Rural Development: Towards Sustainability

In recent years, rural development is getting increased attention in countries around the world. It is one of the most important item in the development agenda of all countries. It contributes greatly to the development of disadvan taged (rural) regions through its various structural funds. The sustainability of rural development initiatives depends greatly on the capacities of the stakeholders involved, the relationship among them and their relative power. A strategy to foster pluralistic approaches to rural development should focus on building the capacities of thsoe who have been marginalised by development strategiesw as well as on developing relationship that aloow more effective, efficient and equal interactions and greater accountability among all participants.