"This collection seeks to uncover the nature and consequences of the 'relational rurals' across European contexts. It calls for a relational turn in rural studies and demonstrates the importance and distinctiveness of rural relationships, processes and dynamics. The volume introduces readers to current thinking about rural, peripheral areas and the challenges faced by organisations and individuals in Europe working in these areas with regard to policy, rural dynamics, development, cooperation, contestation, conflict and associated phenomena, many of which have remained unnoticed, inaccurately conceptualised, or inadequately depicted until now. The book explores the rural-urban divide, institutional cooperation, rural policy challenges and solutions and governing sustainable development"--