who we are

The Friends of the Countryside is a non-profit making organisation consisting of more than 700 private landowners, rural managers and entrepreneurs from the 27 EU Member states and beyond, including the UK, USA and Brazil.

Not only does this network allow private entrepreneurs to advocate rural property rights and the important function of land management, but it also establishes a dialogue between decision-makers, entrepreneurs and rural owners whose aim is to improve the economic, environmental and social conditions of Europe’s countryside. The basic principle of this network is founded in the belief that property rights are the underlying force behind long-term projects, investments and achievements in rural areas.

Tradition and innovation are two key concepts held by the association. Tradition represents the heritage tied to the land and the resulting social responsibilities of its managers who must think and plan over many generations.Innovation reflects the efforts made by the members to profitably manage their properties for the long term, all the while respecting the vital role of land and nature for insuring a sustainable future.

In accordance with these guidelines the FCS network takes part in the global debate on the functions of land management in today’s society and its prominent role in the challenges facing the food chain and the environment.

The FCS annual congress, conferences and field visits organised each year represent good opportunities for the FCS members to discover new initiatives and ways of management, and to share their experience on issues such as farming, forestry, cultural heritage, rural development, renewable energies, family business, active entrepreneurship and transmission to the next generation.