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The paper explores the possibility of transport development as a factor for the rural integration of a population of over 100,000 using the example of the city of Stara Zagora in Bulgaria. The analysis showed that improving the access of the rural population to the agglomeration areas can be done through the combination of inter-urban transport that connects the villages with the nearby city The purpose of developing this process is to increase the access of the rural population to the cities and, accordingly, to bring out the problems that the people of the villages have in terms of urban transport. Based on a proposed methodology, we propose to highlight the main public transport problems of the rural population. On the other hand, to propose different views and models to achieve higher efficiency of urban transport and its implementation in rural areas. In this paper, quantitative and qualitative analysis is used and the results are also used to assess the impact of price fluctuations on vegetable marketing channels including vegetable processing enterprises. Data on vegetable prices were extracted from the tempo on line database and the analysis was also based on interviews with key stakeholders in the vegetable processing chain. The results reveal a high coefficient of variation at the farm gate stage, which is also transmitted to the distribution and commercialization stage. The analysis was also carried out at the processing level and the results also show a rather high coefficient of variation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A local development strategy allows the active coordination of the development process taking place in the territory, taking into account local characteristics, changes in the external environment and allowing a positive approach to territorial development in an innovative way. Local development strategies are characterized by at least seven characteristics recommended to local managers responsible for development: vision for the future, creativity, flexibility, activity, created for action, orientation to change and orientation to sustainable gain. The purpose of this paper is to highlight both the needs and requirements of the inhabitants of the Snagov commune, respectively the degree of satisfaction with the public services they benefit from, as well as the development vision of the Snagov commune. To obtain the information necessary for the study, the questionnaire method was used, and the group of people related to the sample filled in the requested data and expressed their opinions regarding public services, infrastructure, community projects. The key challenge is to ensure a balanced and sustainable development of the territory based on polycentric development, providing services to the surrounding rural areas, avoiding the decline of the rural population and ensuring the continued attractiveness of these areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current context, after a pandemic that has left traces in all socio-economic fields and during major geopolitical problems, Basic research is needed in order to identify directions for rapid and sustainable socio-economic recovery. The agricultural sector has played a particularly important role in speeding economic growth and development in less developed countries. As a result, we may argue that the agriculture sector has aided these countries' integration into global trade. The proposed paper aims to identify the degree of dependence of the Moldovan economy on agriculture and how this dependence can be transformed into a challenge that will help the country's economy. Also, the paper aims to identify the link between agricultural production and gross domestic product at the level of the Moldovan economy, as well as the need to create a stability in the labour market in agriculture. The above mentioned will be achieved in the conditions in which there is already a decrease in the labour force, a decrease due to medical, geo-political and migration factors. To develop a sustainable economy, sustainable agricultural public policies must be enacted, resulting in the attraction of personnel from metropolitan regions (where unemployment is higher) to rural areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper aimed to present the consumer perception on the local gastronomical points given their novelty on the market and their huge importance for the rural development. A study was conducted among the population of Cluj County using an online questionnaire. Results indicate that the consumers are preoccupied to consume local food and drinks when they travel to rural destinations. There is a positive attitude towards the LGPs among the respondents which find very attractive all the LGPs characteristics meaning serving traditional meals made from local raw materials within the locals kitchens. For a traditional local menu with a limited assortment the consumers are willing to pay between 31-45 lei. The respondents consider that the LGPs are important within the rural areas and their creation represents an opportunity both for tourism development and for rural resident's incomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of the paper is to analyze and evaluate the demographic development trends in Bulgaria as well as to identify demographically problematic rural areas and the consequences of their development. Based on information from the National Statistical Institute, the demographic processes in the rural areas of Bulgaria for the period 2011-2021 are analyzed. The obtained results show the high rate of population decline in some regions of Bulgaria and the unfavorable values of the coefficients for demographic dependence and replacement. Rural areas of our country are experiencing faster depopulation than cities. This leads to significant territorial disparities in the manifestation of the observed processes. The last part emphasizes the need to implement regional demographic policies aimed at stimulating families with children and reforming professional education. It is also recommended to implement a proactive immigration policy to attract Bulgarians living abroad and immigrants from third countries with the necessary educational and professional qualifications to reduce the negative effects of the labor shortage in rural areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Moldova traditionally relies on the agricultural sector, rural population representing one third of labor force. The agricultural education and research system in Moldova is characterized by the aging of the teaching and research staff, the reduction of the number of students below the critical level, unattractiveness of science and education for the young generation, the weak connection between education, science and production, but also the inefficiency of the institutional activity. All these represent a major danger for the sustainable development of the rural areas. The aim of this paper is to analyze the major factors affecting the academic performance of research and teaching staff in agricultural higher education of Moldova. The study is based on field surveys of academic personnel of State Agricultural University, the only agricultural higher education institution in Moldova. The data set includes 120 respondents. Main analyzed indicators are related to academic performance as: professional motivation, research activity in projects, published research results and achievements, main problems and challenges within the institution related and other relevant factors. As result, income level remains an important factor for staff motivation in achieving higher performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sector of traditional products from Romania has been regulated since 2004, but it was not until 2013 that stricter licensing rules were introduced, resulting in a small number of certified products (171 in 2013). However, the sector has developed continuously and in 2022 there were 735 certified traditional products at national level. The purpose of this paper was to analyse the distribution of these products at regional level so we can