Translated with AI
A hybrid panel session entitled "From Rights to Results: Empowering Women Farmers to Create Effective Agri-Food Systems in Europe and Central Asia" was held in Dushanbe, as reported by NIAT Khovar.
The event was timed to coincide with the International Year of Women Farmers 2026, proclaimed by the UN General Assembly. Participants discussed best practices of women farmers from Europe and Central Asia, prospects for developing a sustainable, circular bioeconomy, and the main challenges facing women working in agriculture.
During the discussion, it was noted that rural women play a vital role in ensuring food security and supporting local communities. However, participants emphasized that persistent gender inequality continues to limit women's access to productive resources, modern technologies, markets, advisory services, and decision-making processes.
The session focused on empowering women farmers as a key factor in developing sustainable agrifood systems. Participants also emphasized the need to integrate gender perspectives into bioeconomy innovations to ensure women can fully leverage new opportunities for rural development.
The panel session was held as part of the 35th Regional Conference of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations for Europe and Central Asia, which is currently taking place in Dushanbe.
