The European Commission has launched a Women in Farming Platform.

This initiative is 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 aims to help to increase women's participation in farming, encourage mentorship and share best practices.

The launch coincides with the UN declaring 2026 the International Year of the Woman Farmer.

'Underrepresented'

According to the European Commission, women remain underrepresented in EU agriculture, managing just 32% of farms.

Persistent barriers, such as unequal access to land, finance, and training, continue to limit their potential.

The main activity of the platform will be mentoring, the commission has said.

"Mentors share practical knowledge, create mentoring network to challenge stereotypes, inspire young women and normalise female leadership in farming," the commission explained.

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," it continued.

"In 2024 alone, 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."

Platform members

The European Commission is inviting all individuals residing in the EU and working in agriculture or in an agriculture-related field to express their interest in becoming members of the Women in Farming Platform.

To express interest and apply, an application form available on the commission's website must be completed by April 30, 2026.

The mentoring activities will focus on practical, business-oriented topics tailored to the needs of women farmers, such as:

The development of farm business plans, understanding farm operating costs and time management;
Navigating agricultural markets and economic dynamics, innovation and technology;
Expanding farm business beyond food production;
Marketing and promotion of farm products, including via social media;
Advice on support, care, planning for family needs, relief services, retirement and pensions, amongst others.