Effect of initiatives of Local Action Groups on the socio-economic development of rural areas in Wielkopolska voivodeship

Abstract

Success in rural areas is a result of building strong social and human capital, which is an important factor of local development. A local community’s skills and ability to cooperate allows it to implement many projects within the framework of a Local Action Group (LAG). Such activities are driven by concern for the rural landscape and cultural heritage. There are 36 Local Action Groups operating in Wielkopolska, of which 31 are based in this voivodeship. LAG initiatives seek to stimulate the social activity of residents, reinforce their sense of regional identity, and improve social infrastructure. They contribute to the development of local activity and are a big step towards building up social capital in the Wielkopolska countryside. The popularity of this form of activity demonstrates that LAGs fully employ their power to activate local communities.