Transnational Cooperation—The Underutilized Potential of the European LEADER Method

This chapter addresses the European LEADER rural development initiative from the perspective of transnational cooperation (TNC). This is assessed within the context of the neo-endogenous approach to rural development and described with the support of empirical materials at the European, Finnish and Spanish levels for the 2007–2013 LEADER programming period. The data show that TNC has not lived up to the expectations when it comes to the number of transnational LEADER projects actually implemented and the funding allocated for this purpose. Hence, the potential for transnational cooperation built into the LEADER approach remains underutilized. In qualitative terms all evidence supports the potential of TNC with regard to knowledge sharing and skills building. It can also provide new insights and inspiration that can strengthen rural development strategies. Transnational cooperation and connections may also foster solidarity between the different rural areas of Europe in the longer term. The constantly evolving digital technologies can enhance unprecedented levels of connectivity between the people of rural Europe and help boost the transnational character of LEADER.