Navarra local action groups launch rural development agenda debate

Four local action groups in Navarra—Cederna-Garalur, Consorcio EDER, Consorcio Zona Media, and TEDER—have launched a participatory process to design a future Rural Agenda for Navarra. The initiative aims to create a joint strategy to guide the development of rural territories within the new European context starting in 2028, aligning with mechanisms such as the European Rural Pact and the LEADER program.

A meeting held in Obanos brought together over 80 stakeholders, including municipal representatives, technical staff, social and economic agents, and officials from the Government of Navarra, such as the Counselor for Rural Development and Environment, José Mari Aierdi. The project, titled ‘Active Towns, Living Towns,’ seeks to connect the specific needs of rural municipalities with public policy design.

Key issues identified for discussion include housing, mobility, employment, services, care, equality, digitalization, energy, generational renewal, and talent attraction. The groups aim to act as a territorial forum to bridge the gap between administrations, businesses, and local associations.