Agro Woman at the Presidium of the Council for Women and Families – Discussions on Support and the Role of Women in Rural Areas

On January 23, at the invitation of the National Council of Agricultural Chambers (KRiR), Agro Woman had the honor of participating in a meeting of the Presidium of the Council for Women and Families. The meeting provided an excellent opportunity to discuss key issues related to supporting women, especially those active in the agricultural sector who combine demanding professional work with household responsibilities and family life every day.

During the discussion, a wide range of topics concerning women in rural areas was addressed, with a special focus on their role in farms, rural entrepreneurship, and gender equality. We talked about what equal opportunities really mean and how they should be understood in the context of rural life and agricultural work. It was crucial to emphasize that women in agriculture are not only physically working but also managing farms, handling finances, engaging in social and educational activities, and contributing to the development of local communities.

One of the key topics was advisory support for women farmers – both in terms of running a business and access to training and support programs. Together, we explored which tools and initiatives can genuinely strengthen the position of women in rural areas and increase their participation in social and professional life.

Particular attention was also paid to women’s health and psychophysical well-being. We discussed the challenges related to menopause, stress caused by multitasking, and the need to build awareness around self-care. An important thread was also the role of seniors in multigenerational families and how to combine their life wisdom with the energy of the younger generation. The multigenerational family model, still present in rural areas, is a tremendous asset worth nurturing and strengthening.

The discussions also highlighted how important the role of men is in striving for gender equality and supporting women in everyday life. Cooperation and mutual understanding are key to building a sustainable and strong rural community. Men play a fundamental role in breaking stereotypes and creating spaces where women can develop their passions and professional skills. Their support – both in family life and in professional areas – contributes to real change and improved quality of life in the countryside.

The meeting was incredibly inspiring and opened the door for further collaboration on initiatives that support women in agriculture. We are convinced that the actions taken, based on dialogue and mutual support between women and men, will bring tangible results and contribute to building a stronger, more integrated rural community.

We would like to thank Ms. Jolanta Nawrocka – Member of the KRiR Board, and Mr. Wiktor Szmulewicz – President of the KRiR Board, as well as the other representatives of the Presidium of the Women’s Council:

  • Zofia Stankiewicz – First Deputy Chair (Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship)
  • Hanna Chodkowska – Second Deputy Chair (Mazovian Voivodeship)
  • Krystyna Janecka – Member of the Presidium (Lesser Poland Voivodeship)
  • Dorota Różnicka – Member of the Presidium (Lower Silesian Voivodeship)
  • Alina Radecka – Member of the Presidium (Subcarpathian Voivodeship)
  • Jolanta Wielgat – Member of the Presidium (Podlaskie Voivodeship)

We would also like to thank Katarzyna Szczepaniak – Director of the KRiR Office.