Friends of the Countryside represents the custodians of European estates and the traditional industries, patrimony, and heritage in their stewardship. These landowners, entrepreneurs and decision makers which compose FCS, create a network of likeminded individuals united to promote the interests of their land and livelihood through innovative, sustainable practices. Through the platform of ELO, Friends of the Countryside are able to ensure that their voice is heard throughout the European Union and even beyond.
“Everyone has the right to own, use, dispose of and bequeath his or her lawfully acquired possessions. No one may be deprived of his or her possessions, except in the public interest and in the cases and under the conditions provided for by law, subject to fair compensation being paid on good time for their loss. The use of property may be regulated by law in so far as is necessary for the general interest”.
(Article 17 - Charter of Fundamental Rights. January 2001)
"The challenge is to radically rethink the way that we do Europe. To reshape Europe. To devise a completely new form of governance for the world of tomorrow…"
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"The landowners and rural entrepreneurs have been absent from the political scene for a long time. It is this reason why the ELO was set up as a professional lobby and the Friends of the Countryside Association was created in 1998…
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"The FCS and ELO are, since many years, in the forefront in witnessing the commitment of the landowners and their right to be considered as a credible and efficient counterpart whose cooperation must be adequately rewarded."