RTD in the rural regions and islands of the EU
The European Commission, DG XII, has published a report on "Research and technological development in the rural regions and the islands of the European Union". The report, elaborated within the context of the STRIDE Community initiative concerning regional capacities for research, technology and innovation (1990-1993), examines the relationship between research and technological development and socio-economic development in rural and island regions. The study, coordinated by DYNMED (Groupe d'étude sur les dynamiques méditerranéennes), is based on the following hypotheses: - Socio-economic development and investment in RTD are intricately linked; - Local associations play a central role in the development of their regions; - Support to the development of local RTD structures is essential; - Recognition of the specific needs of each region is fundamental.