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New Sources of Employment to Promote the Wealth-Generating Capacity of Rural Communities

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New job opportunities for rural areas

Cutting-edge research on how to improve rural competitiveness across Europe promises to bring forth exciting new employment opportunities for citizens in outlying communities.

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A successful European economic model lies in encouraging rural communities to find new sources of employment beyond their traditional sectors of activity. The EU-funded project 'New sources of employment to promote the wealth-generating capacity of rural communities' (RURALJOBS) contributed to this objective by studying labour market dynamics and relevant issues. It examined human capital and skills in line with EU directives for employment, factoring in technological change and the premise of moving towards a knowledge-based economy. The project investigated how labour markets have evolved, considering as well changing work patterns and travel habits. The researchers also identified employment growth areas to help articulate measures, policies and good practices that would further the project's aims. In particular, RURALJOBS looked at the effectiveness of past and current policies in improving competitiveness in sectors such as agriculture, fishing and forestry, in addition to encouraging diversification. Representing seven European countries across the continent, the project team investigated employment rates, demographics and labour trends in relevant sectors. It then investigated the harmonisation of regional and rural development policies, as well as the effectiveness of regional initiatives such as the EU's Leader programme. Another important topic explored by RURALJOBS covered different governance models for rural regions and their effectiveness. Several outcomes emerged from the project, including a list of recommendations for public authorities to encourage rural employment. The project team also compiled informative reports on rural development, rural labour markets, labour trends and employment opportunities, thus providing invaluable information about rural areas and key employment issues. It also clearly defined the different typologies of rural areas and articulated a set of indicators that could help further research in this area. While the project calls for more analysis to articulate and implement rural policies, the team's work has shed important light on making Europe's many regions more competitive. Rural communities throughout the continent could stand to benefit significantly from this endeavour.

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