Policy Insights - The importance of mountain development in the EU

The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) plays a crucial role in EU mountain areas by providing financial support, promoting sustainable practices and contributing to social cohesion. Without this policy framework, these regions could face even greater challenges in maintaining viable agricultural activities, supporting thriving populations and preserving their unique cultural landscapes.

Mountain areas are home to more than 10 % of the EU population and around a third of the European landmass is mountainous. Our mountains are also significant from an EU policy perspective because they play a crucial role in shaping Europe’s climate, providing habitats for diverse flora and fauna, as well as offering a unique range of tourism and recreation opportunities. The European Treaty on the Functioning of the EU provides further policy context noting that “particular attention” shall be paid to mountainous areas, as they suffer from severe and permanent natural or demographic challenges that hinder development. 

This article highlights the importance of mountain farming for regional food security, the conservation of diverse ecosystems and rare species, employment of local residents and small-scale local businesses, as well as its role in promoting sustainable tourism. It then reviews how CAP funding can contribute to issues that relate, among others, to food security, economic development and sustainability, cultural preservation, climate action and biodiversity conservation in mountain areas.