The report, 'Bridging the Rural–Urban Divide: Addressing Inequalities and Empowering Communities,' published in 2023 by the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions (Eurofound), examines the social, economic, political, and cultural disparities between rural and urban areas in Europe. It focuses on how these gaps impact living conditions, access to services, and overall social cohesion. The document is highly relevant for policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders in the social economy, offering evidence-based insights and actionable policy recommendations aimed at reducing inequalities and fostering inclusive development.

The findings reveal significant income, employment, and digital divides between rural and urban areas. While urban areas generally exhibit higher income levels, greater employment opportunities, and advanced digital connectivity, rural areas lag in these aspects. There is also a pronounced gap in access to essential services like healthcare, education, and high-speed internet. Cultural attitudes differ notably, with rural communities tending to be more conservative and feeling overlooked by governments and institutions, which undermines trust and satisfaction with democracy.

The report also underscores the challenges posed by rural depopulation, driven by younger, educated individuals migrating to urban centres for better opportunities. It highlights innovative solutions implemented across Member States, such as telehealth services and community-driven initiatives, which can serve as models for addressing these challenges.

The report calls for a renewed focus on territorial cohesion, emphasising the need for tailored investments in education, digital infrastructure, and public services in rural areas. It advocates for inclusive policymaking that amplifies rural voices and bridges the rural-urban divide to ensure sustainable and equitable growth across Europe.

For more details, access the full report here.