Pakistan’s Female Farmers Remain Largely Unacknowledged, Says FAO
Published on: February 25, 2024.
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Study Highlights Under-Recognition of Women Farmers in Pakistan
A recent study conducted by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) sheds light on the significant contributions made by women farmers in Pakistan to the country’s agriculture sector, food security, and overall economy. However, the study reveals that these women remain largely unrecognized for their valuable work.
Titled “Protection Issues Faced by Women Farmers in Pakistan,” the study highlights the fact that the labor of women farmers is often undocumented, and they are rarely acknowledged as “farmers” unlike their male counterparts. This current understanding of the term “farmer” only includes individuals who own the land they cultivate, which excludes a large number of farmers in Pakistan, particularly women. This exclusion prevents them from accessing essential benefits and services.
Challenges Faced by Women Farmers
The survey conducted as part of the study revealed several challenges faced by women farmers in Pakistan. These challenges include:
- Heavy Workloads: Women farmers reported working tirelessly for 12 to 18 hours each day, carrying a heavy workload.
- Limited Access to Agricultural Resources: Women farmers struggle with limited access to independent agricultural resources such as land, credit, water, and technology.
- Lack of Education and Training: Agriculture-related technical education and training opportunities are scarce for women farmers, hindering their ability to develop and improve their practices.
- Limited Advisory Services: Women farmers also face challenges in accessing advisory services to enhance their agricultural productivity and efficiency.
- Absence of Minimum Wage and Collective Bargaining: The agriculture sector in Pakistan lacks a minimum wage policy and collective bargaining opportunities for women farmers.
- Delayed Payments: Contractors often delay payments to women farmers, adding to their financial burden.
The study brings attention to these pressing issues faced by women farmers in Pakistan and emphasizes the need to address them for the betterment of the agricultural sector. Recognizing and providing support to these women farmers is crucial for achieving sustainable agricultural growth, food security, and economic development in the country.
To learn more about the study and its findings, click here.
