Desira Project: Digitalisation for Resilient Rural Communities 2040

Digitalisation in rural areas is essential for building connected, resilient, and vibrant communities by 2040. This project, funded by Horizon 2020 (grant No 818194), explores how digitalisation can reduce inequalities, enhance broadband access, and support sustainable development across social, economic, environmental, and technological dimensions. Through stakeholder workshops, the Desira project identifies key drivers of change, promotes inclusive digital governance, and advocates for balanced policies that empower rural populations. It highlights opportunities such as remote work, digital education, and new business models, while addressing threats like loss of local knowledge and dominance by tech giants. Proposed actions include strengthening digital infrastructure, fostering local innovation, and ensuring intergenerational digital skills. The project underscores the importance of bottom-up approaches, public participation, and strategic cooperation to close the digital divide and improve quality of life in rural Europe.