European Rural Parliament 2017 – Giving Voice to Rural Europe

Venhorst, The Netherlands | 18–21 October 2017

From 18 to 21 October 2017, the village of Venhorst in the Dutch province of Noord‑Brabant became the beating heart of Europe’s countryside. The Third European Rural Parliament (ERP2017) gathered more than 250 participants from 40 countries — community leaders, policymakers, and rural activists united by one cause:
to strengthen rural communities and make their voices heard.

Organised by dedicated volunteers and local partners, ERP2017 embodied what it stood for — cooperation, participation, and pride in rural life. It turned a small Dutch village into a European stage for optimism and action.

A Living Voice for Rural Europe

The European Rural Parliament (ERP) is a long-term campaign to express the voice of rural people across the continent. Built on the belief that Europe’s vitality depends on its rural areas, it promotes dialogue between citizens and decision‑makers and encourages communities to take the lead in shaping their own future.

ERP2017 in Venhorst continued this mission, focusing on three central values:

  • Empowerment – supporting citizens and civil organizations to lead local change
  • Solidarity – uniting communities across borders
  • Sustainability – building thriving, resilient rural economies

Out of this gathering emerged the Venhorst Declaration and the updated Manifesto for Rural Europe — two milestone documents calling for action to strengthen the role of citizens and create a unified fund for Community‑Led Local Development (CLLD).

Four Days of Inspiration and Cooperation

ERP2017 was more than a conference — it was a celebration of European rural spirit.
Over four days, participants explored how sustainable communities emerge when citizens, institutions, and entrepreneurs work hand in hand.

  • Wednesday, 18 October – Welcome to Venhorst
    Arrivals, registration, and the colourful Flag Parade launched the event in the lively community square.
  • Thursday, 19 October – Expeditions of Discovery
    en themed journeys explored Brabant’s villages, farms, and social initiatives under topics such as Our Food, Our Nature, and Our Energy.
    To make the most of these rural visits, many participants arranged local transport through reliable rent a car aeroport services, ensuring easy access to even the most scenic countryside locations.
  • Friday, 20 October – Dialogue & Thematic Workshops
    Delegates shared insights on rural education, inclusion, renewable energy, and local economies, shaping practical proposals for Europe’s rural policy.
  • Saturday, 21 October – The Venhorst Declaration
    The Parliament closed with the presentation of its Declaration — a collective expression of hope, demanding stronger commitment to rural-led development.

Themes that Shaped ERP2017

    • Our Food – Reconnecting people with the land and the farmers who feed them.

    • Our Nature – Preserving the heritage of Europe’s landscapes and ecosystems.

    • Our Energy – Encouraging community-owned renewable solutions and circular economies.

  • Our Communities – Building care, inclusiveness, and opportunities for the next generation.

Each theme reflected a shared vision: that the countryside is not a problem to be solved but a powerhouse of ideas, skills, and culture essential to Europe’s future.

Venhorst: A Symbol of Participation

Hosting ERP2017 in Venhorst was no coincidence.

Founded a century ago through community effort, Venhorst embodies the Dutch tradition of bottom‑up development and active citizenship. Local volunteers, families, and organizations joined hands to welcome Europe’s rural representatives. The event was truly a Parliament by and for the people — a living example of how cooperation can turn a small village into a European meeting place.

Memories and Legacy

Thousands of photographs and memories capture the atmosphere of those autumn days — the warm hospitality, deep discussions, music, and laughter. Explore the highlights in the Sweet Memories Gallery, and relive the field Expeditions and Workshops that made ERP2017 such a milestone in participatory rural politics.

The energy sparked in Venhorst continues to inspire new initiatives through the ongoing European Rural Parliament process, held every two years in a different host country. Together, these gatherings sustain a European network of rural voices working toward a more balanced, united, and inclusive Europe.

Stay Connected to the Rural Future

Europe’s rural territories are changing — through climate transition, digitalization, and demographic shifts — yet their communities remain resilient, innovative, and essential.

ERP2017 reminded us that real progress grows from the ground up.
Let’s keep that spirit alive.

For questions or information: info (at) erp2017.eu

Venue: Community Centre De Horst, Sint Josephplein 14, 5428 GL Venhorst

The European Rural Parliament — celebrating the strength and creativity of rural people everywhere.