ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF THE LEADER PROGRAM APPROACH ON THE SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF RURAL AREAS IN BULGARIA: AN EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS
Keywords:
LEADER, local development, LAGs, survey research, social impactAbstract
This paper presents an empirical analysis of the impact of the LEADER program approach on the social and economic development of rural areas in Bulgaria. The analysis is based on a structured survey conducted among 321 respondents from various municipalities across the country. The study explores key dimensions such as public awareness, participation levels, perceived benefits, barriers to engagement, and overall perceptions of effectiveness. The findings indicate a generally positive attitude toward the LEADER program approach and its outcomes, particularly in terms of community development and local empowerment. However, the results also reveal significant gaps in information dissemination and highlight the need for more strategic and inclusive engagement of local stakeholders in the planning and implementation processes.Downloads
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