Speaking in Brussels, Chairwoman of Copas’ Women Committtee Willemien Koning-Hoeve said “Copa supports the need to “act together” to increase women’s empowerment also in the agriculture sector. With women representing just under 50% of the total working population in the agriculture sector and with only 30% of farm holders being women, it is crucial that we improve the status and working conditions of women in rural areas”.
“More support is needed to motivate and to encourage women farmers to make the best use of their skills and knowledge. We need technical advice and training to improve their employment opportunities. Easier access to credit is also vital as well as access to services like childcare, elderly care, healthcare services, access to broadband, sick leave so that women can strike the right balance between work and family life. This will undoubtedly boost women’s farmers entrepreneurship and will stimulate the development of rural areas as well as promote gender equality”, she stressed.
Wrapping up, she said “Copa strives to encourage women entrepreneurs also through its Women’s Innovation Award and Special Achievement Award and through its lobbying activities. We aim to inspire decision-makers to develop in the EU “a women-friendly EU policy”.
