Making agriculture more attractive for women and young people is key to the sustainability of the sector. However, gender stereotypes are deeply engrained in European societies and often prevent women from taking leading roles in agriculture.
A case in point is the traditional transmission of family farms to sons, even when daughters would be more interested. Women in agriculture are also more often employed in low-skill jobs and so more easily replaced by technological developments.
To support and empower women in agriculture – and therefore encourage generational renewal – Member States should support business set-up, facilitate access to education, training, networking and financing. Some countries are adapting formats/contents of agricultural studies to women’s needs/preferences and providing tailored business advice (e.g. Business Development for Women Farmers in Sweden).
Interested in this topic? Follow the ENRD work on Social Inclusion and read the EAFRD Projects Brochure 'Youth and generational renewal'.
