The rural population in Catalonia: between the slope and the revitalization.

This article focuses on recent population trends (1981-2001) in rural Catalonia (Spain). The first part reveals demographic revitalisation in certain rural areas, but there is also some evidence of demographic decline in others. The second part examines rural migration, the main cause of actual demographic change. Migration analysis is used as a means of investigating the social, economic and functional factors which explain the new dynamics of population in these areas. Conclusions point to various special characteristics that are apparent in revitalised rural areas and a number of reasons why it is not possible to export this experience of success to municipalities that are currently depressed. Finally, there is a discussion of the role that urban actors are playing in the transformation or rural areas and of the possible future dangers or their excessive influence.