networX aimed to recognise the value of networking for rural development, demonstrate the results of the past ten years of rural networking and proactively look at its future. An interactive format gave participants plenty of space and time for informal discussions, inspiring conversations and sharing of experiences, both within the event strands and in the Marketplace, where 41 stands showed the breadth of rural networking across the EU and with neighbouring countries.
Key moments from the event are available in this video clip.
The video is available also with French, German, Italian, Polish and Spanish subtitles.
The event opened with a speech by Phil Hogan, European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, and by Chief Spokesperson for the European Commission, Margaritis Schinas.
Over 400 rural development stakeholders from all over Europe gathered to discuss in 20 interactive working sessions around six thematic strands:
The event also hosted the final ceremony of the Rural Inspiration Awards, where, out of 25 nominees, six projects were awarded for their achievements infive thematic categories and thanks to an online 'popular vote'.
Overall, the event identified the most successful aspects of rural development networking which should be strengthened in the future and inspired participants from all over Europe to build on their achievements and engage even more in networking. The concluding message from the event was given by Deputy Director-General for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mihail Dumitru.
Background documents
Presentations
Social media
networX generated intense social media conversations. You can find a selection of relevant tweets on the ENRD Twitter profile.
Find more relevant tweets using the hashtag #RuralNetworking and follow the ENRD on Facebook for further information.
Relevant publications
