instance, the German NN is launching new work in support of CSP stakeholders interested in opportunities offered by sectoral intervention funds in the CSPs for Producer Organisations.

NNs report that they are also currently working on topics including AKIS, eco-schemes, regional antennae, monitoring and evaluation, and LEADER’s scope for supporting farmers and rural youth.

LEADER will be on the NNs’ agenda next month at the 3rd NN meeting in Denmark. Experience and advice about the NNs’ role in supporting transnational cooperation will be exchanged at this event. Participants attending the National Networks meeting will also explore how NNs can facilitate youth involvement in LEADER as well as potential NN activities on LEADER and agriculture.

Informal time for discussions during NN meetings provides an occasion for sharing ideas and knowledge on such topics in addition to exchanging new cooperation possibilities. The Cypriot NN, for example, is interested in working with Member States celebrating 20 years of EU membership and Portugal wishes to raise awareness about its new catalogue of communication projects funded directly by the NN.

Lastly in this month’s round-up of what's happening with the NNs, we share news of the launch of Belgium’s Wallonia NN. With a new structure and close involvement of the CSP Managing Authority, it officially starts work in February 2024.