On Wednesday, the latest program part forecast within the goal management for POI support (including Leader) was decided. Below is an update from the Swedish Board of Agriculture on how Leader's goal fulfillment is progressing in the strategic plan.
During the year the indicator R.41, which measures how many rural residents have access to improved services, has been in focus. The goal for 2025 is to achieve 65 % coverage, which corresponds to 204 010 people. Currently, the fulfillment stands at 43 % (133 823 people). However, there are approved supports that could potentially contribute an additional 172 000 people, although some uncertainty exists due to the risk of double counting. Previous measures, such as prioritizing payments related to R.41, have had an effect – the indicator has increased from 23 % to 43 % since February. To reach the goal, a continued inflow of payment applications is required.
Other indicators show mixed results. R.27, which measures environmental and climate projects, has so far 35 out of 76 projects approved. R.37, which measures new employment in annual workforces, stands at 23 out of 142. R.38, which measures the proportion of the rural population covered by leader strategies, has already reached and exceeded the goal with 71 % coverage (the goal was 69.91 %). R.39, which measures the number of companies receiving support, stands at 38 out of 137. R.40, which measures developed strategies for smart rural areas, has so far five approved out of a total of 59.
Ahead of the next performance review in 2026 the goal for R.41 is to reach 75 % (386 987 people). It is still unclear whether this goal will be achieved, but improved processing conditions may increase the chances.
When it comes to the processing situation resources have temporarily been redistributed from the strategic plan to the conclusion of the rural program, leading to longer processing times. This is expected to continue at least until June 2025. Despite ambitions for increased capacity, forecasts indicate continued high case balances throughout the year.
To streamline the process the Swedish Board of Agriculture has begun to complete more cases themselves, instead of sending them back to the leader offices for adjustments. Additionally, phone contact is being used more actively to reduce completion times. In the fall, recruitment of 15 new case handlers is planned, which should eventually reduce case pressure.
In summary there are positive signs that several indicators are moving in the right direction, but continued focus is required – especially to achieve the goals for R.41 and improve processing times.