Between March 28 and 30, 2018, A.O. Pro Cooperare Regională, conducted a study visit to the Republic of Romania. The purpose of the study visit was to take good practice on solving community problems at local level based on the LEADER approach and Local Action Groups. The visit included 14 people, including 6 NGO representatives, 4 representatives of the LPA and 4 economic agents from 5 LAG territories in the Northern Region of the Republic of Moldova, which initiated the creation of a Local Action Group in their territory.
The activity is part of the project “Development of rural communities through the LEADER approach and local action groups”, implemented by the A.O. Pro Cooperare Regională, with the financial support of the HEKS-EPER Foundation Switzerland. The project aims to contribute to improving the quality of life and living conditions of the rural population by creating Local Action Groups and attracting investments in rural areas.
The study visit took place in two counties in Romania: Iasi County and Suceava County. The study visit program included meetings with members of Local Action Groups, local public authorities, representatives of the business environment that since 2007 have been implementing community projects at local level from the LEADER Program sources.
Romania is at the second stage of implementing the LEADER Program, the first stage was implemented in the period 2007-2013, the second phase is in the process of implementation and covers the period 2014-2020.
Rural development policy in Romania is geared towards the development of the business environment and the development of rural tourism, which is at present a priority component. The implementation of the LEADER Program in Romania has helped to develop local identity, strengthen links between different social sectors, modernize local infrastructure and create new jobs. As a result, LEADER has accelerated rural development in Romania and contributed to improving the quality of life of rural people.