IDENTITATE, EDUCAȚIE ȘI INCLUZIUNE, pages: 157 - 173, 2026

Social Inclusion and European Rural Development Policy: The Case of Non-Agricultural Tourism Activities in Rural Bihor County

Doi: https://doi.org/10.58603/MWQM4459

Rezumat: Rural areas in Romania face structural vulnerabilities stemming from geographical isolation and limited economic activity, factors that restrict access to sustainable employment opportunities. However, the potential of the private sector and the synergy among local actors are essential drivers of social inclusion, with the rate of job creation serving as the benchmark for the success of development policies. Through Pillar II of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and funding from the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD), the European Union has sought to establish a strategic framework aimed at diversifying the rural economy by stimulating non-agricultural activities. However, the absence of a long-term strategic vision has limited the effectiveness of the social inclusion process; although economic diversification is an imperative necessity for rural entrepreneurs and residents, the fragmented implementation of this concept has hindered the achievement of the intended cohesion objectives. This study aims to analyze the contribution of non-agricultural activities to labor market dynamics in rural areas, while also examining the spillover effects on the local entrepreneurial ecosystem, particularly in the tourism sector. The research focuses on the administrative-territorial units of Aușeu, Vadu Crișului, Șuncuiuș, and Bratca (Bihor County), localities located within a tourist area defined in part by the Crișul Repede Gorge protected natural area. The theoretical and empirical foundation of this study is based on the analysis of data from official statistics (European, national, and local), government documents, as well as a rigorous review of the specialized literature, including doctoral dissertations and relevant scientific articles.