By Ye Xingqing, Cheng Yu & Yu Xiaohua, Research Team on “The Institutional Framework and Policy System of Urban and Rural Integrated Development”, Research Department of Rural Economy, DRC

Research Report, No.160, 2018 (Total 5435) 2018-9-20

Abstract: Urbanization in Germany started earlier than some other countries. At different stages of its urbanization, the problems and challenges faced by rural areas are quite different, and the measures taken are constantly being adjusted and improved. After the urbanization rate approached and exceeded 70%, Germany's main measures to cope with the declining rural economic development are to increase employment opportunities in industrial sectors to advance “counter urbanization” drive, to improve rural living conditions and quality of life through “village renewal”, to promote the comprehensive development of rural areas through the European Union’s “Leading Project” (LEADER Project), and to promote rural “revitalization” in the course of innovation development. German experience shows that balanced urbanization and productivity distribution are more conducive to urban-rural interaction and promoting the development of rural areas. Land consolidation is an important platform and leverage to promote rural revitalization. The internal logic of rural sluggish economic development in different stages of development is different, and the strategies to promote rural revitalization needs to be adjusted accordingly. In order to promote rural revitalization, it is necessary to create harmonious social atmosphere and meet people’s demand.

Key words: rural revitalization, urbanization, village renewal, Germany