IMPLEMENTING A NATIONAL RURAL NETWORK: CHALLENGES FOR ROMANIA

Abstract

The establishment of National Rural Networks is a requisite for all EU member states following adoption of the 2005 Rural Development Regulation. Although networking, particularly in the form of exchanging experience and/or establishing partnerships, is not a novelty, the setting up of national rural networks is envisaged by policy makers in Brussels as an instrument that will enhance the effectiveness of rural development policy across the Community. However, the implementation of such an instrument represents a challenge for the new member states. This is particularly the case for Romania, where experience with networking is sparse. Building on a survey of network members in Romania, this paper identifies major challenges for the actors involved and explores the potential for networking in that country. Findings show that Romania's NRN faces difficulties in exploiting the benefits that ânetworkingâ theoretically offers. For Romania, where administration and beneficiaries lack experience and capacities, and where the policy delivery process needs to be improved, the potential technical assistance through the NRN is likely to have a significant impact, but there is a long way to go. Keys for successful implementation are clearly defined endogenously grown objectives, sufficient communication and the political will.National Rural Network, Romania, Rural Development, Policy instrument, EU, Community/Rural/Urban Development,