MAP Position Paper (Estonia)- Social dimension of rural areas

The Position Paper was developed by the SHERPA Multi-Actor Platform (MAP) based in Estonia, that joined the project in 2021. Based on consultation with the MAP Estonia members, the thematic focus for the first MAP cycle was set “Social dimension of rural areas”. MAP's Members indicated that this theme is relevant because the population in rural areas is both ageing and declining which hinder the development of these regions and the sustainability of Estonian rural life.

Therefore, it is important to explore how to attract young people to the countryside and create attractive jobs in the rural areas. After brainstorming with MAP members we decided to concentrate on three subtopics:

• How to involve community members in the development of the region?
• How to promote a smooth generational renewal and young people moving/staying in the rural areas?
• How to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship in rural areas?