emphasize a Romanian regional model based on their main characteristics. We used the database created by the Romanian Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural, respectively, the "National Register of Traditional Products", which can be found in the "Catalogue of Certified Products and Activities". The research showed the following profile of distribution: the most important traditional products are the ones made from meat and milk; in Brasov county was, it in the first place with almost 24% of total products; the certified products per producer reached an amount of 14 products in Galati county; most of the products are in Center, north-West and North-East regions. The regional model of distribution is characterized by a concentration of producers in mountainous and rural areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the changes that the pandemic imposed on the educational system, three periods can be identified in Romania, depending on the teaching methods used: Online teaching - 2020; Hybrid teaching - 2021; Traditional teaching (in physical format) - 2022. In each of these periods, teachers had to adapt their teaching style and use specific digital tools and applications. In this paper, we present the research conducted as part of doctoral theses in 7 pre-university institutions (2 high schools from urban environments and 5 secondary schools from rural environments), where questionnaires were collected from 100 teachers. The results revealed differences in the way of approach to teaching in the three analyzed periods, with a pronounced traditional behavior in the rural environment and with an obvious reluctance to change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rural area is of particular importance from a socio-economic point of view, whose economic activities are closely linked to the specific nature of the area. Rural localities are at different stages of development, depending on their specific characteristics. The aim of this paper is to identify the demographic effects of the poor economic development of rural localities, with particular emphasis on those in the South-Muntenia development region, which is known for its predominantly agricultural economic activities. In order to carry out the work, the main demographic indicators were qualitatively and quantitatively analysed and the main location and dispersion indicators were determined. The social outlook is not at all positive, both at national level and especially in rural areas. The population tends to decrease, influenced by the existing lifestyle, to which various factors contribute, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, but also the military conflicts in the area, which generate concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An attempt is being made to analyze the geodemographic picture in the rural areas (RA) of Bulgaria within a tenyear period. The authors of the scientific publication are based on the fact that the human population located in the smaller administrative territorial units (neighbourhoods, villages and small towns in terms of area and population) is of key importance for the functioning of social activities, which are basic for economic development in the country. The purpose of the scientific research is to investigate and analyze the natural growth (NG) of the population in the RA of Bulgaria for the period between the two national censuses 2011-2021. The results will present the temporary geodemographic picture of rural municipalities. Methodology in the scientific article is based on the definition of RA in the EU and Bulgaria. It is applied to the NUTS classification for grouping the abovementioned regions of the country, calculation of the natural increase of the population by years is based on the methodology of the National Statistical Institute (NSI) of the Republic of Bulgaria. The visualization of the process - NG of the population in the RA is presented in tables and figures, in which the dynamics of the numerical values for a certain period in per million (‰) and their change during the study are indicated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this article is to achieve a centralization of educational units with a specific focus on the trend of student enrolled in different forms of education versus the number of graduates since 1990. The importance of this article is given both by the historical context of this period, being characterized by the fall of the communist regime and the start of the reform processes in all fields, including education, following that from 2007, with Romania's accession to the European Union, the education system should benefit the implementation of funding programs from the European Social Fund (ESF), placing more emphasis on education in rural areas in Romania. It was also aimed at analyzing the results recorded in reducing educational gaps between rural and urban environments, as well as the impact on the socio-economic development of rural communities. In conclusion, recommendations will be proposed to optimize the efficiency of the implementation of ESF financing programs, for the purpose of rural education and supporting sustainable rural development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rural education development is a strategic objective in Romania, especially due to the present challenges like: the drop in the number of students, poverty, lack of infrastructure, etc. The pressure to the sector was even higher during pandemic period when the rural educational infrastructure wasn't prepared for the infrastructural necessities. The present paper aimed to analyse the quality of education in rural areas from Arges county by a survey among 107 teachers from 7 middle schools and 1 high school, situated in five rural villages. The results revealed the needs of the teachers from rural areas to assure a good education, the needs of students to learn, the measures needed to be implemented regarding curricula, teaching methods and learning techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper intends to address the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on the development of rural areas in Galati County, after the application of the state of emergency in Romania. The article is based on the interpretation of the change of certain economic indicators in rural areas and their impact on the population, economic environment, industry, and agriculture. Supplementary research has been conducted by interpreting the changes triggered by the COVID-19 crisis on the decisions of local and regional authorities to develop certain strategies and projects before and after the end of the present crisis. At the same time, it is analyzed that rural areas were perceived as providing a defense wall against this pandemic, motivating the population in urban areas to seek shelter in rural areas, thus contributing to the development of the economic environment. However, in reality, rural areas have been the hardest hit, unable to provide the infrastructure needed for such a human wave. In the context of those presented, the paper is an analysis of economic and social factors but also of how the COVID-19 crisis has influenced the current situation in rural areas of Galati County. To reach the result of this analysis, research methods were used based on reports, studies, papers and specialized publications both online and offline. As a main result of this paper we can mention the identification at regional level of changes in social, demographic and economic factors with considerable impact on the rural economy in the coming years. Thus, agriculture will feel a decline due to this pandemic, after 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper aimed to present some aspects of the evolution the development of spatial model of the national concept. Bulgaria has a convincing historical experience in centralized creation and management of spatial models for development at three levels - municipal, regional and national. With the abolition of centralism, Bulgaria moved to the other pole - complete deregulation of spatial development. Urban and rural areas are two main concepts affecting the balanced spatial