Translating the EU Rural Vision 2040 to Mountain Regions: Obstacles, Pathways, and Visions From 17 European Countries

Mountain regions across Europe face interconnected demographic, economic, governance, infrastructural, and environmental challenges that require place-based and territorially adapted development approaches. This article explores how the EU Long-Term Vision for Rural Areas can be translated into actionable recommendations for mountain regions through a Theory of Change approach. The study is based on a structured expert survey conducted within the MARGISTAR COST Action, involving 24 experts from 17 European countries each representing diverse European mountain systems. Qualitative thematic analysis and inductive content analysis were used to identify elements of desirable futures, current obstacles, and revitalization pathways under the 4 pillars of the EU Rural Vision 2040: stronger, connected, resilient, and prosperous rural areas. The results highlight that mountain revitalization depends on inclusive governance, demographic renewal, digital and transport connectivity, economic diversification, climate adaptation, sustainable land use, and capacity building. Experts identified major obstacles, including depopulation, weak governance coordination, limited infrastructure, cultural barriers, and environmental pressures. The article concludes that the effective implementation of the EU Rural Vision in mountain areas requires flexible, context-sensitive, and participatory policy approaches adapted to diverse territorial realities.