Through its various measures and instruments, the common agricultural policy (CAP) can contribute to a balanced territorial development and the improvement of socioeconomic and social inclusion. However, outcomes vary considerably, depending on the characteristics of rural regions and the choice of policy measures and instruments. These are among the findings of the evaluation support study on the impact of the CAP on territorial development of rural areas: socioeconomic aspects published today by the European Commission.
This study, along with the replies to the CAP-specific questions of the public consultation on the long-term vision for rural areas, will contribute to the evaluation of the impact of the CAP on territorial development of rural areas focusing on socioeconomic aspects. This evaluation will assess the effectiveness, efficiency, coherence, relevance and EU added value of the CAP regarding its policy objective towards balanced territorial development. It will be concluded with the publication of a Commission report, envisaged for autumn 2021.
Background
An important objective of the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy is to contribute to balanced territorial development through a series of measures aimed at reducing the income gap between agricultural sector and other sectors of the economy. The support to the economic development, employment, growth, poverty reduction and social inclusion in rural areas is mainly financed by the EU Rural Development Policy. Direct payments to farmers and Common market organisation also contribute to the maintenance of a diversified agricultural sector and balanced territorial development.
Related Links
Impact of the CAP on territorial development of rural areas: socioeconomic aspects