The definition of rural and rurality is a longstanding issue which has been the subject of debates in the scientific literature for a while. To date, rural was not properly defined through its own characteristics, features and patterns, but was rather defined as the opposite of urban. A literature review conducted within SHERPA, shows different types of EU strategies dealing with rural areas. These lead to an attempt to map out a definition for rural areas.
It is important to note that an EU long-term vision for rural areas should be based upon the overarching objective of well-being in rural areas.
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