RURBANIVE Policy Brief #1 - Prospects for Rural-Urban policies in the post 2027 policy framework

This first policy brief from the Horizon Europe project RURBANIVE (2024–2027) explores strategic options to enhance rural-urban synergies in the context of the post-2027 EU policy framework. It synthesises key insights from recent project outputs, including the Policy Inception Report and Deliverable D6.1, and sets out ten identified threats and opportunities alongside four strategic policy options. The brief contributes to ongoing debates around the future of the EU Multiannual Financial Framework, the Long-Term Vision for Rural Areas, and the forthcoming Agenda for Cities, advocating for more integrated, immersive, and functionally grounded territorial governance models. It aims to inform policymakers and stakeholders seeking balanced, innovation-driven approaches to European territorial development.