Instytut Rozwoju Wsi i Rolnictwa Polskiej Akademii Nauk - IRWIR PAN

The Institute of Rural and Agricultural Development of the Polish Academy of Sciences (IRWiR PAN) is an “A” category (according to evaluation of scientific activities by the Ministry of Education and Science of Poland) research and advisory public entity conducting interdisciplinary fundamental scientific research in the field of social sciences. It is the only scientific institution of its kind in Poland, dedicated to identifying and analyzing development mechanisms and their effects on the changing role of countryside in social, economic and cultural life of the country. The institute also monitors and evaluates current socio-economic and natural/environmental challenges facing local communities. The conducted research supports the effective implementation of practical development measures by local self-governments, the business sector and communities. Results of the research have been used by many institutions, including the OECD, FAO, the European Parliament, the European Commission, the Chancellery of the President of the Republic of Poland, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and the Ministry of Development Funds and Regional Policy. The researchers’ findings are also being used by other entities of various types addressing the issues of rural development disparities and pursuing territorial equity, social cohesion, and economic growth.