development of the country. The choice of a model for spatial development is influenced by a number of factors - social, geopolitical, economic, climatic and others. As a conclusion, the National Concept Programme of Development (NCPD) adopts the approach to rural and cross-border areas of the Territorial Program of the European Union (TA 2020), which to the polycentric spatial and integrated urban development adds concern for the preservation of the vitality of small settlements. The comparative method with its concepts and categories is the main research method in the present work. The spatial model for the development of the national territory is multi-layered and synthesizes different layers with information, functions, processes and priority elements of different hierarchical ranks. In Bulgaria there are visible/intensive processes of spatial polarization and movement towards monocentric models of development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The South-East region could benefit from the rural area. Agriculture has an important share in the region's economy, 40.4% of the region's employed population activating in this sector. The agricultural land represent 65% of the total area of the region and the private sector holds the largest share of agricultural land. The South-East region ranks first in the country, regarding area of the vineyards, holding 40.3% of the country's wine-growing area. There are essential elements in the region that can lead to a positive evolution regarding rural development, if European funds for agriculture will be drawn and used efficiently. The paper proposes an integrate analysis of current situation of South East region by means of data and statistics provided by international and national statistics institutions. The purpose of the paper is to evaluate the evolution of Romanian South East region under the influence of European funds for agriculture. It is good to understand the reason of current evolution in order to forecast the future evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the factors of smallholders' persistence in the rural area of Malaysia based on a case study of rice farming community in Parit 6 (East) village in the state of Selangor, Malaysia. Information for this paper are derived from in-depth interviews with key informants and series of field observation conducted in July and August 2017. The findings from the fieldwork highlights four major factors for smallholders' persistence which are strongly associated with strong and influential internal and external support systems including; (1) strong engagement and supports from various government agencies which include systematic distribution of subsidy and development grants, and development of irrigation infrastructure, (2) legality of land ownership, (3) farmers' ability in utilizing capital to expand local economic and improve quality of life and, (4) diversification of economic activities through farming and non-farming projects. The paper could offer valuable insights particularly in understanding some of the underlying factors for smallholders' persistence and sustainability particularly in the case of rice farming community in rural areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper deals with the results of the research conducted over a long period of time (i.e. about 25 years), on the economic importance of the spontaneous flora in the Oltenia Plain. The study was mainly motivated by the gradual decrease in the number of people who resort to traditional practices and by the widespread use of synthetic products, which have rapid but unhealthy effects. The analysis of the employment of useful species in this part of Oltenia highlights a worrying aspect: the use of spontaneous plants is age-dependant and it declines at younger ages. The medicinal species are still of great importance and they are used in almost all settlements within Oltenia Plain, although their use is more significant in rural areas and less important in urban ones. Unlike the pre-2000 period, when tinctorial species were employed to a greater extent, they are now used only occasionally, by the elderly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potato has been consumed for more than four centuries in Europe, and during the last century, it was also the subject of modern biotechnology breeding to obtain different varieties with specific uses. Therefore, new potato varieties have been constantly introduced into the marketplace. Up to the beginning of this century, purple-fleshed potatoes (PFPs) were not very common in Europe, nor in Romania. But, due to their significant nutritional importance, an increase in these varieties' acceptance on the marketplace was observed. While the purple-fleshed potato may offer unique nutritional advantages, challenges may arise in terms of consumer education and acceptance. The scope of this article was to apply a scientific-based questionnaire and to be disseminated with the support of students among the consumers in Sibiu County. A total of 278 answers have been received. Based on the analysis of this survey, it can be concluded that generally, the public is open to accepting different types of potato varieties. However, the need for scientific explanations was considered essential to getting informed answers from all respondents. The most interested in the PFPs seems to be the young generation, most originating from urban or rural areas. Thus, PFPs may have the chance to enter the marketplace in Romania quickly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the authors conducted a study on the economic development of Timiş County, as well as its SWOT analysis. The paper concludes with the Development Strategy of Timiş County, the main conclusions drawn from the conducted researches and bibliographical references. Within the paper, there are presented theoretical aspects related to rural area concept, followed by the physical- geographical characteristics of Timiş County. Throughout the paper, there are analyzed the existing demographic aspects found in Timiş County. The end part of the paper represents a translation in statistical terms of the main economic phenomena which are recorded in Timiş County. There are references made towards agriculture, forestry, industry, services, trade, tourism, as economic activities carried out in Timis County. Following these researches, at the end part of the paper, the authors have compiled a SWOT analysis of Timiş County, proposing in the same time a strategy for its development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the article we have substantiated and conducted statistically assess the impact of the final results of economic activity on the current socio-demographic situation of rural areas in Ukraine. Based on the results of determining the influence of conditioned factors on the level of labour migration of the rural population in Ukraine, we have developed a regression equation. Also, based on the results of the study, we built two cartograms, comparison of which provides an opportunity to assess the dynamics of the formation of the total fertility rate in rural areas (per 1 woman) for 2016 - 2020. We built a cartogram that visualizes the results of grouping regions of Ukraine by natural increase, decrease population in rural areas of Ukraine. The results of our study provide an opportunity to confirm that in the context of Ukraine's official accession to the European Union and the serious challenges of today, the Ukrainian state should perform the functions of regulating the most important spheres of society in general and rural areas in particular. The task of increasing the employment of the rural population should be raised to the level of state priorities, which would provide an opportunity to create new jobs for the rural population in industries that can provide the maximum competitive effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sub-measure 6.1 "Support for setting-up young farmers", within the NRDP 2014-2020, aimed to support the establishment for the first time of young farmers as sole heads / managers of an agricultural holding. At the same time, it stimulated young people