The European CAP Network is a crucial platform that facilitates networking among national CAP networks, organizations, and administrations in the field of agriculture and rural development at the Union level. This network serves as a forum for discussion and exchange of good practices related to the implementation of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) for a diverse range of stakeholders, including Member State administrations, agricultural producers, evaluators, local action groups, European-wide organizations, farm advisory services providers, and innovation support services.
One of the key functions of the EU CAP Network is to support the design and implementation of CAP Strategic Plans, promote innovation and knowledge exchange, including the European Innovation Partnership for Agricultural Productivity and Sustainability (EIP-AGRI), and facilitate the evaluation of the CAP. By providing a platform for collaboration and sharing of best practices, the network plays a crucial role in ensuring the effective implementation of the CAP across the European Union.
In addition to facilitating networking and knowledge exchange, the EU CAP Network also offers a wide range of activities and information on the implementation of CAP Strategic Plans across the EU. This includes a collection of good practices, events, and publications that help stakeholders stay informed and engaged in the ongoing developments in agricultural and rural development policies.
It is important to note that the EU CAP Network has replaced the European Network for Rural Development (ENRD), which includes the Evaluation Helpdesk and the EIP-AGRI network. This transition reflects the evolving needs and priorities in the field of agriculture and rural development, and underscores the importance of a coordinated and collaborative approach at the EU level.
One of the key initiatives supported by the EU CAP Network is the LEADER approach, which is a ‚bottom-up‘ approach that empowers local communities to take charge of their own development. Through local action groups (LAGs), which consist of farmers, rural businesses, local organizations, public authorities, and individuals from different sectors, communities can prepare their own local development strategies and manage their own budgets. This approach fosters collaboration, innovation, and knowledge sharing at the local level, leading to a wide range of economic, cultural, social, and environmental benefits in rural Europe.
The success of the LEADER approach over the past 30 years has led to its adoption by the European Regional Development Fund (ERFD), the European Social Fund (ESF), and the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) as part of wider Community-Led Local Development (CLLD) initiatives. Today, LEADER/CLLD groups manage tens of thousands of projects that contribute to the sustainable development of rural areas across Europe.
Looking towards the future, rural development actions will be integrated into the framework of national CAP strategic plans from 2023 onwards. The European Commission aims to make rural development actions more responsive to current and future challenges, such as climate change and generational renewal, while continuing to support European farmers in building a sustainable and competitive agricultural sector. These actions will also align with the Commission’s key priorities and strategies, such as the European Green Deal and the long-term vision for rural areas.
In terms of legal bases, the EU CAP Network operates under several regulations, including Regulation (EU) 1303/2013 on the common rules applicable to the European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIF), Regulation (EU) 1305/2013 on support for rural development by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD), Regulation (EU) 1306/2013 on the financing, management, and monitoring of the Common Agricultural Policy, and others. These regulations provide the necessary framework for the implementation and monitoring of rural development actions across the EU.
In conclusion, the European CAP Network plays a vital role in promoting collaboration, knowledge exchange, and innovation in the field of agriculture and rural development at the EU level. By bringing together national CAP networks, organizations, and administrations, the network facilitates the effective implementation of the CAP Strategic Plans and supports the sustainable development of rural areas across Europe. Through initiatives like the LEADER approach and ongoing efforts to align rural development actions with key EU priorities, the network is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of rural development in the European Union.