We’re delighted to announce that Scotland will be hosting the sixth European Rural Parliament (ERP), bringing a 40-country delegation to Aberdeenshire, Moray and the Cairngorms National Park area in the Autumn of 2025. The ERP is a large-scale participative democratic process, set up to amplify the diverse voices of rural and island people in Europe.
This is the first time Scotland has been selected to host the ERP gathering, and 2025’s theme is ‘Rural Community Solutions to Global Challenges’. To secure the bid, SRA worked with the Scottish Government and Aberdeenshire Council, as well as drawing on our experience working with communities, organisations and decision makers in the delivery of the Scottish Rural & Islands Parliament (SRIP).
The primary ERP venue will be Inverurie Academy, a modern community campus and school, with stunning facilities; study trips will be located across the region, and travel bursaries will be provided. Full information regarding the opportunity to attend the ERP as a delegate, in addition to curatorship opportunities, will be made available through a new website in the New Year.
Theona Morrison, Chair of Scottish Rural Action, said: “Hosting the ERP is an incredible opportunity to showcase Scotland’s rural community-led solutions to global challenges - the climate crisis, biodiversity loss, food security and changing demographics - and to learn from our European neighbours, opening doors for new cross border alliances, academic collaborations, policy synergy and businesses links.”
Kate Forbes MSP, Deputy First Minister of Scotland, said: "Scotland’s vibrant rural communities, with their innovation, resilience and commitment to sustainability, are ideal hosts for the next European Rural Parliament. I am delighted that Scottish Rural Action’s bid will bring this inspiring event to Scotland, where rural and island voices can come together to share ideas and strengthen both our communities and our relationships with our European partners."
A representative of The European Rural Parliament Steering Group, commented: “The proposal impressed us with its deeply community-rooted approach, emphasising local action and connecting initiatives to multiple levels of governance. The strong focus on youth involvement, inclusivity, and a compelling, diverse program addressing critical rural issues truly reflects the spirit of ERP.”
Aberdeenshire Council Leader, Cllr Gillian Owen, said: “This prestigious event is incredibly important to enable rural communities such as those across Aberdeenshire to have their voices heard on a wide range of issues and themes to help ensure that their interests and wellbeing continue to be strongly reflected in national policies. I very much look forward to welcoming delegates from all over Europe to enjoy our rich hospitality and to see firsthand what Aberdeenshire communities – from mountain to sea – have to offer.”
