STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT OF RURAL TERRITORIES IN THE CONTEXT OF EUROPEAN INTEGRATION

Abstract

Introduction. Introduction. In the context of ongoing transformations of the national economy, the development of rural areas is becoming increasingly important for ensuring economic resilience, food security, and social stability. Military challenges, demographic changes, migration processes, and infrastructure destruction necessitate the formation of new strategic approaches to the recovery and modernization of rural territories.

Purpose. The purpose of the study is to substantiate the theoretical and methodological foundations of the strategic development of rural areas under European integration processes, identify key directions for enhancing their socio-economic resilience and competitiveness, and adapt domestic rural development management practices to European approaches and standards.

Мaterials and methods. The research is based on scientific publications, legal and regulatory documents, materials of international organizations, and analytical reports on rural development and European integration. The study employed a systems approach, along with methods of analysis, synthesis, comparison, and logical generalization.

Results. The study establishes that the strategic development of rural areas is based on long-term management decisions aimed at increasing territorial competitiveness, improving the quality of life of the population, and ensuring the efficient use of available resources. Adaptation to European approaches requires the modernization of governance mechanisms, the development of local self-government, strategic planning, and the implementation of sustainable development principles. The main directions for improving the effectiveness of rural development in Ukraine include technological modernization of the agricultural sector, support for entrepreneurship, digitalization of production and management processes, infrastructure development, and the implementation of environmentally oriented investment projects. It is substantiated that ensuring the socio-economic resilience and competitiveness of rural areas requires a comprehensive approach that combines human capital development, infrastructure modernization, business support, digital transformation, and strengthening the institutional capacity of local communities.

Prospects. Further research should focus on the mechanisms for the recovery and development of rural areas in the context of Ukraine’s post-war economic transformation.