United Nations declares 2026 "Year of the Woman Farmer"

December 18, 2025 - The United Nations has officially declared 2026 the “International Year of the Woman Farmer,” a landmark initiative to spotlight women’s vital contributions to global agriculture and food systems.

At a ceremony in Rome, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) launched the observance, emphasizing that women farmers are central to food security, nutrition, and rural economic resilience. Despite making up nearly half of the world’s agricultural workforce, women often face systemic barriers, including limited access to land rights, credit, education, and technology.

According to the Global Girls Development Foundation, women own less than 20% of farmland worldwide, despite their heavy involvement in farming. Image credit - Virginia Women in Agriculture

The International Year of the Woman Farmer (IYWF 2026) will serve as a platform to raise awareness, promote gender-responsive policies, and encourage investment in women-led agricultural enterprises. According to FAO, closing gender gaps in farming could increase productivity by up to 30 percent and reduce global hunger by as many as 150 million people.

Closing gender gaps in agriculture could increase productivity by up to 30% and reduce global hunger by 150 million people. Image credit - Virginia Women in Agriculture

Events throughout 2026 will highlight women’s diverse roles across agrifood systems—from smallholder farmers and fishers to processors, traders, and agricultural scientists. Governments, civil society, and private organizations are expected to collaborate on initiatives that empower women and elevate their voices in decision-making.

Examples of women-focused farm organizations in the Eastern United States include:

AgCarolina Farm Credit Women in Agriculture Initiative

• Highlights that 32.5% of North Carolina farmers are female, reflecting a strong demographic shift.

Women for the Land – American Farmland Trust (AFT)

• Operates “Learning Circles” across the country, including Eastern states.

• Focuses on empowering women landowners to adopt conservation practices and navigate USDA programs.

Pennsylvania Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee

• A statewide committee within the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau that encourages women to take leadership roles in agriculture.

• Organizes events like the ICE Summit, which includes farm tours, training sessions, and networking opportunities.

Virginia Women in Agriculture Network

• Offers female farmers, landowners and agriculture enthusiasts opportunities to network with peers, hone technical skills and discuss solutions to unique challenges.

Kentucky Women in Agriculture (KWIA)

• Mission: Empower women through education, involvement, and action.

• Programs: Annual conferences, district events, grants, and scholarships.

• Focus: Building leadership skills, celebrating women’s contributions, and supporting agribusiness professionals across the state.