This book explores the challenges population decline presents for Europe's urban and rural
areas. It features recent demographic data and trends not only for Europe as a whole but also
for selected countries and compares growth and shrinkage from a historical as well as a
theoretical perspective. In addition the book critically reviews relevant notions from
geography sociology and public administration. It also identifies good practices across
Europe. Throughout theories are complemented with concrete examples and proposals are made on
how to tackle demographic shrinkage in European cities and villages from attempts to attract
new residents to the countryside to innovative ways to guarantee public services. In the end
the authors conclude that solving the challenges caused by population decline require novel
ways of thinking and provide answers to such future-oriented questions as: how to ensure the
quality of life in an environment that is inhabited by fewer and older people what investments
are needed and which actors should be involved. Managing Population Decline in Europe's Urban
and Rural Areas offers detailed coverage of an underestimated and complex governance issue that
asks for solutions in which citizens have to play an important role. It concludes that
shrinkage requires a rethink of the specific tasks and roles of government and presents a way
forward based on initiatives currently underway throughout Europe. The book will be a valuable
resource for population policy makers as well as students and researchers interested in human
geography urban planning rural development European studies public administration and
other social sciences.