and young families not to leave the rural area, and those from the urban area and the diaspora, who met the criteria, were attracted to establish an agricultural business in the rural area, to contribute to the development of the area's economy. The paper presents the amounts allocated by sub-measures NRDP 2014-2020 on 20.05.2021 and the distribution of the number of projects selected for funding under sub-measure 6.1, at the level of each county in Romania and regions. At national level, the absorption of funds related to sub-measure 6.1 was very good, being selected financing applications amounting to 438,120,000 Euro, out of the allocated amount of 466,754,112 Euro, which represents a degree of absorption of 93.87%. From the presented data it can be noticed that, in Dâmbovița county, most projects were selected for financing (863 projects), while in Neamț County only 8 projects were registered, for the period 2015-2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this paper was to establish a causal relationship between the socio-economic modernization level and the development level of the Romanian rural area, as main point of modernization of the rural household. The starting point in establishing this causal relationship was the development of a theoretical model for the assessment of the modernization and socio-economic development level of the rural area in terms of rural household modernization potential. The output of these models was 3 composite indices that were analysed both as independent indices, in dynamics, and in relation to the other indices, as well as to the dimensions and indicators related to each index. The main hypothesis of the research was the existence of an intrinsic link between the modernization degree and the socio-economic development of the rural area, thus the integration of modernization elements entailing development and implicitly, at rural household level, the continuous improvement of the quality of life and welfare of the rural population. The rural household was considered an important component of the Romanian rural space, being the driving engine that makes all the subsystems of the rural space work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The socio-economic aspects of rural development in the context of decentralization of management, features of the organization of rural areas and the formation of potential for development is considered in the article. The necessity of intensifying activities in the direction of decentralization of power and introduction of modern principles of economic reform of rural areas is substantiated. The process of greening of agricultural production has been confirmed. The structure of production of the main types of agricultural products by agricultural enterprises and their profitability are considered. A quadratic trend model of the dynamics of the volume of profits of business entities in rural areas has been developed. Sufficient attention is paid to the formation and justification of scientific solutions aimed at building a new, more effective model of rural development management in Ukraine. Risks and threats to the development of entrepreneurship in rural areas have been identified and the probability of influencing the level of socio-economic development of rural areas has been substantiated. It is important to note that in order to increase the effectiveness of business policy, it is necessary to determine the main criteria that will shape the development of rural areas on the basis of the formed forecast indicators and determined factors influencing them. A number of important positions that influence directly or indirectly on the implementation of innovative projects of development of rural areas have been proved, in particular, the greatest weight have their own resources, which can be used in communities. On the basis of the conducted researches the whole model of innovation development is proposed, which includes all spheres that influence the development of entrepreneurship in rural areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agri-environment and climate payments represent a key element necessary for the integration of environmental protection issues into the Common Agricultural Policy. In Romania, this measure aims to encourage farmers (users of agricultural land) to adopt, on a voluntary basis, agricultural practices that ensure the maintenance of the environmental value of rural areas, the maintenance of specific habitats of agricultural land important for priority wild species, the sustainable use of natural resources and the preservation of traditional landscapes. This paper presents the situation of accessing the agri-environment and climate compensatory payment measure for adaptation to the effects of climate change on agricultural land, in Romania, between 2015 and 2019, where a total of 212,413 beneficiaries were registered, with a total eligible area of 1,799,820 hectares and the eligible value of compensatory payments was 231,563,125.73 euros. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper aims to present the role of Local Action Groups in rural Romania in the period between 2011 and 2021. It is based on data available at the MADR level and the following indicators were used: no. of LAGs, area and population covered by LAGs, types of investments, number and value of investments. During the examined period there was an increase in the number of LAGs, investments made locally from non-reimbursable European funds which led to improved living conditions in rural areas through quality infrastructure and basic services and job creation LAGs participate in developing and strengthening the role of local governance through the involvement of public authorities, the private sector and civil society in community-based decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The economic reality of the Romanian rural space describes a different unemployment rate than those registered in the urban areas or at national level. At the same time, the dynamics of the economic sectors belonging to the rural areas is different from its evolution in the urban environment. Forms of employment in rural areas tend to be predominantly of a permanent nature, to the detriment of temporary work or seasonal ones. Elements of influence on the individual, which affect the decision to work or the option to choose a satisfactory job are the financial and social conditions. Influencing factors such as the level of education and qualification, the level of income per person or household, the work seasonality phenomenon in different economic sectors, constantly change the employment work level, also the contractual form in which the work is performed. This article describes the interaction of some economic and social indicators on the unemployment rate in the Romanian rural areas and highlights its evolution in the economic and social context of the last decade. The analysis method used in this paper is the quantitative one. An important share of the total number of unemployed in rural areas, is represented by people who have never worked, who have never had a work experience, regardless of age or level of education. The highest values are registered for people aged between 15-24 years and for those who graduated high school and the lowest weight values are for people aged 55-64 years and those with university degrees. For the last decade, the highest number of rural unemployed are people who have finished or graduate the high school, and the unemployed with secondary school. The highest increasing value of unemployed people is recorded in 2015. The highest decreasing values of unemployed people are recorded between 2016 and 2019. