On 18 September 2026, representatives of Local Action Groups (LAGs) and Fisheries Local Action Groups (FLAGs) from across Croatia, brought together through their umbrella network organisations, adopted the Brač Declaration in Supetar on the island of Brač. The document sets out shared demands and recommendations for safeguarding and strengthening the LEADER-CLLD approach and supporting the development of rural, coastal and fisheries areas.
Against the backdrop of preparations for the European Union’s Multiannual Financial Framework for 2028–2034, the Declaration highlights the importance of stable funding, greater management autonomy and formal recognition of LAGs and FLAGs as key actors in local development.
The key demands of the Brač Declaration include:
- At least EUR 360 million for 2028–2034 – a stable and protected financial allocation to ensure continuity of LAG and FLAG operations and the implementation of local development strategies, taking account of population, territorial coverage and the specific needs of each area.
- A cross-sectoral and multi-fund approach to LEADER-CLLD – retaining the approach as a mandatory instrument within the Common Agricultural Policy and the Common Fisheries Policy, while systematically integrating it into EU cohesion and social policies.
- Institutional recognition and participation in policymaking – formally recognising LAGs and FLAGs as autonomous local development actors and involving them, through their umbrella network organisations, in policy design, implementation and evaluation, including National and Regional Partnership Plans.
- Reduced administrative burdens – simplifying management and control systems and expanding the use of simplified cost options, such as lump sums and flat rates, to place greater emphasis on results on the ground.
- Mandatory rural proofing – assessing the impact of policy decisions on rural, coastal and fisheries areas, with the active involvement of LAGs and FLAGs, to support quality public services, generational renewal and opportunities for people to remain in their communities.
The Brač Declaration calls on LAGs, FLAGs and network organisations to present these shared demands to the relevant ministries, Croatian Members of the European Parliament, and local and regional authorities. Sharing the document and connecting stakeholders will help strengthen a united voice for LEADER-CLLD as future European and national policies take shape.
The Brač Declaration underlines the role of local communities in shaping their own future and building a Europe closer to its citizens.
Download the Brač Declaration:
