On 27 October 2023, the European Commission’s expert group responsible for the implementation of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) Strategic Plans convened to delve into the critical aspects of CAP monitoring and evaluation. This group, integrated mainly by Member States’ authorities, serves as a crucial support system for Member States in shaping their national Strategic Plans and addressing implementation-related challenges.
During the meeting, the group of experts discussed a range of relevant topics. Participants explored the use of appropriate methodologies to assess the CAP, addressing data gaps, and systematically cataloguing and labelling CAP interventions. Additionally, the meeting featured an analysis of farm trajectories spanning from 2014 to 2021, shedding light on area commitments and investments logic on farms in Brittany.
The latest CAP Reform was also discussed by the experts through a political economy lens, offering valuable insights into the Dutch National Strategic Plan and an integral assessment of its potential impacts.
Tools4CAP takes the spotlight
A notable highlight of the meeting was the presentation of Tools4CAP project, by Daniele Bertolozzi (Ecorys), which showcased its objectives and forthcoming activities. Over the coming years, this Horizon Europe Coordination and Support Action will take on a pivotal role in identifying the evolving needs of Member States, with a particular focus on leveraging innovative methodological solutions. The project is committed to fine-tuning and testing state-of-the-art methodological tools tailored to the unique demands of CAP implementation.
During the presentation, Tools4CAP placed significant emphasis on its commitment to establish and promote the use of a diverse range of modelling tools. These tools will be pivotal for conducting both ex-ante and ex-post evaluations, encompassing farm-level and macro-level models.
The Tools4CAP Academy was also introduced during the presentation. It consists of 10 training modules designed to empower Member States’ end users. These modules are set to equip participants with valuable knowledge and skills, enhancing their capacity to engage effectively with CAP-related challenges and opportunities.
As part of the Tools4CAP Academy, the presentation announced the upcoming first module, scheduled for January 17th, 2024 (10.30 AM – 12.30 PM). This module will be linked to the online inventory of methods and tools used for the design and monitoring of CAP Strategic Plans.
Given the practical nature of these training sessions, attendance is limited to ensure quality participation. If you wish to participate, please express your interest by completing this form before the 8th of December. We will swiftly process your submissions and get back to you shortly to confirm your participation in the first module of the Tools4CAP Academy.