Depopulation determinants of small rural municipalities in the Valencia Region (Spain)

The depopulation of rural areas is a global problem that is particularly serious in Europe and in large areas of Spain, such as the interior of the Valencia Region. Despite the consensus in the diagnosis of the problem, there is still a debate about the policies and measures to solve it. For this reason, in order to help policymakers, this work carries out an analysis of the determinants that have contributed to the population growth of small rural municipalities in the Valencia Region. The analysis includes variables that have not been used in previous research, such as cultural heritage, cycling and walking routes, organic farming or renewable energy. Among the variables that contribute to the fight against depopulation, in addition to basic public services (education and health), there are variables from the primary, secondary and tertiary sectors. There are therefore activities and resources to try to diversify the economic activity to revitalise small rural municipalities. • More than a half of Valencian small rural municipalities are losing population. • New variables tested as depopulation determinants. • Schools are the main driver of population growth in rural areas. • Primary, secondary and tertiary sector activities help to sustain rural populations. • Sectoral diversification of the economy could be the key to rural development.