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current economic and social context, dominated by the influences of the rapid development of technology and communications, the labour market is undergoing structural changes, job demand and supply are reshaping, labour arrangements are resizing in form and volume. Another factor that significantly affects the structure and dynamics of the labour market is the current health crisis. The negative impact on the various economic sectors affected by the crisis implicitly entails changes in the balance between job demand and supply, as well as the reassessment and decision to choose effective work arrangements. GIG economy, representing all atypical forms of work, presents an increasingly complicated and difficult to predict dynamics, as a result of the economic and social impact of current factors of influence. The purpose of the article is to analyze and predict the dynamics of different forms of work in the Romanian rural areas, starting with the forms of full time, permanent contracts to contingent forms of work. The analysis method used in this paper is the quantitative one. From the analysis performed, it can be deduced observations and results that define the general framework of all forms of work in Romanian rural environment and the dynamic tendencies of the different forms of work commitment during the analyzed period. Full time contracts, regardless of how they are registered, as a determined or indefinite period, have the largest share of the total number registered at national level in rural areas. On the other side, part-time contracts register different dynamic trends, in the sense that the permanent ones have an ascending trend, and the contingent forms register a sudden collapse in the period 2017-2018, by approximately 400% compared to previous years. Part time permanent jobs increase with 67.43% in 2020 compared to 2010. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adjustment of educators and pupils to the technological modifications enforced on the educational process during the epidemic is a crucial factor for forthcoming educational reforms. So, the primary objective of this study was to assess the perception of teachers and students in the pre-university setting regarding their adaption to technology during the period of 2020-2022. The data was collected in 2022 by administering questionnaires to a sample of 100 teachers and 100 students. It is important to note that 53% of the teachers and 59% of the students surveyed come from rural areas. The results revealed significant disparities between the participants (teachers and students) in terms of their utilization of IT resources and their level of engagement in online coursework (7 out of 11 items). Disparities were also identified between the instructors and the students originating from urban and rural regions. The findings illustrate the impact of respondents' IT skill and engagement in the learning process on their technological response patterns from 2020 to 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper aims to analyze the regional level trends of the rural population, in the period 2010-2018. We used the following demographic indicators: rural population, rural internal migration, natural population growth in rural areas, rural female population, rural female fertile contingent, rural elderly population, rural young female population and labor force indicators: female labor renewal in rural areas, rural employed population, rural employment rate, unemployment in rural areas, rural unemployment rate, rural employed population by activity sectors. If in the period 2005-2010 there are trends of deruralization, starting with 2010 a reversal of trend is identified: in all development regions we identify a sharp increase in the percentage of rural population. The accentuated increase of rurality is mainly due to the internal migration of the population, with a positive balance in the rural environment. On the other hand, the analysis of the data regarding the fertile female quota shows that the share of the fertile female population decreased in all development regions, hence the negative values of the natural population growth, all in the context of the constant accentuated increase of the elderly population. From the perspective of the structure by sectors of activity of the employed population, the following are highlighted: predominantly agrarian areas: North-East Region, South-West Oltenia Region and South-East Region - areas dominated by industry and constructions, Central Region and West Region, areas dominated by services Bucharest- Ilfov Region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) represents not only one of the most important EU policy, holding a large share of overall EU funds, but is also one of key drivers of EU rural spatial development. It is important therefore, to look into its impact and how it can best respond to the specific challenges for agriculture and rural areas. There is an increasing number of studies on the CAP impacts on the farming indicators such as agricultural production efficiency, employment, profitability, structural issues. However, very little attention has been paid to territorial diversity among rural areas in each country. The main aim of this paper is to examine the existent situation of the topic researches conducted at EU level between 1994-2020 regarding the CAP, taking into account the territorial diversity. By analysing the current literature through Web of Science and Science Direct scientific databases we were able to obtain information on the research topic previously mentioned from several perspectives, using a list of predetermined key words, starting from "territorial diversity". The conclusions drawn from our study will serve as support in creating an analysis at the Romanian level regarding the implementation of the CAP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper aims to make an assessment related to the Romanian mountain areas, insisting on the aspects in connection with the population from the rural areas and the evolution of the value chains in these areas. The research method is rather empiric, based on the recent evolutions related with the population and the food chain supply from the mountain areas. Most of the data are provided by the recently established Romanian Agency for the Mountain Area and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development from Romania. The discussions are focused on how this mountain area evolved in the last years, in relation to the needs of its inhabitants. The paper is developing the idea of the mountain as a marketing argument. The results indicates that many aspects related with the mountain areas are not supported by the field studies and the researches in this field are a necessity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The problem of unemployment for rural residents of municipalities in the region has become very relevant in recent years, as well as for all residents of Russia. In the current conditions, there was a massive reduction in jobs and depreciation of the labor force. Extremely low wages at vacant jobs, does not even ensure the simple reproduction of an employee The empirical method of grouping Sturges is used to determine 6 groups of districts depending on the level of unemployment. A methodical approach to planning the unemployment rate based on the interpretation of Okun's law is proposed. The paper estimated the empirical sensitivity coefficient and adjustment of the potential size of agricultural production per capita of the working population for all categories of farms (agricultural enterprises, peasant farms, personal subsidiary plots). Also, it aims to identify the dependence of changes in economic indicators based on the increase of employment level. It shows the possibility of reducing the unemployment rate о from 0.77 to 4.30 points with an increase in production by 7%; (taking into account the estimated sensitivity factor of 1.12). