New communication channels and networks provided by rural tourism for the diversification of economic activities in an agro-pastoral area of Sardinia, Italy

This paper presents some reflections about an empirical sociological survey conducted in a small area of central-eastern Sardinia, characterized by an agro-pastoral economy. The study was dedicated to analyzing different types of connections and interactions among new activities of rural, social andcultural tourism and traditional activities of local economy. Our study took into account that local actors and community recognize the important role of interactions and communication strategies at local level for creating networks and fertile links in an agro-pastoral system in evolution, also with the support of public policies and funds, into the real dinamics for economic diversification in rural areas. In the study area, Barbagia of Nuoro and Ollolai, local and structural European Union funds have been used in the last decade to promote cultural and environmental resources. These programs have been based on network strategy and aimed to encouraging rural tourism as a driving force for an overall economic development of the territory. Local communities, which are jealous guardians of local resources and traditions, but also exponents of modern society, are involved in the EU debate about the definition of guidelines for rural development local policy. In particular and in perspective of economic diversification, they pay attention to the promotion of tourism activity, which is viewed as a fundamental element for increasing competitiveness and ensuring equal distribution of welfare in rural territories.