Our Network at the Youth Policy Dialogue on Agriculture and Rural Life

On May 7th, ahead of the Conference on the Vision for Agriculture and Food, a Youth Policy Dialogue was held in Brussels to spotlight the challenges and opportunities surrounding generational renewal in rural areas.

We are proud to share that our LEADER Youth community, a branch of ELARD, was represented on-site by Irene, who joined 20 other young delegates from across rural Europe. Together, they voiced their concerns, shared experiences, and proposed solutions directly to EU Commissioner for Agriculture and Food, Christophe Hansen.

Commissioner Hansen emphasized the need to strengthen rural services – especially in remote areas – as a key part of the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy. He captured the challenge many face by stating that no one living in a village should have to choose between “having children or having cows.”

ELARD and REDR were also present, reinforcing our shared belief that young people must play a central role in shaping the future of rural communities. Through the LEADER approach — which fosters local participation and bottom-up development — we ensure that young voices are not only heard but are instrumental in designing and leading the transformation of their rural areas. This dialogue further highlighted how LEADER can serve as a key tool for generational renewal and inclusive rural policy.

This is just one of many important steps we’re taking together to ensure that rural youth not only have a voice – but real influence in shaping tomorrow’s policies.