The Johann Heinrich von Thünen Institute – in short: Thünen Institute – is a scientifically independent Federal research institute at the interface of science, politics and society. The work of the Thünen Institute comprises research including long-term monitoring and science-based policy advice. It is oriented towards the social goal of achieving the sustainable use of natural resources and ensuring the vital development of rural areas. The Research Section Rural Areas examines living conditions as well as economic and working conditions in rural areas. It conducts research on the causes of their development and evaluates potential courses of action for policy-makers and other stakeholders.