The first review meeting of the SHERPA project took place on 16 June 2021, hosted by the Research Executive Agency (REA) Project Officer, Patrizia Tenerelli, together with DG AGRI’s Policy Officer, Alexia Rouby and two external expert reviewers. Project Coordinator, Olivier Chartier (Ecorys), co-moderated the session that was spread over a full day.
During this meeting, the main results of the project and work carried out was presented. The reporting period covers the first 18 months of the project. Work Package leaders overviewed the activities developed, research findings, deliverables submitted, challenges faced and overcome, as well as next steps for the project.
The overall feedback from reviewers has been positive, with good and constructive suggestions for the upcoming work of the project. As a highlight of the discussion, the process of setting-up the Multi-Actor Platforms (MAPs) and the engagement of stakeholders within the MAPs have been key in delivering meaningful content that contributes to the future rural development policy. The work of the MAPs came at a good timing, ready to feed into the upcoming European Commission Communication on the Long-Term Vision for Rural Areas.
The session counted with the participation of some of the SHERPA MAPs’ facilitators and monitors, sharing their experience from the ground with the reviewers, pointing out to the important link between local reality and EU-level policy-making.
The second reporting period will cover the work carried out between months 18 and 36, for which a new review meeting will be organised.