IMPACT OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM ON ACHIEVIENG VIABILITY OF RURAL AREAS IN BULGARIA

Development of agricultural sector requires a complex approach toward reaching viability of rural arias. By application of correct government support measures, it is possible to achieve sustainability in agricultural sector. The main aim of the study is to assess the impact of changes of Rural Development Program (RDP) on achieving viability of rural arias in Bulgaria. The tasks of the paper are as follows: 1) Literature review of the role of the policy in RDP; 2) Changes in RDP 2007-2020 in Bulgaria; 3) Impact of the changes of RDP on reaching viability of rural areas by ARDL models. The conducted analyses resulted in conclusions and relevant policy recommendations. Results are part of the scientific project DN 15/8 11.12. 2017 Sustainable multifunctional rural areas: reconsidering agricultural models and systems with increased demands and limited resources, funded by the Bulgarian research fund.