Threatened family farms

Family use farming

Nature

Although the vital economic and social importance of family farming is now realized to a greater extent than in the past, a 1983 European study emphasized that governments are not pursuing an agricultural policy designed to secure the economic survival of family farms, although most European governments recognize these farms as the model for their agricultural policies. Land area and soil quality are the main problems of family farms in many regions, namely because of a lack of programmes for the protection and maintenance of agricultural land, insufficient, measures to preserve the unity of farms, and a lack of directives to facilitate land purchase by farmers - granting of lands, tax exemptions, right of pre-emption. Modern farm leasing legislation also constitutes a hindrance. The maintenance and development of family farms is closely bound up with cooperation and producers' associations, and there is a lack farmers' collaboration with these organizations.

Background

The vulnerability of family farms emerged as a global concern in the late 20th century, as agricultural industrialization and trade liberalization accelerated farm consolidation and rural decline. International organizations, such as the FAO, began documenting the erosion of smallholder livelihoods and cultural landscapes in the 1980s. Subsequent research and advocacy highlighted the essential role of family farms in food security, biodiversity, and rural economies, prompting worldwide calls for their protection and revitalization.

Incidence

Family farms are under increasing threat worldwide, with millions disappearing each decade due to economic pressures, land consolidation, and changing agricultural policies. In regions such as North America, Europe, and parts of Asia, smallholder farms are being replaced by large-scale agribusinesses, leading to significant declines in rural employment and traditional farming practices. The loss of family farms undermines food security, biodiversity, and rural communities on a global scale.
In 2023, France witnessed widespread protests as thousands of family farmers faced bankruptcy due to falling crop prices and rising production costs. Many were forced to sell their land, highlighting the acute vulnerability of family-run agriculture in Europe.

Claim

The decline of family farms is a crisis that threatens our food security, rural economies, and cultural heritage. Corporate agribusinesses are driving hardworking families off their land, eroding local communities and destroying sustainable farming traditions. If we allow family farms to disappear, we risk losing control over our food supply and the values that built our nation. Protecting family farms is not just important—it is absolutely essential for our future.

Counter-claim

The notion that threatened family farms are a major problem is vastly overstated. In today’s world, efficient large-scale agriculture ensures food security and affordability far better than small, traditional farms. Nostalgia for family farms shouldn’t dictate policy; progress and innovation matter more. Resources should be directed toward modernizing agriculture, not propping up outdated models. The decline of family farms is simply a natural evolution, not a crisis demanding urgent attention.