LEADER

The 4th REAWG on LEADER met in Skopje, focusing on progress & strategies for implementing the LEADER approach in the Western Balkans. Experts shared updates, reports & recommendations to boost rural development through community-led initiatives.

The main outcome of the REAWG will be preparation of national and regional report on the overall progress of LEADER implementation in the Western Balkan countries including conclusions on the current state and recommendation on future steps for accelerating LEADER implementation in the region.

The Interim meeting of the Regional Expert Advisory Working Group (REAWG) on LEADER gathered the ministry representatives working on LEADER approach and National Rural Networks from the Western Balkans to elaborate the new developments taken with regards to the policy improvements following the recommendations in the Road Maps on LEADER and measures and specific steps needed to be taken to relaunch LEADER process.

The Balkan Rural Development Network and national rural development networks should articulate their positions to national ministries and EU institutions. Networking among Local Action Groups (LAGs) should be enhanced through the national rural networks. To sustain the enthusiasm of the LAGs and strengthen their capacities, national schemes should complement IPARD (LEADER-like measures).

Outcomes of the 'Standing up for LEADER' project is National Road Maps to strengthen and intensify the effort to anchor the LEADER approach at the policy level, among local actors and rural networks in the SEE and to connect each one's effort with those of the other.

The Guide provides support and guidance, as well as practical tools for forming future trainers to disseminate practical information, knowledge, and experiences for the realization of LEADER, community-led and area-based development in Southeast Europe.