Women and Food Sovereignty

Much of women’s contribution to food production is invisible and under-reported. As women are responsible for half of the world’s food production, and ensure the survival of millions of people, access to land and productive food resources has to be brought back into the hands of women. However, women’s lack of access to land and productive resources has been intensified with the increasing spread of contract farming and corporate agriculture. This “lack” has intensified women’s disempowerment and non-recognition of her role and contribution in agriculture. Land ownership is highly “politicised” in all countries and depends on class, caste and race.

In rural Asia, this invisibility is entrenched by women’s subordinate positions in the family and communities, and the patriarchal interpretations of culture and religion of women’s role in society. It is further embodied in the false premise and blind spots of policy-makers about women’s role in development and contribution to the nation (Habib, 1996). Moreover, the non-recognition of women’s knowledge and contribution in agriculture is exacerbated by the false notion that only hard and academic scientific studies and technologies are considered science. Because women’s work in the house and farm is unwaged work, it is not recognised by traditional economists and development planners. The assertion of women today is for their right and recognition as experts in the field of traditional rural agriculture.

Eradicating global food insecurity is only possible through the assertion, advancement and practice of food sovereignty. This is central and core to development that is ecologically sustainable and socially just. This challenge requires the participation, support and leadership of the civil society.