When discussing women’s equal rights, power, and opportunities, it is essential to recognise the role of rural women and all women farmers.

With this in mind, the World Farmers’ Organisation (WFO) participated in the 69th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69), held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York from 10 to 21 March 2025. The session brought together global leaders, policymakers, and civil society representatives to accelerate progress towards gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, with a focus on advancing commitments under the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.

Representing WFO at CSW69, Tamisha Lee, President of the Jamaica Network of Rural Women Producers and member of the WFO Committee on Women, ensured that the perspectives of women farmers were heard in key discussions.

Beyond its presence in New York, WFO also contributed to CSW69 side events, reinforcing its commitment to advocating for rural women in agriculture.

Women Farmers and Cooperatives: Strengthening Leadership and Economic Empowerment

On 13 March, Giulia De Castro, WFO Youth & Women Liaison & Initiatives Manager, joined the virtual event “Global Leadership of Grassroots Women Co-Operators in the UN Year of Cooperatives”, hosted by WFO Member Indian Cooperative Network for Women (ICNW). Led by ICNW President Dr Nandini Azad, the discussion featured high-level speakers and women leaders from local communities.

Photo credit: ©WFO

Her intervention highlighted how cooperative models empower women, fostering economic independence, leadership, and decision-making power.

“Women’s cooperatives are far more than business structures; they are powerful tools for societal transformation,” said Giulia De Castro. “By uniting through cooperative models, women can break down barriers, advocate for their rights, and build resilient, thriving rural communities.”

She also linked this discussion to WFO’s broader efforts in supporting women in agriculture, particularly ahead of the 2026 International Year of Women Farmers. This global initiative presents an opportunity to mobilise international recognition, ensuring that women farmers receive visibility, resources, and policies that strengthen their role in food security and rural development.

“The International Year of Women Farmers 2026 will be a key moment to showcase the essential role of women in agriculture—not just as food producers but as leaders of sustainable development. At WFO, we are already working to ensure their contributions are recognised, advocating for policies and programmes that equip them with the knowledge, tools, and opportunities to thrive,” she added.

Capacity building remains central to these efforts. By investing in training, technology, and entrepreneurial support for women farmers and women-led cooperatives, WFO aims to unlock economic opportunities, enhance productivity, and strengthen rural communities.

“Empowering women in agriculture means equipping them with the right skills and resources to innovate and lead. Through training programmes, access to finance, and stronger policy frameworks, we can create an environment where women farmers and cooperatives flourish, ensuring a more resilient and sustainable future for all,” she concluded.

Empowering Young Women in Agrifood Systems: Education and Leadership Opportunities

On 19 March, Tamisha Lee participated in the side event “From Learning to Leading: Youth Perspectives on Empowering Young Women in Agrifood Systems through Education and Training”, organised by WFF’s Global Youth Action Initiative. She emphasised the need for targeted policies and investments that empower young women in agriculture, addressing persistent barriers such as limited access to land, finance, and technology.

Photo credit: ©WFO

“At WFO, we recognise that empowering youth, including young women, through education and training is essential for resilient and sustainable agrifood systems,” she noted. “Women farmers face unique challenges—from accessing land and financial resources to securing opportunities for education and technological innovation. These barriers not only hinder their individual growth but also limit the potential of entire communities.”

Through initiatives like the WFO Gymnasium, WFO’s high-level capacity-building programme for young farmers, the Organisation equips participants with the skills, networks, and opportunities to thrive in the agricultural sector.

“As co-chair of the UN Decade on Family Farming, WFO actively promotes the participation of women, particularly young women farmers, in key policy processes, ensuring they have a platform to make their voices heard and contribute to shaping the future of family farming,” she added.

Tamisha Lee concluded: “It’s time to move from learning to leading. Young women farmers must not only be seen as beneficiaries of policies and programmes but as active changemakers shaping the future of agrifood systems.”

Advancing Gender Equality in Agriculture: WFO’s Commitment to Women Farmers

At WFO, we firmly believe that empowering women in agriculture is key to building resilient and sustainable food systems. Strengthening their participation in decision-making processes, enhancing access to resources, and promoting their leadership in cooperatives and farmers’ organisations remain top priorities for the Organisation.

Through its contributions at CSW69, WFO reaffirmed its commitment to amplifying the voices of women farmers worldwide and advocating for policies that ensure their vital roles are recognised, supported, and strengthened.

Cover photo by ©WFO