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waste management in the fruit and vegetable industry is becoming an increasingly important issue, as a significant part of the raw material ends up in the waste. Improper waste management can lead to environmental pollution and therefore must be disposed of in an acceptable way, but also to exploit the commercial potential of processing residues. In Požega-Slavonia County and Pannonian Croatia, very little attention has been paid to this issue, both by the scientific and professional public, and by those who have remnants of processing. This is a potential that has not been recognized, and consequently not used, and there is a lot to do in this area. The paper presents a research that defines products that can be produced from the remnants of fruit and vegetable processing and analyzes which raw materials can be processed and in which products given the level and capacity of production in Požega Slavonia County and surrounding counties. A market analysis was performed for the identified products and the need to establish a plant was defined. The work is also a good basis for further research and development and production of products with higher added value, as a part of shift from the existing linear economy to a circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Annually, the state allocates significant amounts of money for the carrying out of public procurement contracts concerned with the supply of food products. Rural areas, due to their natural potential, but also to their existing human resource, can further develop through the implementation of projects concerned with circular economy and a sustainable food chain. The implementation of Green Deal policies, the integration of appropriate sustainable development strategies will allow the economic growth of rural areas. In the making of this article, information published in the Electronic Public Procurement System (EPPS), during the 2018-2021 period was collected, concerning contracts for the supply of various food products. The novelty of this article consists in the analysis carried out on food related public procurement, by product categories and institutions. Based on the results of this research, there are suggestions for opportunities of development in rural areas, issues related to the sustainability of the food chain which should be integrated in sustainable public procurement procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agriculture 4.0 is seen as a new possibility in overcoming the global challenges related to the scarcity of resources, climate change and food security. In this context, the aim of the paper is to outline the main definitions, concepts, technologies and trends in Agriculture 4.0 development and discuss the challenges, as well as opportunities and prospects. Based on the literature overview, it can be concluded that Agriculture 4.0 will play a crucial role in transforming the agri-food sector and shaping future agricultural production models. On the other hand, the new concepts should be linked to the Green Deal and sustainable development goals to ensure a fair and resilient agricultural system. Along with the benefits of Agriculture 4.0, there are challenges associated with farmers' perceptions and ability to change, the development of infrastructure, especially in rural areas and the lack of standards for implementing the new technologies. The government and policymakers' role is essential and should be directed in supporting the implementation of the concept Agriculture, 4.0. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Animal husbandry is a traditional activity and an important source of income in the hilly and mountainous areas of Romania, which also supports secular activities in these places. In the context of the EU directives, animal husbandry must be combined with environmental protection actions without losing its importance and traditional elements. The Common Agricultural Policy 2021-2027 through the National Rural Development Programme offers broad support to the livestock sector, but also imposes certain restrictions, as manure from animal husbandry has a negative impact on soil and underground waters through nitrite and nitrate pollution. The article analyses the dynamics of cattle and sheep and goat herds from Romania's mountain area in the period 2015-2021 and the annual amounts of manure that can be obtained from these species. Some methods of using polluting products from animal husbandry are presented, such as using them in biogas plants and obtaining fertilizers from processed manure, which can contribute to the sustainable development of rural areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper analyzed rural areas in Romania from a territorial, demographic, economic, social and environment point of view in the year 2020 compared to 2011 in order to point out in what measure the gaps between rural and urban areas and EU rural areas have been reduced. The data from National Institute of Statistics and Eurostat were used in this comparison where fixed indices, structural indices, regression equations, determination coefficient helped to create an image on the changes. Rural areas keeps 89.6% of Romania's territory and 46.4% of its population, while at the EU level, the rural population accounts for only 29.1%. Rural population is aging, as 46% of people is aged of 50 and over. Depopulation caused by the negative natural movement and migration led to the decline in rural population. Rural poverty and social exclusion is higher, the EU average rate being 26%, while in Bulgaria, Malta and Romania is higher than 50%. Infrastructure regarding rural roads, water supply, sewerage and waste collection continue to be a big problem. Education level is lower, in 2020, only 17% graduates were from the rural areas, while in the EU 22% of the people aged 25-64 and 28.4% of the ones aged 30-34 have tertiary education. Rural digitalization is relatively weak as only 49% rural residents have digital skills compared to 62% in the cities. Of Romania's occupied population, 20% is in the rural areas and women accounts for 50%. About 83% of occupied population in agriculture are self employed. Salaried men in agriculture represent 3.5%, while women 1.1%, reflecting gender discrimination in total salaried population. Labor productivity in agriculture is small, just 20% of the national level. Per 1,000 AWU, labor productivity in Romania is the smallest in the EU. The rural average monthly income represents 64% of the income level in the urban areas and its growth rate is smaller. Agriculturists have the smallest income. Climate change diminished agricultural output and gross value added in Romania, and also the contribution to the EU. GDP/capita in rural Romania accounts for Euro 13,000, representing 65% of the EU average reflecting the gap in economic development and living standard. National Strategic Plan 2021-2027, whose implementation will involve the local authorities, is expected to transform rural areas in a resilient and diversified eco-system supplying agro-food products for ensuring food safety, in a consolidated economic and social sector using new knowledge, innovation and digitalization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main purpose of this paper is to create a typology of the Romanian rural area according to the socio-economic modernization-development perspectives. The starting point consisted in the development of three indices to measure the analysed processes, namely the rural modernization index, the rural development index and the rural household modernization index. To create the typology, the author proposed a method that takes into consideration both the value of indices and the trend of these indices in the period 2007-2018. From the resulting typology, a general trend was noticed, namely that the Romanian rural area has a different behaviour depending on the proximity of large urban centers (see the counties Timiș, Ilfov, Cluj, Sibiu, Constanța, Brașov), the rural households in the proximity of cities have easier access to utilities and more attractive jobs, the population is younger and more educated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The farming population in the rural areas of Nigeria is in continuous decline due to ageing and the rural-urban migration of the youth in search of education and modernity for a presumably better life style. The governments at national, states and local government areas levels have ill-conceived and ill-operated many agricultural mechanization schemes/programmes extended only to arable crops production and complete exclusion of livestock production, though with the right intentions of mitigating the effects of the scare of drudgery associated with tillage, cereal grains threshing, etc and also for