Leader is a method for locally led rural development. It was introduced as early as 1991 by the EU and is now used throughout the union. In Sweden, there are currently 40 Leader areas, each with its own Leader association. Across the entire EU, the number exceeds 3,500. The Leader associations distribute financial support to locally led development projects within their respective areas and also run their own projects.
In Gotland, there is Leader Gute with about 40 members from the non-profit, public, and private sectors who are engaged in various ways to develop the island's rural areas. The activities and support are financed with funds from the EU, the state, and Region Gotland.
– It feels exciting and hopeful to become the host area for this year's Leader meeting. It is a very important event that provides valuable exchanges of experience and energy for the work ahead within all of Leadersweden. Being able to showcase Gotland and how we work with rural development here feels great, says Ellen Lundkvist, operations manager at Leader Gute.
– We at Gotland Convention Bureau are happy that we have been able to assist in the process of bringing this important meeting to our island. Rural development is extremely important, and this is a great opportunity for us to put Gotland's work in the spotlight. Thanks to Leader Gute for taking on the local hosting and making it possible, says Annie Rosén, project manager at Gotland Convention Bureau.
The Rural Network, which is the main responsible organizer for the Leader meeting, is the national network for the common agricultural policy. Rural development through Leader is also included in the agricultural policy and is part of the network.
This year's Leader meeting on October 8-9 will primarily be held at Donners Event in Visby, and about 200 people from Leader associations across the country are expected to participate.
In connection with the Leader meeting, Local Development Sweden (LUS) will also hold its annual meeting. LUS is a national interest association for organizations that work with locally led development through the Leader method.
Right now, work is underway to design the program for this year's Leader meeting in Gotland. It will cover current issues that are important in rural development. Leader Gute will, among other things, present projects from Gotland and also be responsible for an evening program with entertainment and dinner.
– From Leader Gute's side, we want to give a picture of Gotland both as a visitor destination and a development area. We want to contribute to a rewarding and enjoyable program that provides participants with both benefit and joy, says Ellen Lundkvist.
– The annual Leader meetings primarily represent dynamism, knowledge, and networking. And we usually have fun and enjoy ourselves too. We at Leader Gute will do our very best to contribute to all these values when the country's Leader associations meet here on the island this fall!
(Photo: gotland.com)