State Secretary Meglič participates in rural parliament discussion on the role of dialogue and regional development
The event was held on 11 and 12 June in Ilirska Bistrica and brought together representatives of local communities, practitioners, NGOs, and national institutions to exchange views and shape common development priorities.
State Secretary Meglič emphasised the importance of dialogue and cooperation in shaping development policies, noting that the rural parliament served as a platform for bringing together different perspectives: “The programme clearly states that the rural parliament is not a place where decisions are made, but a dynamic platform for the exchange of ideas, where each voice counts and contributes to common solutions and our shared future.”
He noted that rural development is not limited to agriculture but encompasses broader quality of life issues, including public access to services, housing, job opportunities, mobility, and digital connectivity. “Development cannot be imposed from the centre. The state should enable it through effective policies, trust in local communities, and investments that respond to the needs of people and communities.”
The State Secretary also underscored the importance of coordinated action among the state, regions, and municipalities, noting that bringing the areas of local self-government, cohesion, and regional development under a single institutional framework would enable a more coordinated approach and help ensure that local needs are addressed more efficiently. Mr Meglič highlighted the important role of local action groups that bring together local stakeholders through a bottom-up approach, promoting place-based development iitiatives tailored to the specific needs and potential of local communities. He further emphasised that cohesion policy remains an important source of funding for infrastructure development as well as for supporting the green and digital transition in rural areas.
The discussions at this year’s rural parliament highlighted demographic and social challenges and explored ways to promote equal opportunities for work and life in both rural and urban areas.