European Congress of Village Renewal and Development
On May 8-10, the European Congress of Village Renewal and Development took place in Poznań with the participation of Folk Group “Wielkopolanie” – a prestigious event gathering representatives of local governments, experts, scientists and leaders of local communities from various European countries. The aim of the congress was to create a space for the exchange of experiences, presentation of good practices and joint development of directions for the development of rural areas in Europe. This initiative fits into the broader context of the European Union’s policy for the sustainable development of rural areas, counteracting depopulation and strengthening the potential of local communities. The event in Poznań, held at the Poznań International Fair, focused on several key thematic areas, such as the energy transformation of villages, digitalization and innovation in agriculture, the development of rural tourism, the protection of cultural and natural heritage, as well as social participation and the role of women in local development. It is here, in the centre of Poznań, that Piotr Kulka’s exhibition “Women in the Wielkopolska Traditional Culture” was presented. The fascinating exhibition presents a collection of 35 women’s traditional costumes from various subregions of Wielkopolska.
As part of the accompanying events, the participants of the Congress had the opportunity to take part in a study visit to the National Museum of Agriculture and the Agro-Food Industry in Szreniawa. Transport was provided by Koleje Wielkopolskie, which organised a special, free train for the participants. At the station, they were greeted by artists from “Wielkopolanie”, who invited them to the museum with a colourful procession. The visit to the museum was an opportunity to get to know the agricultural heritage of Poland and was an element of a broader discussion on the future of European agriculture and rural areas. The participants of the Congress also had the opportunity to learn about Polish traditions and dances and songs from various regions of Poland, popularised by Folk Group “Wielkopolanie”.
The European Congress of Rural Renewal and Development in Poznań ended with the adoption of a declaration of cooperation and continuation of the initiative in the following years. The participants unanimously emphasised that the future of the European countryside depends on the ability to adapt, be innovative and use local resources and traditions in building modern rural communities.
PK
