Landsbygdsnätet

Landsbygdsnätet, or the Swedish Rural Network, is a national platform for rural development in Sweden. It coordinates dialogue and collaboration among public authorities, regional actors, businesses, civil society and researchers to support sustainable growth and improved services in rural areas. The network operates within the framework of Sweden’s participation in the European Network of Rural Networks and aligns with the aims of the EU's European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD).

Its purpose is to facilitate exchange of knowledge and best practices, provide input to policy development, and disseminate information about European and national rural development programs. It also serves as a channel for feedback from rural communities to policymakers and as a space for joint projects and experimentations.

Governance: Landsbygdsnätet is organized with a national coordination secretariat and a governing body that includes representatives from government ministries, regional authorities and stakeholder organizations. Participation is open to actors involved in rural development, and regional and thematic forums address specific issues such as entrepreneurship, services, infrastructure, nature and culture, and climate and energy.

Activities: The network conducts workshops, conferences and thematic meetings, shares results and case studies, maintains communications channels including a website and newsletters, and contributes to the design and monitoring of Sweden's rural development programs. It also links to the European Rural Network for cross-border learning and cooperation.

Impact: By fostering collaboration among diverse actors, Landsbygdsnätet aims to improve coordination of funding, policy coherence, and the effectiveness of rural development initiatives across Sweden. It provides a platform for disseminating good practice and for pilot projects that address rural challenges and opportunities.