A conference dedicated to the key socio-economic challenges facing the Carpathian region and the Podkarpackie Voivodeship was held on 4 December 2025 at the Hotel Prezydencki in Rzeszów. The event brought together numerous representatives of academic institutions, public administration, and economic organizations. The conference was officially opened by a representative of the regional authorities, who emphasized the need for interregional cooperation and the growing importance of demographic changes in shaping public policies. The event was also attended by the authorities of the Faculty of Economics and Finance as well as students, for whom it served as a valuable educational experience and an opportunity for direct contact with practitioners and experts involved in regional development.

 

The first part of the conference focused on contemporary demographic challenges that increasingly influence the functioning of regions such as Podkarpackie. Discussions addressed issues such as population ageing and the need to develop social services adapted to new realities. It was emphasized that strengthening local forms of care, integrating services, improving their accessibility, and investing in community-based solutions are becoming essential. The speakers also highlighted the importance of long-term development strategies based on demographic data analysis.

 

The next segment featured a Fire Chat discussion devoted to the role of demography in shaping regional development. It was noted that population ageing and the outmigration of young residents are becoming key factors determining the future of the region. The discussion underlined the importance of modernizing public services, implementing measures to retain and attract residents, strengthening a knowledge- and innovation-based economy, and making better use of migration potential. Attention was also drawn to the readiness of various communities to collaborate in developing coherent demographic strategies.

 

In the research-oriented section, the latest reports on the socio-economic situation of Podkarpackie and the broader Carpathian area were presented. The analyses covered current development trends, challenges related to population ageing, and directions for territorial cooperation in mountain regions. The reports highlighted the need to strengthen social and care services, enhance cross-border cooperation, and responsibly manage the potential of the Carpathians. It was stressed that effective regional planning requires basing decisions on reliable data and adapting policies to the changing demographic structure.

 

The final part of the conference examined the role of the Carpathians as a strategic development area. The panel discussion pointed to the wide yet still underutilized potential of the region—environmental, cultural, and economic. The speakers emphasized the necessity of strengthening cross-border cooperation, expanding modern infrastructure, supporting local communities, and pursuing development policies grounded in a long-term vision.

 

The conference concluded with a shared view that the future of Podkarpackie and the entire Carpathian region depends on effectively integrating the efforts of academia, business, and public administration. The presence of the Faculty of Economics and Finance authorities, along with the active participation of students, further underscored the importance of linking academic environments with economic and local government practice. It was noted that the region has the potential to become a leader in developing modern strategies addressing demographic challenges and the socio-economic transformations taking place in Central Europe.