COMPLIANCE OF LOCAL DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES WITH THE LEADER PROGRAMME: THE CASE OF THE KELME REGION LOCAL ACTION GROUP

A Local Action Group (LAG) is an association aiming to implement the LEADER rural development policy programme, to create and develop partnerships and to make a significant contribution to the management of rural development. LAGs draw up local development strategies for the territory they represent, which are implemented by rural community and business organisations and local authorities in cooperation with the social partners. LAGs bring together the economic and social partners operating in an area, involve the local population in decision -making processes and provide advice. The paper aims to answer the question: how is the essence of LEADER programme fulfilled - creating links between the rural economy and development actions. The research problem is investigated using the methods of scientific literature analysis, analysis of strategic and political documents, systematisation, case studies and other methods. The study found that the strategies were developed taking into account the existing characteristics of the area and the expectations of the population, and involved the involvement of key stakeholders: municipal and district staff, representatives of business and rural communities, and invited consultants. The strategies have been developed in line with LEADER principles, the local development strategies have an integrated approach. It integrates the activities of different sectors, the whole project or specific groups, and strengthens the links between key economic, social, cultural and environmental actors and sectors.