In the heart of rural Turkey, a quiet demographic shift is unfolding, one that could have significant ripples across the agricultural sector and beyond. Muaffak Sarioğlu, a researcher from Giresun University’s Technical Science Vocational School, has been meticulously studying Küçünlü Village (KV) over the past decade, and his findings paint a picture of a community in transition. The study, published in the ISPEC Journal of Agricultural Sciences, translates to the International Journal of Agricultural Sciences.
Sarioğlu’s work delves into the intricate web of social, political, and cultural dynamics that are driving villagers away from their homes. “The social, political and cultural structure of the villager drives the villager away from his village,” Sarioğlu states, highlighting the complex interplay of factors at work. The research reveals a stark trend: the number of producers in the village has been steadily declining, with younger generations and children notably absent. This exodus raises alarm bells about the future of agricultural memory and sustainable farming practices.
The implications of this trend are far-reaching. As the agricultural workforce ages and the younger generation seeks opportunities elsewhere, the risk of losing traditional farming knowledge becomes increasingly real. “The finding that the producers are moving away from the effective working age range in agriculture and that sustainable agriculture cannot be achieved in the future has been obtained by observation, structured personal face-to-face interviews and survey methods,” Sarioğlu explains. This shift could disrupt the delicate balance of rural economies, impacting not only local communities but also the broader agricultural sector and its commercial partners.
The energy sector, in particular, could feel the effects of this demographic change. As rural populations dwindle, the demand for energy in these areas may decrease, potentially leading to underutilized infrastructure and reduced investment in rural energy projects. Conversely, the need for sustainable energy solutions in agriculture could become more pressing, driving innovation in renewable energy technologies tailored to rural settings.
Sarioğlu’s research underscores the importance of understanding and addressing the root causes of rural depopulation. By examining the political, social, and cultural structures that influence villagers’ decisions to leave, policymakers and stakeholders can develop targeted strategies to support rural communities. This could involve investing in education and job opportunities that keep young people in rural areas, or implementing policies that make farming more attractive and sustainable for future generations.
As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and food security, the lessons from Küçünlü Village serve as a reminder of the critical role that rural communities play in our global food system. By preserving agricultural memory and supporting sustainable farming practices, we can ensure that the knowledge and traditions of rural communities continue to thrive, benefiting both local economies and the broader agricultural sector.