Agricultural policy and rural development
Rural Europe is characterised by a wide variety of natural environments and cultural landscapes shaped by agriculture. More than half of Europe's population lives and works in these regions, which have slowly developed over centuries. Since the founding of the European Union (EU), the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) has been one of its central areas of responsibility. In recent decades, it has repeatedly been confronted with new challenges as a result of constantly changing social and political conditions (e.g. the impact of agriculture on the environment, demographic change, the associated migration, the increased mobility of the population, or the globalisation of markets).
In the beginning, agricultural policy was still characterised by price support and market regulations. In the meantime, however, it has become increasingly clear that agriculture must provide social services in addition to producing agricultural goods. Agricultural policy is therefore also responsible for maintaining cultural landscapes, protecting the environment, ensuring animal welfare and preserving cultural heritage.
Agricultural policy and rural areas are among our core topics, which we have been addressing ever since our institute was founded in 1956. We deal with the sustainable development of rural areas and related local and global future issues. We develop concepts, conduct research and provide consultancy services, and we identify and evaluate economic, ecological and social interrelationships.
Contact person/s at IfLS: Jörg Schramek (schramek[at]ifls.de) and Simone Sterly (sterly[at]ifls.de)
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