Portfolio

Our History

The Union of Civil Society Organisations “Rural Development Network of the Republic of Macedonia” – “RDN of RM” was established in March 2010 in Skopje as a nationally organised movement, with the aim of giving a voice to rural communities in the Republic of Macedonia.

The aim of the Rural Development Network of the Republic of Macedonia is to demonstrate a structured approach to mobilising rural communities, enabling them to become stronger advocates for local development and to participate in rural policy at local, regional, national and EU level.

This includes establishing effective cooperation and mutual support between individuals and organisations in rural areas, in order to ensure efficient representation of the needs, voice and interests of the rural population, as well as to facilitate the flow of information between governmental and non-governmental bodies at all levels.

The establishment of a rural network in Macedonia is a clear and constructive idea, built on a strong foundation of people and knowledge developed through the implementation of LEADER-like activities. These activities were supported over the past three years by the Macedonia Agricultural Advisory Support Programme (MAASP), funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida).

LEADER stands for “Links between Actions for Rural Development” and represents a method for initiating and implementing rural development within local rural communities.

The preparation for implementing this idea is based on three important processes:

  1. • Professional internal preparation to establish a stable foundation for the Network.
  2. • Intensive external coordination to ensure participation and understanding among potential members, as well as discussions with key stakeholders to build the necessary partnerships and support future cooperation.
  3. • Preparation and discussion of the financial and management plan, including the identification of potential funding sources.

Vision

The rural population in the Republic of Macedonia lives and works in an inclusive environment that encourages diversification and sustainability, enabling balanced development and the improvement of socio-economic living conditions, while preserving natural resources and cultural heritage.

Mission

The Rural Development Network of the Republic of Macedonia builds partnerships and establishes strategic cooperation to influence rural development policies at local and national level. It supports and engages rural communities through activities that strengthen and make use of their capacities, skills and knowledge, while promoting and advocating positions that encourage equal development and the sustainable use of natural resources.

Thematic Groups

  • Competitive Rural Areas
Agriculture and Food
Entrepreneurship
Smart Villages
Rural Tourism and Cultural Heritage
  • Green Economy
Environment and Efficient Management of Natural Resources
Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation
  • Social Inclusion
Gender Equality and Empowerment of Rural Women
Rural Youth
  • LEADER/CLLD Approach