Exploring Youth Policies in Rural Areas in Portugal

We're excited to announce that our next study visit for the Rural Youth Future project will take place in Portugal from 23 to 24 April. This two-day event brings together partners from across Europe to explore how youth policies can drive sustainable development in rural areas.

Day One: Spotlight on Policy Innovation and Rural Youth Empowerment

We’ll start in Porto with a welcome session featuring high-level guests including (subject to confirmation) Eduardo Vitor Rodrigues, President of the Metropolitan Area of Porto, and Paulo Santos, Vice President of the Portuguese Institute of Sport and Youth.

Throughout the morning, keynote speakers will explore:

• Rural Tourism as a Local Economic Strategy: How tourism can help generate youth employment.
• Innovation in Youth Policies: Insights from the Metropolitan Youth Strategy in Porto.

Later, the spotlight turns to the future of rural areas, with academics and policymakers sharing expert views during the conference “Young People and the Future of Rural Territories”.

Topics include:

• Empowering rural regions through agriculture
• Portugal’s National Youth Agenda
• Regional tools for youth employment and social cohesion
• Keeping youth rooted in rural life
• Legal pathways for young entrepreneurs
• Youth-led businesses in the Douro region

Day Two: Exploring Local Stories and Practices That Empower Youth Living in Rural Areas

On our second day, we’ll dive into community-based practices.

Highlights include:

• Local action plans for empowering youth in rural development
• Armamar City Hall’s youth support initiatives
• A guided visit to the Douro Women’s Interpretive Center
• A look at GOMA, a science empowerment program for youth
• First-hand youth testimonials about participation and impact

A Shared European Commitment

Rural Youth Future is supported by INTERREG Europe and brings together a diverse consortium:
•    Galicia Europe Foundation, Spain
•    General Directorate of Youth, Participation and Volunteer, Spain
•    Centre for Sustainability and Economic Growth, Bulgaria
•    Municipality of Peshtera, Bulgaria
•    Smart House – Institution for Research and Sustainable Development Martjanci, Slovenia
•    University of Latvia, Latvia
•    Association of Municipalities of Tartu County, Estonia
•    Portuguese Institute of Sports and Youth, Portugal
•    KMOP Policy Center ASBL, Belgium
•    Regional Development Agency Backa, Serbia (discovery partner)

Together, we’re committed to building more inclusive and resilient rural communities—where young people can thrive in their regions.

If you are interested in learning more about the Rural Youth Project, find us on the following social media:

• Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/93205221/admin/ 
• X: https://twitter.com/ruralyouth_eu  
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ruralyouthfutureproject