the expansion of production in agriculture. The scare of hard labour is not helped by absence of modern amenities in the rural areas. The "skeletal" appellation is due to the schemes' great limitation to very narrow aspect of farm mechanization and coincidentally, this study has been limited to South of Taraba State which lies within the Guinea Savannah geographical area of Nigeria. The method adopted is use of structured questionnaire administered by paid agricultural extension agents who were able to have good interactions with the farmers and governments' machinery service centres (Tractor Hire Units) operators/managers. Descriptive analysis was adopted for the discussion. The outcome reveals a negligible impact of less than 6 % admitted by only 4.6 % of the respondents; and great dissatisfaction among farmers, greed and incompetence among operators as well as bad technical quality plus inappropriate and incomplete machines and implements provided by the governments. This paper highlights points missed by government as well as the areas of abuses due to corrupt tendencies and usual Nigerian factor. The paper ends with call on the government to change the ways the programmes are pursued so as to improve on the situation in view of the food supply and climate change threats to humanity and its possessions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Romania, rural tourism and agro-tourism were practiced in an unorganized way until 1989, as tourists sought a cheaper accommodation compared to the standard accommodation units. Since 1989, gamma services have been improved, so more homes for locals have been opened for tourists. Hence the need for an organization of accommodation, homologation and classification, and the first forms of organized rural tourism appeared in the Rucăr-Bran area, with the establishment of ANTREC, which was then developed at national level. As a result of these changes, as well as the tendency to improve and modernize the tourist activities carried out in rural areas, rural tourism and agrotourism have started to occupy an important place in the Romanian tourist offer, representing for the eager ones an attractive alternative in view leisure time. As a result of the development of legislation, rural tourism and agritourism have seen a significant development, increasingly aligning with European standards in this area. In this paper we propose to analyze the situation of the tourist and agro-touristic pensions situated in the largest development region in Romania, the North East Region, which has a rich history and tradition and whose tourism development could contribute to the economic growth of the area, representing at the same time a means of promoting Romania and its rich traditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the paper is to analyse the dynamics of social mutations that took place in the rural area of the Danube Delta, in Tulcea County, which is part of the interest area of the project. Statistical indicators have been determined using the functions from Excel Program, such as: average, standard deviation, coefficient of variability, annual growth rate. Population in rural are of Tulcea County had a decreasing trend during the period 2012-2018 and reached in 2018 at 53.5% of population of the county. The coefficient of correlation between emigrants and population in rural areas of the county of Tulcea indicate a very good association between the two variables and determination coefficient R² shows that 86.32% of the variation of resident rural population can be explained by linear relationship with the number of temporary emigrants. The population employed in agriculture, as the main activities of the rural area, decreased in the period 2008-2017 by almost 26%. Although the population occupied in agriculture is 10 times higher than in tourism, the upward dynamics of the tourism sector creates the premises for economic growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents an analysis of the situation of social services in rural areas, as well as the physical infrastructure - in which they take place. Given the degree of poverty and vulnerability of the population in rural areas, integrated interventions through LEADER come in response to local needs. LAGs participate in developing and strengthening the role of local governance by involving public authorities, the private sector and civil society in community-based decision-making. Some of these decisions are aimed at solving social problems at the local level. Through LEADER, the LAG is a facilitator for the implementation of intervention and social assistance programs, as well as other community services. The situation of the distribution of LEADER interventions by regions is presented, detailing the number and value of projects financed by EAFRD and those financed by ESF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grasslands, the main natural resources of rural areas, are open systems, which are functionally and structurally linked with other geomorphological, climatic and/or socio-economic components. The purpose of the research was the diagnostic analysis of the grasslands in Banat, based on several criteria from: (i) the physical environment; (ii) the sphere of biodiversity and (iii) the socio-economic environment. For the analysis - diagnosis, 8 indicators were established: relief; reduction of livestock; the variation in the number of inhabitants; the area of grasslands/inhabitant; accessibility; overlap with protected areas; high biodiversity; touristic potential. Each experimental site was rated with a score according to the characteristics, later the final "grade" was established, and the spatial analyzes were done in the GIS environment. The obtained results show that the grasslands located in the hilly and mountainous areas had the highest scores for the predetermined indicators. They are grasslands restricted by climatic conditions and infrastructure, but they have a High Natural Value, they are located in protected areas and are considered areas with great touristic potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of the paper was the analysis of marketing strategies for rural territories development in Ukraine in the context of the decentralization reform that started in 2014. A theoretical and methodological approach was made based on general scientific methods of cognition in relation to the problems of rural development (empirical, analytical, comparative and descriptive methods) as well as a systemic and structuralfunctional analysis in connection with the legislation in force regarding the new administrative-territorial structure of Ukraine, which was formed as a result of the decentralization reform. The success of decentralization practices is manifested, in particular, in the fact that a strong regional identity is being formed, which is able to strengthen the national identity. In the formation of marketing strategies for the development of rural areas, the concept of territory branding is important, as the territory brand contributes to a significant strengthening of regional identity. Under the condition of effective branding of rural areas, some areas may become more interesting in terms of investment attraction, various business projects development, tourist infrastructure formation and so on. In addition, territorial branding often leads to an increase in self-esteem of the population of certain rural areas, which contributes to the reduction of conflict potential at the local level. The initiators of the formation of marketing strategies for rural development should be local authorities. It is stated that successful branding of territories is able to act as a determinant of effective economic development of rural areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Development of agricultural sector requires a complex approach toward reaching viability of rural arias. By application of correct government support measures, it is possible to achieve sustainability in agricultural sector. The main aim of the study is to assess the impact of changes of Rural Development Program (RDP) on achieving viability of rural arias in Bulgaria. The tasks of the paper are as follows: 1) Literature review of the role of the policy in RDP; 2) Changes in RDP 2007-2020 in Bulgaria; 3) Impact of the changes of RDP on reaching viability of rural areas by ARDL models. The conducted analyses resulted in conclusions and relevant policy recommendations. Results are part of the scientific project DN 15/8 11.12. 