Scotland has held its first ever Rural Parliament, joining Sweden, Finland, Estonia, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia and Romania in adopting a model which brings together rural voices to influence and inform rural development policy.
Held in Oban, 6-8 November, the 2014 Scottish Rural Parliament was attended by over 400 representatives of rural agencies, businesses and other stakeholders. It was preceded by a series of preparatory local events.
Participants highlighted the need for increased networking and representation of rural communities and for specific actions, including to improve transport and broadband access in rural areas. Organisers are now working to agree a full plan of action with the Scottish Government.
