| Abstract [eng] |
A marked regional differentiation exists in Lithuania. The conditions of countryside development have especially changed since Lithuania joined the European Unijon (EU). Having become a member of EU, Lithuania acquired the right to participate in LEADER+: a program which aims to modernize countryside development on the basis of innovative methods. Local Action Groups (LAG), created under LEADER initiative, have decision-making rights. Because of their organizational structure, LAGs are considered to be a new partnership model, which novelty is in uniting stakeholders. Such partnership promotes the appearance of new ideas and innovational activities. The principle of social partnership does not put an emphasis on subordination, allowing power manipulation within LAGs when required. LAGs promote an active engagement of regional participants in the horizontal community development . The voluntary cooperation of people working together towards the common goals strengthens civil society and emphasizes the democratic principles on which the society stands. LAGs can create strategies which promote the enlargement of social capital. The participation of citizens on the basis of cooperation and mutual confidence is one of the main ways to enhance the social capital. |
