Wageningen University has published an article highlighting the persistent exclusion of women from agriculture in the European Union, despite their critical role in the sector’s sustainability and innovation. The full article can be read here
Bettina Bock and Valentina C. Materia, both active members of the GRASS CEILING project consortium, as well as Jessica Duncan, member of the SWIFT project, have contributed to research at Wageningen University revealing that female farmers continue to face ingrained gender stereotypes. These biases limit their access to funding, land, and formal recognition. While women play a crucial role in agro-ecological systems and social innovation, their contributions are often undervalued, whereas policy and investment continue to favour technological innovations and large-scale agricultural models.
Professors Bettina Bock and Jessica Duncan further emphasise that gender stereotypes persist in agricultural policies, restricting women’s access to land, financing, and recognition. Bock highlights that women are leading the way in agro-ecological practices and short supply chains, both of which are essential for sustainability.
Valentina C. Materia points out that male-biased entrepreneurial stereotypes often overshadow the social and community innovations led by women. Her research demonstrates that despite their resilience and remarkable capacity for driving sustainable change, women’s contributions are frequently overlooked.
Recognising these challenges, Bock and Materia are developing networks and training programmes aimed at empowering female farmers. Their initiatives acknowledge the diverse motivations of women in agriculture and their significant contributions to the rural economy, social cohesion, and environmental sustainability.
The article highlights that GRASS CEILING advocates for reforming the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) to explicitly include gender equality and recognise the value of women-led social innovations. It calls for prioritising gender equality in national strategies, integrating a gender perspective into policies, and providing targeted financial support and training for female farmers.
Beyond economic contributions, the article underlines the role of women in strengthening social cohesion and enhancing the liveability of rural communities. It also calls for greater recognition and support of their multifaceted motivations, which include economic, social, and environmental goals, to achieve a more inclusive and sustainable agricultural sector.
In summary, the article points to the urgent need to challenge gender stereotypes, promote inclusive policies, and fully recognise the role of women in shaping the future of European agriculture.
