Identifying the drivers of rural vulnerability – insights from ESIRA pilot areas
As part of the ESIRA project, a common framework was developed to understand the drivers of rural vulnerability in pilot areas. Based on the ILO methodology, vulnerability was analysed through three clusters: socio-economic, governance and security, and environmental factors. A shared template with research questions was created, covering service availability, demographic trends, vulnerable groups, and local governance.
Data was collected using both statistical sources and qualitative methods, such as interviews and focus groups. National reports were then synthesised to identify common patterns and key differences. Main challenges include depopulation, poor access to services, lack of economic diversification, administrative complexity, and remoteness. However, local assets were also mapped, such as social economy cooperatives, traditions in agriculture and forestry, tourism potential, and active civil society organisations.
It is recommended that local actors apply similar mapping tools, combining quantitative and qualitative data, and involving community stakeholders to better plan and address vulnerability challenges while building on existing strengths.
Enhancing Social Innovation in Rural Areas
Ongoing | 2024-2027
- Main funding source
- Horizon Europe (EU Research and Innovation Programme)
- Geographical location
- Hungary, Italy, Lithuania, Poland, Spain, Norway, Republic of Serbia