Last year, the Scottish Government commissioned a study on women and agriculture. The results, newly published, show that although women play a major role in farming in Scotland, they are under-represented in the elected leadership of national-level farming organisations. For example, although over a third of farm operators are women, the National Farmers Union of Scotland has no women amongst its national office holders, regional board chairmen or committee chairmen.
On another front, the cultural practice of passing on large farms intact to one son was found to be the single biggest barrier to women’s entry into agriculture.
In response to the report, the Scottish Government has launched a taskforce to boost women's representation and participation in agriculture. Read more here.
The Sustain alliance campaigns for greener, fairer and healthier food systems. Find out more about our activities and support us here.
Sustain: Sustain The alliance for better food and farming advocates food and agriculture policies and practices that enhance the health and welfare of people and animals, improve the working and living environment, enrich society and culture and promote equity.
