The European Commission has launched the ‘Women in Farming’ platform, a new initiative designed to empower women in agriculture and promote equal opportunities in rural communities.

Announced in the Commission’s ‘Vision for Agriculture and Food’, the platform helps to increase women’s participation in farming, encouraging mentorship, and sharing best practices. The launch coincides with the UN declaring 2026 the International Year of the Woman Farmer.

Despite their crucial contribution, women remain underrepresented in EU agriculture, managing just 32 per cent of farms. Persistent barriers, such as unequal access to land, finance, and training, continue to limit their potential, says the Commission.

The main activity of the platform will be mentoring. Mentors share practical knowledge, create mentoring network to challenge stereotypes, inspire young women, and normalise female leadership in farming. By showcasing role models and fostering mentorship, it aims to boost confidence, improve access to opportunities, and ensure women’s contributions are fully recognised.

Under the EU’s agriculture policy, Member States can now introduce targeted measures, including financial incentives, to support women farmers. The Commission is, in addition, improving the data collection to also consider gender, for better policymaking. In 2024, 55,300 young women received support to set up their farming businesses and benefit from additional income support. A fairer, more inclusive agricultural sector is essential for Europe’s future, says the EU executive.

The Commission says it is committed to shaping Europe’s agricultural future that is inclusive, forward-looking and rooted in equal opportunity.

Source - https://www.eubusiness.com/