Political influence
Political influence is a highly prioritized issue for LUS right now where we are focusing on influencing the design of the next program period. As part of this, we have approached all political parties in the Swedish parliament to meet with them to discuss the Leader method and the challenges and opportunities we see ahead of us. On January 20, we have a meeting with the Green Party and on February 4 with the Sweden Democrats. We will also meet with the Christian Democrats soon, but the date is not set.
Consultation response on the next program period
Just before Christmas, LUS submitted a consultation response regarding our views on the proposals for the next program period. Among other things, the importance of earmarked funds for Leader was emphasized, that Leader should exist throughout the country, and that the target group definition needs to be broad to meet the needs of rural areas.
Here you can take part in our consultation response in its entirety:
Dialogue meeting Whole Sweden shall live
Our collaboration with other organizations is important and before Christmas we had a dialogue meeting with Whole Sweden shall live. A meeting that will be followed by more as we need to work together. Later this spring, it will be time for the Rural Parliament in Skellefteå from May 29 to 31 where LUS is engaged with participation and seminars.
LUS board meeting, January 28
The next board meeting is on January 28. At the start of the new year, among other things, the budget for 2026 will be finalized, as well as other preparations for the annual meeting on March 19.
Member meeting February 3 at 16:00
In preparation for the annual meeting on March 19, LUS will organize a member meeting on February 3 for updates on the current situation regarding the next program period, the status of the PoI work (the review of the handling aimed at simplification), and other operational issues as well as of course information about the issues to be discussed at the annual meeting.
A link to the meeting has been sent out to all members.
Rural Barometer from All of Sweden Shall Live – launch
On February 4, the 2026 Rural Barometer will be launched: an opinion survey where rural residents answer questions about engagement, politics, and the future. An evening where politics for the whole country is in focus! For more information and registration (registration is also required for the web broadcast): https://www.helasverige.se/nyheter/4-februari-kommer-landsbygdsbarometern-2026-var-med-pa-eventet/