How to support Smart Villages strategies which effectively empower rural communities?
Orientations for policy-makers and implementers
DescriptionOverview of the initiative and its approach.
The “How to support Smart Villages strategies that effectively empower rural communities” document provides preliminary orientations on the support provided to Smart Villages during and after the 2020 Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) programming period (2014–2020). The document draws from the discussions of national and regional policy-makers and implementers involved in the ENRD Thematic Group on Smart Villages. The resource outlines the key elements of the Smart Villages Strategy, being the presence of an active group of citizens, a community vision, the identification of new and innovative solutions, a road map of interventions, soft investments, long-term financial sustainability and linkages with other strategies.
TechnologyTechnology used by the initiative.
The briefing document discusses multi-level strategies related to the digitalizing of rural areas with a people-centred approach, including in particular the integration of digitalization into local community development. Although no specific technology is highlighted in the document, a number of case studies are presented, such as the “Strategy for Inner Areas Italy”, which makes use of the following technologies: 1) a web platform managed by a local community cooperative; 2) remote classrooms in secondary schools; 3) equipping local pharmacies in Matese (Molise) with smart technologies to allow remote diagnostics by hospital personnel; and 4) Smart devices allowing inhabitants to monitor landslides and strengthen civil protection in Madonie (Sicily).
TargetUsers, groups, or communities targeted by the initiative.
The primary beneficiaries of the resource are national and regional policy-makers and implementers, who are supported in the development and application of rural and regional policies, and rural communities in EU countries, who can benefit from the presented knowledge related to the key components of the Smart Village Strategy and the provided case study examples.
ImpactThe observed or intended effects of the initiative.
The briefing document aims to support national and regional policymakers and to help rural communities in the effective implementation of Smart Village Strategies, supporting them in tackling their unique challenges and empowering local communities in the testing and application of innovative solutions to broader societal challenges.
PartnersOrganizations and stakeholders involved in the initiative.
European Commission
Four BettersThe FAO Four Betters supported by the initiative.
Better environment
Better life
