In 2002-2003 ECORYS performed the midterm evaluation of the rural development programme of the Netherlands. This programme is co-funded by the European Union and aims at the development of rural areas by restructuring the agricultural sector in order to prepare the sector for future developments and to create new impulses for the rural areas to increase their attractiveness.

The assignment consisted of answering evaluation questions according to EU-guidelines as well as questions from the client (i.e. the Dutch government). This research gives insight in the first results of the Rural Development Program, the relevance of these results and the coherence of these results with the Program. Moreover, the financial means and the management structure of the Program were evaluated. Altogether the midterm evaluation concluded in a number of recommendations and desirable adaptations of the program in order to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency. Since the evaluation is performed half way, these recommendations can be implemented in the program.