In the case of rural realities showing peculiar socio-political conditions, systemic changes, transformation of consolidated lifestyles, marginalization and weak socio-economic positions, policies to restructure agriculture can face complex implications. The definition, development and implementation of strategies focused at a „local” level directed to support non-agricultural rural activities can contribute to make modernization processes really effective and capable to produce solutions which can be efficiently adopted. A multidisciplinary analysis on „rural space”, as a complex system composed of essential elements (individuals, communities, agriculture, landscape, environment, non-agricultural activities, and local spatial and cultural configurations) becomes a crucial step to achieve all potential benefits from the identification of alternative employment and income sources and to create a positive environment to implement social, economic and technological changes.