Tourism and rural development

The report examines the potential impacts of EU enlargement, focusing on Ukraine, Moldova, and the Western Balkans. It highlights the benefits of a larger internal market, increased geopolitical influence, and improved food and energy security, while also addressing the financial and policy challenges, especially in agriculture and regional development. Enlargement would require major adjustments to the Common Agricultural Policy and Cohesion Policy, with Ukraine’s vast agricultural sector putting particular pressure on EU funds. Financial estimates suggest significant budget needs, leading the report to outline three scenarios: no new members until 2041, a single large expansion, or a phased approach over multiple budget cycles. The report underscores the critical role of local and regional authorities (LRAs) in managing these changes, recommending support and shared strategies to ensure a balanced, sustainable approach to EU growth.

    The resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian dispute has been an issue of strategic and common interest for the European Union (EU) and the United States (USA). The Middle East Peace Process (MEPP) was initiated through the 1991 Madrid Conference co-sponsored by the Soviet Union and the USA.               … Continued

Handbook on countering online disinformation at the local and regional level, a new report for the European Committee of the Regions by Katarzyna W. Sidło, Agnieszka Kulesa, Oskar Chmiel (CASE) and Tony Zamparutti, Matthew Jones, Tugce Tugran, Laura Vona, Leïla Navas (Milieu S.R.L.)   This study, ‘A handbook on good practice in countering disinformation at local … Continued

This study examines the socio-economic situation of three lignite regions in the process of transitioning out of coal mining: Lusatia in Germany, Wielkopolska in Poland, and Upper Nitra in Slovakia. It assesses the effectiveness of various instruments, factors and approaches in creating quality jobs, employment, and economic growth. The research results suggest that a successful … Continued

A balanced urban-rural policy is central to successful regional development efforts. There have been several definitions of what could constitute an urban-rural balance (or imbalance), yet measures of actual ‘costs of non-rurality’ remain elusive. Since the Industrial Revolution, debates on this ‘balance’ centred on the shift from agricultural labour to industrial and service centres. This … Continued

The publication is a key deliverable within the BioBeo project, funded under the Horizon Europe program. It provides a structured approach to integrating bioeconomy education into school curricula across different institutional and social environments. The report examines the actors involved in curriculum decision-making, from policymakers and school administrators to parents, students, and businesses. It categorizes existing procedures for introducing new content into schools, whether initiated by teachers, school heads, or government authorities. Key barriers—legal, organizational, and socio-cultural—are identified, along with strategies to overcome them. A central theme is the importance of inclusive governance in education, advocating for participatory decision-making that involves various stakeholders. Recommendations highlight the need for flexibility in curriculum design, adequate funding, professional support for teachers, and depoliticization of educational content. The report concludes by situating these findings within the broader BioBeo curriculum framework, reinforcing the role of education in fostering a sustainable and circular bioeconomy.

The study commissioned by the European Economic and Social Committee, examines strategies to address the pressing challenges of housing affordability and sustainability across the EU. It focuses on two key areas: the role of digitalization in the housing sector and the contribution of social economy initiatives. Key findings include: Digitalization's Role: The study highlights how tools like Building Information Modelling (BIM) and AI can streamline planning, improve energy efficiency, and enhance building management. Case studies from Denmark, France, and the Netherlands illustrate successful digital solutions. Social Economy Contributions: Localized, community-oriented housing solutions, like cooperatives and social rental agencies, demonstrate the value of non-profit initiatives in creating affordable, resilient, and sustainable living environments. Examples include projects in Austria, Poland, and Spain. Policy Recommendations: Medium-term goals (by 2030) include harmonizing EU-wide housing policies and integrating digital platforms. Long-term strategies (by 2050) emphasize developing inclusive housing models and leveraging digital innovations. The study concludes that addressing housing issues requires a holistic approach, combining economic, environmental, and social strategies while fostering cooperation among local, national, and EU stakeholders.

Climate change poses a significant challenge across the European Union, with increasing climate-induced hazards threatening ecosystems, economies, and public well-being. Local and Regional Authorities (LRAs) play a crucial role in addressing these risks due to their close connection to affected communities. Effective Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) strategies must be tailored to local needs, yet many regions face challenges like limited resources and expertise. Proactive crisis management, integrated with Disaster Risk Management (DRM), is essential to prevent future crises. By using strategic foresight tools, LRAs can better prepare for risks, allocate resources effectively, and build community resilience. However, challenges remain, including financial constraints, trust issues and ensuring equity for vulnerable groups. To overcome these obstacles, LRAs should focus on inclusive governance, citizen engagement, and data-driven decision-making. As climate hazards intensify, integrating CCA with DRM at the local level will better equip communities to withstand and recover from climate impacts. Collaborative efforts and capacity-building are key to a resilient future.