The case for sustainability through the example of the projects funded by the Szigetköz-Mosoni-Plain LEADER Association in 2014-2020

Eszter Horváth; Andrea Pozsgai; Éva Gondár

doi:10.14513/tge-jres.00442

Authors

Eszter Horváth Széchenyi István University Author https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3277-3775
Andrea Pozsgai Széchenyi István University Author https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3375-7459
Éva Gondár PG Hungary Kft. Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14513/tge-jres.00442

Keywords:

LEADER, Local Action Group (LAG), rural area, development, sustainability

Abstract

The present study sought to answer the question of how sustainability was achieved in the development of a rural micro-region. One of the instruments for sustainability is the LEADER programme, implemented by local/regional civil society, business and municipal actors through so-called Local Action Groups (LAGs). In the implementation process, the LAG develops a rural development strategy adapted to the natural and socio-economic characteristics of the area, which is implemented by a working group (local LEADER association). The working group selects and supports local development projects through local tenders within the budget allocated to it. The local HACS under review have set as their main objectives for the period 2014-2020 the preservation of natural assets, the improvement of the quality of life of the population of the region, the increase of the population retention capacity of the region, the development of local businesses, the support of NGOs and municipalities and the promotion of local products on the market. The research focuses on the north-western tip of Hungary, where the LEADER Association of Szigetköz-Mosoni-Plain LEADER is carrying out this activity. All applications received by the association during the period under study were evaluated. The analysis was based on the database provided by the association and on personal interviews with the experts coordinating the process. The applications received were grouped and assessed according to their relevance to the interface between environment, society and economy to ensure sustainability and how they contribute to its implementation. The sustainability assessment shows that the implementation of proposals and projects aimed at creating social ‘well-being’ in the region dominated across the 5 packages of measures. The second highest scores were for economic and social challenges. Among the sustainability pillars, proposals aimed at environmental sustainability were less frequent. In the case of areas with a significant landscape protection area, therefore, greater emphasis should be placed on environmental considerations in future rural development. The uniqueness of the study is to put into practice the intervention theory model of the LEADER programme by examining the work of the LEADER associations studied in the period 2014-2020 and to identify the development of the sustainability approach along the implemented projects.

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