SOCIAL CAPITAL IN RURAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMES IN POLAND AND LITHUANIA

Abstract

Poland and Lithuania are neighbouring countries that belonged to socialist block and entered European Union in 2004, and where approximantely 1/3 of the population lives in rural areas. The author analysed to what extent social capital, a recognised development factor, is included in Rural Development Programmes (Plans) for these countries between 2004 and 2020. It was revealed that the first plans did not pay too much attention to social issues, as they concentrated mostly on farming and entering the common market. In the Lithuanian plan there was also the LEADER initiative. In the next plans more concern on cooperation appeared. In both of the countries there is more emphasis on creating and supporting rural social capital, than on making use of it, but the proportions begin to change.

Keywords: Lithuania, Poland, Rural Development Programme, social capital.

Article DOI: http://doi.org/10.15544/RD.2015.090