Many rural and economically weak regions in Europe are affected by demographic shrinkage and selective migration. Evidence suggests that especially young and highly educated women are among those leaving peripheral regions, resulting in an unbalanced population base. This is believed to have a negative effect on the liveability, attractiveness and the competitiveness of areas. The outmigration of young adults is regarded as both a cause and an indicator for economic and social fragility. Against this background the SEMIGRA project seeks to identify the main reasons and consequences of selective migration in rural regions. The aim of the project is to develop strategies for territorial development in order to deal with selective migration and to stabilize demographic and social development.