EU Rural Review 29 'LEADER Achievements'

Few other EU-wide actions are able to achieve the extent of policy reach and voluntary participation from communities as LEADER does. The method’s continuing applicability and adaptability reflect a huge potential for involving precisely those people who often feel most left out of global and European trends.

There are many reasons for the success and resilience of LEADER over time. One of the most important is that it is much more than a random collection of inspiring local projects. The LEADER approach is dependent on the integrated implementation of its ‘seven principles’, delivering real results for and by local people. This defines LEADER as an active methodology and not simply a funding programme. When the seven principles are well applied, the LEADER method can achieve its full potential.

This EU Rural Review explores how the seven LEADER principles are interpreted today by people who have been deeply involved with implementing LEADER in rural communities across Europe. The authors’ views provide insights about how the principles work in practice, how they deliver results and ensure sustained performance over time. Importantly, the seven articles show how the principles are adaptable to deal with the emerging challenges and opportunities facing rural areas.