Policy Insights - Policy priorities for rural digitalisation 

Digitalisation is evolving at pace and EU policies are tasked to help all citizens enjoy equal access to the same opportunities. Hence, reducing the risks of rural areas being left behind by the new possibilities offered by technological advances is an important goal for the Rural Pact’s work in implementing the long-term vision for EU rural areas.  

The article reviews key aspects of rural digitalisation in Europe, such as the adoption of precision-driven digital agricultural techniques, new digital tools that help farmers to make more informed decisions, and digital platforms connecting farmers directly with markets and consumers. CAP support is also available for rural infrastructure and services, particularly for innovative and cooperative initiatives like Smart Villages.  

CAP support can also be coordinated with other EU policies (e.g. cohesion policy, lifelong learning, InvestEU, NextGenerationEU, or Horizon Europe funding) to provide a comprehensive coverage of support for rural digitalisation. Such blended interventions should have three key priorities: investing in education and training, fostering digital entrepreneurship, and investing in rural infrastructure.