Programmes implementing the 2015-2020 rural development policy : research for AGRI Committee

This report examines the choices made by EU Member States in preparing their Rural Development Programmes for the 2015-2020 period. It finds much continuity compared to the previous period but some notable changes, including more funding for knowledge and co-operation and greater focus upon the goals of environmental management and investments for primary sector competitiveness, with less for rural diversification. There is weak evidence of targeting of relative needs at EU level, but some evidence of a more strategic approach, learning from past experience, within Programmes. Heavy administrative burdens appear as a negative influence upon effective programme design, but innovation is indicated in the diverse uses of the co-operation measure. Other new measures have not proven popular. An effort to identify simpler approaches that enable effective targeting is recommended.