On 24 and 25 June 2026, stakeholders from research, policy and practice gathered in Brussels for the joint final conference of the Horizon Europe projects RUSTIK and GRANULAR. The event focused on how changes in rural areas can be better understood and monitored, and on the role that new data sources and territorial intelligence can play in supporting effective policy responses.
Through presentations and panel discussions, both projects showcased their key findings and achievements. A central theme throughout the conference was the need to combine different forms of knowledge to better understand the complex challenges facing rural areas, including demographic change, economic transformation, and environmental and climate-related pressures. Alongside statistical data and emerging digital data sources, the experiences and perspectives of local stakeholders were recognised as an essential component of this process.
A particular focus was placed on the experiences gained through the Living Labs, which were established in both projects as spaces for exchange, co-creation and mutual learning. Examples from rural regions across Europe demonstrated how local actors can be actively involved in the collection, interpretation and use of information. This helps generate insights that are not only scientifically robust, but also relevant for policy and practical decision-making on the ground.
Another key topic was how the data and analytical approaches developed within the projects can be more effectively integrated into policy processes. Discussions explored the contribution of novel data sources and territorial intelligence to evidence-based policymaking, as well as the role of Rural Proofing in making the impacts of policy measures on different types of rural areas more visible and better understood.
For IfLS, as coordinator of the RUSTIK project, the conference provided an opportunity to take stock of four years of collaboration together with project partners and to discuss the project's findings with stakeholders from across Europe. While the final conference marked an important milestone, RUSTIK will continue until the end of the year. During this period, the consortium will further consolidate project results and highlight their relevance for the future development of rural areas across Europe.
Contact persons at IfLS: Simone Sterly, Sarah Peter und Svea Thietje (rustik-coordination(at)ifls.de)