2017 Sustainable multifunctional rural areas: reconsidering agricultural models and systems with increased demands and limited resources, funded by the Bulgarian research fund. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current state of economic development in Ukraine is characterized by the escalation of crisis processes that affected all spheres of public life. This is especially critical in rural areas. Modern approaches to crisis management in rural areas under conditions of decentralization are proposed by authors. The main concepts of the topic are considered and the authors’ definition of the concept of "crisis public-private partnership in rural areas" is proposed. Crisis public-private partnership in rural areas is interpreted as a form of crisis cooperation between state, social and private sectors, based on the recognition that all parties benefit from the pooling of resources, innovations and managerial decisions for the purpose of realization of crisis principles and socio-economic development of rural areas. The basis of this is the application of the risk factor, which characterizes the ratio of the probabilistic value of the maximum possible loss to the normative value of the socio-ecological-economical component of rural areas. The purpose of the paper is to argue the necessity of decentralization of rural areas and to introduce proposals on its practical implementation. The research on decentralization of rural areas and its practical implementation is recommended to conduct by three stages. The anti-crisis approach to rural area management in decentralization conditions, which is based on the fundamentals of the public-private partnership is proposed. It is suggested to make calculation of the decentralization ratio, which will determine the category of the crisis level for the rural area in decentralization conditions and will supply adequate suggestions for its development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The analysis of the dynamics of the rural population and its structure in Romania in the period 2007-2016 was based on various demographic and economic criteria, the empirical data provided by the National Institute of Statistics, and corresponding processing methods. In 2016, Romania had 9,120,865 inhabitants in the rural areas, representing 46.2 % of the total population. The decline of 3.26 % of the rural population is explained by the low birth rate, high mortality rate, and migration mainly from rural to urban and urban to rural, and also to other countries (46 % of the rural population). The rural population is aging, proved by the unbalanced ratio between the people of 60 years and older (23.03 %) and the people of 0-14 years, (16.04%). About 4 million persons, i.e. 44.73 % of the country active population is in the rural space. Also, the elder age groups have a higher share in the economically active rural population. The rural employment accounts for 3.74 million people, i.e. 44.55% of the employment in Romania. The extreme age categories have the highest share in total employment, attesting the aging of the rural employment. Also, the low training level is reflected by the low share of rural people with high education: 6.52 % tertiary, 1.51 % post high school, 33.89 % high school, and 21.90 % vocational. About 40.54 % of the rural employment is represented by farmers and skilled workers, of whom 76 % are of 35 years and over and also most of them have a low training level. About 86 % of the rural population is part-time employed, and only 41 % is full time. Also, other disparities compared to the urban area, regard the average monthly income per household which accounted for Lei 2,447.02 in 2016, the higher income belonging to the employees. The agriculturists' income was Lei 2.163.31/household, by 12 % less than the average income in the rural area. Therefore, the rural population is an important human resource in the economy, but its living standard is very low. This situation will be changed by the implementation of the National Programme of Rural Development 2014-2020, whose measures will improve education level, farm technologies and efficiency, resource utilization, infrastructure in the rural space, social inclusion, and living standard of the rural population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, we propose to analyze the consumer's perception regarding the sensory characteristics of traditional products. The research was carried out in May 2022 as part of the Traditional Products Raffle that takes place weekly in Bd. Marasti no. 61 Bucharest, and assumed the comparison of the sensory characteristics of four types of cheeses, namely: cheese in fir bark, smoked cheese, cheese with cumin and curd with dill. The tasting was done by 83 people, and the appreciation of sensory properties was measured with the help of non-parametric tests that allowed us to determine consumer preferences regarding traditional dairy products. By using the hedonic test and the scalar method, the data were processed statistically, and based on the obtained results, conclusions were formulated that highlighted the fact that the most appreciated traditional product from the category of those tested was "Smoked cheese" (with 7.06 points), followed by "Cheese with cumin" (6.98 points), "Cheese in fir bark" (6.94 points) and "Curd with dill" (6.71 points). The purpose of the research was to highlight the role that the appreciation of the sensory characteristics of food products has in the valorization of traditional or regional products, but also the application of innovation in obtaining new products that contribute to the development of the local economy and to the increase of income in rural areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the paper was to analyze the most depopulated 20 villages in Hunedoara County in order to identify the possibilities of rescue from extinction by exploiting their agro-tourism potential. The rural area of Hunedoara County has a high agro-tourism potential due, firstly, to the very beautiful landscapes and secondly to the numerous tourist objectives that can be found on the County territory. Starting from the preferences of tourists and investors that were identified through previous research, we analyzed the agritourism potential of the most depopulated 20 villages in Hunedoara County. This analysis aimed at identifying and scaling ten indicators that were used later in the development of a Fishbein-Rosenberg mathematical model. The results of this model is a hierarchy of villages analyzed according to the potential of agritourism development. This hierarchy can represent a starting point for investors that are interested in developing agritouristic facilities in the depopulated villages in Hunedoara County. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable development in rural areas can be identified through a series of projects that highlight both economic, environmental, social problems and measures to improve the quality of life. European standards imposed at local level created opportunities for development and modernization of rural life that raised the level of community trust in European funding instruments. From an economic point of view, it is appropriate to create strategies that include measures and methods of transforming the rural economy into a sustainable and performance focused on innovation. To implement these local strategies, the community will need to implement strategic projects in areas such as health, culture, entrepreneurship, agriculture and education. In the context of the presented ones, the paper constitutes a theoretical and practical analysis of the manner in which the opportunities, phenomena and economic and social processes from the rural area of Galati County must be approached. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]