Differences among Czech local action groups in using selected principles of leader

Abstract

Local Action Groups (LAGs) are implementing LEADER principles in rural development. The aim of the paper is to create a typology of LAGs in the Czech Republic according to the factors linked to the individual features of LAG and to its organizational background. Four different groups of LAGs emerged: 'stabilized', 'experienced', 'absorbing', and 'well-informed'. In the second step, it is assessed how particular groups fullfil selected features of the LEADER: knowledge transfer and bottom-up approach. We conclude that 'stabilized' and 'experienced' LAGs, which are functioning for longer time and LAGs' manager has longer experiences with LAG operation, have better knowledge transfer than those 'absorbing' or 'well-informed'. This suggests that the rural development is realized by the so-called 'project class'. On the other hand, the most active people cooperating with LAG management are in 'experienced' and 'absorbing' groups.