ArmInfo. Armenia and the Czech Republic are considering the possibility of expanding the LEADER methodology for rural development. This methodology is currently being implemented as a pilot and may be launched in Syunik, Vayots Dzor and Gegharkunik, as reported by the press service of the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure, citing the results of a meeting between Deputy Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure Asatur Vardanyan and a Czech delegation led by Deputy Minister of Territorial Development of the Czech Republic Radim Srsen.
This program was implemented in pilot mode in Tavush, Lori and Shirak. Within the framework of the program, 8 local action groups (LAGs) were created in these regions, significantly increasing the effectiveness of local economic development. According to the press service of the department, the proposal to expand the program was made due to its significant impact on territorial development.
Note that the LEADER method was introduced in Armenia in 2021 as part of the LEAD Project, jointly implemented by UNDP and FAO, funded by the European Union. The goal of the project is to enhance the involvement of local actors (organizations, farmers, entrepreneurs in rural areas) in planning the development of their regions, decision-making, and resource management to improve the quality of lives and promote sustainable development in rural areas.
