Myths about the feminization of agriculture: Implications for global food security
Photo: Georgina Smith/CIAT
The feminization of agriculture is a term used to describe women’s increased roles in agriculture in many parts of the world. However, the changes occurring in the agricultural sector are more complex than this term suggests.
Drawing on a wide range of literature, we discuss four common myths: 1) feminization of agriculture is the predominant global trend; 2) feminization is bad for agriculture; 3) the women remaining in agriculture are passive victims and not farmers; and 4) women farmers everywhere face similar challenges as the rural sector transforms. There are a wide range of changes happening regarding rural labor, for both men and women. Women’s increased roles in agriculture may offer opportunities for gender transformation under certain conditions but may be disempowering under other conditions. What are the implications of these changes for global food security agenda toward gender equity and equality in the agricultural sector?
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