The policy of rural development and agro-environmental protection in the Western Balkan countries and European union - comparative analysis

The agricultural policies of the Western Balkans countries during the Communist era resulted in considerable environmental problems, which are still present to varying degrees even after a considerable decrease in agricultural inputs during the 1990s. The existing low input and low intensity agriculture practiced in these countries can be perceived in certain respects as an opportunity for environmental sustainability in the agricultural sector. The concept of rural development is not new in the Western Balkan countries where agriculture maintains its dominant position in rural regions. However, it is obvious that an adequate rural development requires balanced development of all economic activities, not just agriculture. Additionally, these countries which are preparing for the membership in the European Union must follow European model of rural development which promote multifunctional agriculture and the integral rural development concept with more respect to environmental protection.